Coconut Oil for Skin

Coconut oil has been used by people in the tropics since time immemorial. The uses of coconut oil include both culinary and therapeutic purposes. This oil is considered one of the first plant oils used by human beings and has been an indispensable part of ayurveda, since the time of the inception of this branch of alternative medicine. According to the ancient texts of ayurveda, which originated in India, coconut oil can be used in the treatment of various medical conditions, like jaundice, scabies, scurvy, sore throat, constipation, toothache, swelling, etc. It is also beneficial in strengthening muscles, improving complexion and for wound healing.

Coconut Oil for Skin

Do you know the action of skin products on the skin. Most of the moisturizers and other skin care products are water-based and once applied, the water is absorbed by the tissues beneath the skin. This water inflates these tissues, filling up the wrinkles. This process makes the skin smoother and wrinkle-free in appearance, which lasts for a very short time. As the water gets absorbed into the blood stream or as it is evaporated, the skin looks dry and the wrinkles reappear. Apart from water, almost all skin products contain some type of highly refined vegetable oil, which is meant for skin repair. But these refined oils do not contain natural antioxidants, which enable the skin to fight wrinkles and aging. Hence, most of the commercial skin care products can give you temporary satisfaction, as far as the results are concerned.

In order to understand the role of coconut oil on the skin, we have to go through the process of wrinkle formation. The skin is made up of connective tissues, which are responsible for its elasticity and smoothness. In young people, these tissues are strong and with age, free-radical attack breaks them down and the skin looses its elasticity as well as its strength. It has been observed that a free radical attack can lead to a chain of such reactions and as a result the skin looses its smoothness and develops wrinkles. This can be countered with the help of antioxidants, which can stop the chain reaction caused by the free radicals. The body must get sufficient antioxidants from the diet and refined vegetable oils do not contain natural antioxidants. It is also claimed that these refined oils may promote the production of free radicals in the body. You can also tackle this problem with the help of skin products with antioxidants. As most of the commercial skin products lack antioxidants, coconut oil is considered to be best for skin care as it is loaded with antioxidants, which can fight free radicals and prevent aging. It can penetrate the deeper layers of the skin and strengthen the connective tissues.

Benefits of Coconut Oil for Skin

By fighting the free radical attacks on the skin, coconut oil can give you smooth and supple skin, free of wrinkles and blemishes. Hence, coconut oil as a skin moisturizer is very popular and widely accepted. It aids the skin in getting rid of the dead cells and give you a smooth and glossy look. This oil can protect you from the blemishes caused as a result of aging and sunlight exposure. Apart from enhancing the appearance of the skin, coconut oil is also useful in curing acne, wounds, rashes, burns and skin inflammation. It is also believed that it can improve the complexion, apart from protecting the skin from getting dry and flaky. Coconut oil is considered as one of the best massage oils. Unlike mineral oils, which can sometimes cause side effects, coconut oil is found to be completely safe for use in massages. Even though, there are three to four types of coconut oil available in the market, virgin coconut oil is the best for skin. You can even make coconut oil at home, especially virgin coconut oil.

Owing to the benefits of coconut oil for skin care, many of the skin care products, like soaps, lotions, creams, etc. have this oil as one of the main ingredients. It is also used in the treatment of some skin problems, like eczema and psoriasis. Apart from skin care, coconut oil is used for hair care too. You too can adopt the practice of using coconut oil, for achieving a young and healthy skin.