The use of coconut oil for your skin might sound pretty appealing: For starters, it’s readily available in most stores (or maybe already in your pantry). But wait a while before you start spreading it on your skin. Many praise coconut oil for its moisturizing ability, however, it remains a somewhat controversial choice because, as nourishing as it is, it clogs pores – and in some cases can cause an allergic reaction.

  • What exactly is coconut oil?

It is the oil that comes from pressing either fresh or cold-dried coconuts. Unlike other moisturizing oils (such as jojoba, argan or castor oil), coconut oil is made up of “medium chain” fatty acids that can be more easily absorbed into our skin barrier.

  • It’s incredibly hydrating

One of the biggest benefits of coconut oil is its excellent moisturizing abilities. It works by reducing transepidermal water loss, meaning it prevents water from evaporating from the top layer of the skin.

Don’t replace your facial moisturizer with coconut oil, but for your body, which is generally less sensitive than your face, coconut oil can work wonders—especially for dry elbows, heels, hands, or feet during the cold winter months. If you’re looking for an affordable lip balm, coconut oil is what you’re looking for.

  • It has anti-inflammatory properties

Certain fatty acids in coconut oil (such as lauric acid and capric acid) are known to have antimicrobial, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties that could potentially help fight skin infections and soothe irritation or itching.

  • It can help remove makeup

Fatty acids help break down and remove stubborn eye shadow, make up and mascara without stripping skin of moisture. Experts say you can safely use it on individual areas – as long as you wash it off thoroughly with a cleanser.

  • It can improve some eczema symptoms

In fact, there is research showing that coconut oil can help relieve the flaking and excessive dryness associated with atopic dermatitis, the most common form of eczema. Although coconut oil can potentially help with the eczema symptoms above, it does not replace conventional treatment methods, such as a gentle skin care routine or, in more severe cases, prescription topical steroids.

  • What are the biggest dangers of using coconut oil?

It can clog pores and cause acne. Coconut oil is a pore-clogging ingredient. It falls into this category because of its extremely thick, wax-like consistency, which is great for trapping moisture. but, on the other hand, it can also be very occlusive. May cause allergic reactions. There are a few reasons why and how coconut oil can cause an allergic reaction—yes, even if you don’t consume it or have a nut allergy.

  • How to use coconut oil on your skin

For your face. Use as an eye make-up remover (and rinse thoroughly with a gentle cleanser). Or for extremely dry skin: Instead of slathering it on your skin, choose a face cream or serum that contains coconut oil as one of its main ingredients. For your body. To maximize the benefits of coconut oil – whether in its pure form or as part of a body butter or lotion – you should apply it directly to wet skin, which will allow you to lock in the moisture already in your skin.