Emollient

Lauric Acid

The main fatty acid of coconut oil — lauric acid has powerful antibacterial and antifungal activity. It is responsible for the unique cleansing and antimicrobial properties of coconut.

AntibacterialCoconutC12Antifungal

✕ High Risk

Comedogenic Rating

4/5

Irritation Potential

1/5

What is it?

Lauric Acid (dodecanoic acid, C12:0) — saturated fatty acid. Comprises ~48% of coconut oil and ~45% of palm kernel oil. The strongest antimicrobial activity among saturated fatty acids — disrupts the lipid membranes of bacteria and viruses. The monoglyceride of lauric acid — monolaurin (glyceryl laurate) — is even more powerful. In INCI: Lauric Acid.

Natural antimicrobial component in acne, dermatitis, and seborrheic condition care products. The base of coconut soap.

Key Benefits

✦

Powerful antibacterial and antiviral action

Lauric acid disrupts the lipid membranes of bacteria (Staph. aureus, C. acnes) and enveloped viruses. One of the most effective natural antimicrobial molecules.

◈

Antifungal activity

Effective against Malassezia (the fungus of seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff) and Candida — explains the therapeutic use of coconut oil in skin mycoses.

✧

Cleansing surfactant precursor

Sodium laurate (salt of lauric acid) — the most active cleansing component of coconut soap and the basis of many SCI and SLSA surfactants.

Suitable for

Acne-prone skin (antibacterial)Seborrheic conditions

Main Actions

✓ Antibacterial action✓ Antifungal action✓ Antiviral action✓ Cleansing

Lauric acid and comedogenicity

Lauric acid — a paradox: antibacterial against acne bacteria, but coconut oil (48% lauric acid) is comedogenic (rating 4/5). The reason is that the solid fatty acids of coconut clog pores. Pure lauric acid in minimal concentrations — anti-acne. Coconut oil on the face — a risk.

CategoryEmollients

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