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Coconut oil is said to help kill harmful microorganisms, reduce inflammation, support acne treatment, etc.
Coconut oil is a type of fat with healthy properties. According to health website Healthline (USA), coconut oil can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve brain function in Alzheimer’s patients.
In addition, coconut oil also brings many benefits to the skin.
1. Helps destroy harmful microorganisms
The medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil have antibacterial properties that can help protect the skin against harmful microorganisms. This is especially important for skin health, since many types of skin infections, such as acne, cellulitis, folliculitis, and athlete’s foot, are caused by bacteria or fungi, according to Healthline .
One study tested the antibacterial properties of 30 fatty acids in killing 20 different strains of bacteria . The result was that lauric acid – which makes up nearly 50% of the fatty acids in coconut oil – was the most effective in preventing bacterial growth.
Another study shows that lauric acid can kill Propionibacter Acnes – the bacteria that leads to the development of inflammatory acne.
You can apply coconut oil directly to your skin to prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms, according to Healthline .
2. Reduces inflammation
Coconut oil has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, so it can help reduce psoriasis, contact dermatitis and eczema.
In one experiment, researchers applied pure coconut oil to the inflamed ears of mice. Experimental results show that coconut oil not only has anti-inflammatory effects but also reduces pain.
3. Acne treatment
Recent research shows that coconut oil can help treat acne thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Many studies have shown that lauric acid found in coconut oil is effective in killing acne-causing bacteria strains.
4. Reduce skin dryness
In addition to treating acne and inflammation, applying coconut oil can also help keep the skin hydrated.
A study comparing the effects of olive oil and coconut oil in 52 adults with eczema found that applying coconut oil reduced skin dryness and helped treat eczema.
5. Helps heal wounds
Scientists found that treating wounds with virgin coconut oil helps speed up the wound healing process and increases collagen – an important protein that supports wound healing.
In addition to supporting wound healing, coconut oil’s antibacterial properties can also prevent infection – one of the factors that can complicate the wound healing process.
Although it has many effects on the skin, people with oily and sensitive skin should limit using coconut oil directly on the skin, because it can cause irritation or clog pores, according to Healthline .