One of the most useful things we keep on hand for DIY recipes is fractionated coconut oil.
If you’ve seen it show up in things like homemade wipes, there’s a reason for that.
It’s one of those ingredients that quietly replaces a handful of other products — once you start using it, you end up reaching for it more than you expected.
The short version? It stays liquid, feels lighter than regular coconut oil, and works in a wide range of everyday uses.
We originally started using it in DIY wipes, but it didn’t stop there.
If you want something that works across multiple DIY recipes without constantly switching products, this is one of the easiest things to keep on hand.
Fractionated coconut oil is a processed form of coconut oil where certain fatty acids are removed, leaving mostly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs).
What that means in real life is simple:
- it stays liquid
- it feels lighter on your skin
- it doesn’t go rancid as quickly
That’s why it shows up in so many DIY recipes — especially anything you don’t want turning solid.
We use it regularly because:
- It stays liquid year-round (no melting and re-solidifying)
- It has little to no scent
- It absorbs quickly without feeling greasy
- It lasts a long time
- It works across multiple uses — not just one recipe
It’s one of those products that ends up replacing several others once you start using it.
This is the one we keep on hand because it stays liquid and works across all of these uses.
10 Ways We Actually Use Fractionated Coconut Oil
Aromatherapy (Carrier Oil)
We use fractionated coconut oil to dilute essential oils before applying them to the skin. It spreads easily and helps avoid irritation.
DIY Wipes (Our #1 Use)
This is what we use it for most. It helps keep homemade wipes from drying out and improves how well they clean.
See all of our homemade wipes recipes here → Homemade Wipes Recipes
Makeup Removal
A small amount on a cotton pad works well for removing makeup, including mascara, without being too harsh on your skin.
Hair Conditioning
We use a small amount on the ends of hair as a lightweight conditioning treatment, especially when hair feels dry. I like to use FCO on the ends of my hair right before showering to protect the ends from the shampoo. Then I wash and condition normally.
Skin Moisturizer + Shaving Oil
It works as a simple, lightweight moisturizer and doubles as a shaving oil for a smoother glide. I stopped buying shaving cream and just use FCO.
Massage Oil
Because it absorbs well and isn’t greasy, it works great as a basic massage oil.
Soap + DIY Products
It’s commonly used in homemade soaps, scrubs, and lotions because it blends easily and stays liquid.
Leather + Faux Leather Care
A small amount can be used to condition and add shine to leather or faux leather items.
Cooking Substitute (Light Use)
Some people use it in place of other oils for light cooking or in smoothies. We mainly stick to using it for DIY and personal care.
Everyday DIY Staple
Once you have it, you’ll find yourself using it across different small things — from quick fixes to simple DIY mixes.
I use fractionated coconut oil in all of my homemade wipes recipes!
In what ways have you used fractionated coconut oil around your home and daily life?
More resources:
50 Ways To Use Coconut Oil in Your Home
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