Coconut Oil in Cosmetics: Cocos Nucifera Oil
Arin Editorial · how this is made
Face cream, hair mask, body lotion: you will often see 'Cocos Nucifera Oil' on their labels. This is the INCI name for coconut oil. It is used very often in skin and hair products. So what does this oil do, and is it safe?
What is this ingredient?
Cocos Nucifera Oil is a natural oil obtained from the seed kernels of the coconut tree (Cocos nucifera L.). The kernels are pressed to extract the oil. This is its INCI name; in short, it is known as coconut oil. Its CAS number is 8001-31-8, and its EINECS number is 232-282-8. It is insoluble in water. It has spread very quickly in the cosmetics industry, so much so that it has taken the industry by storm.
What does it do?
In cosmetics, it acts as a moisturizer and softener. It is said to have many medicinal and moisturizing properties. The lauric acid in it helps improve the texture of skin and hair. Because it provides intense hydration, it is said to be suitable for dry skin and hair types. It also has a long shelf life, which makes products last longer. For this reason, it is frequently found in moisturizers, hair conditioners, and lip balms.
Where will you encounter it?
It appears in many skin and hair care products. The examples on the SpecialChem page include sunscreens and skin gels. It can also be used in sunscreens. It is commonly used in hair products as well.
Safety and regulations
In the US, the FDA does not have the authority to approve cosmetic products; it only regulates color additives. The number of prohibited ingredients is small. Industry and government work together to establish lists of ingredients safe for use in cosmetics. On these lists, ingredients are classified as safe, unsafe, or requiring further data. CIR is a US-based organization composed of toxicologists, dermatologists, and representatives from consumer organizations. The CIR panel published a safety assessment of coconut oil and its derivatives in 2008. The outcome is not stated on the page we have, but the existence of the assessment shows that the ingredient has undergone scientific review. The EU cosmetic directives also contain lists of safe and unsafe ingredients. Some websites publish 'unsafe ingredient' lists, but these are mostly based on hearsay. For accurate information, it is recommended to consult CIR, EU directives, and FDA monographs.
The CIR panel reviewed this ingredient and its derivatives in 2008; the FDA does not have a cosmetic ingredient approval process.
When you see it on a label, there is no need to take any action. This ingredient is a plant oil widely used in cosmetics. It is said to be suitable for dry skin and hair types.