Caprylhydroxamic Acid Bon Chelating Agent No known benefits Caprylhydroxamic Acid at a glance Synthetic chelating agent that helps stabilize cosmetics Offers preservative efficacy against molds Works in many types of cosmetic formulas, including anhydrous Not impacted by pH levels Caprylhydroxamic Acid description Caprylhydroxamic acid is a synthetic chelating agent that helps protect cosmetic formulas from destabilizing metal ions. It also works as a preservative, having the ability to prevent mold growth in water-based formulas. This ingredient has great flexibility since it works in all types of cosmetic formulas, including waterless (anhydrous) and its efficacy is not pH-dependent. It is sometimes combined with humectants such as glycerin or propanediol to support aesthetics or a more conventional, broad-spectrum preservative system. Recommended usage levels of caprylhydroxamic acid go from 0.05–0.25% in leave-on and rinse-off products. A draft report by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review board indicates this ingredient is safe and non-irritating as currently used in cosmetics.