Benefits of Coconut Oil for Eczema Symptoms

Coconut oil enjoys widespread popularity as a health food and beauty ingredients. Thanks to its gentle properties and naturally occurring nutrients, it has a wide range of benefits for different skin types.

In particular, coconut oil’s powerful anti-inflammatory properties make it a popular treatment for people suffering from skin conditions. Are you suffering from eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis)? It’s one of the most common skin conditions. Symptoms of eczema are typically chronic too, so it’s best to select a treatment that won’t ultimately be harmful to you with use.

Luckily, coconut oil is a natural ingredient that is gentle on sensitive skin, and is oftentimes a more practical option as a way of calming down your itchy symptoms. It’s also a soothing, moisturizing ingredient with anti-aging properties, which is why you can find it as the base ingredient in some of our hard-working formulas. Learn the benefits of coconut oil for eczema symptoms, and how you can start using it ASAP.

Thanks to the diverse nutrient profile of coconut oil, it boasts a range of benefits for skin. Here are some of the target points that make it beneficial for soothing eczema flare ups.

FOR ACNE
For acne-prone skin types, congested pores and irritation, coconut oil is extremely beneficial due to its naturally antibacterial and antifungal properties. It contains a high content of lauric acid, a medium chain fatty acid that’s known to be an extremely effective antiviral and antimicrobial agent. It’s also sworn by as an effective face wash for those with sensitive skin. Coconut oil softens and dissolves hardened sebum in pores on the face, bringing excess lipids, pollution and toxins from the environment to the skin’s surface. Do note that if you have especially oily skin, coconut oil may have the tendency to clog pores. We advise sticking to lower concentrations of this ingredient if it’s your first time trying it!

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
Coconut oil’s claim to fame in the beauty realm lies in its anti-inflammatory and skin protective properties. Clinical studies have found that virgin coconut oil improves skin disorder symptoms by moisturizing and soothing the skin. Eczema flare ups are often triggered by excessive inflammation, which is when your immune system is overly active.

ANTI-BACTERIAL
One of the worst parts of eczema? The endless itching it gives us! But scratching and rubbing at your reddened skin does little to make you feel better. Friction on your already weakened skin can lead to infection and further complications. Luckily, coconut oil is a great source of lauric acid, which is a naturally anti-bacterial fatty acid.

ANTIOXIDANT-RICH
Inflammation can be triggered by a range of factors, such as stress and diet. In addition, it can also be caused by free radical damage. Coconut oil is also rich in antioxidants that not only can have an anti-aging effect on skin, but also help minimize overactive scenarios of inflammation in your body.

While coconut oil isn’t a cure all, and won’t direct treat your eczema at the root of its problem, it can be a helpful tool in minimizing your symptoms and preventing eczema from spreading further. Plus, it’s easily accessible.

SOOTHE ITCHY SKIN
If you’re a long term sufferer from eczema, you’ll know that scratching your skin only further reddens it. When you’re dealing with those reddened dry skin patches, it might be useful to instead apply a dab of coconut oil on the spot. Focus on the soothing, cooling feeling of the oil on your skin to distract yourself from the itchy sensations. Always look for an organic, cold-pressed, or virgin coconut oil for the most amount of benefits.

MOISTURIZE SKIN
Keeping your skin moisturized is one of the best ways to prevent serious eczema flare ups. Regularly moisturize affected skin with an organic coconut oil based moisturizer, such as our Seaberry Moisturizer that’s packed with beneficial fatty acids and protective properties.

NOURISH SKIN
Regular treatment with an antioxidant-rich formula can help keep your skin nourished and strengthened against skin conditions. Try an organic coconut oil based serum such as the Vine Therapy Serum, packed with red wine resveratrol and grapeseed oil to help target a depleted and damaged skin barrier.

Like with other chronic health conditions, treating eczema is a tricky process. What works for other people with eczema may not always work for you. But some useful key points to keep in mind are maintaining skin hydration, and avoiding scratching the affected areas by using a soothing treatment instead. That’s where coconut oil comes in as a useful tactic.

Insider tips to reaching your skin care goals:

Dealing with Eczema, Psoriasis, Rosacea, and Dermatitis: How to soothe eczema and other skin irritations by enlisting jojoba oil benefits and other natural remedies.
The Benefits of Coconut Oil for Skin: How to include this gentle, nourishing ingredient in your skin care routine – and beyond.
Benefits of Using Coconut Oil for Wrinkles: A skin-softening, gentle oil packed with antioxidants.