Coconut oil may benefit eczema-prone skin by increasing moisture, reducing inflammation, and soothing pain.

Eczema, often called atopic dermatitis, is a chronic condition that involves dry, itchy, and scaly patches of skin that may also appear discolored.

Eczema has no cure, but some home remedies, over-the-counter treatments, and prescription medications can help relieve symptoms and improve your quality of life.

According to the National Eczema Association, coconut oil is a popular natural remedy for eczema because it may help soothe skin, ease irritation, and reduce the risk of infection.

That said, it’s important to note that research on its effectiveness is limited and mixed.

Keep reading to learn more about how coconut oil may help treat eczema and how to use it.

Some research suggests that coconut oil has been used for thousands of years as a natural moisturizer for dry skin. The oil comes from the kernel of the coconut, which is the white part beneath the skin.

Eczema reduces your skin’s ability to become and remain hydrated. This is because it affects your skin barrier, which is the outer layer of skin that helps retain moisture and protect the skin from environmental irritants.

According to a 2017 research review, small studies found that the topical application of virgin coconut oil may help improve itching, dry skin, and transepidermal water loss (the amount of water that leaves the skin).

But it’s important to note that research on coconut oil’s moisturizing capabilities is limited.

Fatty acids make up over 90% of coconut oil. They may play a role in protecting the skin from bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

Coconut oil, in particular, has a high concentration of lauric acid. This may help reduce Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) on the skin, a bacteria commonly associated with eczema.

Lauric acid also makes coconut oil highly absorbable, increasing its moisturizing benefits. This may help relieve itching and prevent the risk of infection.

However, more research is needed to understand the possible antimicrobial benefits of coconut oil.

Some research suggests that coconut oil may have anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to relieving symptoms and discomfort associated with eczema.

For instance, a 2018 in vitro study found that virgin coconut oil helped reduce inflammatory markers and increase proteins associated with skin barrier protection, such as filaggrin and involucrin.

Similarly, a 2017 study found that coconut oil helped reduce inflammation after exposure to UV rays, which suggests it may have skin-healing properties.

That said, more research is needed to understand the possible anti-inflammatory effects of coconut oil in eczema.

Some research suggests that coconut oil may also help reduce oxidative stress, which may play a role in increasing inflammation and damaging the skin barrier.

According to a 2022 review, coconut contains phenolic compounds and medium-chain fatty acids that have antioxidant properties.

Despite this, limited research exists on how coconut’s possible antioxidant effects may help treat eczema.

A note on topical home remedies for eczema

Researchers haven’t established a method of application or dosage for using coconut oil to treat eczema.

Before trying any home remedies, it’s important to do a skin patch test to see how your skin reacts:

  1. Apply a small amount of coconut oil to the inside of your wrist or on a small area of your thigh.
  2. Cover the area with a patch and leave it on for 48 hours.
  3. After this time, remove the patch to see if you have any symptoms of irritation or inflammation.

If you don’t have any symptoms, you can apply coconut oil to other body parts. If you do have symptoms, do not use coconut oil. You can speak with a doctor, who can recommend other treatment methods.

If you’re considering using coconut oil and have eczema, it’s important to continue following your current treatment plan. It’s also best to speak with a healthcare professional before trying coconut oil on your skin.

The National Eczema Association recommends choosing a high quality coconut oil that’s labeled as either cold-pressed or virgin. This ensures the coconut oil is extracted without the use of chemicals that may irritate your skin.

Coconut oil is solid at room temperature. To make it easier to apply, put a little bit on your hands and rub them together. This will liquefy the oil, allowing you to spread it liberally onto your skin.

Apply coconut oil to your skin when it’s slightly damp at least twice daily. You can use coconut oil on skin that is currently exhibiting eczema symptoms and between outbreaks. This will help keep it moisturized and reduce the likelihood of inflammation.

If you’re applying coconut oil to eczema on your eyelids, use it sparingly so it doesn’t get into your eyes. Try using a Q-tip for the application.

For maximum absorption, it’s recommended that you always put coconut oil on your skin overnight.

Coconut oil is widely available. It can be found in most grocery stores, organic food stores, or online.

The use of coconut oil is generally considered to be safe.

But it’s important to avoid using coconut oil if you’re allergic to coconuts. Some people who are allergic to walnuts or hazelnuts are also allergic to coconuts. This is known as cross-reactivity.

Speak with a doctor before using this or any other at-home treatment for your condition.

Coconut oil may be a safe and effective natural treatment for eczema.

It may have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties that could help relieve symptoms like itching, dryness, and swelling. But more research is needed to fully understand its role in eczema management.

Speak with a doctor if you’re thinking about using coconut oil to manage eczema. They could recommend the best application method and dosage for you or recommend an alternative treatment.