Common Name(s): Neopentyl glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate,neopentyl glycol (branched diol) caprylic/capric acids (c8/c10 mixed diester) ester

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Softens and conditions skin with a light, non-greasy feel.

Why It's Used: Used for its ultra-lightweight dual-branched diester; extremely widely used in sunscreens; dry-oil feel emollient properties; suitable for lightweight skin care where non-greasy texture is key.

How It Works: Ester of neopentyl glycol (branched diol) (branched or specialty alcohol) with caprylic/capric acids (c8/c10 mixed diester); branching reduces crystallinity and greasiness; provides smooth, dry-oil skin feel.

Typically Found In: Lightweight moisturizers,sunscreens,skin serums,body lotions

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Functional ingredient – emollient

Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning,texture modification,spreading agent

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–10%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Yes

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Neopentyl glycol (branched diol) and caprylic/capric acids (c8/c10 mixed diester); plant or synthetic origin.

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 – low

Sensitivity Concerns: Generally well tolerated.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1.

Works Well With: Other emollients,silicones,natural oils,humectants

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Neopentyl glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate (npgdc): one of the most widely used emollients in modern sunscreen formulas; ultra-lightweight dry-oil feel; neopentyl branching + short c8/c10 chains.

Last Verified: 2026-03-28

Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary