Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
In plain terms
A lightweight, silky oil made from coconut fatty acids, used as a gentle emollient and to dissolve other ingredients. It is one of the better-tolerated oils, low on the pore-clogging scale.
What the evidence shows
Caprylic/capric triglyceride is a light emollient built from glycerin and two medium-chain fatty acids drawn from coconut oil, the same medium-chain triglycerides sold as MCT oil in foods. In a formula it spreads easily, gives a non-greasy finish, and dissolves oil-loving actives, which is why it is a workhorse base in serums, moisturizers, and cleansers. Its safety profile is easy. The US cosmetic-ingredient panel judged the triglycerides safe as used, it rates at the low, non-comedogenic end of the pore-clogging scale unlike heavier esters, and it carries no hormone, cancer, or contamination concern. It is well tolerated even on sensitive skin. There is very little to flag here beyond the ordinary: a fine, gentle emollient.
On the label
Listed as caprylic/capric triglyceride, fractionated coconut oil, or MCT, usually mid-list as a base emollient. It is low on the pore-clogging scale, so it is a gentler oil choice than heavier esters for skin that breaks out.