Can Coconut Oil Help Eczema? The Surprising Truth
What Is Eczema?
Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition characterized by inflammation, rough and itchy patches, dryness, and skin rashes. It is a chronic condition that tends to flare up and then subside for some time. Eczema can occur at any age, but it commonly affects babies and young children. According to the National Eczema Association, over 31 million people in the United States have eczema, with about 17.8 million adults and about 9.6 million children.
The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but environmental factors and genetics play a role. It is often associated with a faulty immune system that has difficulty fighting off pathogens. Eczema is also linked to allergies or asthma as people with these conditions have a higher chance of developing eczema. Additionally, certain triggers like stress, sweating, temperature changes, irritants, and fabrics can worsen eczema symptoms.
Eczema is not contagious, and it is not caused by poor hygiene or an allergic reaction to someone else’s presence.
Understanding the Benefits of Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is one of the most popular and widely used natural remedies for eczema. It is extracted from the meat of mature coconuts and is known for its numerous health benefits. In this article, we will explore the various ways in which coconut oil can help improve eczema symptoms.
1. Moisturizes Dry Skin
One of the most common symptoms of eczema is dry and itchy skin. Coconut oil is a natural emollient, which means that it can help to moisturize and soothe dry skin. It contains fatty acids that can be easily absorbed by the skin, helping to restore its natural moisture barrier. Applying coconut oil to the affected area can help to relieve the itching and dryness associated with eczema.
2. Reduces Inflammation
Inflammation is a common problem for people with eczema. It can cause redness, swelling, and itching. Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation and soothe the skin. It contains a compound called lauric acid, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. Applying coconut oil to the affected area can help to reduce redness and swelling, and provide relief from itching.
In addition to lauric acid, coconut oil also contains other fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory properties. These include capric acid and caprylic acid. These fatty acids can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the skin.
3. Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties
Coconut oil has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help to prevent infections. People with eczema are more prone to skin infections due to the breaks in the skin caused by scratching. Applying coconut oil to the affected area can help to prevent infections and promote healing. It can also help to reduce the risk of further flare-ups.
The antibacterial and antifungal properties of coconut oil are due to its high content of lauric acid. When lauric acid is digested, it forms a compound called monolaurin, which has potent antimicrobial properties. This makes coconut oil an effective natural remedy for a variety of skin infections.
4. Protects the Skin Barrier
The skin’s natural barrier protects the body against external pollutants and allergens. It also helps to retain moisture and prevent dryness. People with eczema have a weakened skin barrier, which can make their skin more susceptible to irritants and allergens. Coconut oil can help to strengthen the skin barrier by providing it with essential fatty acids and other nutrients that it needs to function properly. This can help to reduce the severity of eczema symptoms and prevent further flare-ups.
In conclusion, coconut oil can help to improve eczema symptoms in a variety of ways. Its moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and skin-protective properties make it an excellent natural remedy for eczema. However, it is important to note that not all people with eczema will benefit from using coconut oil. If you are considering using coconut oil as a treatment for eczema, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if it is the right option for you.
How Coconut Oil Helps Eczema
Eczema is a chronic skin condition that can be uncomfortable and even painful to deal with. Many over-the-counter creams and treatments can be expensive and often have long lists of unnecessary ingredients. For those looking for a natural and potentially more affordable solution, coconut oil has become an increasingly popular option.
Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that has been used for centuries in many cultures for a variety of skin and hair care needs. With its high concentration of fatty acids and anti-inflammatory properties, many people who suffer from eczema have found relief through the use of coconut oil. Here are three ways that coconut oil can help soothe and improve eczema symptoms:
- Coconut Oil Restores Moisture to the Skin
One of the main symptoms of eczema is dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Coconut oil can help to relieve this discomfort by moisturizing the skin. The fatty acids in coconut oil work to penetrate the skin’s surface and can restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier. This helps to keep the skin hydrated and supple, which can lead to a reduction in eczema symptoms.
Additionally, coconut oil is gentle on the skin, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin who may be prone to irritation from harsher chemicals found in some over-the-counter treatments.
- Coconut Oil Reduces Inflammation
Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is one of the main causes of eczema symptoms like itching, redness, and swelling. By reducing inflammation, coconut oil can help to alleviate these uncomfortable symptoms.
In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, coconut oil also has antibacterial and antifungal properties. This can help to prevent infection and further irritation on the skin.
- Coconut Oil Strengthens the Skin’s Protective Barrier
Eczema can cause the skin’s protective barrier to weaken, leading to further irritation and discomfort. Coconut oil can help to fortify this barrier by keeping the skin hydrated and nourished.
The fatty acids in coconut oil work to strengthen the skin’s cell membranes, helping to lock in moisture and protect against damage from environmental factors like sun exposure and pollution. This can help to prevent eczema flare-ups and promote overall skin health.
While coconut oil is generally safe to use for topical application, it’s important to note that everyone’s skin is unique and some people may be sensitive or allergic to coconut oil. It’s always a good idea to test a small area of skin before applying coconut oil to a larger area and to consult with a dermatologist for personalized eczema treatment.
In summary, coconut oil can be a beneficial addition to a natural eczema treatment plan. Its moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and protective properties can help to soothe eczema symptoms and promote overall skin health.
Using Coconut Oil to Treat Eczema
Coconut oil is a natural and affordable remedy for many skin conditions, including eczema. This versatile oil is high in medium-chain fatty acids, which can help restore the skin’s natural oil barrier and reduce inflammation. Here are some ways to use coconut oil to treat eczema:
Apply Coconut Oil Directly to the Skin
The most common way of using coconut oil to treat eczema is by applying it directly to the affected area. To do this, simply scoop a small amount of oil onto your palm and rub it gently into your skin. Be sure to use coconut oil that is extra-virgin, cold-pressed and unrefined, to ensure that it retains its healing properties. Coconut oil is best applied after a shower or bath when the skin is still damp, to lock in moisture. This will help soothe the skin, reduce itching, and prevent further skin damage. It’s recommended to use coconut oil as a moisturizer twice a day or more, depending on the severity of your eczema.
Use Coconut Oil as a Bath Soak
To treat eczema on larger areas of your body, you can add coconut oil to your bath. Simply add a few tablespoons of coconut oil to your bathwater, and soak in the tub for 15-20 minutes. This will help moisturize your skin and soothe any inflammation. It’s best to use warm water for this, as hot water can dry out your skin and make eczema worse. As an extra tip, you can also add other moisturizing ingredients like oatmeal, baking soda or Epsom salt to your bathwater to enhance the benefits.
Make a Soothing Coconut Oil Eczema Cream
A great way to keep your skin moisturized and protect it from further damage is by making your own coconut oil eczema cream. For the best results, mix together equal parts of coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax. Add a few drops of lavender or tea tree essential oil for added anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits. Melt the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, and let it cool in a clean container until it solidifies. Apply this cream to your skin as often as needed to reduce itching and inflammation and keep your skin hydrated.
Use Coconut Oil as a Carrier Oil for Essential Oils
Essential oils can also be helpful in treating eczema, and coconut oil is a great carrier oil to use with them. Some essential oils, such as lavender, tea tree, or chamomile oil, have natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe eczema-prone skin. To use them, add a few drops of your preferred essential oil to a tablespoon of coconut oil and mix well. Apply this mixture gently to your skin, taking care to avoid any open wounds or infection. You can use this mixture as a moisturizer or a spot treatment, depending on your needs.
Conclusion
While there’s no cure for eczema, using coconut oil can be an effective and natural way to manage the condition. Whether you apply it directly to your skin, add it to your bath or make a homemade cream, coconut oil can help soothe eczema-prone skin, reduce inflammation, and prevent further skin damage. So the next time you’re looking for a natural remedy for your eczema, consider using coconut oil – your skin (and wallet!) will thank you.
Other Natural Remedies for Eczema
While coconut oil has been found to be an effective natural remedy for eczema, it’s not the only option available. Here are five additional natural remedies that can help relieve the symptoms of eczema:
1. Oatmeal Baths: Oatmeal is often used as a soothing ingredient for eczema as it helps to reduce inflammation and itching. Adding colloidal oatmeal to a warm bath can help to soothe the skin and alleviate eczema symptoms. Simply grind plain oatmeal into a fine powder and drop it in your bath.
2. Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps to moisturize the skin and may also help to reduce inflammation. Applying vitamin E oil directly to eczema patches can help to reduce itchiness and redness. Vitamin E can also be found in many skin care products.
3. Sunflower Oil: Sunflower oil has been found to be effective in reducing the severity of eczema symptoms. It has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to moisturize the skin. Apply sunflower oil directly to the skin or look for skin care products that contain sunflower oil as an ingredient.
4. Aloe Vera: Aloe vera has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of skin conditions, including eczema. It has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to soothe dry and itchy skin. Simply apply aloe vera gel directly to eczema patches or look for skin care products that contain aloe vera.
5. Probiotics: Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for digestive health. But did you know that they can also help alleviate eczema symptoms? A study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that children with eczema who drank milk with added Lactobacillus rhamnosus had reduced eczema symptoms.
In conclusion, while coconut oil is a popular natural remedy for eczema, there are other natural remedies that can help alleviate the symptoms of eczema. These include oatmeal baths, vitamin E, sunflower oil, aloe vera, and probiotics. It’s important to remember that eczema is a complex condition that varies from person to person, so what works for one person may not work for another. As always, consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any new treatment regimen.