Choosing Coconut Oil for Body Scrub: Virgin vs. Refined vs. Fractionated

Question

Which type of Coconut Oil should be chosen for a scrub: virgin, refined, or fractionated?

Will it solidify at room temperature?
If using fractionated, is it necessary to blend it with other oils?
If so, can Butyrospermum parkii (shea butter) oil be used?

Answer 1

Choosing the right coconut oil for your scrub depends on the desired texture and convenience.

1. Virgin/Refined vs. Fractionated Coconut Oil

Virgin and Refined Coconut Oil: These contain Lauric acid, which has a melting point of around 24-25°C. This means they will solidify or become cloudy in air-conditioned rooms or cool weather, which can make your scrub hard to scoop or cause an uneven texture.
Fractionated Coconut Oil: This is processed to remain a permanent liquid, even in the refrigerator. It is lightweight, non-greasy, odorless, and has a long shelf life. For a consistent, easy-to-use scrub, Fractionated Coconut Oil is highly recommended.

2. Do you need to blend Fractionated Coconut Oil with other oils?

It is not strictly necessary; you can use it alone. However, because it is very lightweight, blending it with other oils can provide a richer feel and more lasting moisture.

3. Using Shea Nut Oil (Butyrospermum parkii oil)

Yes, you can definitely use Shea Nut Oil. It is the liquid fraction of Shea Butter. It provides excellent emollient properties and deep nourishment without the heaviness or solid state of traditional Shea Butter. It blends perfectly with Fractionated Coconut Oil to create a more luxurious scrub.

Pro Tip: If you want a scrub that holds particles in suspension without them settling at the bottom, you might consider using Fractionated Coconut Oil Gel, which provides a stable oil-gel base.