What it is
Pyridoxine Dicaprylate is a lipophilic derivative of pyridoxine (vitamin B6) in which the molecule is esterified with caprylic acid to improve oil solubility and stability in formulation. In sunscreens and skincare it is used as a skin-conditioning agent, often associated with products aimed at managing oily or shine-prone skin. Its oil-soluble form allows it to be incorporated into anhydrous and emulsion bases.
Safety & warnings
Used as a cosmetic conditioning ingredient and generally well tolerated. As with any conditioning agent, individual sensitivity is possible. No medicinal benefit should be inferred from its vitamin B6 origin in a topical cosmetic context.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic, produced by esterifying pyridoxine (vitamin B6) with caprylic acid to create an oil-soluble vitamin B6 derivative.
Questions everyone asks
Is this the same as taking vitamin B6?
No. It is an oil-soluble cosmetic derivative of vitamin B6 used to condition skin in a formula, not a dietary or therapeutic vitamin.
Why is it esterified with caprylic acid?
The ester makes the molecule oil-soluble and more stable, so it can be blended into cosmetic oils and emulsions.