Fractionated Coconut Oil (MCT)

• INCI Name: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
• CAS Number: 73398-61-5
• Source: Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil
• Appearance: Clear, water-white oily liquid at room temperature
• Odour: Odourless
• Specific Gravity: 0.930 - 0.960 @ 20°C
• Refractive Index: 1.440 - 1.452 @ 20°C
• Saponification Value: 310 - 360 mgKOH/g
• Acid Value: <0.20 mgKOH/g
• Hydroxyl Value: 0.00 - 5.00 mgKOH/g
• Moisture: <0.20%
• Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in vegetable oils
• Melting Point: Remains liquid at room temperature (does not solidify)

How It Works

Fractionated Coconut Oil is made by hydrolysing coconut oil and isolating the medium-chain triglycerides (mainly caprylic and capric acids), then re-esterifying them with glycerine. Removing the long-chain fatty acids eliminates the components responsible for solidifying at cool temperatures and going rancid over time. The result is a small, uniform molecule that spreads easily, absorbs quickly into skin and hair, and remains chemically stable for years without the need for refrigeration or added antioxidants.

Usage Rates

• Carrier/massage oil: Up to 100%
• Facial and body oils: 10–100%
• Lotions/creams (oil phase): 5–20%
• Hair oils/serums: 5–30%
• Lip balms: 10–20%
• Soap making (superfat/additive): 1–5%
• Diluent for essential oils/actives: As needed

Key Benefits

• Lightweight, fast-absorbing, non-greasy
• Odourless and colourless — won't affect fragrance or finished product colour
• Excellent oxidative stability, indefinite shelf life
• Stays liquid at all temperatures (won't solidify like whole coconut oil)
• Non-staining on fabric
• Suitable for all skin types
• Vegan and sustainably derived from coconut

Applications

• Massage and body oils
• Facial serums and moisturisers
• Hair oils, serums and scalp treatments
• Lip balms and lip oils
• Soap making (superfatting agent)
• Solid and liquid cosmetics as an emollient carrier
• Diluent for essential oils and fragrance blends

• General Handling: Store in a cool, dark place in airtight containers. Stable in heat but avoid extreme temperatures.
• Skin Contact: Non-irritating and hypoallergenic; suitable for sensitive skin.
• Ingestion: Not intended for consumption (cosmetic-grade).
• Allergies: Rare; derived from coconut but purified to remove allergens – patch test if concerned.
• Eyes: Avoid direct contact; rinse with water.
• Environmental: Biodegradable and plant-sourced.
• First Aid: Rinse skin/eyes with water; seek advice if needed.

What makes caprylic/capric triglyceride different from regular coconut oil?
It's a fractionated version containing only medium-chain fatty acids (C8-C10), removing heavier fractions for a lighter, less greasy feel – perfect for facial and lightweight products.

Is it comedogenic or suitable for acne-prone skin?
No – rating of 1 means it's highly unlikely to clog pores; fast absorption makes it ideal for oily and acne-prone formulations.

What's the recommended usage rate?
5-15% in moisturisers for emollience; 30-50% in serums as carrier; 10-20% in sunscreens or makeup for spreadability.

Can it replace silicones in clean beauty recipes?
Yes – provides similar slip and finish naturally; use 2-3x the silicone amount for comparable texture.

Is it suitable for sensitive or baby skin products?
Absolutely – purified, fragrance-free, and non-irritating for gentle formulations.

How should I store it in Australia's climate?
Cool, dark place; amber bottles help in warmer regions to maintain stability and shelf life (2-3 years).

Can it be used in hair care?
Yes – lightweight conditioning in leave-ins, serums, or heat protectants without weighing hair down.

Is it plant-derived and vegan?
Yes – 100% from coconut/palm kernel sources, vegan-friendly.