Mct Oil
ALL ABOUT IT: MCT oil is made from the fatty acids in coconut oil leaving only the medium chain triglycerides. It goes through multiple processes that separate the fatty acids and the clear liquid that results is known as caprylic/capric triglycerides. This thin liquid is a carrier oil used in skin and hair care. It’s not the same thing as coconut or fractionated coconut oil. Unless the label says caprylic/capric triglyceride as the ingredient, it’s not a true MCT oil.
It’s very lightweight and absorbs very quickly to hydrate the skin and creates a protective barrier that keeps in moisture. It can be used in anti aging products to potentially reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Since it’s lightweight, it’s ideal for use in hair care. It leaves the hair feeling soft and silky.
INCI: Caprylic/capric triglyceride
USAGE: Fast absorbing Emollient and skin conditioner
USAGE RATE: Up to 100%
SOLUBILITY: Soluble in oil | Insoluble in water
PHASE: Add to oil phase
COLOR & TEXTURE: Clear to pale yellow
AROMA: None
MELTING POINT: Clear liquid at room temperature
PH: There’s not a lot of information about the PH level of caprylic/capric triglyceride. Most information puts it between 2.5-4.5.
WHY USE IT: It’s relatively inexpensive, very lightweight, and absorbs very quickly into the skin. It has no scent and can be used as a base for making lotions and serums.
BENEFITS: Has anti aging and antioxidant properties. It’s non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores and can be used with fungal acne unlike fractionated coconut oil. It’s lightweight and non greasy and helps the skin retain moisture. It can help thicken formulations and make other ingredients work more effectively.
CONS: It’s not considered all natural due to the processes that separate the chain triglycerides. It’s considered a refined product.
BEST FORMULATIONS: Lightweight serums, wash off products, or as a base for more expensive ingredients.
DO YOU NEED IT: No, but it’s nice to experiment with.
SUBSTITUTIONS: Fractionated coconut can be used interchangeably as long as you don’t have fungal acne or or other lightweight oils like grapeseed oil.
WHERE TO GET IT: Online cosmetic ingredient retailers or Amazon.
HOW MUCH TO BUY: A few ounces unless you plan on using it in a lot of formulations.
STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE: Up the two years if keep cool and out of direct light.
NOTES: Not the same as fractionated coconut oil. This really only matters if you plan to use it on your face and you have fungal acne. MCT oil can be used with fungal acne. Fractionated coconut oil cannot.
