Wonders Of Coconut Oil-Proven Benefits, Side Effects, And How To Choose:
Coconut oil helps the skin in many ways. It can nourish and moisturize skin, and its powerful fatty acid chain acts as an antibacterial agent. Let’s dive into the article and learn is coconut oil good for your skin by knowing more about its benefits, side effects, and which type of coconut oil is best.
Highlights
ToggleCoconut Oil-What It Is:
Coconut oil is a useful and extensively used natural product made from the coconut palm’s fruit. Because of its many health advantages, it is valued as an ingredient in various fields, including:
- skincare.
- haircare.
- cuisine.Â
This must-have item provides a wealth of health benefits, whether you are looking for natural cures for your appearance or a healthy cooking option. One should follow a natural skincare routine and avoid harmful harsh products to see visible and prominent results, but consistency is the key.Â
We can use coconut oil for the skin because it is packed with a medium chain of fatty acids in the saturated form. It includes:
– Myristic acid. 18%
– Oleic acid. 6%
– Linoleic acid. 2%
– Capric acid. 7%
– Lauric acid 49%
– Caprylic acid. 8%
– Stearic acid. 2%
– Palmitic acid. 8%
Fact: A tablespoon of coconut oil contains 12 grams of saturated and 1 gram of unsaturated fat.
Coconut Oil Skincare Benefits Every Day:
There are many benefits of coconut oil for the skin. The natural and adaptable components of coconut oil have many positive effects on the skin.
1- Reduce Inflammation:
Coconut oil is well known for its amazing capacity to lower inflammation, especially on the skin. Study proves that the secret is in the amount of lauric acid it contains, a fatty acid with potent anti-inflammatory qualities. By penetrating the skin when applied topically,
– It calms and soothes sensitive regions.Â
– It aids in lowering redness and swelling by inhibiting the formation of inflammatory enzymes.Â
2- Coconut Oil As Antibacterial:
Is Coconut oil antibacterial? The answer is “yes”. It has amazing antibacterial properties.
– The antibacterial qualities fight off dangerous microorganisms that can aggravate inflammation caused by psoriasis, contact dermatitis, and eczema
The study says that coconut oil is good for your skin as it has lauric acid content which is most effective in killing bacterial growth.
3- Coconut Oil Treats Acne:
You heard it right that coconut oil clogs pores, but you heard it half.
Coconut oil clogs pores if not used in moderation. The magical oil reduces acne due to lauric acid content and it kills the acne-causing bacteria as well.
Tip: It is advised for people with oily or sensitive skin that start with a small amount and work their way up to itÂ
4- Best Moisturizer:
– The skin’s natural lipid barrier, which keeps the moisture, is replenished by caprylic, capric acids, and lauric acid when applied topically, thanks to the high content of saturated fatty acids.
– It has a unique molecular structure of fatty acid that helps it to penetrate the skin acts as a barrier, and prevents moisture loss.
– Additionally, coconut oil has natural antioxidants like vitamin E which support skin hydration and protection. Study proves that it is also helpful to treat eczema.
5- Healing Wounds:
Coconut oil is famous for its healing properties. According to the Study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food,
– Lauric acid is the key component that helps heal wounds and reduces their infection.
– Vitamin E present in oil helps to promote tissue repair and regeneration.    Â
Summarize:
A nature’s gift, coconut oil good for the skin as it cure skin conditions and health. It is loaded with a saturated chain of fatty acids and antioxidants that leave your skin supple and soft and helpful in curing many skin conditions. The good thing is all the mentioned benefits are clinically proven.
Is Coconut Oil Good For The Skin Glow-How To Choose:
When it comes to choosing coconut oil depends on one’s preferences and needs. Here are three varieties:
1- Virgin or Unrefined Coconut Oil:
1- It is extracted from fresh coconuts and goes through a minimal process.
2- It retained the original flavor, aroma, and nutrients.
3- It is used for culinary purposes and has a mild coconut taste.
2- Refined Coconut Oil:
1- It is extracted from a bleaching and deodorizing method to remove impurities and reduce aroma.
2- It is a good choice when you cook at a high temperature as it has a higher smoke point.
3- If you like a neutral taste and aroma, go for it.
3- Fractionated Coconut Oil:
1- In fractionated coconut oil, long-chain fatty acids are removed during processing, which leaves mostly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs).
2- The shelf life of coconut oil is longer and stays liquid at room temperature.
3- Due to its light texture and absorbency, fractionated coconut oil is frequently used in cosmetics and massage oils.
Due to its lightweight, absorbency, and shelf life, fractionated coconut oil is recommended for skin care.
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Is Coconut Oil Good For The Face? Side Effects
Natural ingredients have amazing health benefits, but the key is every natural ingredient is not for everyone. However, coconut oil has no clinically proven adverse effect on the face except if someone is allergic to it. It may irritate, but it’s very rare.
✅ Due to its high comedogenic rating, pure coconut oil has the potential to clog pores. So people with oily and acne-prone skin should not use it without a dermatologist’s advice. People with oily skin can apply these remedies to improve their skin’s health.
✅If you are allergic or have highly sensitive skin.
There are no clinically proven side effects on the face except in rare cases; it might cause itchiness, redness, hives, and discomfort to your skin. If you encounter side reactions, immediately stop using it and consult your dermatologist. Patch tests are always recommended before starting any remedy.
Bottom Line:
–Â Thanks to nature that packed coconut oil with skin-friendly properties.
– It deeply hydrates and softens the skin and makes your skin smooth and beautiful.
– Due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory characteristics, coconut oil helps to fight against bacteria that cause acne and lessen inflammation. It also helps to promote a clear complexion.
– People with oily or highly sensitive skin should check their tolerance by starting with less quantity.
– Do a patch test; in case of any concern, seek your dermatologist.
Sources:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29280987/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30671361/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19665786/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28707186/