Coconut oil may have many potential benefits for the skin. Research suggests that it has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. Coconut oil is also very moisturizing for dry skin. A person can apply coconut oil directly to the skin. Coconut oil can hydrate the skin and help it retain moisture. Â
What is Coconut Oil?
Coconut oil, also known as cocos nucifera oil, is an edible oil that is made from the white lining, or kernel, of matured coconuts that has a high saturated fat content, coconut oil is slightly different from refined coconut oil, as it’s made by cold pressing fresh coconut meat, which is thought to retain more of the nutrients from the fruit. The soothing oil can be used on the skin and the scalp.
The Benefits of Coconut Oil
- It hydrates skin, and acts as an emollient, which aids in the moisturization of the skin.
- It locks in moisture. A clinical study showed that pediatric patients with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis who used virgin coconut oil for eight weeks showed improvement in decreased transepidermal water loss and increased skin hydration.
- It soothes inflammation because it has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce skin irritation.
- It has antimicrobial properties. The rich fatty acid content found in coconut oil can help stop the growth of certain microorganisms on the skin.
- It protects from certain infections, thanks to saturated fats.
An article published in Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine found that coconut oil is effective at reducing the presence of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other pathogens. Scientists have not determined exactly why coconut oil benefits the skin, but the polyphenols and fatty acids that it contains may contribute to its helpful effects.
Different Types of Coconut Oil
Coconut oils are classified by their production process.
- Virgin Coconut Oil – Coconut milk first is extracted from fresh coconut meat by mechanical pressing. It may be richer in antioxidant and polyphenold.
- Refined Coconut Oil – It comes from dried coconut meat that is steam refined. No chemicals are used in the process. Refined coconut oil undergoes additional processing, such as bleaching and deodorizing.
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