What is fractionated coconut oil?

Fractionated coconut oil is sometimes known as “Liquid Coconut Oil”. The fractionation process entails the use of heat at varying temperatures to separate the long-chain fatty acids. Long-chain fatty acids are solid at room temperature and require a higher melting point temperature. The process allows the oil to remain in a liquid state at room temperature.Fractionated coconut oil (FCO) is often used in aromatherapy and cosmetics because it is a very light, odorless oil. Massage therapists like FCO because it leaves less of a stain on clothing and sheets than other oils. It is also used in cosmetics because it gives a lighter feel to a product as well as a glide. FCO is a very stable oil in that it will not go rancid quickly giving it a longer shelf life than other oils. FCO is also used in cooking and is said to not contribute to a rise in cholesterol.

How the fatty acid profile of regular coconut oil breaks down?

Long chain, saturated fatty acids:

Myristic acid (C14) 19%, palmitic acid (C16) 8%, stearic acid (C18) 3%

Long chain unsaturated fatty acids:

Oleic acid (C18:1) 5%, linoleic acid (C18:2) 2%

Medium chain saturated fatty acids:

Caprylic (C8) 8%, Capric (C10) 7%, lauric acid (C12) 48%

Fractionated coconut oil refers to just two of the medium chain fatty acids; caprylic and capric fatty acid. The INCI (International Nomenclature for Cosmetic Ingredients) for FCO is Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride. The lauric acid with 12 carbons is borderline long chain and not extracted into the FCO or also called MCT for Medium Chain Triglycerides.

So how are they separated? The ‘fractionating’ is done first by hydrolyzing the triglyceride to separate it into glycerol and fatty acids. This is the same reaction a soapmaker uses to make soap. The fatty acids are then gradually heated so that the lower carbon chains melt first and the various fatty acids are ‘fractionated’ or separated.  This actual separation is done through distillation. Once this is finished the result is MCFA for medium chain fatty acids, rather than a triglyceride. The triglyceride is then reformed by esterification with glycerin/glycerol to reform the triglyceride or MCT for medium chain triglycerides, also the fractionated coconut oil.

Uses of Fractionated Coconut Oil

Fractionated Coconut Oil, like many other carrier oils, is perfectly suitable for blending essential oils. Since essential oils are concentrated and potent oils, when applying them topically, it is necessary to blend it with a carrier oil to reap its potential benefits without causing any harm. Fractionated Coconut Oil is ideal for increasing the topical distribution of essential oil. One of its primary benefits is that it is non-greasy and is easily absorbed into the skin. Thus, it helps to soften and soothe the dry skin very effectively. Although the Fractionated Coconut Oil has a very mild characteristic scent to it, its odorless and colorless properties serve for easy blending with any essential oil. It has a feather-light emollient effect that provides a protective barrier without clogging the pores and hence is excellent for dry or troubled skin.

Almost all the fats in Fractionated Coconut Oil is saturated fat and although as a general rule, health experts advise consumers to avoid it, these fats do provide some health benefits. This oil penetrates the skin readily, thus acting as a carrier for transdermal therapeutic ingredients. As for the previously mentioned colorless characteristic, this completely soluble oil will not stain. This ability to transport essential oils and actives to the skin makes Fractionated Coconut Oil a popular choice among medical practitioners and massage therapists.

It can be used as a light carrier oil for topical applications of essential oils. Simply dilute one part of essential oil to five parts or more of Fractionated Coconut Oil, depending on the skin sensitivity or as directed on the essential oil label. It can also be applied topically to hydrate the skin without blending it with your essential oil blends or perfume. It can also be mixed with calming oils to massage into the neck and shoulders for deep relaxation. Similarly, it can be used to dilute stronger oils before any topical application to lessen the sensitivity.