
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.