8 Incredible Benefits of Coconut Oil for Healthy Skin & Hair

There was a time when I only thought or coconut oil as something that belonged to the kitchen, perfect for baking or adding to coffee for that extra kick. But over the years, I found Myelf looking for the bottle in my closet not for food but for my skin. It begins when I was dealing with dryness, and everything I tried felt too hard or synthetic. It was then that I turned to this natural tropical oil, and the port did not look back since then.

Rich in Saturday food and fatty acids such as Lauric and Linoleic, coconut oil is more than a trend. It is known that these acids are moisturizing, moisturizers and antimicrobials, which helps the skin retain moisture and fight bacteria. I noticed a big difference in how my skin responded: it felt softer, more nourished and more healthy visible. As a natural emollient, it is full of nutritious ingredients that function as a charm, also compared to high -end cosmetic products. In addition, it smells like a dream, which never hurts.

Experts such as dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, emphasizes how the unique properties of this oil and benefits the voice of its composition. It is beneficial in many ways, from increasing hydration to acting as a soft cleaner. Whether you are creating a complete routine or simply need to treat scrutinous patches, coconut oil brings effectiveness and that friendly charm for the wallet. In my experience, he has earned his place not only in the kitchen but also on the skin care shelf.

What is coconut oil?

It is an oil based on plants extracted from white meat or grain or raw coconuts, known for its high content of saturated fats. At room temperature, it remains solid, but it melts easily or heats when it is heated, becoming a transparent liquid. Science supports its benefits: studies show that it contains fatty acids such as Lauric, Mirístico and Linoleic, all of which contribute to their natural ability to nurture the skin. Although it is widely used in cooking, cosmetic and equally industrial applications such as biodiesel, I have found that its true magic lies in what it does for the skin, leaving it soft, hydrated and healthy.

Coconut oil benefits

Coconut oil has numerous benefits, some are the Lord:

Deep and softened skin moisture

Coconut oil is incredible moistry, especially for dry skin and conditions such as eczema and rosacea, since it helps reduce the loss of transepidermal water (TWL) forming a protective barrier that blocks moisture. Its emollient properties come from medium chain fatty acids such as Lauric and Linoleic, which are essential to repair the outer layer of the skin.

Anti -inflammatory and soothing of the skin

Rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, coconut oil can help reduce inflammation caused by UVB rays, offers relaxing relief of irritation. Studies show their effect on inflammation -related genes, suggest the potential to calm eruptions, atopic dermatitis and other sensitive skin problems.

Wound healing and skin protection

It can promote wound healing by supporting skin function and reducing exposure to bacteria. Thanks to its antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral property, it can help treat mild wounds, scratches and razor burns, so it is a useful addition to its kit.

Baby skin and sensitive barrier strengthe

For babies with low birth weight, it has been found that virgin coconut oil strengthens the skin barrier, helping to protect against health complications, which makes it a natural and soft option even for more delicate skin.

Essential skin care routine

Like some with skin prone to imperfection, I use it only in the body, avoiding the face due to its comedogenic nature, which can obstruct the pores. However, for the rest of the body and hair, its benefits are unmatched, especially for dehydration, plump texture and softness, thanks to vitamin E and its ability to deeply absorb the epidermis.

Antimicrobial and dandruff support

With the lauric acid that constitutes 49% of its composition, coconut oil shows antimicrobial properties that can reduce bacteria and help with dandruff, thought that effectiveness is not yet clear and more research is necessary.

Makeup elimination and cleaning

As a natural cleaner, coconut oil is wonders to dissolve makeup, including waterproof products, due to oil -based nature. It joins the makeup and eliminates it gently without removing the skin.

Environmental and aging defense

High in the antioxidant content, it helps fight free radicals, pollution and other environmental aggressors, which is known to cause premature aging, fine lines and skin damage, a overlook but crucial for the general health of the skin.

Coconut oil uses

Here are some ways to add coconut oil to the steps of your skin care routine:

Moisturizer

After showering or bathing, I like to apply a small amount of coconut oil to my body, especially the neck, elbows, knees, hands and feet. It is quickly absorbed, leaving my skin soft and hydrated, even in dry days when the air conditioning or heating strip the natural humidity. Whether prefer the pressed, refined or virgin types, each one works to rejoice and calm the drying effects.

Makeup remover

The use of coconut oil as a makeup remover has changed the game. I use a cotton ball or a pad, then I monitor soft or double cleaning of a water -based option to reduce the risk of clogged pores and milia, especially if your skin tends to be sensitive or fatty.

Lip balm

For dry and irritated lips, a dab or coconut oil works better than most chances bought in the store. It keeps them hydrated and hydrated, and as is edible, I am not worried if I finish licking the duration of the day.

Hair treatment and scalp

In the hair, massage the coconut oil directly, that goes for the desired time and then wash it with shampoo. It is special useful if it is scalp or dry threads, and I always recommend a test in a small area first to avoid the reactions of the advertiser.

Types of coconut oil

When it comes to using coconut oil for skin care, knowing the different types can help you choose what is best for your needs.

Virgin coconut oil

Virgin coconut oil, made of fresh coconuts, is not refined and loaded with antioxidants, phytonutrients and fatty acids that function as effective moisturizers. Skin skins.

Refined coconut oil

Refining coconut oil, on the other hand, comes from dry coconut meat and goes through additional processing such as machine pressure, chemical solvents, whitening and deodorization, which reduces its benefits, but makes it less powerful. Then cold pressed coconut oil, extracted without heat, preserving more nutrients, this is my option for sensitive areas.

Coconut oil pressed expulsters uses steam or heat and can lose some of its natural properties. Finally, hydrogenated coconut oil is treated with hydrogen to stay solid in warm climates, but contains artificial fats linked to heart disease and stroke, according to the American Heart Association (AHA), safe skin, but does not go. I always suggest choosing organic oils free of pesticides, chemicals and additives, whether it is using it as a moisturizer, lip balm or shaving cream.

What type or coconut is better for the skin?

When it comes to skin care, I always look for pure coconut oil, without refine and pressed cold because it is made of fresh without heat, which helps preserve more nutrients and that natural flavor. This type, or labeled as virgin coconut oil, hasbet through hard processes such as refined oil, which is made of three coconut meat and could eliminate beneficial compounds.

It is loaded with antioxidants, lauric acid and anti -inflammatory property, which can protect the skin from the damage caused by free radicals. I suggest applying a small amount to hydrate, hydrate and soften the dry areas, only avoid sensitive or acne -prone spots at the beginning and monitor how your skin reacts. What I like most is to know that it is natural and free of additional ingredients or chemicals, so it is my option for healthy skin and health hydration.

Frequent questions

1. Is it good to use coconut oil on the face?

Coconut oil can hydrate and soothe the skin deeply, but due to its comedogenic nature, it can obstruct pores, so it is better to avoid using it in facial areas prone to acne or sensitive.

2. Does coconut oil make pink lips?

While coconut oil gained the color of the lips, its moisturizing and nutritional properties help soften and heal the dry lips, making them seem naturally healthier and more suffocated.

3. What is the benefit of using coconut oil?

Coconut oil provides deep moisture, admits the repair of skin barriers, relieves inflammation and offers antimicrobial protection, which makes it ideal for dry or irritated skin.

4. What oil is good for the skin?

Non -refined, cold -pressed virgin coconut oil is one of the best options due to its natural nutrients, antioxidants and moisturizing benefits without aggregate chemicals.