Coconut oil
Coconut oil is a plant oil widely used on skin and hair. It sits on the surface to reduce water loss, and it is one of the few oils shown to penetrate the hair shaft and reduce protein loss during washing.
What Coconut Oil Is Used For
- Dry skin, as a simple emollient
- Pre wash hair oiling to reduce damage
- Massage oil, including infant massage
- A base in soaps, creams and hair products
Common Side Effects
- Blocked pores and acne on oily or acne prone skin
- Greasy residue on hair and fabric
- Allergic reaction, uncommonly
Precautions
It is a poor choice on the face for anyone prone to acne, since it blocks pores in many people. On the body it works best applied to damp skin. For eczema, plain medical emollients are more reliable than food oils. It is for external use in this context, and any rash that spreads, weeps or does not settle needs medical advice.
This page is general information only. It is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist, and it does not include dosage. Always follow the directions given to you and read the leaflet inside the pack.
