Cocoa Butter & Skin Barrier Function: A Research Summary

What the Research Says

Cocoa butter is more than a moisturizer. Its bioactive compounds — including polyphenols — make it a scientifically supported ingredient for skin repair and protection.

• Research published in Nutrients found cocoa-derived polyphenols support skin hydration, improve elasticity, and protect against UV-induced oxidative stress. (Scapagnini et al., Nutrients, 2014)
• Cocoa butter is rich in oleic, stearic, and palmitic acids — fatty acids demonstrated to reinforce the skin's lipid barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL). (Loden, Am J Clin Dermatol, 2003)
• Studies on the fatty acid composition of cocoa butter confirm it mimics the natural sebum profile of human skin, enabling deeper penetration and longer-lasting hydration compared to water-based moisturizers. (Smit, Vicanova & Pavel, Int J Mol Sci, 2009)

Key Benefits for Skin

• Locks in moisture and reduces transepidermal water loss
• Rich in antioxidant polyphenols
• Mimics natural skin lipids for better absorption
• Supports elasticity and skin resilience

Found In: That Jawn Balm .15oz Stick · Small Jar