Coconut oil is truly food for the skin. It’s believed coconuts have existed for thousands of years; however, the term “coconut” wasn’t used until the 1600s. Coconut oil, or copra oil, is an edible oil extracted from the mature coconuts harvested from the coconut palm. Coconut oil is comprised of a unique combination of natural fats, which makes it useful in treating the skin. These fatty acids include linoleic acid as well as 50 percent lauric acid – both are skin powerhouses.
Because it’s an “oil” people think that is a humectant. In fact, coconut oil is an occlusive, meaning it acts as a barrier. Unless you are in an extreme climate (very cold or windy), it’s not recommended for facial use because it may clog pores or cause acne. However, it is great for body use and may also be used on the hair.
Coconut oil is comprised of a unique combination of Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs), as well as other fatty acids such as Linoleic acid, which makes it useful in treating the skin. With 50% Lauric acid, coconut oil is the richest natural source of this skin powerhouse. Lauric acid, along with its MCT counterparts, about 9% Capric acid and about 6% Caprylic acid, are very effective at fighting harmful bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens.
With its antioxidant properties, coconut oil has been used as relief for various skin ailments such as eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. Furthermore, coconut oil aids in restoring the skin’s natural pH levels. In fact, traditional cleansers containing harsh surfactants are the biggest pH disruptors, which may leave the skin vulnerable to infection, dehydration, and environmental stressors.
As mentioned above, coconut oil is a great occlusive, acting acts as a physical barrier to keep moisture locked into your skin and hair. We love how this versatile oil helps the skin stay hydrated and soft without leaving it greasy. Due to its fatty acids, the addition of coconut oil to our soaps provides an extra layer of moisture to the skin without leaving it greasy. Coconut oil is truly one of nature’s great gifts, and at Enfusia, we use it in all our handmade soaps and scrubs.
