What it is
This ester is built from dipentaerythritol esterified with caprylic (C8) and capric (C10) acids, giving a branched, medium-chain structure. It provides a light, silky, dry-touch emollience and is effective at wetting and dispersing pigments, making it common in mists and tinted sunscreens. It also helps smooth application and fine-tune the texture of the oil phase.
Safety & warnings
Branched medium-chain polyol esters of this type are generally well tolerated and low in irritation potential at cosmetic levels.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic ester made by esterifying dipentaerythritol with caprylic and capric acids, which are medium-chain fatty acids often derived from coconut or palm sources.
Questions everyone asks
What does this ingredient feel like on skin?
It gives a light, silky, dry-touch emollient feel rather than a heavy or oily one.
Why is it used in sunscreen mists?
Its light texture and pigment-wetting ability help the product spread smoothly and distribute pigments evenly.