Coconut oil belongs to the tropical family of oils, which includes palm, shea nut, cocoa and palm kernel. According to the University of Michigan Health System, inhabitants of tropical regions, such as Polynesia, have incorporated coconut oil into their lifestyles for centuries. Commonly used in cooking, coconut oil also helps soften the skin when used as a moisturizer.
Significance
Applying a moisturizer, such as coconut oil, to dry skin can help replenish lost moisture. Health Services at Columbia University explains that this is important because when you shower or bathe, soap robs your skin of its protective layer of oils. Sun exposure, exposure to chemicals and the aging process also takes a toll on the skin, leaving it susceptible to dryness and cracking. While moisturizing may not be able to turn back the hands of time, keeping your skin hydrated can smooth and improve its appearance.
Types
There are two common processes used to produce coconut oil. Coconut oil manufactured and refined from copra, or the dried meat of the coconut, produces a low-grade product. The copra is ground and crushed, in a process that releases the oils. According to Assumption University of Thailand, DME (direct micro-expelling) produces a pure virgin coconut oil that of higher quality than that produced from copra.
The Facts
Manufacturers of face and body moisturizers often add coconut oil to soften the skin. Harvard Health Publications explains that coconut oil coats the skin, protecting it and locking in the natural oils that keep it soft and supple. While moisturizers that contain coconut butter can help heal dry skin, it is not necessary to spend an exorbitant amount of money at the cosmetic counter. A thin layer of pure virgin coconut oil, massaged into your skin using your fingertips, can soften, smooth and protect.
Warning
The use of coconut oil as a moisturizer may not be beneficial to everyone. Coconut oil can irritate the skin in those who have a coconut allergy. While coconut oil allergies are not as common as nut allergies, FAAN (Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network) explains that the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) considers the coconut a tree nut. For this reason, it is best to speak to your doctor before taking coconut oil internally or using it topically on your skin.
Considerations
Aside from its moisturizing properties, coconut oil also works well when it comes to reducing lice infestations. Shampoo manufacturers add coconut oil to shampoos to soften and smooth the hair cuticle. If you have lice, the University of California reveals that washing your hair with a moisturizing shampoo that contains coconut oil can help kill the lice and any nymphs that are present. But it is important to note that a coconut oil based shampoo will not repel lice or kill lice eggs.
References
- University of Michigan Health System: Coconut Oil
- Health Services at Columbia University: Moisturizers=Super Smooth Skin or a Slick Scam?
- Assumption University of Thailand: Editorial: Versatility of Coconut Oil
- Harvard Health Publications: Do Skin Creams Deliver?
- FAAN (Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network): Tree Nut Allergy
- University of California: Head Lice
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