Are you using coconut oil on your face? Coconut Oil is great for a lot of things but skincare is not one of them. There are so many better options out there! Here are just a few reasons why you shouldn't be using coconut oil as a facial moisturizer.
Coconut oil is comedogenic - which means it will clog your pores! There is no arguing this. It is a 4 on a scale of 1 (being the least clogging) to 5 (being the most clogging).
You may not see it right away but over time it breaks down your skins acid mantle which leads to inflammation, break outs and/or textured skin in the form of small, sandpaper-like bumps.
It has zero nutritional content when applied to your skin: no vitamins and very low antioxidant presence
It will ultimately make you skin drier because of barrier destruction
More about comedogenic ratings:
An oil that has a comedogenic rating of 0 is widely believed to be non comedogenic and will not clog your pores.
A comedogenic rating of 1 signifies a slight chance that the oil will clog your pores.
A comedogenic rating of 2 tells you that the oil will not clog pores for MOST people, but some will begin to notice clogged pores or a “purge” in some cases.
A comedogenic rating of 3 is where a lot of people will break out using this oil, but a lot of people may not break out depending on their skin type.
A comedogenic rating of 4 suggests that MOST people will break out using this oil unless they have a good tolerance to it. This largely depends on a number of skin type factors.
A comedogenic rating of 5 is basically a guaranteed chance of breaking out. Very very few people can tolerate oils labeled as a 5, but they do exist!
Tash from the Holist Health Herbalist has made the most amazing list of oils with their ratings, information, benefits etc., and it can be found here but see below for some of my favourite facial oils.
Marula Oil
Comedogenic scale rating of 3
While its comedogenic rating is on the higher side its super high in omega and fatty acids and antioxidants. It is great for dry skin and even sensitive skin. It absorbs quicklyThis is one that I personally use and I love the results - brighter, more even skin for the win! And while it has been called a "luxury" oil it can be found here for under $10
Rose Hip Oil
Comedogenic rating of 1
This oil is very high in antioxidants, essential fatty acids and vitamin A. it’s amazing for reversing hyperpigmentation, the signs of aging, sun damage, stretch marks, and scars. Great to use as part of your nighttime skincare routine! It can be found here
Hemp Seed Oil
Comedogenic rating 0
This oil is a favourite for oily/acne prone skin. It has amazing skin softening and moisturizing properties and it also reduces redness and inflammation. It is also a great treatment for eczema, psoriasis, and dry, itchy skin. You can find it here
There are so many oils that a great for skin! Comment below with your favourites and don't forget to do your research before trying new oils on your skin.