Coconut Oil for Face: Benefits and Usage

The uses and benefits of coconut oil are a little short of magical, be it in the kitchen, for skin care or for other household needs! This is one product that seems to be multipurpose and how! Especially when it comes to the skin, experts and dermatologists can’t emphasize enough its multifarious benefits and why people should use it regularly. Besides moisturizing your skin, coconut oil also helps reduce inflammation, aids in wound healing, treats acne and provides a plethora of other health benefits. So, what can you expect from coconut oil for face? Let’s find out! 

Coconut Oil Explained

We all know that coconut oil is derived from coconuts and contains lauric acid as its main component. About 65% of coconut oil’s total composition is made up of medium-chain fatty acids. It also contains small amounts of polyunsaturated and mono fats. The other components that coconut oil comprises such as Myristic acid, Palmitic acid, caprylic acid, oleic acid, etc. lend it the medicinal and soothing properties it is well known for. 

Coconut oil is a highly saturated oil that is generally soft when warm. It is used for cooking and also on the skin and hair. To use it on the skin, one needs to take a small amount, rub it between fingers and apply it gently on the skin.

Coconut Oil Benefits for the Face

A well-known skincare ingredient the world over, coconut oil is not just used to moisturize the body but is also commonly used as a cleanser and makeup remover. It has been used as a pivotal ingredient in skin care since time immemorial. Lauric acid, which is the main component of coconut oil, is anti-bacterial in nature and kills acne-causing bacteria. It is thus easy to establish that coconut oil for face is safe and effective. Now let’s take a detailed look at how coconut oil benefits the face when applied.

1. Reduces Inflammation

Owing to its anti-inflammatory properties, coconut oil helps tackle inflammation which is the root cause of many skin issues like psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, etc. It is also known to relieve pain to a certain extent and soothe the affected areas of the skin in case of irritation or injury.

2. Kills Harmful Germs

Coconut oil is also antimicrobial in nature and safeguards the skin against harmful microorganisms. This is especially helpful in cases of skin infections caused by bacteria and fungi like cellulitis, folliculitis, acne, athlete’s foot, etc. Applying coconut oil on the affected areas not just soothes the skin but also kills these microorganisms.

3. Helps Treat Acne

The primary cause of acne can be attributed to inflammation and all medicines that help cure acne start by tackling inflammation. Owing to its anti-inflammatory properties, coconut oil is considered to be an efficient treatment for acne.

4. Helps Heal Wounds

Virgin coconut oil is believed to be an excellent ointment to treat wounds and injuries. Coconut oil helps improve the antioxidant status, increases collagen production and speeds up the healing process as a result. Owing to its antibacterial properties, coconut oil also prevents infections at the wound site.

5. Moisturizes the Skin

Apart from its healing and antimicrobial properties, coconut oil is also a great moisturizer and tackles skin dryness. A hydrated skin goes a long way in keeping infections at bay, aids in healing and lightening of scars in addition to enhancing overall skin health. Coconut oil helps restore damaged skin and provides long-term hydration by filling the gaps in the skin with fatty lipids contained in the oil. This ensures that moisture is locked in your skin and the skin is radiantly glowing. 

6. Boosts the Production of Collagen

The antioxidants found in coconut oil help retain the skin’s natural moisture and texture. Coconut oil contains Vitamin A and Vitamin E that helps protect the skin against free radicals that are responsible for causing aging skin, fine lines and wrinkles. Coconut oil boosts the production of collagen in the skin, that fights the signs of aging and makes your skin look healthy and young.

7. Eliminates Dark Patches

It is kind of unbelievable to see the numerous benefits coconut oil for face has; and skin whitening is one of them. If you are looking at making your dark spots lighter, coconut oil is your answer. Coconut oil helps in cell regeneration in addition to speeding up its healing process which also includes fading of dark patches on the skin. 

So, if you ever find yourself asking, is coconut oil good for face? You now know the numerous benefits of this magical oil which is easy to find and even easier to use. 

Coconut Oil for Face for Different Skin Types

Due to its emollient properties, coconut oil is not just a great moisturizer but has various other advantages for all kinds of skin. While the oil is suitable for use for all skin types, people with highly congested and acne prone skin should avoid excessive usage as it may lead to clogged pores. Let us have a look at how coconut oil benefits or affects different skin types.

1. Dry Skin

Owing to its intense hydrating properties, coconut oil for face for people with dry skin is a boon. It helps the skin retain its moisture in addition to treating dry and chapped lips and boosting collagen production. People with dry skin should promptly join team coconut oil for face moisturizer!

2. Oily or Combination Skin

If your skin is naturally oily, you should avoid using coconut oil on the face as it may trigger breakouts due to clogged pores. However, if you are merely using it as a cleanser or makeup remover, it is safe to use it as it will not stay on the skin for long as compared to it being used as a moisturizer. 

3. Sensitive Skin

Due to its soothing properties, coconut oil can be a great choice for people with sensitive skin. Coconut oil for face not only helps alleviate inflammation and redness, but also helps the different signs of aging without causing any side effects due to the use of harsh chemicals on the skin. 

4. Mature Skin

The best coconut oil for face for people with mature skin is virgin coconut oil. The oil is an excellent way to boost collagen production that helps maintain skin elasticity and fights the different signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines. 

Conclusion

Coconut oil has been a favorite oil to reach for a variety of purposes both in the kitchen and out of it. Right from haircare to skincare and as a natural base in various ointments and creams, this tropical oil is worth all the hype if not more. The best type of coconut oil for face, however, is the virgin cold-pressed kind as it does not undergo lengthy steps of processing and has most of the nutrients retained. If you have many skin issues, it is advisable that you incorporate coconut oil into your diet instead of using it topically on your skin.