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Dicaprylyl Ether

Ether of two molecules of caprylic alcohol — a lightweight synthetic oil with a distinct dry feel. Popular in silk primers and lightweight SPF products due to its ability to provide a clean, silky finish without silicones.

Dry emollientdry silk feelSilicone-freeSPF formulas

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Dicaprylyl Ether (1-(octyloxy)octane) — a symmetrical ether of two molecules of 1-octanol (caprylic alcohol, C8). Molecular formula: C16H34O. Distinct from dicaprylyl carbonate (a carbonic acid ether) and caprylic/capric triglyceride (triglyceride). Colorless liquid with minimal odor. Viscosity: very low (~4-6 mPa·s at 20°C) — one of the lowest among emollients. Chemically stable, does not oxidize, does not hydrolyze at pH 4–8. Source: synthetic or from coconut oil.

Silk SFFs and primers, lightweight moisturizing fluids, makeup-setting sprays, and dry oils, silicone-free formulas ("silicone-free" lines).

Key Benefits

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Silk-dry finish — effect without silicones

Dicaprylyl Ether gives the skin a distinct silky feel — similar to cyclomethicone or disiloxane, but without silicones. This makes it indispensable in "silicone-free" SPF formulas and primers: the formula glides on application, leaving a dry, matte finish. For oily skin — comfortable lightweight hydration without occlusion. Drier feel than caprylic/capric triglyceride.

◈

Excellent flow and spread

Due to the extremely low viscosity, dicaprylyl ether spreads evenly in a thin layer — an ideal base for lightweight products. In SPF formulas: even distribution ensures uniform coverage of filters → more predictable SPF. In makeup products: provides smooth application with a brush or sponge without streaks.

✧

Chemical stability and compatibility

The chemically stable ether bond (does not hydrolyze, does not oxidize) makes dicaprylyl ether reliable across a wide pH range and during long-term storage. Compatible with virtually all cosmetic ingredients: does not react with pigments, UV filters, vitamins, and actives. Does not require antioxidants for stabilization (BHT/BHA) — an advantage for clean beauty formulas.

Suitable for

Oily skinSilicone-free formulationsLightweight SPF products

Main Actions

✓ Dry silky emollient✓ Thin even spread✓ Silicone-free alternative

Dicaprylyl Ether vs Dicaprylyl Carbonate

Dicaprylyl Carbonate (ether of carbonic acid with two C8) — a greasier, creamier feel, slightly higher viscosity. Dicaprylyl Ether — drier, lighter, more 'silky'. Both are popular in SPF. Carbonate — better for creams and balms, ether — better for lightweight fluids and primers. Often chosen based on the desired texture.

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