Coconut Oil. Miracle In A Jar?
Coconut Oil is on a high note in the news these days. You can cook with it, rub it on your skin and eat it. Researchers are delighted to share the results of their work uncovering the miracle of coconut oil. The research continues as early work focused on coconut oil’s effect on dermatitis.
Coconut’s moisturizing elements work wonders for your hair and skin. A high Vitamin E content assists with hydration. With wounds and dermatitis, coconut oil soothes the affected area by acting as a broad moisturizing barrier, protecting the skin as it heals.
According to some experts, coconut oil can diminish scars left by acne as well. It’s understood that coconut oil can promote collagen reproduction. This helps smooth fine lines and wrinkles, binding new skin tissue together to aid in diminishing scars. Experts report coconut oil seems to help with hyperpigmentation through making the tone of the skin more even. It reduces redness around scars as well.
What Do The Experts Say?
As a coconut oil ingredient, Lauric acid, has revealed itself as a potential helper in the reduction of specific bacteria inclusive to some forms of inflammatory type acne. Coconut oil is plentiful in Vitamin E, which is recognized for its therapeutic benefits. Vitamin E has been thought to pitch in to the typical operation of the sebaceous glands, which generate sebum on the skin.
It’s Potential Effect On Acne Scars
Acne scars can emerge after a flare up. The scar appears from a collapse of collagen fibers that surround the affected pore. Coconut oil can benefit here as it is said to have collagen boosting properties and can help regenerate the area. Depressed areas on the skin are known as Atrophic scars. Sometimes called pockmarks, they can also result from chickenpox or injuries to the skin. They can appear as round, oval and with or without darkening of the skin. Coconut oil’s collagen boosting elements help reduce the depths of the depression and induce the skin to appear smoother than before.
Is There A Difference Between Various Brands of Coconut Oil?
Extra Virgin or Virgin?
As with many products we ingest or use on our bodies, it’s best to investigate the best brands and types of coconut oil for your particular usage. Bottles labeled “Extra Virgin” are more desired as they haven’t been processed or refined to the point of eliminating the beneficial properties of the oil itself. Valuable fatty acids are destroyed during processing. Generally, this type of coconut oil will be in a solid form. Choose an organic brand if possible. In several studies, this type was used by researchers and may be the most effective.
Three Types
Coconut oil is available in three categories: liquid, unrefined and refined.
Liquid
Coconut oil in the liquid form is used in food preparation. Quality varies in commercially produced coconut oils. You will want to delve deeper into the chemical process to further make a decision on the end product. Coconut oil used for cooking is not appropriate for use on the skin. It could be harsh and wouldn’t deliver any therapeutic elements.
Unrefined
To collect unrefined coconut oil, the edible flesh is pressed. No chemicals are added. This type is generally the best for use on your skin. Because there is very little “processing,” there are more compounds and fatty acids present in the oil. The majority of higher grade coconut oil is going to be solid when in temperatures under 75 degrees fahrenheit. It will then melt when warmed.
Refined
Copra is dried coconut kernel which is bleached, deodorized and a heated hydraulic press is used to extract approximately 60% of the weight of the coconut when dry. At this point, the coconut oil is not fit for consumption as it consists of toxins and pollutants. To rid the product of these, it must continue to be heated and purified. Refined coconut oil has no scent.
You are able to purchase coconut oil in stores or online. You can purchase it mixed with other products, or in it’s raw form.
Best Method For Success
As with any product you put on your skin, you should test a patch to see if there could be an allergic reaction. To do this, choose a small spot on your forearm and apply the coconut oil. Cover with a clean bandage. Wait at least 24 hours to check for an allergic reaction or other issue before moving on to use the coconut oil on larger areas and your face.
According to beauty experts, you’ll achieve better results from employing the oil in the morning and in the evening. As a side note, you can improve the texture of the coconut oil and turn it into a luxury lotion by whipping the coconut oil with a mixer or putting it in a blender. The resulting product is silky and soft. Some prefer adding their favorite essential oil when using it elsewhere on their bodies.
Begin with cleansing your face and patting it dry with a clean, soft towel. Smear a ¼ teaspoon of coconut oil on your acne scars with clean fingers. Give it time to absorb into your skin. Leave it on overnight and wash your face as you normally do, the following morning. Wear sunscreen everyday. This helps prevent scars from darkening as well as protecting from hyperpigmentation.
Who Shouldn’t Use Coconut Oil?
- Anyone who is allergic to coconut, or any ingredients or compounds in it, should not use coconut oil.
- Coconut oil is not recommended for surgical scars as there is an increase for contact dermatitis.
- Coconut oil should not be used by those with open sores without first speaking with a primary care physician for advice.
At The End Of The Day
Coconut oil, if not used correctly can cause some clogging of the pores, resulting in acne. Starting with a clean face and fingers will help prevent this. It is beneficial for those suffering from very dry, or chafed skin. Research suggests that it boosts collagen and helps promote skin renewal.
