The Real Question: Should you be applying coconut oil to your face?
This miracle oil may not be for everyone after all.
Coconut oil: the beauty world’s answer to everything. Suffering from dry ends? Apply coconut oil. Got flaky elbows? Apply coconut oil. Having relationship problems? Slather that oil on.
The coconut oil hype has been around for some time and there are beauty experts that swear by it but should we really be incorporating this oil into our beauty regime? Unfortunately, there’s no easy answer to this.
THE GOOD
Don’t get us wrong, this ‘miracle’ oil is full of antioxidants and vitamins, which are great to fight premature ageing and keep your skin hydrated. The nature of their small molecules allows the oil to be absorbed quickly for that boost of hydration.
… AND THE BAD
Despite all these amazing properties, coconut oil also has its downsides. This oil is highly comedogenic, which means it leaves a film over your skin, thus clogging your pores and causing breakouts.
It is most commonly known to be used as a makeup remover because of its amazing abilities to melt makeup easily. If you do still use it as a remover, it’s better to thoroughly rinse your face after to prevent clogged pores. However, we recommend keeping it away from your face entirely. Instead, use it to remover your eye makeup only, as there are no oil glands on your peepers.
ARE THERE OTHER OPTIONS?
If you’re into natural oils in your skincare routine, don’t fret as there are other options that are much gentler on the skin compared to coconut oil. Rosehip oil, jojoba oil, and argan oil are some less comedogenic oils that will not clog your pores.
IS IT FOR YOU?
If you’re still confused whether you should be using coconut oil on your face, it all depends on your skin type. If you have oily, acne-prone skin, stay away from it altogether. For dry skin types, it can be used as a makeup remover as long as you cleanse your face after but never use it as a moisturiser replacement.
Shona Menon
Photo: Getty Images
READ MORE:
If You’re Wondering: Is it safe to use coconut oil on your vagina?
Nature’s Solutions: The multiple beauty benefits of coconut oil
