Virgin coconut oil (VCO) has been used to care for skin naturally for a long time. In the past, people in warm areas used it as a moisturiser to keep their skin healthy.
These days, new scientific studies have shown that VCO might help treat skin redness and make the skin barrier stronger.
A new study in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine shows that VCO can reduce inflammation and protect the skin. This could change the way dermatologists treat skin problems.
The Science Behind Virgin Coconut Oil
An in-depth study was done by researchers from The Himalaya Drug Company on how VCO affects skin cells. Their research shows that VCO lowers inflammation markers and improves the function of the skin barrier.
This makes it a potentially useful ingredient for skin care products. The study took place in a controlled lab setting, which means it was done without using a live thing.
The study said that VCO could stop the production of important inflammation cytokines, such as TNF-a, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-5.
Inflammation is caused by these cytokines, which are linked to skin diseases like atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema.
Strengthening the Skin Barrier
The effect of VCO on the skin’s natural protection was one of the most important things that the study found. Researchers found that VCO raises the levels of three important skin proteins:
- Involucrin (INV) – Helps in the formation of the skin’s protective layer.
- Filaggrin (FLG) – Plays a role in maintaining skin hydration.
- Aquaporin-3 (AQP3) – Regulates water balance in skin cells, preventing dryness.
When VCO was put on human keratinocytes (skin cells), it raised the amounts of these proteins. This made the skin more hydrated and improved the function of its barrier. This is especially helpful for people whose skin is dry or broken.
Also Read: 4 Surprising Benefits You’ll Get from Adding Niacinamide to Your Skincare Routine
A Safe and Non-Irritating Solution
VCO was found to be non-irritant and non-phototoxic, which is different from many commercial skin products that contain harsh chemicals or steroids.
This means that it doesn’t hurt or irritate the skin when it’s out in the sun, so it’s safe to use every day.
VCO was tested on rebuilt human epidermis (RHE) models and NIH3T3 fibroblast cells. The results showed that it was safe for skin application because the IC50 value, which is a measure of toxicity, was higher than 1000 mg/mL.
Its phototoxicity index (PIF) was also less than 2.0, which added to the evidence that it was safe.
Another interesting thing about VCO that was brought up in the study is that it can moderately block UV light. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are made when skin is exposed to UVB rays from the sun. ROS can speed up skin ageing and raise the risk of skin diseases.
Researchers found that VCO lowered the amount of ROS in human skin cells. This added protection against sun harm.
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How Virgin Coconut Oil Compares to Conventional Treatments
Corticosteroids, antibiotics, and antihistamines are used in a lot of traditional treatments for skin redness.
These medicines do work, but they can also cause side effects like skin thinning, greater sensitivity, and long-term dependence.
The natural option, VCO, on the other hand, not only reduces inflammation but also feeds and strengthens the skin.
This makes it a great choice for people who want to take care of their face without using chemicals.
The Future of Virgin Coconut Oil in Dermatology
The results of this study make it possible for VCO to be used in regular skin treatments. Because it reduces inflammation and protects the skin, it can be used to treat a wide range of skin problems, from light dryness to chronic eczema.
Dermatologists and skin care businesses are now looking into how to make VCO-based products that give users the most benefits.
How to Use Virgin Coconut Oil for Skin Care
If you want to incorporate VCO into your skincare routine, here are some practical ways to use it:
- As a Moisturizer: Apply a small amount of VCO to your skin after a shower to lock in moisture.
- For Treating Eczema and Dry Skin: Massage a thin layer onto affected areas twice daily.
- As a Natural Sunscreen Booster: Mix VCO with other sun-protective ingredients like zinc oxide for added UV protection.
- For Wound Healing: Apply to minor cuts and burns to speed up healing and reduce inflammation.
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In the end
Not only is virgin coconut oil a traditional home remedy, but it is also a health powerhouse that has been proven by science.
VCO is a natural, safe, and effective way to keep your skin healthy because it can reduce inflammation, make the skin layer stronger, and protect against UV rays.
As more study is done, VCO may soon be used in more cosmetic and medical products, which will be good for everyone.
VCO is a good choice for people who want to take a natural approach to their skin care that is backed by science.
Before using any new skin care product, it is always best to talk to a dermatologist, especially if you already have sensitive skin or a skin problem.