Coconut oil is an amazing natural ingredient that’s often linked to wellness — from adding it to your food to using it on your hair, face, and body. However, it can be a challenge to incorporate coconut oil into your skincare routine if you don’t know where to start. Generally, there are three main types of coconut oil: unrefined, refined, and liquid.
Words: Nina Pineda
Image: fleur kaan
Liquid coconut oil is primarily used for cooking. The difference between unrefined and refined coconut oil is the way they are prepared and processed. Refined coconut oil is more processed than unrefined coconut oil and can contain additives and preservatives. On the other hand, unrefined coconut oil has been processed as little as possible and is free of additives.
To reap the most benefits and avoid possible reactions to preservatives, make sure you use the unrefined type in your skincare routine. Some of the benefits that this wonder ingredient has to offer are:
Increases Hydration
Coconut oil is an excellent emollient — an ingredient that prevents water loss—especially if the skin’s natural barrier has been damaged. This makes it perfect for locking in moisture in dry areas, boosting dry skin, and aiding in the treatment of scaly, itchy rashes caused by eczema.
By increasing your skin’s hydration, you help sustain its natural barrier functions. This makes it easier for your skin to keep out bacteria, maintain its overall integrity, and even promote the healing of scars.
Best of all, the lightweight nature of this oil makes it easier to use as it doesn’t leave a greasy, sticky feeling on your skin.
Reduces Inflammation
Skin inflammation is a big part of skin disorders like psoriasis, contact dermatitis, and eczema. It is also present in manifestations of acne, which causes bumps and welts to appear on the skin.
Coconut oil can be used to treat these conditions, as it has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe irritated areas. It also helps improve the skin’s natural antioxidant properties. Antioxidants work by stabilizing the free radicals in the body, which then neutralize the reactive atoms that contribute to the inflammation.
In the case of acne treatment, coconut oil can be effective for targeting inflamed areas and prevent the growth of acne-causing bacteria.
Stimulates Collagen Production
Collagen is a key component of the skin as it helps it maintain firmness and elasticity. Coconut oil contains enough lauric acid to boost collagen production. With this, the skin can heal faster and eliminate the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. This makes coconut oil a perfect ingredient for skincare routines that focus on anti-aging treatments.
Image: Tijana Drndarski
How to Use Coconut Oil on the Skin
The nourishing power of coconut oil is maximized by using it as a night cream. Simply take one tablespoon of coconut oil and rub it gently to liquefy it. Afterward, smooth this onto your face and neck, or any dry areas on your body. This should leave a silky, light texture over the skin.
Wipe off any thick excess using a tissue, as cotton pads or balls may leave fibers. Leave this light layer on your skin overnight. This treatment is best for dry or combination skin and should be done once a week.
Aside from a full-on night cream, it can also be used as a natural eye cream. This is done by dabbing a light layer of the oil on the under-eye area before bedtime, as it is too emollient for use under makeup.
You may also use small amounts of coconut oil as a spot moisturizer on the lips or specific problem areas. This controls where the moisturizing is concentrated and leaves these spots more refreshed and supple the next day.
It’s important to note that coconut oil is comedogenic, meaning that it is likely to clog up pores and cause blemishes like blackheads. While it is a recommended treatment for most skin types and people with skin disorders, it can do more harm than good if used incorrectly. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to pore congestion, it’s best to use the oil less frequently.
One way to do so is to use coconut oil as a facial cleanser or makeup remover before bed instead. Just take a small amount of the oil and rub it in gentle, circular motions on the face and neck using your hands. Once done, do a double cleanse with your gentle face wash of choice. This helps lock in the moisture without leaving it for too long to clog or irritate pores.
Summing It Up
Coconut oil has much to offer for keeping your skin in its best condition. From improving its overall moisture and texture, it can even soothe inflammations and reduce fine lines. Use it as an overnight moisturizer, spot treatment, or even as a natural cleanser — you’re sure to reap the benefits, regardless of skin type.