Monolaurin and Skin Health

Lauric acid and monoglycerides demonstrate antimicrobial properties against a diverse array of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi by hindering their growth and reproduction. In contrast to antivirals, which are specifically engineered to combat viruses, antimicrobials possess a wider scope, targeting various pathogens like bacteria, fungi, and parasites

How Monolaurin Helps Your Skin

Antivirals and antimicrobials can have a beneficial impact on skin health, especially in the context of conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and other skin ailments, such as:

Reducing infections: Eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions can cause the skin to become damaged, inflamed, or broken, which makes it more susceptible to infections. By targeting and eliminating the pathogens responsible for these infections, antiviral and antimicrobial medications can help prevent secondary infections and promote healing.

Reducing inflammation: Some antivirals and antimicrobials have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the skin. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, where inflammation plays a significant role in the disease process.

Modulating immune response: In some cases, antiviral and antimicrobial medications can help modulate the immune system's response to pathogens. This can be especially helpful for individuals with autoimmune skin conditions like psoriasis, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing inflammation and skin damage.

Improving skin barrier function: Healthy skin acts as a barrier, protecting the body from pathogens and environmental irritants. Antiviral and antimicrobial medications can help improve the skin's barrier function by reducing the presence of harmful pathogens, which can, in turn, help prevent skin irritation and inflammation.

How Antiviral and Antimicrobials Function

The mechanisms by which they may improve skin health include:

It's important to note that antiviral and antimicrobial medications should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional and may not be appropriate for everyone with skin conditions. In some cases, the underlying cause of a skin condition may not be related to a viral or bacterial infection, and other treatments may be more appropriate. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.

Thormar, H., Isaacs, C. E., Brown, H. R., Barshatzky, M. R., & Pessolano, T. (1987). Inactivation of enveloped viruses and killing of cells by fatty acids and monoglycerides. Antimicrobial agents and chemotherapy, 31(1), 27-31.
Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC174799/

Dayrit, F. M. (2015). The properties of lauric acid and their significance in coconut oil. Journal of the American Oil Chemists' Society, 92(1), 1-15.
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11746-014-2562-7

Petschow, B. W., Batema, R. P., & Ford, L. L. (1996). Susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to bactericidal properties of medium-chain monoglycerides and free fatty acids. Antimicrobial agents and chemotherapy, 40(2), 302-306.
Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC163173/

Kabara, J. J., Swieczkowski, D. M., Conley, A. J., & Truant, J. P. (1972). Fatty acids and derivatives as antimicrobial agents. Antimicrobial agents and chemotherapy, 2(1), 23-28.
Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC444305/

These studies and reviews provide evidence for the antimicrobial activity of monolaurin against a range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. However, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness and potential applications of monolaurin in clinical settings.