Coconut Oil
Tropical oil high in lauric acid. Moisturizes well but is comedogenic and can clog pores when applied to the face.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Lauric acid shows antimicrobial properties in vitro. Clinical trials in atopic dermatitis showed improved hydration, but the oil worsens comedogenesis on the face. Not the best choice for facial care.
- Verallo-Rowell VM et al. Dermatitis. 2008;19(6):308-315. PMID 19134433
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Dry
- Use with caution
- Oily, Combination
For sensitive skin
Comedogenicity rating 4 out of 5. May cause acne and closed comedones on the face. Better suited for body use.
About this ingredient
Coconut Oil (Cocos Nucifera Oil) is a vegetable oil from coconut flesh, dominated by saturated fatty acids – primarily lauric acid (~45-50%). Used in tropical cosmetics for centuries, it reached Europe as a universal emollient. Composition and mechanism. Lauric, myristic, palmitic, oleic, linoleic acids. Lauric acid has in vitro antibacterial activity against Cutibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus aureus (Nakatsuji 2009). On skin it forms an occlusive film, reduces transepidermal water loss, and penetrates the hair shaft (Rele 2003) – one of the few oils that actually reduces protein loss during washing. Where applied. Hair masks and oils, body balms, very-dry-skin products, makeup removers, soap. On the face manufacturers tend to avoid it because of high comedogenicity. In Spain – Garnier Hair Food, Klorane, Mercadona Deliplus, niche artisan brands. Evidence base. Evangelista 2014 RCT in children with atopic dermatitis: daily virgin coconut oil over 8 weeks cut SCORAD by 68% vs 38% in the mineral oil group. On hair, Rele 2003 showed coconut oil was the only oil tested that penetrates the hair cortex and reduces protein loss. Safety. CIR confirmed safety. The main caveat is comedogenicity: rating 4 of 5 from most suppliers. On the face it triggers closed comedones in acne-prone skin. Controversy. The popular social-media advice to use coconut oil on the face clashes with the dermatologic position: for most skin types it's a poor face choice, especially in acne, rosacea, and fungal acne (Malassezia feeds on fatty acids). Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Often recommended for stretch marks and nipples during breastfeeding – safe for the infant on accidental ingestion. Best suited to: very dry body skin, damaged hair, cuticles. Not for the face in acne-prone skin or fungal acne.
Frequently asked questions
Is Coconut Oil safe during pregnancy?
Coconut Oil is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Coconut Oil for?
Coconut Oil suits: dry. Use with caution in: oily, combination.
What is Coconut Oil and what does it do in cosmetics?
Tropical oil high in lauric acid.
Is Coconut Oil comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 4/5 – high comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Coconut Oil?
The INCI name is Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil. It may also appear as: Cocos Nucifera Oil.
See Coconut Oil in a product composition right on the store page
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