Effects of coconut oil on skin

Coconut oil is a type of fat with health benefits. According to the US health website Healthline , coconut oil can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve brain function in Alzheimer's patients.

In addition, coconut oil also brings many benefits to the skin.

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1. Helps kill harmful microorganisms

The medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil have antimicrobial properties that can help protect the skin against harmful microorganisms. This is especially important for skin health, since many skin infections such as acne, cellulitis, folliculitis, and athlete's foot are caused by bacteria or fungi, according to Healthline .

One study tested the antibacterial properties of 30 fatty acids against 20 different strains of bacteria. Lauric acid—which makes up nearly 50% of the fatty acids in coconut oil—was the most effective at stopping bacterial growth.

Another study found that lauric acid can kill Propionibacter Acnes — the bacteria that leads to the development of inflammatory acne.

You can apply coconut oil directly to your skin to prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms, according to Healthline .

2. Reduces inflammation

Coconut oil has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help relieve conditions such as psoriasis, contact dermatitis, and eczema.

In one experiment, researchers applied virgin coconut oil to the inflamed ears of mice. The results showed that coconut oil not only had anti-inflammatory effects but also reduced pain.

3. Acne treatment

Recent research shows that coconut oil can help treat acne thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

Many studies have shown that lauric acid found in coconut oil is effective in killing strains of acne-causing bacteria.

4. Reduce dry skin

In addition to treating acne and inflammation, applying coconut oil can also help hydrate the skin.

A study comparing the effects of olive oil and coconut oil in 52 adults with eczema found that applying coconut oil reduced dry skin and helped treat eczema.

5. Helps heal wounds

Scientists have found that treating wounds with virgin coconut oil speeds up the wound healing process and increases collagen - an important protein that aids in wound healing.

In addition to aiding wound healing, the antibacterial properties of coconut oil can also prevent infection – one of the factors that can complicate the wound healing process.

Although it has many benefits for the skin, people with oily or sensitive skin should limit the use of coconut oil directly on the skin, as it can cause irritation or clog pores, according to Healthline .