Coconut oil has been a staple ingredient in many skin care and beauty routines for years, and for good reason: It is a natural moisturizer, offers antibacterial properties and can help protect the skin from environmental damage that accelerates the signs of aging. A versatile fat packed with skin-loving properties, it can work wonders on a dry and flaky complexion. Although its raw form can be comedogenic and clog pores, coconut oil used for skin care is formulated to be beneficial to the skin. Read on for the three ways coconut oil helps the complexion and could be the perfect ingredient for your daily skin care routine.
Key Takeaways
- Coconut oil contains fatty acids with natural antibacterial properties that may benefit acne-prone skin.
- Rich in antioxidants like vitamin E, coconut oil can help protect against environmental damage and the visible appearance of fine lines.
- Coconut oil has emollient properties that help lock in moisture and reduce dryness.
3 Benefits of Coconut for the Skin
1. Coconut Oil Kills Bacteria
Coconut oil contains lauric acid, caprylic acid and capric acid. These fatty acids, especially lauric, have major anti-viral and antimicrobial properties that can kill off harmful bacteria and are beneficial for acne-prone skin. It should be noted that although coconut oil possesses antibacterial properties, it should not be considered as a replacement for professional medical treatment for bacterial infections.
2. Coconut Oil Provides Antioxidants
Rich in antioxidants like vitamin E, coconut oil can delay the visible signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant known to protect skin cells from damage caused by environmental stressors, such as UV rays. Coconut oil is also rich in polyphenols, a group of antioxidants commonly found in plant-based foods. Polyphenols are known for their ability to reduce inflammation and protect against cellular damage. By incorporating coconut oil into your skin care routine, you may be able to protect your skin from premature aging and preserve a healthy, youthful complexion.
3. Coconut Oil Replenishes Moisture
Coconut oil has emollient properties that replenish moisture, soothe the skin and strengthen the skin’s barrier to lock in moisture. As dermatologist Jane Wu explains, coconut oil may reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL), the process of water evaporating from your skin and causing a dry, flaky complexion. If you tend to have dry skin, coconut oil could help you reduce the amount of moisture lost by the skin.
Coconut Product Picks
Coconut Age Corrective Moisturizer
With the many incredible benefits of coconut oil, it’s not a surprise that one of our award-winning products, the Coconut Age Corrective Moisturizer, uses coconut oil as one of its key ingredients. As well as relieving dry skin, the Coconut Age Corrective Moisturizer also provides the skin with a tightened and lifted appearance due to a Natural Retinol Alternative Complex. In addition, this moisturizer is formulated with both coconut oil and coconut water to hydrate and defend the skin from visible signs of aging. You can use this moisturizer both day and night, but an evening application may be especially beneficial. While you sleep, your skin is able to repair the damage done during the daytime hours. This moisturizer supports your skin’s natural repair process, protecting your skin from TEWL overnight.
Coconut Firming Body Lotion
The Coconut Firming Body Lotion gives your skin the deep, lasting hydration it craves from head to toe. A nourishing blend of coconut, shea butter and grape seed oil absorbs quickly to soften, smooth and leave skin looking visibly tighter and more firm.
Coconut Sugar Scrub
Return moisture to the skin across your body with the Coconut Sugar Scrub. With coconut oil and natural sugar cane, the skin is effectively exfoliated and returned to a soft and silky appearance. You can apply the scrub to damp skin along your legs, arms, elbows and any part of the body that needs exfoliation and rejuvenation.
Coconut Milk Cleanser
The Coconut Milk Cleanser has a creamy texture that helps keep the skin hydrated and soft. This gentle cleanser won’t dry the skin as it contains coconut milk, coconut oil and calendula oil to moisturize and soften the look of the skin. You’ll also notice a look of radiance and vitality restored to youthful-looking skin thanks to the inclusion of Biocomplex2™.
Product Picks
Commonly Asked Questions About Coconut Oil for Skin
Is coconut oil actually good for your skin? Yes, Coconut oil can be beneficial as it contains fatty acids like lauric acid with antibacterial and antiviral properties, and is rich in antioxidants like vitamin E. Coconut has emollient properties that helps your skin hold onto moisture. The key difference is in how it's formulated:
Does coconut oil clog pores?
Raw coconut may clog pores if applied directly to the skin. However, coconut oil that is professionally formulated for skin care — as found in Eminence Organics products — is designed to be beneficial without blocking pores. If you have acne-prone skin, it's worth choosing a formulated product over raw coconut oil.
Is coconut oil a good moisturizer?
Coconut oil is an effective emollient, meaning it helps soften and smooth the skin while reducing TEWL, the process by which water evaporates from the skin and causes dryness. For people with dry or flaky skin in particular, coconut oil can support a stronger skin barrier and longer-lasting hydration.
Does coconut oil have antibacterial properties?
Coconut oil contains lauric acid, caprylic acid and capric acid, which are fatty acids with well-documented antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. These may help reduce the presence of harmful bacteria on the skin and can be especially good for acne-prone skin, although coconut oil should not be used as a replacement for medical treatment for bacterial infections.
Can coconut oil help with the appearance of fine lines?
Coconut oil is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin E and polyphenols, which may help protect the skin from environmental damage that can contribute to the visible appearance of fine lines over time. It can also temporarily improve the look of skin by boosting hydration and supporting a smoother-looking complexion.
What skin types benefit most from coconut oil?
Coconut oil is especially well-suited to dry, dehydrated or sensitive skin. Its emollient properties help replenish moisture and soothe irritation, making it a strong choice for anyone whose skin tends to feel tight, rough or reactive. Those with oily or acne-prone skin should look for coconut oil in professionally formulated products rather than applying it in its raw form.
Interested in experiencing this rejuvenating ingredient? Discover coconut products at your nearest authorized Eminence Organics spa.
