Let’s start by saying that we love coconut oil. We eat it, cook with it, and use it as a body moisturizer as well as an eye makeup remover. We even recommend it for use after specific laser treatments, as it is naturally anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, and protects the skin. It is fantastic stuff. However, typically, you should not use coconut oil on your face.
Issue #1
Over-moisturizing is Bad!
First, a quick little lesson on how skin works regarding moisture and oils: our skin produces oil (sebum) to keep itself moisturized and protect itself. You can actually get the opposite effect of what you’re looking for and make dry skin drier and oily skin more oily by adding more oil than your skin needs. When someone with already dehydrated skin adds too much oil, it signals the body that the skin already has too much oil and to slow down production. This means your skin can become even MORE dry. Definitely not what you want!
We recommend an oil-free moisturizer with Hyaluronic acid instead. It will absorb very well, add water to your skin, and allow your body to produce just the right amount of oil that your skin needs. Your skin will be soft and glowing!
Issue #2
Coconut Oil Acts As A Barrier!
Another issue with coconut oil is that it is occlusive, meaning it acts as a barrier on the skin. This is great for wounds and for short-term use after laser treatments, but it’s not ideal for clogged pores and acne. Acne sufferers should NEVER use any oils on their skin. Their skin already has too much oil, which is clogging pores and creating breakouts. Oily and acne-prone skin types need products with oil-free moisture, acids, and retinol to clear pores and enhance the exfoliation of skin cells. Again, moisturizing with Hyaluronic acid will provide the water your skin needs, without clogging up pores.
So, What Should You Use Instead?
We all want simple skin care routines. When choosing a skin care product, you also want to get the most significant benefit. Skin needs antioxidants and vitamins, just like your body does internally. Coconut oil doesn’t contain any vitamins and won’t provide any antioxidant benefits. While you may feel like your skin is moisturized, you are missing out on the healing and anti-aging benefits of other essential ingredients like vitamin C, retinol and Alpha-Hydroxy acids.
So, keep the coconut oil for cooking, and AWAY from your face! Get a proper moisturizer that will actually help your skin instead of creating a barrier that will prevent it from getting the vitamins it needs to be healthy!
Begin your skincare journey with Revive today!
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