Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams
Formula IngredientPreservative / Chelating AgentCaprylhydroxamic Acid
INCI: Caprylhydroxamic Acid
Caprylhydroxamic acid (INCI: Caprylhydroxamic Acid; chemical name: N-hydroxyoctanamide) is a chelating agent derived from caprylic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid found in coconut and palm oil. It preserves cosmetic formulations by chelating metal ions — particularly iron — that would otherwise catalyse oxidative degradation. It also exhibits biostatic and fungistatic activity, remaining effective at elevated pH levels where traditional preservatives can fail. It is commonly combined with antimicrobial glycols (such as glyceryl caprylate or propanediol) to form so-called 'preservative-free preservation systems' that brands use as alternatives to parabens or phenoxyethanol.
Category
Preservative / Chelating Agent
Irritation Risk
Low
Skin Types
all skin types, sensitive skin, oily, dry, combination, acne-prone
What does this do in a formula?
broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservation, chelation of metal ions, formulation stability, effective at high pH, suitable for 'preservative-free' and 'clean beauty' label positioning
Is Caprylhydroxamic Acid safe? Key considerations
Can Caprylhydroxamic Acid cause irritation?
Low RiskCaprylhydroxamic acid is generally well tolerated at cosmetic use concentrations (typically up to 0.3%). It is not listed under EU CosIng Annex II (banned) or Annex III (restricted) as a standalone ingredient. Sensitisation potential is considered low; however, concentrated raw material should be handled with care. Individuals with very sensitive skin or known reactions to caprylic acid derivatives should patch test.
Does Caprylhydroxamic Acid increase sun sensitivity?
No RiskCaprylhydroxamic acid is a preservative/chelating agent and has no known photosensitising properties. No sun protection precautions are required based on its presence in a formulation.
Is Caprylhydroxamic Acid safe during pregnancy?
CautionMANUAL REVIEW: No dedicated pregnancy safety assessment for caprylhydroxamic acid was found in EWG Skin Deep, MotherToBaby, or CIR databases during research. It is derived from caprylic acid (a naturally occurring fatty acid) and is used at very low concentrations (up to 0.3%), which is generally considered low systemic risk. Until a formal assessment is available, a precautionary 'Caution' rating is applied. Consult a healthcare provider if concerned.
How does Caprylhydroxamic Acid work?
Caprylhydroxamic acid (INCI: Caprylhydroxamic Acid; chemical name: N-hydroxyoctanamide) is a chelating agent derived from caprylic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid found in coconut and palm oil. It preserves cosmetic formulations by chelating metal ions — particularly iron — that would otherwise catalyse oxidative degradation. It also exhibits biostatic and fungistatic activity, remaining effective at elevated pH levels where traditional preservatives can fail. It is commonly combined with antimicrobial glycols (such as glyceryl caprylate or propanediol) to form so-called 'preservative-free preservation systems' that brands use as alternatives to parabens or phenoxyethanol.
Individuals with known allergy to caprylic acid or hydroxamic acid derivatives should review the considerations above before use.
Which products contain Caprylhydroxamic Acid?
Shop products that contain Caprylhydroxamic Acid
