Caprylhydroxamic acid

Caprylhydroxamic acid is a synthetic small molecule primarily used as a chelating agent and preservative in cosmetics and personal care products. It acts by binding essential transition metals such as iron and copper, which are required for the growth of microorganisms like bacteria and fungi. This chelation mechanism inhibits microbial growth in formulations[6][7][8]. In pharmaceutical contexts (notably under the synonym "capryl hydroxamic acid"), it has been described as a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor with potential anticancer activity for cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), where it may inhibit tumor growth by blocking HDAC enzymes involved in cancer cell proliferation and survival[5]. Caprylhydroxamic acid is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics at current concentrations[2][4].

Other names

capryl hydroxamic acidN-hydroxycaprylamideoctanamide N-hydroxycaprylhydroxyamic acid