What Exactly Is Coconut Oil?
Standard, or unfractionated, coconut oil is the raw, whole oil extracted from mature coconut meat. It contains a full spectrum of fatty acids, including long-chain triglycerides and a high concentration of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), with lauric acid (C12) making up about 50% of its content. At cooler temperatures, the high lauric acid content causes it to be a solid, white fat.
The Production of Standard Coconut Oil
Standard coconut oil can be produced through several methods, depending on the type. Virgin coconut oil, for instance, is typically cold-pressed from fresh coconut meat, preserving its distinct coconut aroma and flavor. Refined coconut oil, often made from dried coconut meat (copra), undergoes further processing, including bleaching and deodorizing, which neutralizes its scent and taste and increases its smoke point.
Benefits and Uses of Standard Coconut Oil
- Culinary Applications: Its rich coconut flavor makes it a popular ingredient for cooking and baking, especially in Southeast Asian cuisine.
- Deep Conditioning: The molecular structure allows it to deeply penetrate hair shafts, protecting hair from damage and moisture loss.
- Intense Moisturizer: A powerful emollient, it is highly moisturizing for dry skin, though its heavier texture may clog pores for those with oily skin.
- Antimicrobial Properties: The lauric acid content provides antimicrobial and antibacterial benefits, useful in skincare and oral hygiene.
What Exactly Is Fractionated Coconut Oil?
Fractionated coconut oil (FCO) is a processed version of standard coconut oil where the long-chain fatty acids have been removed. This is done through a process called fractionation, which separates the different types of fats based on their melting points. The long-chain fats are filtered out, leaving behind only the medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), primarily capric (C8) and caprylic (C10) acids.
The Production of Fractionated Coconut Oil
To produce FCO, standard coconut oil is heated above its melting point and then cooled slowly. The long-chain fatty acids solidify at a higher temperature, allowing them to be separated from the remaining liquid oil. The result is a clear, liquid oil that stays in a liquid state at room temperature and has a much longer shelf life.
Benefits and Uses of Fractionated Coconut Oil
- Lightweight Carrier Oil: Its light, non-greasy texture and neutral scent make it an ideal carrier oil for diluting essential oils for topical use.
- Versatile Skin Moisturizer: It absorbs quickly and does not clog pores, making it an excellent moisturizer, particularly for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
- Extended Shelf Life: With the most oxidation-prone fatty acids removed, FCO is more stable and resistant to rancidity, giving it an exceptionally long shelf life.
- Odorless and Colorless: These properties ensure it won't interfere with the fragrance or color of essential oils or cosmetics.
Comparison Table: Coconut Oil vs. Fractionated Coconut Oil
| Feature | Standard Coconut Oil | Fractionated Coconut Oil (FCO) |
|---|---|---|
| Physical State at Room Temp | Solid, opaque white fat | Liquid, clear oil |
| Processing | Cold-pressed or refined from coconut meat | Heated, cooled, and filtered to remove long-chain fatty acids |
| Fatty Acid Profile | Contains a full spectrum of fatty acids, including high levels of lauric acid | Primarily contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), specifically caprylic (C8) and capric (C10) acids |
| Aroma and Flavor | Retains a distinct coconut aroma and flavor (especially virgin) | Odorless and tasteless |
| Texture | Heavy, greasy feel on the skin | Light, non-greasy, and quickly absorbed |
| Shelf Life | Shorter shelf life; more prone to oxidation | Very long shelf life; highly stable |
| Best For | Cooking, deep conditioning hair masks, and intense body moisturizing | Essential oil blending, massage oils, and lightweight skincare products |
Key Factors for Choosing the Right Coconut Oil
The decision between standard and fractionated coconut oil depends entirely on its intended use. For culinary purposes where a rich coconut flavor is desired, standard coconut oil is the clear choice. Its solid form also makes it an excellent butter substitute in some baking recipes. However, for cosmetic and aromatherapy applications, FCO's liquid state, long shelf life, and non-greasy feel are far superior.
For skincare, the choice can be more personal. If your skin is dry and requires a heavy, deeply moisturizing treatment, standard coconut oil is effective. But if you have acne-prone or sensitive skin, FCO is less likely to clog pores and is a better option. The absence of lauric acid in FCO means it lacks some of the same antimicrobial benefits as standard coconut oil, but its lightweight nature makes it a more versatile carrier oil for essential oil blends.
What About MCT Oil?
MCT oil is a related product that is often similar or identical to fractionated coconut oil. It is also derived from the MCTs found in coconut oil. However, while FCO is commonly used for topical applications, MCT oil is typically marketed as a dietary supplement for energy and weight management. Always check the specific product label to understand its composition and intended use.
Conclusion
While both standard and fractionated coconut oil originate from the same source, they are fundamentally different products resulting from different processing techniques. Standard coconut oil is a versatile, solid fat with a full fatty acid profile, ideal for cooking and heavy-duty moisturizing. Fractionated coconut oil is a clear, liquid, and stable oil, making it the preferred choice for essential oil blending, massage, and lightweight skincare. Understanding these key differences allows you to choose the best product for your specific needs, whether in the kitchen or the cosmetics cabinet.
Further Reading
For more information on the various types of coconut oil and their processing methods, visit Wildly Organic.
