What is coconut oil?
Coconut oil is a natural, plant-based oil extracted from the meat of mature coconuts, prized for its rich moisturizing and protective qualities.[1][3]
- Origin: Derived from the fruit of the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera), native to tropical regions.[4]
- History: Utilized for over 4,000 years in food, medicine, and beauty rituals across cultures.[3][4]
- Composition: Rich in medium-chain fatty acids (like lauric acid), antioxidants, and vitamins E and K.[1][5]
- Why We Love It: Deeply hydrates, soothes irritation, and strengthens the skin’s natural barrier—making it essential for keeping active feet healthy, comfortable, and resilient.[1][2][6]
What is coconut oil made up of?
-
45-53%Lauric Acid
→ antimicrobial shieldLauric acid is a powerful medium-chain fatty acid that helps fight bacteria and fungi, supporting healthy, odour-free, and protected feet.[5][11] -
16-21%Myristic Acid
→ skin softenerMyristic acid deeply conditions and softens skin, enhancing absorption of other ingredients and leaving feet feeling smooth and supple.[5][11] -
5-10%Caprylic Acid
→ soothing barrierCaprylic acid calms irritation and forms a lightweight barrier, helping to lock in moisture and protect against chafing and dryness.[5][11] -
5-8%Oleic Acid
→ soothes and hydrates skinOleic acid is a monounsaturated fat that nourishes and repairs the skin barrier, supporting resilience and comfort for active feet.[5][11] -
4-8%Capric Acid
→ protective hydrationCapric acid is a medium-chain fatty acid that helps maintain skin moisture, supports antimicrobial action, and enhances the protective qualities of coconut oil.[5][11] -
tracesPolyphenols
→ calming agentsPolyphenols are plant-based antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals, supporting overall skin health and long-term foot vitality.[5][11]
Ancient wisdom, modern essential
History of Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has been used for thousands of years in tropical cultures for cooking, healing, and skincare. People valued it for its ability to soothe, protect, and nourish the skin long before it became a global trend. Today, we continue this tradition, harnessing coconut oil’s natural benefits to keep feet healthy and comfortable.[3][4][7]
nature's multi-tasker
Why We Use It
We choose coconut oil because it’s a gentle, natural way to hydrate, protect, and repair skin. Its unique blend of fatty acids helps lock in moisture, soothe irritation, and defend against bacteria and fungi - making it perfect for active feet that need extra care.[1][2][6]
sustainably sourced, responsibly made
Where We Get It
Our coconut oil comes from small farms in tropical regions where coconuts are harvested by hand. We work with suppliers who use eco-friendly methods, support local communities, and ensure every step - from tree to tin - is as sustainable as possible.[8][9]
better for you, better for the planet
Why It Matters
Using coconut oil means choosing a natural, renewable ingredient that’s kind to your skin and the environment. It helps us create products that are safe, effective, and free from harsh chemicals - so you can feel good about what you put on your feet, and how it’s made.[1][9][10]
Coconut Oil FAQs
Why do The Feats products include coconut oil?
Coconut oil is chosen for its natural ability to deeply moisturise, soothe irritation, and protect skin - making it ideal for active feet and recovery routines.[1][2][6]
What does coconut oil do for my skin?
Coconut oil deeply moisturises, soothes irritation, and helps protect the skin’s natural barrier with its blend of fatty acids and antioxidants - leaving skin soft, resilient, and healthy.[1][2][5][6]
Is coconut oil suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes! Our coconut oil is 100% natural, gentle, and free from harsh chemicals, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.[1][3]
How is your coconut oil sourced?
As sustainably as possible: we prioritise suppliers who use eco-friendly, ethical harvesting methods that support local communities and minimize environmental impact.[8][9]
Does coconut oil make your products greasy or heavy?
Not at all. Our formulas are carefully balanced so coconut oil absorbs quickly, leaving skin soft and protected without any greasy residue.[1][2]
Collapsible content
Scientific sources
- Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coconut-oil-benefits
- WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/diet/ss/slideshow-coconut-oil-overview
- Medical News Today: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/282857
- Encyclopedia Britannica: https://www.britannica.com/plant/coconut
- PubChem (NIH): https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Coconut-oil
- Ogbolu, D. O., et al. (2007). "In vitro antimicrobial properties of coconut oil on Candida species in Ibadan, Nigeria." Journal of Medicinal Food, 10(2), 384-387. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17651080/
- Nevin, K. G., & Rajamohan, T. (2010). "Effect of topical application of virgin coconut oil on skin components and antioxidant status during dermal wound healing in young rats." Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 23(6), 290-297. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20823509/
- Fair Trade USA: https://www.fairtradecertified.org/why-fair-trade/coconut-oil
- Ethical Consumer: https://www.ethicalconsumer.org/food-drink/shopping-guide/coconut-oil
- Environmental Working Group (EWG): https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/701089-COCONUT-OIL/
- USDA FoodData Central: https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/169910/nutrients
Key Scientific Papers Supporting Coconut Oil Use
- Verallo-Rowell, V. M., et al. (2008). "Novel antibacterial and emollient effects of coconut and virgin olive oils in adult atopic dermatitis." Dermatitis, 19(6), 308-315. Demonstrates coconut oil’s antibacterial properties and its effectiveness as a skin moisturiser, especially for conditions like eczema. Link
- Agero, A. L., & Verallo-Rowell, V. M. (2004). "A randomized double-blind controlled trial comparing extra virgin coconut oil with mineral oil as a moisturizer for mild to moderate xerosis." Dermatitis, 15(3), 109-116. Shows that coconut oil is as effective, if not more, than mineral oil for moisturizing dry skin. Link
- Ogbolu, D. O., et al. (2007). "In vitro antimicrobial properties of coconut oil on Candida species in Ibadan, Nigeria." Journal of Medicinal Food, 10(2), 384-387. Highlights coconut oil’s antifungal activity, particularly against Candida species, supporting its use for foot and skin health. Link
- Nevin, K. G., & Rajamohan, T. (2010). "Effect of topical application of virgin coconut oil on skin components and antioxidant status during dermal wound healing in young rats." Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 23(6), 290-297. Supports coconut oil’s role in wound healing and antioxidant protection, demonstrating improved skin repair and reduced oxidative stress. Link


