One of the questions we are most frequently asked is: what is the difference between virgin and fractionated coconut oil? Fractionated coconut oil is virgin coconut oil that has been distilled, allowing long-chain fatty acids to separate and solidify for removal. What remains is an ultralight, odorless coconut oil that stays liquid in form at cooler temps.
One of the questions we are most frequently asked is: what is the difference between virgin and fractionated coconut oil? Fractionated coconut oil is virgin coconut oil that has been distilled, allowing long-chain fatty acids to separate and solidify for removal. What remains is an ultralight, odorless coconut oil that stays liquid in form at cooler temps.
Fractionated coconut oil is more easily absorbed by the skin, and less likely to clog pores than virgin coconut oil. It also maintains a longer shelf life, nourishing medium-chain fatty acids and essential nutrients in this form. This luxurious version of coconut oil is used in many of our favorites, including Lapis and Orchid Facial Oils, and our Coconut Body Oil.
Differences:
- Virgin coconut oil is solid at lower room temperatures, making it too heavy to use as a facial oil.
- Virgin coconut oil is less processed so it maintains lauric acid and other long-chain fatty acids.
- Fractionated coconut oil stays liquid in form, even in lower temperatures.
- Fractionated coconut oil is less likely to clog pores or cause breakouts.
- Fractionated coconut oil is more easily absorbed by the skin.
Similarities:
- Both are deeply moisturizing and nourishing to the skin.
- Both are naturally processed (extracted without the use of chemicals) so they still contain plenty of nutrients and antioxidants.