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Coconut oil has garnered a lot of attention for its innumerable health and beauty uses. It is a natural product that is easily accessible and has become a go-to for many people for various skin and hair problems.
However, there is a common question among users – does coconut oil darken skin? The quick answer to this is no, according to experts.
This article will deliver a thorough explanation for this question and explore the science behind it.
Can Coconut Oil Darken Skin?
There is no scientific proof to imply that coconut oil dulls the skin or gives it a darker hue. In reality, coconut oil is a natural sunscreen.
The shade of your skin relies on the production of melanin by the melanocytes in the skin. Melanin is a colorant that soaks up UV rays from the sun and safeguards the skin from harmful effects. (1)
When exposed to UV radiation, the melanocytes produce more melanin, leading to skin darkening or tanning. (2)
A study examined the SPF value of different nonvolatile oils and found that coconut oil and olive oil have an SPF value of around 8, making them the best options for sunscreen formulations.
Other oils such as castor oil, almond oil, mustard oil, chaulmoogra oil, and sesame oil have SPF values ranging from 2 to 6. Therefore, it can be inferred that coconut oil is not responsible for skin darkening and can, instead, be safely used in sunscreens. (3)
However, it is crucial to note that coconut oil does not deliver sufficient defense against UV radiation, and it should not be used as a replacement for sunscreen.
Benefits of Coconut Oil for the Skin
Coconut oil can be very useful for your skin. Here’s why.
1. Moisturizes the skin
For centuries, people living in tropical regions have used virgin coconut oil (VCO) as a moisturizer. Clinical research has demonstrated that VCO helps improve the symptoms of skin disorders by hydrating and calming the skin. (4)
2. Manages dermatitis and dry skin
Studies have shown that coconut oil has an effective emollient effect on atopic dermatitis, making it a strong natural emollient for treating xerosis (excessively dry skin). (4)
3. Strengthens skin barrier
VCO is capable of reducing inflammation in the skin by inhibiting the production of inflammatory markers. Additionally, it safeguards the skin by reinforcing the barrier function of the skin. (5)
4. Accelerates wound healing
A study found that wounds treated with VCO healed more quickly than those without, as evidenced by a reduced time of complete wound healing and increased levels of various skin components. (6)
Most-Asked Questions
Can coconut oil be applied to the face?
Yes, coconut oil can be applied to facial skin.
Can coconut oil clog pores?
Coconut oil is a comedogenic oil, meaning that it is likely to clog up pores.
Can coconut oil be used as a sunblock?
Coconut oil has a low SPF and should not be utilized as an alternative to sunblock.
Final Word
Coconut oil has numerous benefits for the skin as it has moisturizing, antiaging, and anti-inflammatory properties. There is no research study to prove that coconut oil darkens the skin.
If you have any worries about using coconut oil on your skin, it is better to confer with a skin specialist.
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