At ORY®, we believe you should know what’s in your products and why. This page lists the published research behind what we say about caprylic/capric triglyceride. Each section starts with our claim, then tells you how well the research supports it, then lists the sources so you can read them yourself.
How to read this page Supported — backed by peer-reviewed research or official safety reviews. Supported, with caveats — the research points this way, but mostly from laboratory or animal studies, or at different strengths than ORY® uses. Limited evidence — little or no published research yet. We say so openly. |
1. General Description and Role
Claim: Caprylic/capric triglyceride (CCT) is a clear, odorless, lightweight emollient made from glycerin and the medium-chain fatty acids caprylic (C8) and capric (C10) acid, usually from coconut or palm kernel oil. In ORY® products, it helps skin and hair feel soft and smooth and serves as a stable carrier for other ingredients. |
Verification: Supported. The CIR Expert Panel has found caprylic/capric triglyceride safe as used in cosmetics since 1980 and reaffirmed this in its amended triglycerides report, with reported use up to about 96% in leave-on products.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2022). Amended safety assessment of triglycerides as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1177/10915818221123790
- What it shows: CIR safety assessment of triglycerides.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2022). Amended safety assessment of triglycerides as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1177/10915818221123790
2. Composition and Production
Claim: CCT is made by separating medium-chain fatty acids from coconut or palm kernel oil and joining them to glycerin. It is related to, but not identical to, “fractionated coconut oil.” |
Verification: Supported. Its saturated medium chains resist oxidation, giving a long shelf life.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2022). Amended safety assessment of triglycerides as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1177/10915818221123790
- What it shows: Describes composition and manufacture.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2022). Amended safety assessment of triglycerides as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1177/10915818221123790
3. Skin Type Suitability
Claim: CCT suits all skin types, including oily and sensitive skin. |
Verification: Supported. CIR found it non-irritating and non-sensitizing at use concentrations.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2022). Amended safety assessment of triglycerides as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1177/10915818221123790
- What it shows: Safety data.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2022). Amended safety assessment of triglycerides as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1177/10915818221123790
4. Hair and Scalp Suitability
Claim: In haircare, CCT adds lightweight shine and slip and carries other oils and ingredients. |
Verification: Limited evidence. Use in hair oils and conditioners is standard formulation practice; we found no clinical hair studies. ORY® haircare products are not intended to treat scalp conditions.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2022). Amended safety assessment of triglycerides as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1177/10915818221123790
- What it shows: Reported hair-care uses.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2022). Amended safety assessment of triglycerides as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1177/10915818221123790
5. Benefits
Claim: CCT helps skin and hair feel soft and smooth, helps reduce moisture loss, and keeps formulas stable. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. Emollients as a class help soften skin and support the skin barrier. A lab study found capric acid (a fatty acid, not the triglyceride itself) reduced acne bacteria and inflammation; acne is a drug claim, and ORY® does not make it for CCT.
Citations:
- Lodén, M. (2003). Role of topical emollients and moisturizers in the treatment of dry skin barrier disorders. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 4(11), 771–788. https://doi.org/10.2165/00128071-200304110-00005
- What it shows: Review of emollients and skin barrier.
- Huang, W. C., Tsai, T. H., Chuang, L. T., Li, Y. Y., Zouboulis, C. C., & Tsai, P. J. (2014). Anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of capric acid against Propionibacterium acnes: A comparative study with lauric acid. Journal of Dermatological Science, 73(3), 232–240. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24284257/
- What it shows: Lab study of capric acid.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR Part 333, Subpart D — Topical acne drug products for over-the-counter human use. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-333/subpart-D
- What it shows: FDA acne drug rule.
- Lodén, M. (2003). Role of topical emollients and moisturizers in the treatment of dry skin barrier disorders. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 4(11), 771–788. https://doi.org/10.2165/00128071-200304110-00005
6. Use Across ORY® Product Lines
Claim: CCT is used in all four ORY® product lines. |
Verification: Supported. Use levels fall within the ranges CIR reviewed. In soap, it is kept to a small share of the oils because fully saponified medium-chain fats make a soft bar.
| Product line | Typical level | How ORY® uses it |
| Skincare | 5–100% | Face and body oils, serums, cleansing oils, creams, and balms. |
| Haircare | 2–50% | Hair oils, scalp serums, leave-ins, and conditioners. |
| Handmade Soap | 2–5% of oils | Superfat or small share of the recipe oils. |
| Cosmetics | 5–40% | Foundations, primers, lip products, and makeup removers. |
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2022). Amended safety assessment of triglycerides as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1177/10915818221123790
- What it shows: Reported use concentrations.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap
- What it shows: FDA explains how soap is regulated.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2022). Amended safety assessment of triglycerides as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1177/10915818221123790
7. Pros
Claim: Stable, light, odorless, and compatible with almost every ingredient. |
Verification: Supported. Backed by a long CIR safety record.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2022). Amended safety assessment of triglycerides as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1177/10915818221123790
- What it shows: Safety conclusion.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2022). Amended safety assessment of triglycerides as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1177/10915818221123790
8. Cons
Claim: CCT adds little on its own, is a processed ingredient, and may come from palm. |
Verification: Supported. We list these limits so you have the full picture:
- Few actives. Provides feel and stability, not vitamins or antioxidants.
- Processed. Not a cold-pressed whole oil.
- Sourcing. Choose coconut-derived or certified sustainable palm.
- Soap. Makes a soft bar at high levels.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2022). Amended safety assessment of triglycerides as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1177/10915818221123790
- What it shows: Composition.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2022). Amended safety assessment of triglycerides as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1177/10915818221123790
9. Safety Notes
Claim: Patch test before use; for external use only. |
Verification: Supported. Follow these precautions:
- Patch test any new product on a small area for 24–48 hours before full use.
- Stop use if redness, burning, itching, or rash occurs, and talk to a healthcare provider.
- For external use only. Avoid the eyes. Do not use on broken or seriously damaged skin.
- If you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are buying for a child, ask a healthcare provider before use.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2022). Amended safety assessment of triglycerides as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1177/10915818221123790
- What it shows: Safety assessment.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2022). Amended safety assessment of triglycerides as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1177/10915818221123790
10. Product-line notes
- ORY® Skincare: For external use only. Not for deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns.
- ORY® Haircare: Designed for scalp comfort and the look and feel of hair. Not intended to treat dandruff or scalp conditions, or to promote hair growth or prevent hair loss. If you notice sudden shedding or a persistent itchy, flaking scalp, see a dermatologist.
- ORY® Handmade Soap: Handmade soap is naturally alkaline, and each bar may vary slightly in color, scent, and texture. Not intended to treat eczema or any skin condition.
- ORY® Cosmetics: Lip products are not intended to treat or protect chapped or cracked lips. Do not share applicators, and replace any product that changes color, smell, or texture.
11. References
Peer-reviewed research
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2022). Amended safety assessment of triglycerides as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1177/10915818221123790
- Huang, W. C., Tsai, T. H., Chuang, L. T., Li, Y. Y., Zouboulis, C. C., & Tsai, P. J. (2014). Anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of capric acid against Propionibacterium acnes: A comparative study with lauric acid. Journal of Dermatological Science, 73(3), 232–240. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24284257/
- Lodén, M. (2003). Role of topical emollients and moisturizers in the treatment of dry skin barrier disorders. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 4(11), 771–788. https://doi.org/10.2165/00128071-200304110-00005
Government and regulatory sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR Part 333, Subpart D — Topical acne drug products for over-the-counter human use. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-333/subpart-D
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap
