What is Fractionated Coconut Oil?
What is fractionated coconut oil and what is it good for? You probably already know about the hydrating and healing properties of coconut oil. But what about the benefits of fractionated coconut oil for skin and how is it different from regular coconut oil (Cocos nucifera).
Fractionated coconut oil is used in a lot of skincare products, as well as hair care products. Here’s everything you should know about this oil and what it can do for you.
What is Fractionated Coconut Oil?
Fractionated coconut oil is an oil that’s extracted from coconut oil, both of which are excellent sources of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). While they have many similarities, their fatty acid composition is drastically different. 12-carbon lauric acid is the main fatty acid in standard coconut oil but most of this acid along with the long-chain fatty acids (caprylic acid and capric acid) are removed from fractionated coconut oil.
Fractionated coconut oil undergoes a refining process known as fractionation. It is heated above its melting point and left to cool. Because lauric acid and long-chain fatty acids turn solid much more quickly than other types of fat, it is easier to separate and remove them from the liquid.
A few things you should know about fractionated coconut oil:
• It does not become solid at room temperature.
• It enhances the topical distribution of essential oil.
• It is a great carrier oil for essential oils.
• It has a longer shelf life than regular coconut oil.
Benefits of Fractionated Coconut Oil
There are a variety of skin, hair, and health benefits of fractionated coconut oil.
Hydrates the Skin
Fractionated oil deeply hydrates the skin thanks to its moisturizing properties. That is why you’ll find it in a range of skincare products including creams and lotions. It can provide quick relief for those dealing with dry skin. Many people use fractionated coconut oil to soothe and prevent razor burn and itchiness after shaving.
Promotes Weight Loss
Fractionated coconut oil is a great source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). A diet high in MCTS may promote weight loss by reducing hunger and calorie intake, and helping to burn fat. That being said, weight loss from fractionated coconut oil is quite modest. Studies show that MCTs reduced body weight by an average of 0.5 kg (or 1.1 pounds) over three weeks.
Improves Brain Function
MCTs may enhance brain function, according to research. One study found that in some people with moderate Alzheimer’s disease, MCTS improved cognitive function. However, more studies are needed to understand the role MCTS play in helping certain brain disorders.
Softens and Strengthens Hair
Fractionated coconut oil is considered both an emollient and carrier oil, meaning it can help to hydrate, soften, and strengthen the hair. Because of its non-greasy feel, this type of oil feels good on both the skin and hair. You can use it to reduce frizz or as a hair mask to improve the condition of your hair.
Best Coconut Oil Products
Here at Truly, we use coconut oil in many of our formulas. Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s a powerhouse ingredient for healing dryness, irritation, and razor bumps while giving your skin a healthy radiant glow. Here are the faves everyone loves.
For Glossy, Selfie-Ready Skin...
Get sheeny, photo-ready skin in just 2 steps! You get: a facial serum + cream to drench skin in dewy hydration—with a moisture-sealing blend of coconut, passion fruit, and vitamin E. Skin feels noticeably softer from the very first use.
For A Silky Smooth, Ingrown-Free Shave...
From ingrowns to razor burn, body odor to discoloration, this dreamy shave set combats all. Powered by peptides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and coconut to leave skin silky smooth, supple, and smelling absolutely delicious.
For Fuller Lips + Plumper Skin....
The bestselling cult-faves, bundled. Unicorn Blast Bundle features three iconic swirls—lip balm, body polish, and body butter—designed to volumize lips, plump skin with hydration, and leave you glowing all over. With a decadent cotton candy scent that belongs in fairytales.
For All-Over, All-Night Glow...
Get your glow on with this ultra-indulgent routine. With the most scrumptious scents and yummy textures, you’ll love getting ready with this deluxe routine. From last minute breakouts to stretch marks, sag, and cellulite, this set’s got you covered.
For the Ultimate Pampering Experience...
Indulge in the best pampering experience of your life. Unwrap 11 of our most indulgent bestsellers in one exclusive bundle to firm, tighten, and hydrate your entire body for irresistibly smooth, sculpted skin all over. Plus, it comes with a free luxury robe ($250 value) so you can take on your routine looking ultra-chic!
Is Fractionated Coconut Oil Good for Skin?
Fractionated coconut oil is indeed good for the skin. Rich in medium-chain fatty acids like caprylic and capric acids, it deeply hydrates the skin without leaving a greasy residue. Its light texture makes it suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
High in antioxidants, fractionated coconut oil may protect the skin against damage caused by free radicals. In turn, this can help prevent premature signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
Fractionated coconut oil penetrates better into the skin than regular liquid coconut oil. For that reason, it is more effective at treating skin concerns such as dryness and irritation.
Is Fractionated Coconut Oil Good for Hair?
Fractionated coconut oil is a great hair care ingredient. Packed with nutrients and antioxidants, this oil does a lot for your hair. It hydrates, softens, and protects while managing frizz. You’ll find fractionated coconut oil in many hair products, especially conditioners and hair masks which are designed to hydrate and strengthen the strands.
Because fractionated coconut oil stays in liquid form regardless of room temperature, it is easy to apply and highly valued for its moisturizing qualities. Some say it may even promote hair growth when used regularly.
Is Fractionated Coconut Oil the Same as MCT Oil?
Fractionated coconut oil has its long chain triglycerides removed. So what remains is a product that is high in medium chain triglycerides (or MCTs). Ultimately, MCT oil and fractionated oil are the same thing. They just have two different names.
You’ll usually find MCT oil used in supplements while fractionated coconut oil is used in skincare. Because they are identical, you can actually use them both in the same way. Always read the ingredients before purchasing a product so you know exactly what you are buying.
Is Fractionated Coconut Oil Better Than Regular Coconut Oil?
Fractionated coconut oil has many of the same benefits of standard coconut oil. However, there are a few key differences to bear in mind. For starters, fractionated coconut oil is more processed than the regular form and one of its main fats—lauric acid—is removed. That can make this oil less worthy than normal coconut oil.
On the other hand, fractionated coconut oil can lead to modest weight loss, improve brain health, and hydrate the skin and hair. Plus, it penetrates deeper into the skin. What’s more, fractionated coconut oil has a longer shelf life than conventional coconut oil. This is because the refining process eliminates impurities that can affects its stability.
How to Use Fractionated Coconut Oil
Fractionated coconut oil is also marketed as liquid coconut oil and MCT oil. They’re essentially all the same product but marketed for different consumer uses. For instance, fractionated coconut oil is primarily used in moisturizers, hair masks, hair conditioners, and massage oils. MCT oil is typically used as a dietary supplement. And liquid coconut oil is most commonly used as an edible cooking oil.
You can use fractionated coconut oil in a variety of ways. In beauty, you can use it as a moisturizer, hair mask, lip balm, makeup remover, or massage oil. You can even create your own DIY blends—whether it be for a moisturizer, serum, or aromatherapy oil.
Is Fractionated Coconut Oil Worth it?
Now you know what is fractionated coconut oil and what it does for the skin, hair, and your health, you’re probably wondering whether it’s worth it. All in all, fractionated coconut oil is an effective skin and hair ingredient that’s extremely hydrating and nourishing with a long shelf life. There are pros and cons to both forms of coconut oil. It all depends on what you’re looking for and how your skin responds to fractionated coconut oil. So give them both a try and see what you think!
Photo by Karolina Grabowska, Pexels
