Coconut oil: how to use it to treat eczema, dry skin and acne

coconut oil
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People now use coconut oil in everything from food to skin care products. While coconut oil has benefits such as moisturizing and reducing inflammation, it can also clog pores. Some people with a nut allergy may have an allergic reaction to coconut, so be careful about using coconut oil.

Before you start applying coconut oil on your skin, here are some things you need to know about the potential effects of coconut oil.

coconut oil
Photo: Pixabey

What is coconut oil?

There are two basic types of coconut oil: virgin and refined.

Virgin coconut oil is made from fresh coconut and is usually higher in polyphenols and antioxidants. Refined coconut oil is made from dried coconut kernel. In some cases, bleach and chemical solvents are added to the refined coconut oil.

Coconut oil can also be labeled as cold pressed when produced without heat. This species may be richer in nutrients. Thanks to the large amounts of polyphenols and antioxidants, as well as its limited processing, virgin coconut oil, especially when cold pressed, is a better choice for skin use.

Although coconut oil can provide dermatological benefits, it may not be suitable for everyone. We have shared the benefits and harms of using coconut oil on your skin and how to decide if it is right for you.

coconut oil
Photo: Pixabey

Coconut oil is hydrating

Applying coconut oil to your skin can help retain moisture. This is because coconut oil contains a component of ceramides called linoleic acid.

Ceramides are organic compounds that are naturally found in the skin and are often added to skin care. Ceramics help to strengthen the skin barrier and minimize moisture loss.

In a small 2004 study, participants used virgin coconut oil on their feet twice a day for two weeks. At the end of both weeks, the skin hydration improved significantly. Coconut oil can be especially good for people with eczema or chronically dry skin.

coconut oil
Photo: Pixabey

Coconut oil can reduce inflammation

Coconut oil can also reduce skin inflammation, which causes a rash, redness or itching, among other symptoms.

Helps strengthen the skin barrier, which minimizes the entry of irritants into the skin and maintains skin hydration, both of which work to reduce potential inflammation.

Common skin conditions that include inflammation include:

  • Psoriasis, a chronic disease that creates scaly spots on the skin that become red and itchy
  • Contact dermatitis, when the skin comes in physical contact with an allergen.
  • Eczema, where outbreaks make the skin red and itchy

Each of these conditions can be relieved, at least temporarily, with coconut oil. In a 2018 study, virgin coconut oil suppressed the skin's anti-inflammatory properties and improved skin barrier function. However, the study was conducted in vitro - outside of a living organism - so the exact effect on humans is unknown.

coconut oil
Photo: Pixabey

Coconut oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties

Coconut oil also contains lauric acid, which has mild antibacterial and antifungal properties.

The antibacterial and antifungal properties of coconut oil can be misleading. For these reasons, coconut oil is often considered beneficial for acne. However, acne is the result of clogged pores, which can be caused by coconut oil.

coconut oil
Photo: Pixabey

Coconut oil can clog pores

Coconut oil is comedogenic, which means it can clog your pores, increasing the risk of rashes and acne.

Coconut is considered a four on a comedogenic scale. This measures how much the ingredient clogs the pores, rated from zero to five, with five clogging the pores the most. As a result, frequent use of coconut oil, especially on the face, is not recommended.

Although coconut oil is comedogenic, not everyone will experience acne because every skin type will react differently.

coconut oil
Photo: Pixabey

How to use coconut oil on your skin

Coconut oil will affect everyone's skin differently, so it may not be the best addition to everyone's skin care routine. Here's how to use coconut oil based on your skin type.

People with eczema: Thanks to its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties, you can use coconut oil to soothe the eczema epidemic. In a 2013 study, applying virgin coconut oil to the skin of children with eczema for eight weeks improved skin hydration.

People with dry skin: If you have dry, flaky skin, using coconut oil instead of regular moisturizer can soften and hydrate your skin, leaving it looking refreshed and soft after waking up.

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