Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Glyceryl monolaurate (GML) has some scientific evidence supporting its use in the management of dermatitis, particularly due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. GML is a naturally occurring fatty acid ester found in human breast milk and coconut oil, and it is recognized for its ability to disrupt the lipid membranes of certain bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Some preclinical studies and limited clinical research indicate that GML can reduce skin colonization by pathogenic bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, which is often implicated in the exacerbation of atopic dermatitis (AD) and other eczematous conditions.

For example, a 2012 study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that topical GML could reduce S. aureus colonization and inflammation in a mouse model of atopic dermatitis. Some in vitro studies have also shown that GML can suppress pro-inflammatory cytokine production by skin cells. However, robust randomized controlled trials in humans are lacking, and most evidence comes from laboratory or animal studies rather than large-scale clinical use. As such, while there is a scientific rationale and preliminary research supporting GML’s potential benefit in dermatitis, the overall clinical evidence remains limited, warranting a modest evidence rating.

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