Why I don't recommend coconut oil for sensitive skin

When I mention to potential or current customers that all of Beautifully Authentic's products are coconut free, I get a bit of a high-raised brow look and asked

"Oh really! But I thought coconut oil was good for skin".

Yes, there are some benefits, such as its emollient abilities, and slight antibacterial properties, and it's great for locking in moisture on tough skin, like heels. 

BUT! It doesn't allow your skin to breathe. Coconut oil sits on the surface and prevents your skin's natural defense system from working properly. And it will block pores creating unnecessary breakouts and uneven oil production, so you'll get dry and oily patches.

In order for your skin's natural defense system to work effectively, it needs to be able to regulate oil production, and be able to breathe, allowing the skin barrier to repair and maintain proper skin health. This is particularly important for sensitive skin, as the skin barrier has been weakened dramatically, allowing for reactions and sensitization.

Coconut oil is very harsh in soap too, that is a reason many people believe soaps to be drying. Mainly because of the coconut oil content. Of course the added fragrances and other additives can add to this also, but coconut oil alone in a soap is a very effective dish and household cleanser, therefore you wouldn't want to use it on your skin stripping the natural oils away.

Don't get me wrong, I love coconut oil in my food and I know it's beneficial in small amounts for me internally. But externally, it's pretty damaging for the skin.

So when I started formulating skincare for my 1yr old daughter who had suddenly developed extremely reactive eczema after her 12 month vaccinations, I had to start my formulations from scratch, because what I had previously been making didn't help a great deal (because they were coconut oil based). Also all the products I was being recommended by Drs and friends just made things get so much worse for my daughter.

So I researched what were the most nourishing and skin repairing plant oils that were proven beneficial for damaged skin. And I started playing with a formulation I had been using previously, but removed the coconut oil, and added some additional oils and candillia wax and this changed the game for repairing and maintaining my daughter's skin health.

Plant oils such as Rice Bran and Almond Oil are incredible for sensitive skin(if you aren't allergic to Almonds), and plant butters such as Shea, Cacao and Mango. These all deliver essential fatty acids to the skin which is imperative on aiding the skin barrier to repair and retain moisture.

If you are looking for something that will calm inflamed irritated skin, such as eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis or rosacea, check out my Moisturiser Bar selection here, or contact me directly to discuss further.

I am not a Dr, and can not diagnose your condition, but I can help you to manage and/ or reduce it.