Fractionated Coconut Oil is a specialized form of coconut oil where the long-chain fatty acids have been removed, leaving only the Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCTs). In CUERI Scalp D’Sorp Oil, this ingredient acts as a high-performance solvent. It possesses an ultra-low molecular weight that allows it to bypass the "plugged" sebum in the follicles, delivering active botanicals directly to the root while reinforcing the hair’s internal protein structure.
Technical Profile
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INCI Name: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
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Origin: Botanical (Derived from Cocos Nucifera)
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Key Bioactives: Caprylic Acid (C8) and Capric Acid (C10).
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Found In: CUERI Scalp D’Sorp Oil
The Mechanism: Liquid-Phase Cleansing and Cortical Strength
Fractionated Coconut Oil works through a dual-action process of "desorption" and fortification:
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Follicular "Desorption": Because MCTs are completely liquid at room temperature and have a very small molecular size, they can penetrate the hair follicle opening more effectively than heavy, unrefined oils. They dissolve oxidized sebum and urban pollutants, allowing them to be rinsed away easily.
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Protein Binding (Lauric/Capric Affinity): Similar to whole coconut oil, its medium-chain fatty acids have a high affinity for hair proteins. They bind to the keratin inside the hair shaft, creating a structural "anchor" that prevents protein loss during the wash cycle.
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Non-Comedogenic Barrier: Unlike traditional coconut oil, which can be heavy on the scalp, the fractionated version is non-comedogenic. It reinforces the scalp's moisture barrier without clogging pores or contributing to scalp "build-up."
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Enhanced Bioavailability: It acts as the perfect carrier, increasing the "permeability" of the scalp so that active ingredients like Hairy Root Basil and Tocotrienols can work more effectively.
Clinical Evidence: Superior Protein Protection
The landmark study supporting Coconut Oil's efficacy (Rele & Mohile, 2003) established the foundation for using Medium-Chain Triglycerides in hair care:
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The Protein Test: Clinical research proved that coconut-derived lipids are the only ones capable of significantly reducing protein loss for both undamaged and damaged hair when used as a pre-wash treatment.
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MCT Advantages: Modern reviews on Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides (MCTs) highlight their superior oxidative stability and their ability to improve the "spreadability" of lipid formulations, ensuring every strand and follicle is coated and protected.
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Mechanical Defense: Studies show that hair treated with these triglycerides exhibits much higher resistance to mechanical breakage (combing and brushing) compared to hair treated with mineral oils.
The CUERI Advantage
In CUERI Scalp D’Sorp Oil, we chose Fractionated Coconut Oil to ensure a "clean-rinse" experience. It provides the heavy-duty protein protection of a traditional coconut oil treatment but with a sophisticated, lightweight finish that makes it suitable for all hair types, even those prone to oiliness or fine hair that usually gets weighed down.
References
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Rele, A.S., & Mohile, R.B. (2003). Effect of mineral oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil on prevention of hair damage. Journal of Cosmetic Science. PubMed
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CIR Expert Panel. (2017). Safety Assessment of Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides as Used in Cosmetics. Cosmetic Ingredient Review
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Traul, K.A., et al. (2000). Review of the toxicologic properties of medium-chain triglycerides. Food and Chemical Toxicology. ScienceDirect
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Ghavami, M., et al. (2020). The role of medium-chain fatty acids in hair protein protection. Dermatologic Therapy.