Dicaprylyl Carbonate
Also known as Dioctyl carbonate, Carbonic acid dioctyl ester, Cetiol CC
“CIR Expert Panel says: not assessed.”
Dicaprylyl Carbonate (CAS 1680-31-5) is a dialkyl carbonate ester — the carbonic acid diester of two caprylic acid (C8) chains — functioning as a lightweight, non-greasy emollient in cosmetic and sunscreen formulations. It is structurally related to carboxylate esters such as Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride but uses a carbonate (–O–CO–O–) rather than carboxylate (–C(=O)–O–) linkage. One PubMed result (PMID 32065958) includes dicaprylyl carbonate as one of six emollient vehicles tested for their effect on UV filter absorbance; it is not a safety study. No dedicated CIR safety assessment was found in the QRT as of 12/2017 (revised 07/2018); CosIng was not verifiable (JS-rendered SPA). The ingredient is widely used in cosmetic commerce and is listed in EU CosIng general inventory, but no peer-reviewed independent safety assessment by CIR or SCCS was locatable for this specific ingredient.
Lightweight, low-viscosity emollient providing dry, non-greasy skin feel — frequently used in sunscreens and skin care formulations
Good solubilizer for crystalline UV filters (polar emollient properties demonstrated in Sohn et al. 2020, J Photochem Photobiol B)
Structurally stable carbonate ester — oxidation-resistant C8 saturated chains, no unsaturated double bonds
Marketed commercially as Cetiol CC (BASF) and equivalent grades; widely accepted in EU cosmetics trade