Is coconut oil good for your skin? Dermatologists weigh

From cleansing to skin hydration, we've heard a lot about the benefits Coconut oil. It is a natural ingredient found in many skin care products, but many people also like to apply it directly to the skin to reap the benefits it offers. The rise in popularity of this ingredient has led us to wonder if coconut oil is good for the skin. To figure this out, we turned to certified dermatologists and Skincare.com experts. Dandy Engelman, MDи Dhawal Bhanusali, MD.

Is coconut oil good for your skin? 

“Oil-based products are one of the best ways to rehydrate your skin,” says Dr. Engelman. “They are easily absorbed and penetrate deep into the skin.” However, there are some drawbacks. “I don’t like coconut oil for my face because it can clog pores and cause breakouts,” she says. "It ranks very high on the comedogenicity scale." Dr. Bhanusali agrees, saying, "Some skin types - especially oily, acne-prone ones - should not use it." However, if you don't have oily or acne-prone skin and would like to try using coconut oil to moisturize your skin, Dr. Engelman recommends leaving this ingredient on for body application. Ahead, we've rounded up four of our favorite ways to use coconut oil that don't affect your face.

How to use coconut oil 

Shaving with it

If you've run out of shaving cream and are in a pinch, grab some coconut oil. The consistency of the oil is like a thick shaving cream, so the razor glides smoothly over the skin, reducing the chance of cuts.

Massage your cuticles

If your cuticles are dry, try moisturizing them with coconut oil. 

Add it to the bath

Ready for a relaxing bath? Take it to the next level by adding ¼ cup melted coconut oil. Not only will your bath have a soothing tropical scent without the use of any artificial fragrances, the added oils will also leave your skin hydrated and smooth.

Try instead of body lotion

To nourish your skin and give it a radiant look, apply coconut oil all over your body right after you shower. 

The best skin care products with coconut oil

You can also take advantage of the moisturizing benefits of coconut oil for your face by using a skin care product that includes this ingredient. When coconut oil is mixed with a larger formulation, it is less likely to clog pores. Ahead of us are our favorite skin care products that contain coconut oil.

Kiehl's Lip Mask

This hydrating lip mask is made with best-selling coconut oil and wild mango oil to help restore the moisture barrier and visibly repair lips overnight. To use, apply a generous layer at bedtime and reapply throughout the day as desired.

L'Oréal Paris Pure-Sugar Nourishing & Softening Cocoa Scrub

This facial scrub contains a blend of three pure sugars, finely ground cocoa, coconut oil and rich cocoa butter for gentle yet effective exfoliation. The soft oily formula has a beneficial effect on your skin, making it supple and nourished.

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RMS Beauty The best makeup remover wipes

This individually sealed set of wipes is infused with coconut oil to cleanse, soften and hydrate skin to easily remove stubborn makeup without irritation.