Many acne sufferers report that they receive relief from their symptoms with the use of coconut oil. Natural vegetable oil such as coconut, olive, and jojoba oil are popular active ingredients in many skin care products. They are included in many over-the-counter soaps, cosmetics, lotions, creams, and shampoos.
One of the reasons for the effectiveness of coconut oil on acne is because it has antibacterial properties which helps prevent and reverse the symptoms of acne. Acne is caused by a buildup of bacteria, dirt, and dead skin cells in the pores of the skin. The pores become infected and inflamed and the result is acne.
Simply put, the coconut oil helps to kill the bacteria and microorganisms that cause pimples. Coconut oil is also very high in vitamin E which is well-known to be helpful to promote healthy skin.
How to apply coconut oil to acne
The first thing you want to do is open your pores so that they will be more receptive to the oil. You can do this by taking a hot bath or a steamy hot shower. You may also do this by washing your face with a very hot washcloth and mild soap.
Then you want to rub the coconut oil directly onto the acne affected skin. You may use either 100% coconut oil or you can mix it with some salt, which will act as a mild abrasive and help to remove dead skin cells from the skin. Once you have applied the coconut oil to your skin, cover it with a damp washcloth and allow the skin to soak up the oil for 5 to 15 minutes. After that time, is a clean washcloth to gently remove the surface level oil from your skin.
If you prefer, you also may apply coconut oil to your acne via hot bath. Simply add several tablespoons of coconut oil to your bathwater along with salt or bath salts if preferred. Soak the acne affected skin for at least 15 minutes.
Many acne sufferers also report relief from their symptoms by ingesting coconut oil as well. Natural vegetable oils such as coconut have well-recognized nutritional benefits and people who incorporate them into their diets often notice improvements in their hair and skin and a matter of a few weeks.
Be sure to always buy high-quality coconut oil. It is important to only use unrefined, extra-virgin oils because they have not been processed and retain their natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The oil may assist your immune system in fighting off the immune causing bacteria on the skin.
Coconut all is definitely not a panacea for all acne sufferers, however, it’s benefits to many people should not be ignored. One must experiment with their own skin to determine if it is successful at alleviating their acne. For a natural remedy, it has a fairly good success rate for acne sufferers and we can recommend that you give it a try.
Top Acne Products
Neutrogena Acne Therapy | Acne Cream De La Cruz | AcneFree |
Lynda S
Not just acne, acne scars as well. I was initially afraid of using coconut oil for acne scars because of breakouts. But after a friend recommended it, I can’t get enough of it. Just make sure you don’t leave it overnight if you have sensitive skin.
Ryan McCaffery
Thanks for the tip, Lynda. Glad coconut oil is working for you.