The Untold Beauty Benefits of Coconut Oil

First it was coconut milk, then coconut water, and now coconut oil – and I think a big part of the recent popularity is that it’s natural, not synthetic, which is so appealing.

Coconut oil, unlike mineral oil (another proven highly effective moisturizer) delivers on the same skin softening but possibly more effectively.

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Research has shown that from the use of coconut oil on skin, hydration improved and skin surface lipids remained in tact. And when it comes to thick, scaly, fissured feet, or rough leathery elbows and knees, coconut oil might have the advantage over regular moisturizer.

And it could also be the answer to chronic skin conditions such as eczema, too. Coconut oil is an excellent moisturizer and good anti-inflammatory, so its use for eczema is on the rise.

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We know that it has inherent moisturising properties just from its oily consistency, and that the anti-inflammatory effects are likely related to antioxidants such as polyphenols.

It’s pointed out that a recent double-blinded study comparing mineral oil to coconut oil as topical treatment for children with eczema.

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It showed that 46 percent of patients using the coconut oil had an excellent response as compared to only 19 percent of patients using only mineral oil.

The combination of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-bacterial and hydrating properties make it truly unique.

Coconut oil is primarily composed of saturated fats and contains medium-chain fatty acids, which not only help to repair the skin barrier and trap water, thus hydrating the skin, they also reduce inflammation.

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Gently rubbing a few drops of the oil into the skin around the eyes nightly using your fingertips, but rubbing a more generous amount onto legs, elbows, knees and heels to help smooth the skin and trap moisture.

Along with hydration, and lessening inflammation, coconut oil has also been shown to be capable of quenching free radicals. The antioxidant property of coconut oil is thought to be due to cphenolic compounds (specifically ferulic acid and p-coumaric acid).

But the benefits of coconut oil don’t stop at the skin. The real benefit, with which I have the most experience, is with scalp and hair application.

In one study, coconut oil reduced protein loss in both damaged – and undamaged – hair when used before shampooing and as a leave-in treatment.

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Coconut oil is able to penetrate the hair shaft due to its low molecular weight and affinity for proteins, because it is easier to rinse out than pure coconut oil.

However, there are tons of real life testimonials that say slathering the real deal on strands and skin are all a part of a daily beauty routine – and that most don’t mind the luxe feel or the results. Smoother hair. More shine. Not to mention crazy soft skin.

But not everyone should apply it head-to-toe, such as those prone to breakouts and who have very oily skin.

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The only reservation is for people with acne-prone skin, as it may be comedogenic, however, the anti-inflammatory and anti-aging benefits of the polyphenols also make coconut oil part of a rejuvenating skincare regimen.

The other undeniable pro? The smell. Coconut oil has an appealing aroma too. It reminds us of summer, vacation and pina coladas.

Photo Credit: Getty