Ingredient glossary

Coconut Oil

INCI: Cocos Nucifera Oil

Solid and proven

A genuinely useful ingredient with real evidence behind it, not hype.

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What it does

  • barrier support
  • softening
  • antimicrobial

moderate evidenceLiterature on lauric-acid-rich coconut oil shows strong moisturizing and antimicrobial effects but also high comedogenicity on facial skin.

On a label: usually effective at 2-20%.

Who it's for, and who should skip it

Tends to suit

  • very dry
  • body
  • hair

Approach with care

  • acne prone
  • oily
  • fungal acne prone
  • Clogs poresHigh
  • Irritation riskLow

Plays well with

  • humectants
  • occlusives

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Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.