An oil found in nearly every home for its magical results especially in skincare is none other than coconut oil. You might’ve used coconut oil to tame frizzy hair or even cook your favorite curry. But have you ever stopped to wonder if this tropical treasure could do even more for your skin?
Coconut oil protects the skin, soothes irritation, and supports healing. Be it hydrating your dry spots or adding natural skin radiance, coconut oil is a go-to solution for all your skincare needs. Coconut oil regains the lost moisture and rebalances your skin to a healthier look.
Beyond being a powerful moisturizer, coconut oil is also anti-inflammatory and rich in antioxidants. Coconut oil is used across generations, used by both babies and adults. Coconut oil for skin is often applied after sun exposure and can be used even as a soft makeup remover.
What is coconut oil?
Coconut oil is a vegetable-based oil that is obtained from raw coconut. Coconut oil for skin contains two key components beneficial for the skin: lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties that help kill bacteria and reduce inflammation, and linoleic acid, an unsaturated omega-6 fatty acid that helps soften and smooth the skin.
By topical application, coconut oil can hydrate and improve the skin texture. It contains fatty acids that help to fight bacteria and fungi. These are natural elements that coconut oil has, making it an ideal option to treat skin issues.
Coconut oil is one of the most popular skincare ingredients among healthcare professionals. Coconut oil for skin is made up of saturated fats and contains vitamin E, which promotes overall skin health and reduces scars and burning. It can also help to strengthen the skin barrier.
Is Coconut Oil Good for Your Skin?
Yes, the coconut oil is generally considered a good moisturizer for the skin since it profoundly hydrates the skin and has the ability to eliminate bacteria naturally.
Coconut oil has a wide range of benefits depending on the type of skin. In oily or acne-prone skin, it is advised to use it sparingly since it has the capacity to block the pores and may cause acne outbreaks. Instead, people with dry skin can have great benefit since it is moisturizing and, as an emollient, will help trap moisture and soften rough, flaky areas. Be cautious in case you have sensitive skin; coconut oil can be soothing, but irritating to certain people. Always have a patch test first before using coconut oil on face.
Benefits of Coconut Oil on Skin
Coconut oil for skin has gained popularity due to its calming and multifaceted healing properties. Is coconut oil good for skin? Let’s discuss the more popular coconut oil benefits for skin and the reasons behind its popularity for all age groups.
Moisturizing Your Skin
Coconut oil for skin is an amazing moisturizer with a high concentration of fatty acids like lauric, capric, and caprylic. These fatty acids, due to their content, help renew skin by maintaining moisture, making it soft and supple.
Therefore, coconut oil for the body is extremely beneficial during winter periods, when skin is most vulnerable to dryness. Some of the benefits of coconut oil on skin include enduring hydration and reduction in dryness and skin flakes.
Natural Antibacterial Protection
Perhaps best known for its skin benefits are the antibacterial and antimicrobial properties of coconut oil. So, is coconut oil antibacterial? It is coconut oil’s high lauric acid content is effective in fighting bacteria, and so, is useful for treating minor wounds and cuts, as well as acne.
If you’ve ever asked, “Can I use coconut oil on my face?” Then yes, though it's best reserved an acne-prone or oily skin. Sparingly used, coconut oil is useful in supporting a healthier complexion.
Soothes Irritated Skin
Coconut oil offers numerous solutions, among which is calming inflamed, itchy, and red skin patches. It is often used for alleviating symptoms of psoriasis and eczema. Moreover, these conditions attributed the coconut oil’s natural anti-inflammatory effects, which help to comfort, hydrate, and heal the skin.
Improves the Skin Barrier
The lipid barrier is one of the reasons why most people opt for coconut oil for their skin. The skin barrier is critical for preventing moisture from escaping, protecting against dehydration, and environmental threats like pollution and bacteria.
If you are wondering, “What does coconut oil do for your skin?” Here is one of the simplest answers: it nurtures skin and promotes healing.
Gentle Makeup Remover
Searching for a natural makeup remover? Coconut oil effortlessly removes heavy makeup and waterproof mascara without leaving your skin dry or rough.
From Tree to Jar: How Coconut Oil is Made
The procedure of making oil depends on whether the makers are using virgin or refined coconut oil. Extra virgin oil is created from the meat of the coconut and can be extracted via hot or cold methods.
It is widely believed that cold-pressed coconut oil is of better quality than expeller-pressed oil because of its ability to retain nutrient density. Cold-press methods must be regulated so that the temperature does not exceed 122°F. Hence, the natural enzymes are preserved, and therefore, more beneficial nutrients can be absorbed, especially when applied to the skin.
Refined coconut oil is made from the dried flesh of the coconut, copra. During the process of copra pressing, oil is obtained, and then it is filtered to remove bacteria and other harmful substances. During this process, some additional coconut oil may be treated using other chemicals to remove unwanted substances or the extraneous compounds, therefore, making the oil purer.
The Composition of Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is made from several components, which are great for the skin. Lauric acid makes up 49% of coconut oil and, therefore, is the chief constituent that protects skin when coconut oil is used.
Coconut oil contains linoleic acid at a concentration of 2%, which functions as a barrier when applied to the skin. It also helps to retain moisture and keeps unwanted irritants out. Other components of coconut oil are:
- Palmitic Acid: 8%
- Myristic Acid: 8%
- Capric Acid: 7%
- Caprylic Acid: 8%
- Oleic Acid: 6%
- Stearic Acid: 2%
Effects of Coconut Oil
Using coconut oil regularly offers both positive and negative effects on the skin. The oil does have certain antioxidant benefits that can reduce the signs of aging and other damage from environmental factors. Improvement in skin texture and elasticity is often noticed with consistent application. In addition, coconut oil is effective in repairing and healing wounds sustained by the skin, especially when the skin barrier is damaged from extreme weather conditions and other skin diseases. However, it may clog pores and cause acne breakouts, and may also develop allergies in people who have sensitive skin.
Comparison Table
|
Benefit / Use Case |
Evidence |
|
Eczema (barrier support, moistening) |
Mild supportive effects |
|
Preterm infant skin health |
Positive outcomes, low adverse effects |
|
UV/oxidative skin protection |
Lab-based anti-inflammatory evidence |
|
Acne-prone skin (face) |
High risk of breakouts or clogged pores |
|
Allergic reactions |
Possible, especially in sensitive individuals |
|
Sun protection |
Insufficient—should not replace sunscreen |
Coconut Oil Precautions
Coconut oil skin applications offer many natural benefits, but these benefits will not be relevant for everyone. Many people wonder: “Is coconut oil good for the face?” and the answer is that it is good most of the time, but it depends on the skin type and the method of application.
Clog Pores
Coconut oil can be problematic for some people, as it is comedogenic, meaning it may clog pores.
For people with oily skin, the use of coconut oil may lead to pore clogging. For some, it is a good moisturizer, but for others, it may be too thick and suffocating, and may end up clogging dirt and bacteria.
Acne Skin
Coconut oil may not be a favorable option for acne-prone skin, as the thick texture may exacerbate acne for people who are already struggling with it.
Initially, using coconut oil on the face might seem soothing, but in the long run, it can cause additional breakouts as a result of clogged pores. Consider using acne-friendly non-comedogenic oils like jojoba or rosehip if acne is a concern.
How to Use Coconut Oil for Skin
In terms of skin protection, coconut oil presents one of the simplest methods for application. With the right technique, you can gain complete benefits from coconut oil. Here are some simple guidelines to follow when using coconut oil.
Use as A Daily Moisturizer
After bathing or washing your face, completely dry your body and face. Coconut oil for skin aids in sealing moisture to keep the skin supple and soft. Skin hydration, like dry or flaky skin, is significantly enhanced with coconut oil since it is rich in fatty acids that aid in restoring the skin’s natural barrier.
Natural Makeup Remover
Need an effective but gentle remover for makeup? Coconut oil aids in removing makeup. Gently massage a small amount onto your face, then wipe with a soft, warm cloth. This method helps to cleanse the skin while maintaining its natural moisturizing oils.
Treat Sunburn
Coconut oil is a fantastic moisturizer and a shield against the sun. For those with dry skin, coconut oil is clearly the best. It is also a good option for people with combination skin.
Lip Balm
For a quick remedy for sore or dry lips, apply a small amount of coconut oil. It soothes discomfort, promotes healing, and adds a natural shine. Plus, it’s safe to use multiple times throughout the day.
Body Oil
Forget about chemical-based lotions; coconut oil does wonders for the skin from the head to the toes, so you can consider it a full-body nourishment. It is very useful for the dry areas of the skin.
Sunburn
Coconut oil helps the skin recover from sunburn by reducing inflammation and redness.
Risk of Using Coconut Oil
Coconut oil for the skin is commonly known for its benefits, but here are some risk factors to consider before adding coconut oil to your skincare routine.
High Comedogenic
Coconut oil is high in comedogenic, which means it can block the pores that lead to acne breakouts, with blackheads and whiteheads.
Allergic Reactions
Coconut oil may cause skin allergies, such as contact dermatitis. If you feel that you may have a coconut allergy, try to do a patch test before using coconut oil on your face or any other body part.
Low SPF
Never use coconut oil as a substitute for sunblock. Coconut oil provides only 4 to 10 SPF, whereas dermatologists recommend at least SPF 30 for adequate sun protection.
Contain impure particles
Coconut oil contains impure particles if not extracted well. These particles can cause skin problems such as skin irritation and other reactions like redness, inflammation, and swelling.
Microbial Contamination
The unpleasant odors of rancid coconut oil are caused by oxidation and microbial contamination, which can cause potential risk for skin irritation.
Conclusion
Coconut oil helps reduce inflammation, redness, and fine lines. People who struggle with dry skin, chronic skin conditions, or wrinkles will reap the most benefits from using the oil. However, even though coconut oil is versatile and generally viewed as safe, those with oily, acne-prone skin may want to avoid using coconut oil on their face.
However, no matter your skin type, coconut oil is great on the body! Anyone can and should consider making coconut oil or products containing coconut oil as an ingredient a part of their beauty regimen.
Are you looking for an excellent product that’s great for eczema and won’t clog your pores? Soteri Skin makes skincare products for eczema-prone skin types.
FAQs
Is putting coconut oil on your skin good?
Yes, coconut oil is the best option. Protects dry skin from damage and helps soothe the skin. Works as a good option for dry and combination skin as well.
Is coconut oil effective on dry hands?
Yes, coconut oil helps absorb moisture while repairing the skin barrier. Works best when applying a small amount after washing the hands or around bedtime.
Does coconut oil help with skin tightening?
Coconut oil contains fatty acids that promote skin elasticity and repair skin damage. So, yes, coconut can help with skin tightening. Unlike skin tightening treatments that provide immediate effects, coconut oil takes time, as it is a natural process that requires consistency.
What happens if we apply coconut oil to our face skin overnight?
Coconut oil is a good moisturizer that provides soothing effects if used overnight. However, the results may vary for different skin tones. Avoid applying coconut oil to the face if you have oily skin. For normal skin, it helps restore moisture if applied overnight. For dry skin, it helps repair the skin barrier.
