Coconut oil is typically derived from the cold pressing of the flesh of mature coconuts. Used pure or incorporated into a skincare formula, coconut vegetable oil has moisturising, soothing, and antioxidant properties. Discover when and how often to use this ingredient with multiple virtues.
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When and how often should coconut oil be used?
Summary
- Coconut oil, what exactly is it?
- When to resort to a skincare treatment based on coconut oil?
- When and at what time of the day should coconut oil be used?
Published June 10, 2022,
updated on October 4, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
4 min read
Coconut oil, what exactly is it?
Nowadays, the coconut tree is one of the most cultivated plants in subtropical and tropical regions of the world; it grows in over 90 countries including Indonesia, the Philippines, and India. Coconut oil, also known as coconut butter, is renowned in both skincare and haircare as well as in cooking. It is a solid oil at a temperature of 20°C or lower. It primarily contains saturated fatty acids, including lauric acid which is present between 40 and 55%. Its comedogenicity index is high (4); for this reason, it is not recommended for oily and/or acne-prone skin, as it can cause the appearance of spots on this type of skin.
When to resort to a skincare treatment based on coconut oil?
Firstly, let's clarify that coconut oil is an ingredient that does not contain any allergenic substances. It can be used by pregnant/breastfeeding women as well as young children without risk.
Coconut oil can be used pure or incorporated into a skincare formula.It is primarily recommended for taking care of dry skin. Emollient, coconut oil strengthens the hydrolipidic film, which acts as a protective barrier against external aggressions and prevents dehydration.
Besides dry skin, mature skin also benefits from the advantages of coconut oil. The antioxidant action works against the effects of free radicals, which are responsible for the premature ageing of cells.
Finally, its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties help combat certain skin inflammations, particularly the redness caused by UVB rays.
Coconut oil is also a friend to dry hair. By penetrating the hair fibres, fatty acids and particularly lauric acid are able to limit water evaporation. They form a protective film to maintain the hydration of the hair shafts. It is also suitable for dull hair and/or hair frequently exposed to oxidation factors. Vitamin E neutralises free radicals to prevent them from causing damage and to maintain good hair quality for as long as possible.
When and at what time of the day should coconut oil be used?
Regarding its application frequency, coconut oil can be used daily, but only for dry to very dry skin types. As it does not cause photosensitivity, it can be applied morning and evening on a skin that has been previously cleansed and dried to hydrate it and combat ageing. To enjoy its benefits, pour a few drops of oil into the palm of your hand, warm it up and spread it over the face and neck. Light circular massages aid in the penetration of the active ingredients. When coconut oil is used as an ingredient, the frequency of use is often marked on the label of the product in question.
When used as a hair treatment, coconut oil can be applied before each shampoo as a care mask. To do this, spread the oil along the length and tips of your hair and let it sit for a few hours, or even overnight before rinsing. It can also be used on dry hair, without rinsing, along the lengths.
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