Let me introduce you to my new secret weapon: coconut oil!
I know, I know—am I the last person to discover just how amazing this stuff really is?
While coconut oil is most commonly considered a cooking oil, consisting of the fat pressed from the coconut, it’s also long been hailed for its moisturizing benefits for the skin and hair. I’ve just recently started using it for my super dry skin, and I can’t say enough good things. It feels heavenly, and the light coconut scent makes me feel like I’m hanging out at a tropical beach.
It’s particularly beneficial for pregnant women. I have been religiously rubbing it over my ever-growing belly to prevent stretch marks (and help the old ones). At 30 weeks pregnant, I can say for sure that using coconut oil for stretch marks is effective! It also helps relieve some of that itching as the skin stretches.
Jump to:
- Coconut Oil Beauty Benefits
- 1. It can help reduce stretch marks
- 2. It locks in moisture
- 3. It treats inflamed skin
- 4. It's an antioxidant
- 5. It rejuvenates hair
- Beauty Uses for Coconut Oil
- 1. Whipped Body Lotion
- 2. Softening Detox Bath
- 3. Shaving Cream
- 4. Conditioning Hair Mask
- 5. Body Scrub
- 6. Lip Scrub + Lip Gloss
- 7. Cuticle Oil
- 8. Makeup Remover
- 9. Massage Oil
- 10. Toothpaste
- 11. Deodorant
- 12. Hand Sanitizer
- 13. Face Mask
Coconut Oil Beauty Benefits
Meet the Experts
Nadir Qazi, D.O., cosmetic dermatology surgeon with Qazi Cosmetic Clinic in Irvine, California
Medically reviewed by Dr. Rina Mary Allawh, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist
1. It can help reduce stretch marks
Several factors are at play when it comes to what causes stretch marks, including genetics as well as the basic expansion of skin while undergoing stress, which triggers the release of hormones like cortisol, explains Nadir Qazi, D.O., cosmetic dermatology surgeon with Qazi Cosmetic Clinic in Irvine, California. "While there haven’t been any conclusive studies on coconut oil’s effect on stretch marks, it has the potential to visibly reduce their appearance," he says. "In addition, it is considered a natural anti-inflammatory and may help to stimulate collagen production in the skin."
Rub coconut oil onto your belly (or legs or whatever) to reduce and prevent stretch marks. As mentioned, it also helps cut back on itching—which can be a pesky pregnancy side effect!
2. It locks in moisture
Coconut oil is occlusive, acting as a barrier between the skin and the air, Dr. Qazi explains. As a result, it traps any moisture on the skin, keeping the skin hydrated and preventing any transdermal water loss that may occur while using the oil. "Coconut oil is also an emollient, so it softens skin in addition to trapping moisture, adding an additional feeling of soft, hydrated skin," he adds.
Therefore, you can use coconut oil as a stand-alone moisturizer (it’s all-natural, too), or you can add it to your existing moisturizer for a boost of hydration. It works effectively on all types of skin, including super dry skin like mine. It may even help delay wrinkles and skin sagging, thanks to its potential for firming effects.
3. It treats inflamed skin
Coconut oil has long been used as an all-natural treatment for chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema. It has been shown in studies to improve the skin barrier function in inflammatory skin disease [source]. Apply a small dab on the affected area once or twice daily, and you’ll likely see some positive results.
4. It's an antioxidant
Research, including one study published in the peer-reviewed journal Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, has shown that coconut oil can help prevent premature aging and degenerative diseases due to its antioxidant properties [source].
5. It rejuvenates hair
Coconut oil is one of the few natural oils shown in studies to absorb into hair to strengthen and revitalize it from within [source], notes Dr. Qazi. "In addition, coconut oil’s antibacterial and antifungal properties can help maintain hair follicle and scalp health," he says. "However, because coconut oil is occlusive, it is most effective when used as a treatment mask rather than an everyday hair cosmetic to prevent build-up, as it can be difficult to remove."
One of the most effective and healthy methods of removal that Dr. Qazi recommends is to mix pure aloe gel into shampoo, apply it directly to the hair, wait 10 minutes, and then rinse.
Beauty Uses for Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is one of the most versatile natural beauty products. The scent is relaxing like a day at the beach, and the healing properties of coconut oil soothe and repair skin. Its abundant natural fats moisturize, while the lauric acid it contains protects and softens skin. It’s also an antiseptic and helps maintain a healthy pH level in the skin [source].
I find myself dipping into the coconut oil jar for everything from dry hands to curling iron burns. If you’re new to natural beauty, then coconut oil is where I would recommend starting. Get yourself a big jar, and try some of our favorite do-it-yourself beauty uses for coconut oil.
1. Whipped Body Lotion
Slather coconut oil all over your body (including your face—don’t be shy!) right after your shower. It is best absorbed if the skin is still slightly wet. I keep the jar on the bathroom counter so the heat from the shower helps soften and melt the oil.
But, hey, if you forget to slather right after your shower, just apply whenever you remember—you’ll still see some impressive moisturizing benefits.
Okay, yes, you can just dip your hand in the coconut oil jar. But if that’s not appealing, try whipping it. Whipped coconut oil alone or combined with shea butter creates such a luxurious buttery texture. It’s great for improving the tone and texture of skin bummers like stretch marks and scars.
- ½ cup shea butter
- ¼ cup coconut oil
1. Using a double boiler over low heat, melt the shea butter and coconut oil together.
2. Refrigerate the mixture for about an hour to cool.
3. Beat the ingredients with a hand mixer for 5–7 minutes or until the mixture becomes fluffy.
4. Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
5. Transfer the body butter to a glass container with a lid. Should last at least 6 months.
2. Softening Detox Bath
Add a big scoop of coconut oil with about two cups of Epsom salt to create a warm detox bath. It's like using a moisturizing body wash—the oil coats and hydrates your skin. This counters the drying effect of soaking in hot, salty water nicely. You can apply more oil when you get out and go to bed, all warm and moisturized.
3. Shaving Cream
Rub coconut oil (by itself or combined with aloe vera) on your legs in the shower for an antibacterial shaving cream that helps prevent nicks and razor burn. You’ll be shocked at how soft your legs feel—they’ll be moisturized, silky, and gorgeous for days!
4. Conditioning Hair Mask
Implementing coconut oil into your normal hair care routine may also be helpful for the treatment of dry, itchy scalp. When using coconut oil for dry scalp, gently massage the oil on the scalp directly (think of it as a scalp medicine rather than for the hair). Typically, we recommend applying a thin layer or pea-sized amount of coconut oil after you shower and resume your normal hair care routine.
To treat dry, frizzy, or brittle hair, start massaging the coconut oil into the hair closer to the ends and away from the roots for a helpful trick to avoid a greasy scalp at bedtime. You can also use coconut oil as a hair mask. In the morning, you will be pleased to wake up to smooth, shiny hair.
Mix 2 tablespoons of coconut oil with 1 tablespoon of honey and heat in the microwave for a few seconds until warm enough to spread easily.
Massage the mixture onto your scalp or rub it into the dry ends of your hair to take down frizz and split ends. Then, cover with a shower cap for 30 minutes to an hour. Rinse and wash hair well, and enjoy gorgeously soft, shiny hair.
5. Body Scrub
Combine ½ cup coconut oil and ½ cup coffee grounds and firmly massage into your thighs and booty to increase circulation and reduce the appearance of cellulite.
An easy way to always have a scrub on hand? Whip up some Coffee-Coconut Oil Scrub Cubes—one of our most popular beauty DIYs! To enhance the benefits of coconut oil on stretch marks and cellulite, pair it with a dry-brushing routine.
6. Lip Scrub + Lip Gloss
Mix 1 tablespoon of coconut oil with 1 teaspoon of sugar for a quick, easy, and edible lip scrub. Apply a small, dime-sized amount of coconut oil to dry lips for quick shine. Or use coconut oil in a DIY lip balm recipe.
7. Cuticle Oil
Use coconut oil to soften your hands and rough feet. Massage it into nail beds for a simple cuticle cream that also helps improve nail strength. Add a drop or two of essential oil for nails and rub it on your hands for a natural moisturizer that helps reduce fine lines and age spots.
8. Makeup Remover
Dab a cotton pad with coconut oil for a chemical-free eye makeup remover that also moisturizes the thin skin around the eyes. Gently wipe over the eye area. It works great on stubborn waterproof mascara and eye shadow.
9. Massage Oil
If the tropical scent alone isn’t enough of an incentive, coconut oil works well as a massage oil. Rub it into the skin for soothing and hydrating benefits, and enjoy that beachy scent while it helps prevent and diminish the appearance of stretch marks.
10. Toothpaste
Ever wonder what chemicals you’re ingesting when you brush your teeth? A DIY version made with coconut oil and baking soda is tasty and natural, and it will also soften your lips (no post-brushing lip balm required). If coconut oil toothpaste is a little too out there for you, try oil pulling instead—it detoxes your mouth and keeps gums healthy [source].
11. Deodorant
Combining coconut oil and baking soda also makes an effective DIY deodorant. Be warned: It may take a few days for your body to adjust, but once it does, you may find that you no longer need super-strength commercial deodorants or antiperspirants.
12. Hand Sanitizer
Combine 6 drops of lavender or tea tree essential oil with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and rub it into your hands as a natural antiseptic moisturizer for your hands.
13. Face Mask
Especially during the hard winter months, your skin needs the extra moisture. Luckily, you can count on coconut oil to help! Try one of these coconut oil face masks FTW.
What’s your favorite beauty use for coconut oil?
References
Varma SR, et al. In vitro anti-inflammatory and skin protective properties of virgin coconut oil. J Tradit Complement Med. 2019.
Nevin KG, et al. Effect of topical application of virgin coconut oil on skin components and antioxidant status during dermal wound healing in young rats. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2010.
Rele AS, et al. Effect of mineral oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil on prevention of hair damage. J Cosmet Sci. 2003.
Lin TK, et al. Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils. Int J Mol Sci. 2017.
Woolley J, et al. The effect of oil pulling with coconut oil to improve dental hygiene and oral health: a systematic review. Heliyon. 2020.
This post was medically reviewed by Dr. Rina Mary Allawh, M.D., a dermatologist who practices adult and pediatric medical dermatology, skin cancer treatment, and cosmetic dermatology. Learn more about Hello Glow’s medical reviewers here. As always, this is not personal medical advice, and we recommend that you talk with your doctor.
Photos by Ana Stanciu
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Evi says
Hello there! Thank you for this post! I just have a question about the coconut oil hair mask. Do you apply it on dry hair or wet? Thank you!
emily says
when using the oil, do I use it when its harden or do I melt it and than rub it over me?
linda says
Totally agree. I am the living example here. Coconut oil+olive oil+aloe vera gel works really well too. I use coconut oil as a makeup remover and believe me my skin looks so young even in 30s.
Sammantha says
I've been told that staying hydrated and luck are really the only two things that keep stretch marks away. I drank nearly a gallon of water a day when I was preggo. I used dermelastic serum day and night after the first trimester. No stretch marks.
Jimena says
I really love dermelastic serum stretch mark & scar defense serum. It helps with my stretch marks and some of my scars that I had and I have seen a significant improvement in my stretch marks, unlike other creams that don't help.
Micahla says
How fast of a result did you get?
Crystal Beagley says
My baby is about 3 months old and I've been using dermelastic serum since about week 2 postpartum, and I can tell a huge difference. My stretch marks aren't gone but they have certainly lightened up a lot, and they were dark and deep before using Dermelastic. It does take time to see results so as long as you're patient with the product, you'll probably see results too! I plan to continue using it to see if it will still be working to lighten them up.
Shawn Smith says
I gained 60 pounds while pregnant with my first child, and then had a another baby 2 years later adding MORE stretch marks to my stomach. I have noticed they aren't as dark or as deep. They are disappearing before my eyes. I have been using dermelastic serum everyday- twice a day, morning & night. I'm almost done with my first and just put myself on the auto ship. It does say you do see results within 4 weeks and dramatic results in 12 weeks. I'm excited to see my stomach in 2 more months.
chinoye says
How will i do it
Chris says
Hi Justina,I have a sister who shares joint ownership of a HDB with our mum. They plan to marry soon and stay with parents. However, her boyfriend is also a co-owner of a HDB with his own parents- to form a legal family nucleus. The HDB flat (byo&riendf#8217;s) has just reached 1 year MOP only. Neither is able to give up their flats because of parents. Does this mean they cannot get married?
Andreea Olarean says
Well dermalmd stretch mark cream is the best for prevent stretch marks during pregnancy I tell all my friends and family b/c it is not well advertised but really needs to be! I was huge for my small frame by the end of my twin pregnancy and didn't end up with any stretch marks. Later, after the births, I nursed and stopped the product. I ended up with deep purple marks on my breast...so I bought more dermalmd cream and have already noticed the purple turn to a slight red...I won't be surprised if they are gone completely in another month. Though dermalmd stretch mark cream seems expensive for a tiny amount, it is definitely worth it! I think it works best as a preventive method.
Cindy says
Mix equal amount of coconut oil and grape seed oil. Also dry brush before your shower or bath. Skip dry brushing if you have sensitive skin.This mixture will minimize stretch marks plus varicose veins. For scars use shea butter on marks twice per day. I started seeing results in 2 months. Also make sure all products are extra virgin and organic.
Jacob Rossy says
Just pray that God wil help cos the stretch marks on my body is terrible, cant evn expose my self that much to my man, but for how long wil i keep hidden my entire body from my man, what if he decided that we take a shower together, i heard it dat mixing coconut oil and olive oil help a lot.am unto it now
Nomadic Gypsy says
coconut oil worked for me, it does take some time but it works..i always use a mixture of coconut oil,castor oil and glycerine on my skin as moisturizer and just plain coconut oil on my face everyday ... Its the best decision ever to just use natural products on my skin and hair , plus its cheaper than the big brand moisturizers
Tiffany Williams says
I recently started using dermelastic stretch mark serum because after having twins I had more stripes than a tiger. I've only been using this for a couple of weeks but I'm already noticing a difference on my stretch marks, especially on the darker ones it's lightening them. I can't wait to see how they look after long term use
angela says
I have been using the dr max powers tretch mark cream since the week after I found out I was pregnant. I am now 34 weeks and have just gone onto my second jar so it has lasted really well.
I have a huge bump (off the growth chart... seems I'm baking a big baby!) but I HAVE NO STRETCH MARKS. I am lucky to have good skin, but I think a lot of that has to do with the dr max powers stretch mark cream - A pregnancy must have for sure!
Deep says
How much time does it take to see the results on your skin ?
Laura says
Hi, I was just wondering if this will make oil marks on my clothes if I massage it in after the shower?? Have you had any trouble with that?
Winnie Tumbaga says
No, it won't mark on your clothes.
Kim says
I had stains on my white tshirts
CaraHK says
Soak it in a baking soda with vinegar. The stain will be gone.
Paula Johnson says
Very best way to get rid of stretchmarks with DermalMD Stretch Mark Cream. i am also using that same product for my breast stretch marks and trust with in 2week i got amazing result.
Perla says
Where do you buy that stretch mark lotion
Jennifer says
Where can I buy coconut oil?
Gabriela Ruiz says
You can get some at Walmart!
Terri says
I'm pregnant and have been using coconut oil on my stomach and hips everyday. I'm happy to say that I don't have any new stretch marks yet and I'm 34 weeks along. I use it right after I shower and I usually layer it with a Palmer's brand of stretch mark cream or butter. But often I'll use it alone, especially for dry, itchy, stretching, winter skin. I plan on using it after delivery too, to help with the appearance of loose and saggy postpartum skin.
I also use it around my eyes to combat dryness and crows feet!!
Marcy Wright says
Dermelastic Serum is amazing. My sister started using it to get rid of her stretch marks and you can see a big difference. They are not completely gone but they are less visible. Definitely recommend.
anupriya says
did you know that coconut oil gives you more hair growth. It gets rid of split end. prevents hair fall.
Veronica says
Coconut oil is an excellent make-up removal, it leaves your skin moisturized and super clean... since I told this to my mum she can't live with out it ;-)
Luna says
Hi,
I come from a fast growing family. See, I'm only 16 and I'm already 5'11 and I have stretchmarks running down my thighs. They started off as little one but now, they're massively big!
My mom is completely inlove with coconut oil. She uses it for almost EVERYTHING! And as I was scrolling down reading everyones comments, I just wonder.. How long does it usually take to notice then results? And how often should I apply it?
Karen Sexton says
Apply daily, just after your shower, and before bed. Really massage it in. You might also want to melt a bit of pure cocoa butter and mix it with the coconut oil. I make my own mix of shea, coconut oil and cocoa butter and add lavender oil for a nice fragrance. I'll be 55 in September, and have no noticeable marks. I started when I was about your age, was growing (I made it all the way to 5'3! ) and saw marks on my butt. I've used cocoa butter throughout my two pregnancies, and for years. You will be so glad when you're grown that you took good care of your skin.
Jessica says
Make sure it is PURE though, if you buy it at Walmart, or Target, in a bottle it has tons of additives that are not fun, if you can't pronounce it, chances are you don't want it! I found that I didn't care for the smell of cocoa/Shea Butter, but Mango butter is absolutely amazing, smells wonderful, just about the same price. If you can't find it anywhere near you, I have a small organic spa products business, I get mine from Wild Herbert Soap, Inc. Never had an issue, you can buy a little or alot. Good luck!
Bethany says
I have oily skin and prone to breakouts. I started using Coconut oil to wash my face and take off my mascara, and I absolutely love it!! After I wash my face I reapply just a little bit of the coconut oil WITH 3-4 drops of lavender oil mixed together. My face looks so much brighter and I hardly ever break out anymore. Try the lavender with it after you wash! SO GOOD!
kaylie says
Hi I'm 18 and recently gained a few pounds. My family doesn't have the best genes when it comes to skin... Meaning a lot of acne, cellulite and stretch marks. Luckily I don't have bad acne or cellulite but I have TERRIBLE stretch marks. I have them around my belly button, waist, arms, and more! They're mostly red and it seems like everything I've used only makes them more red. I've started using coconut oil for a month now but nothing has changed. What should I do?
Stephanie says
did she answered you this?
CaraHK says
Try mix the coconut oil with coffee grounds and heat it on the microwave for 10 mins and rub it into your thighs, arms or belly then wrap it up with glad wraps for 30 mins and wash it off with cold water. Use this everyday after you shower. You'll notice it within a month.
Bobbi says
Hiii umm im 16 and i was wondering if coconut oil works. I got stretch marks on my side and my mom said its cause im becoming a "woman". Summer is comin soon and i got a jar of pure coconut oil in the kitchen. Do you jus rub it on there after shower.. Or can you do it before and after..? Oh.! How long does it began to fade..?
Jw thanks.
-Bobbi
Karen says
Hi Bobbi! Yes, you can use it after the shower or really anytime. The key is to stay highly moisturizer. I actually mix pure virgin coconut oil with Shea butter and cocoa butter to make my own body butter. I've used at least cocoa butter since I was your age, and as a result, I have very, very few visible marks. I'm 54 years old now. I have my daughters using it, and we've used pure coconut oil on the grand kids eczema. So use it, rub it in good and it is also an excellent chemical free,sunscreen!
Stephanie says
hi, about the sunscreen, not so sure I put it one time to try it on my face and I got more sun burn than in the rest of my body
Lil says
No, really, there is no sunscreen in regular coconut oil, don't believe that ! It's dangerous to say that Karen. And it puts some doubt on what you said before about other coconut oil properties... which is quite a pity, as coconut oil is a very good body moisturizer (and the more you take care of your skin, the less stretch marks you'll get, logically)
Ally says
Thank you for the great tips on coconut oil use. I have a new one to add. My husband & I are in our 50's and my OB-GYN Dr. recently recommended that we try coconut oil as a personal lubricant, it works great!
Arebi says
Wonderful exposure on coconut oil. After i had my daughter 14years ago , my stomach was massacred by stretch marks. Can it work on the stretchmarks now?
NY Mama says
My husband is a weight lifting athlete - and he had some stretch marks on his shoulders from lifting too much. He was using the Dr Max Powers Stretch Mark treatment and it helped him.
I called the company to ask if it was safe for women to use - and to my surprise it was! And it had all these organic ingredients in. Well, as a mother of three, I started using the Dr Max Powers Cream on my stretch marks and after 1 jar, I am starting to see them diminish. I am going to buy the 3 pack now and will post my results.
I thought it was just for men, but it worked great on my stomach stretch marks after 3 kids! Yay!
anon says
What has this to do with coconut oil ?
Mama bee belly butter says
its good for stretch marks..Coconut oil doesn't contain any harmful acids or anything so no need to worry about its side effects at all...
Emmi says
I have to say, I didn't use this regularly when I was pregnant, and I wish I had since I now have a lovely collection of stretch marks. But, to be honest, I really hated scooping it out and rubbing it in and I never felt like it fully absorbed, so I was scared it would make my clothes greasy. However, Trader Joe's has a spray version of coconut oil that is just as pure as the jar stuff. Such easy application! Now I keep the spray version in my medicine cabinet for after my shower and it cuts the time I have to spend applying it in half!
linda says
Hi watsup! I love reading these posts as well, you can go to my site thinklikelinda.com and find really good info on skin, hair, relationships, and kids, more to come!:)
Erin says
I recently started using coconut oil to wash my face. I have oily, sensitive and slightly acne prone skin so I was really skeptical about rubbing more oil on it. But it is my best beauty supply now. I have completely ditched store bought washes, creams, makeup removers, etc. And use baking soda or fresh lemon juice as exfoliating masks once and a while.
One thing you have to be careful of though, I was using a really warm facecloth to take the coconut oil off after I had rubbed it on my face. The heat opened up my pores, let the oil in and then left me with blemishes. Since I've stopped doing that and just use a lukewarm cloth, my skin has been perfection :)
kelsey says
I have the same skin as you, just wondering how you wash your face with the coconut oil? Im really scared of making my face worse then it already is.
Anna says
I use this stuff everyday in my morning smoothie and make both toothpaste and deodorant out of it. It is also the main oil in my OCM recipe. I love it! I've baked such a wide variety of cupcakes and brownies with it along with stir fry and such. The light coconut flavor is absolutely scrumptious!
Kerriy says
How do you make toothpaste and deodorant out of coconut oil?
sunita says
Always use virgin coconut oil extracted from coconut milk its more natural oil
I have been using meritvco extra vrigin coconut oil for around two weeks now and the changes are visible!! My hair is stronger, softer, and shinier. My skin is glowing, supple and hydrated. My arms are soft the entire day aft I use coconut oil aft bath-unlike a body lotion. Guess what- I hv thrown away my body shop face cream as it has paraffin and this oil is working wayyyy better than any cream has worked. I love it and plan to get this for my sister n mom too. I haven't been able to eat it yet cuz I don't have the heart to put it in my tea. Since I don't cook at home its diff for me to consume it. Will find a work around soon. Thanks and keep up ur good work of selling this pure product. This is a service to humanity.
gerbermom says
That's very cool! Thanks for sharing!
Maddie says
I am seriously so so sensitive about my body and recently i have aqquired a TON of stretch marks it made it even worse for a while i had no idea what to to does this coconut oil really work?
Susie says
So far, no one has mentioned one of coolest uses of coconut oil. Lube. It's health, natural, safe, not sticky,. Try it. You'll love it. You'll both love it.
Chesca says
I had little stretchmarks after my first baby though I used bio oil and cocoa butter. I recently started using organic coconut oil... I don't want any additional stretch marks.. I hope it works. I'm wondering if I can mix it with bio oil.
Chloe Johnstone says
Don't use Bio Oil! It has bi-products from petroleum! (Petrol)