Coconut oil as an anti-cellulite treatment?

The cellulite results from a set of complex biological mechanisms, involving both genetic, hormonal and structural factors. It is linked to a particular organisation of the subcutaneous adipose tissue, where adipocytes tend to increase in volume while exerting pressure on the surrounding connective tissue. At the same time, an alteration of collagen and less effective microcirculation can limit fluid drainage and promote local retention. Together, these phenomena lead to the uneven appearance typically described as "orange-peel skin".

In this context, certain vegetable oils are investigated for their ability to strengthen the skin barrier and to enhance the skin’s mechanical properties, among which coconut oil. Extracted from the mature coconut kernel (Cocos nucifera), it is distinguished by a high content of medium-chain fatty acids, notably lauric acid (approximately 49%), myristic acid (18%) and caprylic acid (8%), alongside smaller amounts of oleic and linoleic acids.

This lipid composition endows coconut oil with significant emollient and occlusive properties that help improve skin suppleness and could theoretically reduce the visible appearance of cellulite without addressing its underlying causes.

According to a review published in 2022, certain vegetable oils, including coconut oil, are highlighted as promising in cosmetic strategies targeting cellulite. However, it should be emphasised that this review relies primarily on experimental, mechanistic or indirect data rather than on clinical trials demonstrating a direct and measurable anti-cellulite effect in humans. The authors propose several hypothetical biological mechanisms by which coconut oil might contribute to improving the appearance of skin affected by cellulite.

• Regarding the extracellular matrix, coconut oil could support the synthesis of certain structural proteins, such as collagen and elastin, via an improvement in the skin environment (hydration, lipid protection), although a direct stimulatory effect on their production has not been formally demonstrated in vivo. Similarly, by reinforcing barrier function and limiting dehydration, it could indirectly contribute to maintaining the mechanical integrity of the ECM, an important factor for skin resilience and tone, and thus for the appearance of cellulite.

• Furthermore, the authors mention a potential anti-inflammatory effect, primarily attributed to certain medium-chain fatty acids and their derivatives, such as monolaurin. In theory, reducing low-grade inflammation could be beneficial, as chronic inflammation is likely to impair the extracellular matrix and disrupt microcirculation, two factors involved in the pathophysiology of cellulite. Finally, the presence of compounds with moderate antioxidant activity could help limit the oxidative stress locally, a factor known to weaken skin structures over time.

Overall, coconut oil functions more as a supporting active ingredient than as a substance capable of treating cellulite in its own right.

Note : If cellulitis becomes painful or progresses unexpectedly, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist. Persistent swelling or redness may indicate an underlying condition, such as infectious cellulitis, requiring medical management.

• RAWLINGS A. V. & al. Cellulite and its treatment. International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2006).

• SANTIAGO J. L. & al. Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2017).

• SATRIA D. & al. The role of coconut oil to increase expression of MMP-9, PDGF-BB, and TGF-β1 in NIH-3T3 cell line. Open Access Macedonian Journal of Medical Sciences (2019).

• GHEORGHITA E. & ROSOIU N. Review: Vegetable oil and butters, their anticellulitic effect, composition, mechanism of action and clinical trials. Academy of Romanian Scientists Annals Series on Biological Sciences (2022).