
General Description:
Lauric Acid is a saturated medium-chain fatty acid naturally found in coconut oil, palm kernel oil, and breast milk. It appears as a white, powdery solid or flaky substance with a faint fatty odor. Known for its antimicrobial, emulsifying, and surfactant properties, Lauric Acid is widely used in the formulation of soaps, shampoos, creams, and other personal care products. Its natural origin and compatibility with skin-friendly formulations make it a popular choice in both conventional and natural cosmetics. Available in bulk and wholesale supply, Lauric Acid is a foundational ingredient in many cosmetic manufacturing processes.
Uses in the Cosmetics Industry:
Lauric Acid serves multiple functions in cosmetics and personal care products, including:
- Acting as a key raw material in the production of sodium laurate, a cleansing agent used in bar soaps and body washes.
- Functioning as an emulsifier or surfactant in lotions, creams, and conditioners.
- Providing mild antimicrobial and antibacterial benefits, making it useful in acne-fighting and deodorant formulations.
- Contributing to the creamy lather and cleansing power in soaps and cleansing bars.
- Serving as a texture enhancer and emollient in various skincare formulations.
- Its versatility and efficacy make it a staple ingredient for formulators aiming for performance and natural appeal.
Side Effects & Hazards:
Lauric Acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) and well-tolerated in cosmetic formulations. However, in its raw or concentrated form, it may cause mild irritation to the skin, eyes, or respiratory tract, particularly during handling in manufacturing environments. It is not considered a sensitizer or carcinogen, and its use in leave-on or rinse-off products is regarded as low risk when properly formulated. To ensure safety during production, manufacturers should use protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and masks, and work in well-ventilated areas. Lauric Acid should be stored in a cool, dry place in tightly sealed containers to prevent oxidation and maintain product quality.
CAS Number: 143-07-7
INCI Name: Lauric Acid
Composition: A saturated medium-chain fatty acid (C12:0); also known as dodecanoic acid
PurityGrade:Cosmetic/Pharmaceutical/Food Grade (depending on refinement)
Appearance: White crystalline solid or powder; may appear as flakes or granules
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in ethanol, ether, chloroform, and hot oils
Preservation: Not typically preserved; stable in dry, cool conditions
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place; keep container tightly sealed to prevent oxidation
Raw Material Sources: Derived from coconut oil or palm kernel oil through hydrolysis and fractionation
Manufacture: Obtained by hydrolysis of triglycerides in coconut or palm kernel oils, followed by fractional distillation
Animal Testing: Generally not tested on animals by suppliers of cosmetic/food grade; confirm with individual manufacturers
GMO: Non-GMO when derived from non-GMO coconut or palm sources
Vegan: Yes; plant-derived with no animal-based components
Proposition: Generally compliant; no known Proposition 65 listed contaminants unless contaminated during processing
Warning: May cause mild skin or eye irritation in raw form; safe in formulated products at standard use concentrations
THE STORY OF LAURIC ACID
Lauric Acid: The Essential Fatty Acid for Cleansing, Foam & Antimicrobial Care
Lauric Acid is a medium-chain saturated fatty acid widely used in cosmetic and personal-care formulations for its cleansing, emulsifying, foaming, and antimicrobial properties.
Naturally found in coconut oil and palm kernel oil, it is a core ingredient in soaps, surfactants, creams, lotions, and haircare products.
Plant-Derived Fatty Acid Extracted from Coconut & Palm Kernel Oils
Cosmetic-grade Lauric Acid is obtained from:
• Coconut oil
• Palm kernel oil
through hydrolysis and fractionation.
It is then purified and crystallized into a white, waxy solid rich in C12 fatty acids.
TRCkem supplies high-purity Lauric Acid (≈ 99%), widely used in surfactant and emulsifier production.
Clean. Foam. Protect.
Lauric Acid plays multiple roles in personal-care formulations:
✅ Strong surfactant building block (used to make SLS, SLES, ALS, etc.)
✅ Enhances foam density & stability
✅ Supports cleansing performance
✅ Offers natural antimicrobial & antibacterial activity
✓ Improves emulsification in creams & lotions
Used in: soaps, shampoos, face washes, body cleansers, shaving creams, lotions, conditioners & antimicrobial skincare.
Versatile Fatty Acid — Ideal for Surfactants, Soaps & Skin-Care Bases
• Typical use level: 1–20% depending on application
• Melt before incorporation (melting point: ~43–46°C)
• Easily reacts with alkalis to form soaps (saponification)
• Compatible with oils, butters, surfactants & emulsifiers
• Naturally safe & mild when formulated properly
• Store in cool, dry place to prevent clumping
• Ideal for soap making, surfactant synthesis & cream/lotion structuring
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1. What is Lauric Acid?
Lauric Acid is a saturated medium-chain fatty acid naturally found in coconut oil and palm kernel oil. In the personal care industry, it is widely used for its cleansing, emulsifying, and antimicrobial properties, especially in soaps, surfactants, and skincare products.
2. What is the INCI name and CAS number of Lauric Acid?
CAS Number: 143-07-7
INCI Name: Lauric Acid
3. What are the primary benefits of Lauric Acid in personal care formulations?
Acts as a natural emulsifier and thickener
Provides strong cleansing and foaming action
Known for its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, especially against acne-causing bacteria
Helps maintain skin barrier health and provides moisture retention when used in appropriate concentrations
4. In which types of personal care products is Lauric Acid commonly used?
Lauric Acid is used in a variety of products, including:
Bar soaps (especially cold-processed and natural soaps)
Facial cleansers and body washes
Shampoos and conditioners
Creams and lotions
Deodorants and acne treatments
5. Is Lauric Acid derived from natural sources?
Yes, Lauric Acid is typically sourced from natural oils like coconut oil and palm kernel oil. It is a plant-based ingredient and widely used in natural and organic personal care formulations.
6. What is the recommended usage level of Lauric Acid in formulations?
Usage levels vary depending on the product type, but generally fall between 1% and 10%. In soap making, it may be present in even higher concentrations due to its role in saponification.
7. Is Lauric Acid safe for sensitive skin?
Lauric Acid is generally safe and well-tolerated, especially in rinse-off formulations. However, in high concentrations or leave-on products, it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin, so proper formulation and testing are essential.
8. Does Lauric Acid have antimicrobial properties?
Yes, Lauric Acid is well-known for its antimicrobial and antibacterial activity, particularly against Propionibacterium acnes, the bacteria linked to acne. This makes it a valuable ingredient in acne-control and skin-purifying products.