So yes, since coconut oil falls into the heavier category, it can be problematic for your complexion... and all the more so if your skin is naturally oily or acne-prone to begin with.
Along with the fact that it creates an occlusive barrier on the skin, it also contains a particular kind of fatty acid (caprylic triglyceride, ICYW) that can be an acne-causing culprit for some. "I don't know one dermatologist who'd suggest slathering coconut oil on your face," notes Gohara.
"I've seen lots of people have issues with coconut oil and clogged pores," adds Dove dermatologist, Alicia Barba, M.D. "There are also lots of different types of coconut oil that are all processed differently and have different qualities, so you really can't assume that just because it's coconut oil, it's going to be good for your skin."
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Along with the fact that it creates an occlusive barrier on the skin, it also contains a particular kind of fatty acid (caprylic triglyceride, ICYW) that can be an acne-causing culprit for some. "I don't know one dermatologist who'd suggest slathering coconut oil on your face," notes Gohara.
"I've seen lots of people have issues with coconut oil and clogged pores," adds Dove dermatologist, Alicia Barba, M.D. "There are also lots of different types of coconut oil that are all processed differently and have different qualities, so you really can't assume that just because it's coconut oil, it's going to be good for your skin."
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To that point, both derms we spoke with advise reserving coconut oil for the skin below your chin.
"Save it -- and any of the richer oils, for that matter -- for those really dry areas on your body, like elbows, knees, and heels," Gohara advises. Those are the spots that will benefit the most from its occlusive properties and moisturizing prowess, without the risk of breakouts. (Fun fact: It's also a good shaving cream substitute.)
To that point, if you are naturally dry-skinned and/or just like using oils on your face, Gohara recommends sticking with the lighter oils, specifically grapeseed, jojoba, and rosehip seed. Still, a little goes a long way; a drop the size of a pencil eraser should be plenty for your entire face, she adds.
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"Save it -- and any of the richer oils, for that matter -- for those really dry areas on your body, like elbows, knees, and heels," Gohara advises. Those are the spots that will benefit the most from its occlusive properties and moisturizing prowess, without the risk of breakouts. (Fun fact: It's also a good shaving cream substitute.)
To that point, if you are naturally dry-skinned and/or just like using oils on your face, Gohara recommends sticking with the lighter oils, specifically grapeseed, jojoba, and rosehip seed. Still, a little goes a long way; a drop the size of a pencil eraser should be plenty for your entire face, she adds.
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If you are going the oil route for your complexion, it's important to pay a little more attention to your cleansing M.O. Barba is a fan of double cleansing, not only to remove excess residue from any oil-based products, but also to completely clean off makeup and the rest of the day's gunk and grime.
Seems like too much work? Gohara points out that most cleansers these days contain surfactants that are specially made to break down oil. Some of them -- like the commonly vilified sodium lauryl sulfate -- can be harsh on skin, but she notes that there are many other, gentler surfactants out there (glycinate and sodium lauroyl isethionate are two common ones).
Alternately, use a cleanser that contains salicylic acid: "It's lipophilic, meaning it will break down any oil, be it the sebum that your skin is naturally producing or leftover residue from a product," Gohara says.
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Seems like too much work? Gohara points out that most cleansers these days contain surfactants that are specially made to break down oil. Some of them -- like the commonly vilified sodium lauryl sulfate -- can be harsh on skin, but she notes that there are many other, gentler surfactants out there (glycinate and sodium lauroyl isethionate are two common ones).
Alternately, use a cleanser that contains salicylic acid: "It's lipophilic, meaning it will break down any oil, be it the sebum that your skin is naturally producing or leftover residue from a product," Gohara says.
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But can't you use coconut oil as a cleanser? Yep, and we'll be the first ones to point out that it makes an especially effective eye makeup remover, but because it doesn't break down with water (you know, the whole oil-and-water-don't-mix thing), it can leave a film on your skin. It's possible that that film -- or the film from any other oils you're using -- may then affect the penetration of products you apply on top, says Barba.
"In a worst case scenario, it can create a type of dilution, where it makes any skin care products or active ingredients you use afterwards less effective," she explains. "And if you're spending lots of money on an expensive serum, that's the last thing you want."
To that point, if you want to use coconut oil as a cleanser, follow with a regular cleanser after. If you're using other types of skin care oils, make them the final step in your regimen (or second to last, before sunscreen, if you're using them in the morning).
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"In a worst case scenario, it can create a type of dilution, where it makes any skin care products or active ingredients you use afterwards less effective," she explains. "And if you're spending lots of money on an expensive serum, that's the last thing you want."
To that point, if you want to use coconut oil as a cleanser, follow with a regular cleanser after. If you're using other types of skin care oils, make them the final step in your regimen (or second to last, before sunscreen, if you're using them in the morning).
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Skin aside, slathering coconut oil on your strands should be fine, right? After all, there's no risk of breakouts... or is there?
While it's commonly recommended as an at-home hair mask and remedy for dry, brittle hair, you want to make sure that it doesn't end up inadvertently causing breakouts on your bod, cautions Barba. "If you are using it in your hair, make sure to thoroughly wash your back, neck, and chest after you rinse it out to remove any excess residue."
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While it's commonly recommended as an at-home hair mask and remedy for dry, brittle hair, you want to make sure that it doesn't end up inadvertently causing breakouts on your bod, cautions Barba. "If you are using it in your hair, make sure to thoroughly wash your back, neck, and chest after you rinse it out to remove any excess residue."
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