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Lauric Acid

What Lauric Acid is & what it does

A fatty acid used as a thickener and, with a base, to build cleansing or emulsifying systems. It adds body to the formula.

Is Lauric Acid safe?

Lauric Acid is a fatty acid found in sources like coconut and palm and is widely used in cosmetics, where it is generally considered safe at typical levels. It is most often present as part of cleansing and emulsifying systems. This is general information and not medical advice.

What does Lauric Acid do in skincare?

Lauric Acid is used mainly as a surfactant and emulsifier and, when combined with an alkali, helps form the cleansing base in soaps and washes. It can also serve as part of a formula's fatty phase, contributing to texture and lather.

Is Lauric Acid comedogenic?

Lauric Acid is often cited as having a relatively high comedogenic rating, so leave-on products with a lot of it may not suit very acne-prone skin. In rinse-off cleansers the contact time is short, which can reduce that concern. Responses vary, so patch testing is sensible if you break out easily.

Sunscreens with Lauric Acid

We rate 24 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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