Benefits of Coconut Oil for Skin: Types of Oil and How to Use It
Here we will present to you the dermatological benefits of coconut oil, its different types and how to use it. Coconut oil is rich in oil and has high moisturizing properties, so it is said to be good for the skin.
It is easy to apply directly to the skin and has few known risks. Researchers are considering coconut oil as a possible topical treatment for chronic skin inflammation. In this article, we will look at the dermatological benefits of coconut oil, its different types and how to use it.
Benefits of coconut oil for the skin
Coconut oil can help moisturize dry skin.
The benefits of using coconut oil for skin are varied and may include:
– Hydration of dry skin, including those suffering from conditions such as eczema.
– Reduce inflammation, which can result from UVB rays.
– promote wound healing
– Antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties.
Some preliminary research supports these benefits. However, more research is needed to confirm them.
One study found that coconut oil could help prevent and treat skin rashes, such as atopic dermatitis. Another study showed that coconut oil extract could improve the skin's barrier function and reduce inflammation from UVB rays. Research on coconut oil has also suggested that the oil may have antibacterial properties, even when people use it on the skin. Cellular studies also indicate possible antifungal and antiviral capabilities.
Scientists believe coconut oil also helps strengthen the skin barriers of low birth weight infants, which could protect them from health complications. It's even possible that virgin coconut oil has a beneficial effect on genes that play a role in inflammation, but more research is needed to confirm this.
Scientists haven't determined exactly why coconut oil is beneficial for the skin, but the polyphenols and fatty acids it contains may contribute to its beneficial effects. It also contains antioxidants, whose topical application can protect the skin and improve its appearance.
Types of coconut oil
There are different types of coconut oil, which are classified according to their production process.
The two main types are virgin coconut oil and refined coconut oil. Virgin coconut oil is made from fresh coconuts and may be richer in antioxidants and polyphenols. Refined coconut oil is made from the meat of dried coconuts. Refined coconut oil can go through more processing steps, including mechanical pressing to obtain the oil. Some producers may resort to chemical solvents, deodorization and bleaching.
The type of coconut oil also depends on the extraction technique. When producers obtain the oil without using heat, they refer to it as cold-pressed coconut oil. This type of oil may be richer in nutrients. If the extraction process uses steam or heat to extract oil from the flesh of the fresh coconut, it is called press-pressed coconut oil. In general, less processed types of coconut oil, like cold-pressed virgin coconut oil, are the healthiest options.
To help coconut oil stay solid at hot temperatures, manufacturers can hydrogenate it, which means treating it with hydrogen. The resulting product is high in artificial trans fats. Their consumption increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. However, this warning does not seem to apply to applying coconut oil to the skin.
Any type of coconut oil can be used on the skin.
How to use it
One of the most established uses of coconut oil is as a skin moisturizer. Common practice is to rub a small amount of coconut oil directly onto the skin or hair. The skin generally absorbs coconut oil quickly. If a person is using coconut oil for the first time, they should test it on a small part of the body before applying it to larger areas. This precaution is especially important for people with sensitive or oily skin, as it helps avoid any potential adverse reactions. After applying coconut oil to the hair, you can leave it on for the desired time and then wash it off with shampoo. Coconut oil can also be included in the diet.
Applying coconut oil to the skin is not recommended if you have oily skin. Some people apply coconut oil directly to the skin as a facial cleanser or moisturizer. It can be beneficial for acne, but it is not recommended for people who have very oily skin. Coconut oil is highly comedogenic, which means it can clog pores. Therefore, it can make acne worse in some people. Coconut oil can be applied directly to the skin.