Caprylic Capric Triglyceride: The Lightweight Coconut-Derived Oil DIY Makers Love

Caprylic capric triglyceride (CCTG) is a clear, odourless, lightweight oil made from coconut fatty acids and glycerine. In cosmetics it works as a fast-absorbing emollient and carrier that softens skin without a greasy after-feel, which is why you will find it in so many moisturisers, serums and makeup formulas.

If you make your own skincare or run a small beauty brand, CCTG is one of those quiet workhorse ingredients. It does not have a strong personality of its own, and that is exactly the point. It spreads well, plays nicely with actives and oils, and keeps a formula stable over its shelf life.

What is caprylic capric triglyceride?

CCTG is derived from coconut oil, refined down to its medium-chain fatty acids, mainly caprylic acid and capric acid, which are then bonded to glycerine. The result is a stable, light liquid that behaves more like a silicone-alternative than a heavy plant oil. A few quick facts from the product details:

CAS Number: 70356-09-1
Chemical formula: C24H48O8
Molecular weight: 464.6 g/mol
Form: clear, odourless liquid
Shelf life: 24 months
Origin: India

Common uses in cosmetics

Because it is so versatile, CCTG shows up across the personal care shelf. The most common applications include:

Moisturisers, lotions and creams — as an emollient that gives a smooth, non-tacky slip.
Face and body serums — as a light carrier oil that spreads evenly and absorbs quickly.
Makeup — in foundations, lip products, cream blushes and makeup removers, where it helps blend pigments and dissolve other cosmetics.
Haircare — in leave-in serums and conditioners to add softness without weighing hair down.
Cleansing oils and balms — to break down sunscreen and long-wear makeup.

How to use CCTG in your formulations

CCTG is very forgiving to work with. Here are some practical starting points:

As a carrier or dispersant: use it to pre-disperse pigments, oil-soluble vitamins or fragrance before adding to the main batch.
In the oil phase of an emulsion: add it along with your other oils and butters before combining with the water phase and emulsifier.
In anhydrous (water-free) products: such as facial oils, balms and cleansing oils, it can make up a meaningful share of the oil blend to lighten the texture.
To thin heavy oils: blend a little CCTG into thick butters or castor oil to improve spreadability.

It is heat-stable, so you can warm it during the oil-phase stage of a lotion without worrying about it turning rancid quickly. Always follow a tested recipe and use accurate scales rather than eyeballing quantities.

Safety and handling

CCTG is meant for external use only. A few sensible precautions:

Keep it away from children and out of the eyes; if it gets in the eyes, rinse with plenty of water.
Do not ingest it, and do not treat it as a medicine.
Patch-test any finished product on a small area of skin before wider use, especially if you have sensitive or reactive skin.
Refer to the COA and MSDS for the specific batch when formulating commercially.

Buying and storage tips

Azlok stocks caprylic capric triglyceride from 100 Gm jars right up to 25 Kg for production use, so you can buy a small amount to trial a recipe before scaling up. Pricing starts at ₹249, and the larger packs suit small businesses making batch after batch.

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, with the lid tightly closed.
Use clean, dry utensils to avoid introducing water or contaminants.
Note the 24-month shelf life and label your decanted containers with the date opened.
Because it is odourless and colourless, it will not interfere with delicate fragrances or pigment shades.

FAQ

Is caprylic capric triglyceride the same as coconut oil?

No. It is derived from coconut oil but refined to isolate the medium-chain caprylic and capric acids bonded with glycerine. This makes it lighter, clearer and more stable than plain coconut oil.

Does CCTG feel greasy on the skin?

Generally no. It is valued precisely because it absorbs quickly and leaves a smooth, dry-touch finish rather than a heavy oily film, which is why it appears in so many lightweight lotions.

Can I use it as a carrier oil for essential oils?

Yes. Its neutral scent and light texture make it a good carrier for diluting essential oils and fragrance oils in roll-ons and serums, provided you follow safe dilution rates.

Is it suitable for oily or acne-prone skin?

Many people with oily skin find it comfortable because of its light feel, but skin reacts individually. Always patch-test your finished product first.

What shelf life can I expect?

Around 24 months when stored correctly in a cool, dry place with the container kept tightly sealed and away from sunlight.