Caprylhydroxamic acid is a glycine-derived hydroxamic acid used primarily as a preservative and chelating agent in cosmetic formulations, where it helps control microbial growth (especially fungi) and stabilizes products by binding trace metal ions. It is typically used in combination with other preservatives such as glycols and is effective across a relatively wide pH range.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Skin irritation | Rare | Mild redness or stinging reported infrequently, usually in sensitive skin or at higher concentrations. |
Allergic contact dermatitis | Very rare | Isolated sensitization reports; not considered a common contact allergen. |
Eye irritation | Rare | Possible transient irritation with accidental ocular contact in leave-on or rinse-off products. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.