An all-natural moisturizer is coconut oil. Many eczema sufferers discover that it calms the skin and eases symptoms like dryness and itching.
The majority of eczema varieties result in skin patches that are dry, itchy, and scaly and may even crack and bleed. Keeping the skin moisturized is a major goal of the treatment.
Many patients with eczema look for efficient natural remedies like coconut oil because some commercial moisturizers and treatments might irritate sensitive skin.
This article explores the scientific evidence supporting the use of coconut oil for eczema symptoms. Additionally, it discusses the potential hazards and how to use coconut oil.
How does coconut oil help with Eczema?
Lauric acid, a beneficial fatty acid that is also present in breast milk, is abundant in coconut oil. Lauric acid is a component of several herbal treatments for many health conditions, including eczema.
Although coconut oil cannot treat eczema, it can calm the skin, lessen inflammation and irritation, and reduce the risk of infection.
What does the Research say?
Eczema makes it harder for the skin to retain moisture. According to the findings of a research trial conducted in 2014, 8 weeks of daily application of virgin coconut oil to the skin may help eczema-prone kids’ skin hydrate better.
By boosting the level of a protein called filaggrin, coconut oil may also be able to heal eczema. Filaggrin is a crucial protein that aids in maintaining the pH balance and hydration of the skin.
Some people think that having insufficient amounts of this protein may contribute to eczema. A 2019 study discovered that coconut oil can boost skin cells’ levels of filaggrin, moisturizing the skin and strengthening its moisture barrier.
The above study concluded that virgin coconut oil could be useful in treating eczema. These experts also point out that coconut oil contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities.
Antioxidants may aid in the treatment of eczema, according to other research. A different study from 2019 found that coconut oil has antibacterial capabilities and can efficiently lower the prevalence of bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
This is important because eczematous individuals may be more susceptible to skin infections. Eczema can cause the skin to crack and bleed, and scratching or even touching broken skin can lead to infection.
Benefits of coconut oil for Eczema
Coconut oil is quite safe to use, even on young children and can be rather inexpensive. It is a readily available and simple solution for persons with eczema because it is available in numerous grocery and drug stores all over the world.
The moisturizing qualities of coconut oil can ease inflammation. Since eczema is an inflammatory condition, the oil also has qualities that can lessen inflammation and soothe the symptoms that go along with it.
Additionally, the oil’s lauric acid has antibacterial qualities that may shield users from further infections, which are common in those with eczema-related dry, cracked skin.
How to use coconut oil for Eczema?
Before using coconut oil, one should perform a patch test to make sure it won’t irritate the skin or trigger an allergic reaction.
- At ambient temperature, coconut oil is solid; but, when heated, it becomes liquid.
- Coconut oil can be applied to the skin as either a solid or a liquid.
- If it is solid, warm a tiny scoop between your fingertips to make it pliable.
- Apply coconut oil to the skin twice daily, or more frequently if necessary, to lessen eczema symptoms.
- It can be applied similarly to any other lotion or moisturizer.
- When symptoms worsen, a person may benefit from using the oil more frequently.
- Continue using the oil to avoid your eczema symptoms coming back or growing worse.
- Applying coconut oil before night may help if the skin feels dry in the morning.
- Instead of using a conditioner, try using coconut oil to cure scalp eczema.
- Directly apply it to the scalp and give it a gentle massage.
- After letting the oil sit for a while, rinse it off with warm water.
Risks
- Before using coconut oil or any other natural cure, talk to a healthcare provider.
- They can guarantee that the treatment regimen safely incorporates the medicine.
- Coconut oil should not be used by anyone with a coconut allergy.
- Apply a tiny quantity of oil to a tiny patch of healthy skin to check for an allergic reaction.
- Instructions are provided in great detail by the American Academy of Dermatology Association.
- Selecting high-quality, organic, extra-virgin, or cold-pressed coconut oil is crucial.
This is done to ensure that no chemicals were used by the producer to extract the oil, as some chemicals can irritate the skin.
Is it safe for infants?
A 2017 study looked into the safety of coconut oil for premature babies. The study came to the conclusion that the oil had no adverse effects and helped maintain the newborns’ skin in good condition.
However, before giving coconut oil or other natural medicines to newborns, toddlers, or older kids, consult a healthcare provider.
A study conducted in 2021 found that 20–30% of kids might have coconut allergies. Do not expose a youngster who has this allergy to the oil. It is essential to perform an allergy test first.
Keep coconut oil away from an infant or toddler’s eyes while applying it to their skin. Otherwise, coconut oil can be applied like any other lotion or moisturizer.
Pay close attention to the elbows and knees, which are particularly prone to flare-ups. Coconut oil works best right after a bath or shower.
Others prefer to add a little coconut oil to their bathwater. The best time to use coconut oil is after a bath or shower. Some people also like to add a bit of coconut oil to bath water.
Other Natural Remedies for Eczema
Natural treatments like those listed below may also lessen eczema symptoms:
- Vinegar is made from apple cider; Apple cider vinegar’s acidity and antibacterial properties may help with eczema symptoms. Use caution though, since the high acid concentration could hurt or burn delicate skin.
- Omega-3 dietary supplements; Supplementing with omega-3 fish oil may strengthen the immune system and reduce flare-ups.
- Vitamin D; These supplements may aid in reducing the signs and symptoms of eczema.
- The probiotics; Probiotic supplementation on a regular basis may aid in reducing eczema flare-ups.
Coconut oil vs. other Products for Eczema
One might be curious about how coconut oil stacks up against other over-the-counter eczema treatments like mineral oil or petroleum jelly. In a small 2019 study of persons with extremely dry skin, virgin coconut oil was found to be more effective than mineral oil at boosting skin moisture and reducing symptoms.
Another affordable, widely accessible product that individuals frequently use to treat the symptoms of eczema is petroleum jelly, which is frequently marketed under the brand name Vaseline.
Even people with very sensitive skin usually tolerate it well. Petroleum jelly forms a barrier that may assist keep moisture in by being greasier and thicker than coconut oil.
As an “emollient,” or oil or lipid that hydrates dry skin and enhances its suppleness, elasticity, and smoothness, experts classify coconut oil.
Contrarily, petroleum jelly acts as an “occlusive,” a material that coats the skin and physically seals in moisture to keep it hydrated.
Both could lessen eczema symptoms like burning, itching, and discomfort from the condition’s broken skin.
Summary
Coconut oil use is a natural technique to maintain healthy skin hydration. This could be particularly helpful when eczema symptoms flare up, and using it regularly could help stop symptoms from returning or getting worse.
Virgin coconut oil is available for purchase online and at some supermarkets and health stores. Regular application of coconut oil may hydrate the skin, ease itching, and minimize the chance of infection.
Before utilizing this natural cure, consult a healthcare provider and perform a patch test, as always. Anybody who is allergic to coconuts shouldn’t come in contact with the oil.
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FAQ’s
Can you use coconut oil for eczema in a baby?
Most people can tolerate it well, but before using coconut oil, always check for allergies. You should also never give it to a child who has a coconut allergy. Before using any novel product with an infant, toddler, or older child, consult a healthcare expert.
Can coconut oil make eczema worse?
In some people, coconut oil can irritate the skin or trigger an allergic reaction, which aggravates eczema. There may be a rash, itching, and blistering from contact responses.
Can you use coconut oil on the face?
The use of coconut oil on the face and the skin around the eyes is safe. Always choose unrefined or cold-pressed virgin coconut oil because it doesn’t contain chemicals that might irritate the skin. Do a patch test before using coconut oil on the face, especially if the skin in this area is sensitive.