1,2-Octanediol (Octyl Glycol) | Multi functional Anti corrosion Enhancer and Moisturizing Agent
Product Name: 1,2-Octanediol
INCI Name: Caprylyl Glycol
Other Names: Octane-1,2-diol, 1,2-Dihydroxyoctane, Caprylyl Glycol
CAS Number: 1117-86-8
EINECS Number: 214-254-7
Purity: ≥99.0% (Cosmetic Grade), ≥99.5% (High-Purity Grade)
Appearance: White crystalline solid or colorless viscous liquid (above 38°C)
Molecular Formula: C₈H₁₈O₂
Molecular Weight: 146.23 g/mol
1,2-Octanediol (Octyl Glycol) | Multi functional Anti corrosion Enhancer and Moisturizing Agent
1,2-Octanediol (INCI: Caprylyl Glycol, CAS 1117-86-8) is a premium multifunctional cosmetic ingredient renowned for its exceptional mildness, moisturizing properties, and preservative boosting capabilities. As an aliphatic 1,2-alkanediol derived from renewable coconut sources, it has become the gold standard for clean beauty and natural cosmetic formulations worldwide.
This versatile diol offers four core benefits in a single ingredient: powerful preservative boosting, excellent humectant moisturization, effective skin conditioning, and sensory enhancement. Its unique molecular structure disrupts microbial cell membranes, synergistically enhancing the efficacy of Phenoxyethanol, organic acids, and other preservatives by 2-3x, enabling 30-50% reduction in total preservative levels.

Physicochemical Parameters
Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
Assay (1,2-Octanediol Content) | ≥99.0% | GC |
Appearance (25°C) | White solid to semi-solid | Visual |
Color (Molten, APHA) | ≤30 | Visual Comparison |
Water Content | ≤0.5% | Karl Fischer Titration |
Melting Point | 36 - 38°C | DSC |
Boiling Point (10 mmHg) | 131 - 132°C | Calculated |
Flash Point (Closed Cup) | ≥109°C | ASTM D93 |
Density (40°C, liquid) | 0.910 - 0.918 g/mL | Hydrometer |
Refractive Index (n₄₀ᴰ) | 1.445 - 1.449 | Refractometer |
Acid Value | ≤1.0 mg KOH/g | Titration |
Hydroxyl Value | 750 - 790 mg KOH/g | Titration |
pH Value (1% Dispersion) | 5.0 - 7.0 | pH Meter |
Heavy Metals (as Pb) | ≤10 ppm | AAS |
Arsenic (As) | ≤2 ppm | AAS |
Residue on Ignition | ≤0.1% | Gravimetric |
Key Benefits
✅ Globally Unrestricted - NO regulatory concentration limits in any major market; approved for organic certification
✅ Four-in-One Multifunctionality - Preservative booster + humectant + emollient + sensory enhancer in single ingredient
✅ Exceptional Skin Mildness - Zero sensitization potential, non-irritating, non-comedogenic (rating 0), suitable for all skin types including babies
✅ Powerful Preservation Synergy - Enhances preservative efficacy by 2-3x, enabling 30-50% reduction in Phenoxyethanol and other preservatives
✅ Superior Moisturization - Dual-action humectant + emollient; improves skin barrier function and reduces TEWL by 15-20%
✅ Excellent Formulation Compatibility - Stable across pH 3-10, heat-resistant up to 120°C, compatible with all cosmetic ingredients
✅ Sensory Enhancement - Imparts luxurious silky, non-greasy skin feel; improves product spreadability and absorption
✅ Bio-Based & Sustainable - Derived from renewable coconut feedstock; biodegradable, eco-friendly
✅ Cost-Effective - Multi-functional performance reduces total formulation ingredient costs
Applications
Premium Skin Care:
• Moisturizers, creams, lotions, serums, ampoules
• Anti-aging products, eye creams, facial treatments
• Sensitive skin formulations, hypoallergenic products
• Toners, essences, hydrating mists
• Face masks, sheet masks, sleeping masks
Baby & Sensitive Care:
• Baby lotions, diaper creams, gentle cleansers
• Eczema creams, dermatological formulations
• Post-procedure skincare, calming products
• Wet wipes (premium baby & facial wipes)
Natural & Clean Beauty:
• Organic certified cosmetics (Ecocert/COSMOS/NATRUE)
• Paraben-free, formaldehyde-free formulations
• "Preservative-free" claim products (as part of self-preserving system)
• Clean label, green beauty brands
Hair & Body Care:
• Shampoos, conditioners, hair treatments
• Body washes, shower gels, liquid soaps
• Deodorants (natural, aluminum-free formulations)
• Sun care products, after-sun treatments
Makeup & Color Cosmetics:
• Foundations, BB/CC creams, concealers
• Lipsticks, lip glosses, lip balms
• Mascaras, eyeliners, eyeshadows
• Makeup primers, setting sprays
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) & Document RequestFrequently Asked Questions (FAQ) & Document Request
Q1: Can 1,2-Octanediol be used as a standalone preservative?
A: While 1,2-Octanediol has inherent antimicrobial activity, it is most effective as a preservative booster. For complete preservation, it should be combined with Phenoxyethanol (0.5-0.8% Octanediol + 0.5-0.6% Phenoxyethanol) or other primary preservatives. At 1.5-2%, it can contribute to self-preserving systems in certain formulations.
Q2: Are there any regulatory restrictions on 1,2-Octanediol in cosmetics?
A: NO. 1,2-Octanediol has NO maximum concentration limits in the EU, US, China, Japan, or any major cosmetic market. It is on all global approved ingredient lists and is fully accepted for Ecocert, COSMOS, and NATRUE organic certification.
Q3: Why does 1,2-Octanediol sometimes arrive as liquid and sometimes as solid?
A: 1,2-Octanediol has a melting point of 36-38°C, close to room temperature. It will be solid below 36°C and liquid above 38°C. This is normal physical behavior - simply warm the container gently (40-45°C water bath) to liquefy before use. Quality is not affected.
Q4: Is 1,2-Octanediol safe for baby products and eye area formulations?
A: Absolutely. 1,2-Octanediol has an excellent safety profile with zero sensitization and zero irritation in clinical studies. It is non-comedogenic (rating 0) and is one of the most recommended ingredients for baby care, sensitive skin, and eye area products.
Q5: What is the ideal synergistic combination with 1,2-Octanediol?
A: The industry standard clean preservation system is:
• Premium mild formula: 0.5% 1,2-Octanediol + 0.5% Phenoxyethanol + 0.1% Ethylhexylglycerin
• Organic/natural formula: 0.8% 1,2-Octanediol + 0.3% Capryloyl Glycine + Sodium Benzoate (pH adjusted)
These combinations provide complete broad-spectrum protection with exceptional mildness.
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