Lauric Acid
TYPE OF INGREDIENT
Emollient, preservative
COMMONLY FOUND IN
Serums, creams, cleansers
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF LAURIC ACID ?
Lauric acid has been shown to be useful for its antimicrobial activity, barrier function, and as a preservative. It also has an emollient and skin-soothing function in many cosmetic products. In one study, it was added in combination for an acne treatment to prevent resistance to topical antibiotics.
WHAT IS LAURIC ACID?
Lauric acid is a fatty acid usually found in high concentrations in coconuts. It has been used widely in cosmetics and personal care products.
IS ___ SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES AND TONES?
Lauric acid is likely safe for all skin types and tones based on available data. Previous studies of dermal administration of lauric acid have shown increased incidences of epidermal and sebaceous gland hyperplasia, parakeratosis or hyperkeratosis, and chronic inflammation where applied in studies with rats.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
There is minimal data on contraindications for the topical application of lauric acid, though there are some reactions reported at the site of application. Therefore, patients with hypersensitivity to lauric acid or similar components should avoid use of this product.
Sources:
Almeida C, Murta D, Nunes R, et al. Characterization of lipid extracts from the Hermetia illucens larvae and their bioactivities for potential use as pharmaceutical and cosmetic ingredients. Heliyon. 2022;8(5):e09455. Published 2022 May 18. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09455
Kozan A, Guner RY, Akyol M. A retrospective assessment and comparison of the effectiveness of benzoyl peroxide; the combination of topical niacinamide, gallic acid, and lauric acid; and the combination of benzoyl peroxide and erythromycin in acne vulgaris. Dermatol Ther. 2020;33(4):e13534. doi:10.1111/dth.13534
National Toxicology Program . NTP Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of Lauric Acid Diethanolamine Condensate (CAS NO. 120-40-1) in F344/N Rats and B6C3F1 Mice (Dermal Studies). Natl Toxicol Program Tech Rep Ser. 1999;480:1-200.
