Coconut Oil

[kō-kə-nət, oi(-e)l]

Categories: Plant Extracts, Emollients

Benefits of Coconut Oil:
Astringent
Moisturizing

Coconut oil is a native tropical remedy that is comprised of mainly saturated fats (triglycerides), lauric acid, Vitamin E, and proteins. In skincare, it has become renowned for providing the skin with moisturizing and astringent properties. The mechanism of using coconut oil for skin treatment works by increasing surface level lipids. As a result, the skin’s protective barrier is reinforced and moisture retention improves. In addition, the saturated fats present in coconut oil may also provide astringent characteristics that can help to relieve problematic skin. Overall, coconut oil skin care products (i.e. coconut oil face moisturizer, coconut oil face cream) are ideal for both softening and protecting skin quality. 1 2

  1. Agero, A. L. and Vermén M. V. A randomized double-blind controlled trial comparing extra virgin coconut oil with mineral oil as a moisturizer for mild to moderate xerosis. Dermatitis: Contact, Atopic, Occupational, Drug 15.3, 109-116 (2004)
  2. Rohman, A. and Man, Y. Quantitative analysis of virgin coconut oil in cream cosmetics preparations using fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences 22.4, 415-420 (2009)