Lauric Acid
Lauric acid is a 12-carbon length saturated fatty acid (IUPAC: Dodecanoic Acid, CAS# 143-07-7) found naturally in coconut milk, coconut oil, laurel oil, palm kernel oil, and breast milk. In skincare formulations it is used as an emulsifier or cleansing/surfactant agent. It has emerging research interest as an anti-acne ingredient due to its antimicrobial activity against Propionibacterium acnes.
A 2009 in-vitro study found that the minimum inhibitory concentration of lauric acid against acne-causing P. acnes bacteria is over 15 times lower than that of benzoyl peroxide, suggesting potential as an anti-acne ingredient, particularly for inflammatory acne. It also functions as an emulsifier and cleansing agent in formulations.
Has a high comedogenicity rating of 4, which may be a concern for acne-prone individuals despite its antimicrobial properties. Supporting anti-acne studies are in-vitro only and have not been conducted on real people.
