1,2-octanediol

1,2-Octanediol (CAS 1117-86-8), also sold as caprylyl glycol, is a multifunctional diol used across personal care, pharmaceutical, and industrial formulations. It functions primarily as a preservation booster, humectant, and emollient. This versatile chemical often replaces or reduces the load of traditional preservatives in finished products. In cosmetic and skincare formulations, caprylyl glycol acts as an antimicrobial booster that enhances the efficacy of preservative systems.

It allows formulators to meet challenge test requirements with lower preservative concentrations. It is incorporated into moisturizers, serums, and hair care products where it contributes skin-conditioning and moisture-retention properties. Alongside its preservation function, it is used in pharmaceutical topical preparations. It supports formulation stability and acts as a co-solvent or humectant in creams and ointments to improve the overall texture and application.

Coatings and adhesive manufacturers use this chemical as a reactive diol component in crosslinking systems. This application contributes to film flexibility and durability in various industrial and commercial coating products. The product is supplied as a white to off-white solid or low-melting waxy material, depending on temperature and grade. It is available in cosmetic-grade and pharmaceutical-grade specifications for diverse manufacturing needs.

High-purity grades typically exceed 98% assay to ensure consistent performance in sensitive applications. Packaging ranges from small drums to bulk quantities suited to large-scale industrial formulation volumes.