Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Lauric acid is a medium-chain fatty acid predominantly found in coconut oil and palm kernel oil. Its use in supporting or treating acne is primarily justified by scientific validation, particularly due to its antimicrobial properties. Several in vitro studies have demonstrated that lauric acid exhibits strong antibacterial activity against Propionibacterium acnes (now called Cutibacterium acnes), the bacteria involved in the pathogenesis of acne. Notably, a 2009 study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology showed that lauric acid was effective at killing P. acnes more efficiently than benzoyl peroxide, a common topical acne treatment, and that it also exerted anti-inflammatory effects.

Lauric acid disrupts bacterial cell membranes, leading to cell death and a reduction in bacterial-induced inflammation. These properties make it a promising candidate for topical acne therapies. Subsequent research, including laboratory and animal studies, has further supported these findings, and some formulations containing lauric acid and related monoglycerides have been developed for acne-prone skin. However, there are still limited high-quality human clinical trials directly testing lauric acid's efficacy as a topical or oral acne treatment, so its use is not yet widespread in mainstream dermatology practice. Overall, the evidence supporting its use is promising but not definitive, justifying a moderate rating.

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