Does coconut oil relieve itching
How to use coconut oil for eczema
Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer. Many people with eczema find that it soothes the skin and relieves symptoms such as dryness and itchiness, and some research supports its use.
Most types of eczema cause patches of dry, itchy, and scaly skin that may crack and bleed. A key aim of treatment is to keep the skin hydrated.
Some commercial moisturizers and treatments can irritate sensitive skin, prompting many people with eczema to search for effective natural treatments, such as coconut oil.
This article delves into the research about coconut oil as a way to relieve eczema symptoms. It also describes how to use coconut oil and the possible risks.
Coconut oil is rich in
Lauric acid is an ingredient in natural remedies for all kinds of health issues, including eczema.
While coconut oil cannot cure eczema, it can soothe the skin, reduce irritation and itchiness, and lower the risk of infection.
Eczema reduces the skins ability to stay hydrated. Results of a
Coconut oil could also help treat eczema by increasing the amount of a protein called filaggrin. Filaggrin is an essential protein that helps keep the skin hydrated and pH balanced. Some believe that having too little of this protein may be one cause of eczema.
A 2019 study found that coconut oil can increase the amount of filaggrin in skin cells, hydrating the skin and improving its moisture barrier. The study concluded that virgin coconut oil could be useful in treating eczema.
As these researchers note, coconut oil also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Other
A different 2019 study concluded that coconut oil has antimicrobial properties and can effectively reduce the presence of bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
This is significant because people with eczema can be more vulnerable to skin infections. Eczema can cause the skin to crack and bleed, and scratching or even touching broken skin can lead to infection.
Coconut oil can be comparatively inexpensive and is very safe to use, even for infants. People can find it in many grocery and drug stores around the world, making it an accessible and easy option for people with eczema.
Coconut oils moisturizing properties can help relieve irritation. Eczema is an inflammatory disease, and the oil also contains properties that can reduce inflammation and ease associated symptoms.
Also, the lauric acid in the oil has antimicrobial properties that could prevent additional infections that are common in people with dry, cracked skin due to eczema.
A person should do a patch test before using coconut oil to ensure that it will not cause irritation or an allergic reaction.
Coconut oil is solid at room temperature, and exposure to heat makes it liquid. A person can use solid or liquid coconut oil on the skin. If it is solid, rub a small scoop between the fingertips until it softens.
To reduce symptoms of eczema, apply coconut oil to the skin twice a day, or more often if necessary. A person can essentially use it like any other lotion or moisturizer.
A person may benefit from applying the oil more often when symptoms flare up. Continuing to use the oil may prevent eczema symptoms from returning or getting worse.
If the skin feels dry in the mornings, try applying coconut oil before bed.
To treat eczema on the scalp, try using coconut oil instead of a conditioner. Apply it directly to the hair and gently massage it into the scalp. Leave the oil on for a few minutes, then rinse it off with warm water.
Contact a healthcare professional before using coconut oil or any other natural remedy. They can make sure the remedy fits safely within a treatment plan.
Anyone who is allergic to coconuts should not use coconut oil. To test for an allergic reaction, try applying a tiny bit of the oil to a small patch of undamaged skin. The American Academy of Dermatology Association provides detailed instructions.
It is important to choose a high-quality, organic, extra-virgin or cold-pressed coconut oil. This is to make sure that the manufacturer did not use chemicals when extracting the oil because some chemicals can irritate the skin.
A
However, check with a healthcare professional before administering coconut oil or other natural remedies to infants, toddlers, or older children. According to a 2021 study, approximately
If a child has this allergy, do not expose them to the oil. It is crucial to test for allergies first. When using coconut oil on an infants or toddlers skin, be sure to keep it away from their eyes.
Otherwise, a person can use coconut oil like any other moisturizer or lotion. Pay special attention to areas that are particularly prone to flare-ups, including the elbows and knees.
The best time to use coconut oil is after a bath or shower. Some people also like to add a bit of coconut oil to bath water.
The following natural remedies may also help ease eczema symptoms:
- Apple cider vinegar. The acidity and antimicrobial effects of apple cider vinegar may relieve symptoms of eczema. However, the high concentration of acid can irritate or burn sensitive skin, so use caution.
- Omega-3 supplements. Taking omega-3 fish oil supplements may boost the immune system and prevent flare-ups.
- Vitamin D. These supplements may help prevent eczema symptoms.
- Probiotics. Regularly taking probiotics may also help prevent eczema flare-ups.
A person might wonder how coconut oil compares with other eczema remedies found in supermarkets, such as mineral oil or petroleum jelly.
A small 2019 study of adults with very dry skin found that virgin coconut oil was better at increasing skin moisture and easing symptoms than mineral oil.
Petroleum jelly, commonly sold under the brand name Vaseline, is another inexpensive, widely available product that people often use to relieve eczema symptoms. People generally tolerate it well, even those with very sensitive skin.
Petroleum jelly is thicker and greasier than coconut oil, and it creates a barrier that can help seal in moisture.
Both may help ease eczema symptoms, such as a burning sensation, itchiness, and discomfort from cracked skin.
Below, find answers to some common questions about coconut oil and eczema.
Can you use coconut oil for eczema in a baby or child?
People generally tolerate it well, but always check for allergies before using coconut oil, and never administer it to a child with a coconut allergy.
Speak with a healthcare professional before using any new product with an infant, toddler, or an older child.
Can coconut oil make eczema worse?
In some people, coconut oil can cause irritation or an allergic reaction that makes eczema worse. Contact reactions can cause a rash, itchiness, and blistering.
Can you use coconut oil on the face or eyes?
Coconut oil is safe to use on the face and the skin around the eyes. Always choose virgin coconut oil that is unrefined or cold-pressed, as this does not contain chemicals that could irritate the skin.
Do a patch test before using coconut oil on the face, especially if the skin in this area is sensitive.
Applying coconut oil is a natural way to keep the skin hydrated. This may be especially beneficial during flare-ups of eczema symptoms, and using it consistently might help prevent symptoms from returning or becoming worse.
A person can purchase virgin coconut oil online or find it in some supermarkets and health stores.
Using coconut oil regularly may moisturize the skin, reduce itchiness, and lower the risk of infection. However, as always, speak with a healthcare professional and do a patch test before using this natural remedy. Anyone with a coconut allergy should not have contact with the oil.
10 Essential Oils That Instantly Relieve Itchy Skin
Tea Tree
Tea tree is incredible for relieving itching but in very limited situations: You should only use tea tree oil if your itch is the result of an infection, bug bite, or rash, since its really great at drying up problem-causing bacteria, says Galper. (Thats why its so popular in cleansers and shampoos.) The problem? The dryness it creates can exacerbate itchiness caused by a lack of moisture in the skin, so don't use it there's no underlying infection to blame.
Lavender
The quintessential plant helps soothe inflammation and has analgesic, pain-relieving properties, making it a standout star for inflamed skin. Itching can also stem from anxiety, and the scent of lavender has been shown to be calming to the nervous system. In other words, the floral essence packs a double punch, making it one of the best essential oils for itching.
Chamomile
Perhaps you know chamomile in tea form, as an herbal (caffeine-free) option to drink before bed for relaxation and better shuteye. But the oil works great for relaxing skin too, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Geranium
Dry or irritated skin often comes from your skin being out of balance, from the weather, stress, or even your hormones, says Galper. Geranium oil contains elements that help restore the bodys equilibrium. If youre consistently itchier during certain times of the month (perhaps when you have your period, or right before it), a bottle of this stuff could be your tiny savior.
Vetiver
As a root oil, vetiver has a heavy, viscous consistency, which makes its antifungal and antibacterial properties exceptionally great for healing wounds (itching often follows torn skin) and boosting recovery. Plus, it has a lovely earthy, deep, cologne-esque aroma, so youll really feel like youre pampering your skin.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Frankincense
Made from tree resin, frankincense has been worshipped since ancient times for its powerful ability to alleviate pain and regenerate cells. Itching and scratching definitely cause cellular disruption, so this oil not only helps in the moment but also continues to help as your skin repairs itself, says Galper.
Copaiba Balsam
Like frankincense, this tree-resin (a.k.a. sap) extract boasts wound-healing and regenerative properties. If you suffer from post-acne irritation, you might want to give this oil a shot, as it's a bit unique from other essential oils for itching.
Helichrysum
Not only does this oil help recovery from trauma (injury, bruising, severe scratchiness), it also has antiviral and anti-inflammatory elements that can fend off irritation and infection.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Petitgrain
This thick, gooey oil comes from the leaves (not the fruit) of an orange tree and has a sweet-meets-tart woodsy scent. This combo makes it incredibly soothing to irritated skin by calming overexcited nerves, Galper explains.
Patchouli
Patchouli shares a lot of similar properties with tea treetheyre both antiviral and antimicrobialbut unlike tea tree, it doesnt contain a group of molecules that make it super astringent. That means you get all the relief but none of the dryinga total win for parched winter skin.
Marissa Gainsburg is the Features Director at Women's Health, where she oversees the magazine's news-meets-trends Warm Up section and Love & Life section. After receiving her journalism degree from the University of Florida, Marissa has spent the past eight years in NYC with her dog Bentley, writing and editing fitness, nutrition, health, sexual health, mental health, relationship, and travel content. She's held previous positions at Self, Allure, and Cosmopolitan.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Will Coconut Oil Help My Dog Stop Itching? (Vet Explains)
Youve probably heard about some of the benefits of coconut oil for skin issues people, but did you know it can also help your canine companion?
Naturally, in practice, I had my share of itchy dogs. When owners asked if there were any natural remedies they could use to help their pooch find relief from seasonal allergies or other causes of itching, one of my recommendations was coconut oil.
Coconut oil has some amazing properties that help it to fight microbial infections and inflammation. Below, well discuss how coconut oil can help relieve itchy skin for your pooch. Well talk about how you can apply the oil to your dog and whether you should leave it on overnight.
Because some dogs may react to coconut, well give you a list of alternatives to treat itchy skin in your dog. Well also explain which kind of coconut oil is best for your pooch and describe some of the other health benefits associated with coconut oil.
Lets get started.
Will Coconut Oil Help My Dogs Itchy Skin?
Coconut oil has several nutrients that help to support healthy skin and relieve itching. According to Dr. Edele Grey, Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) including lauric acid. Its also a source of omega-6 fatty acids.
The components of coconut oil have powerful anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties. They work together to heal various skin issues such as eczema, hot spots, flea allergies, contact dermatitis, and other causes of itchiness in dogs.
Coconut oil contains omega-6 fatty acids and MCTs that provide anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties. These qualities help to make the oil an effective remedy for itchy skin in dogs.
Is Coconut Oil Safe For My Dogs Skin?
Coconut oil is both safe and beneficial for your dog. Containing about 90% saturated fats, this substance supports skin health.
- It helps lock moisture into the skin to prevent drying
- It has anti-inflammatory effects that can control irritation
- It fights bacteria, fungi, and viruses so it can overcome infections
You can apply it directly to the skin or feed it as a supplement.
Be aware that there are some risks associated with feeding coconut oil. This substance is 100% fat, and overdosing can be harmful to the pancreas and other systems. Potential side effects of giving your dog coconut oil include:
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Inappetance
- Allergic reactions
When selecting coconut oil for your dog, we recommend unrefined, virgin coconut oil. That way, the product isnt subjected to filtering and bleaching.
Summary: Coconut oil is safe for dogs, but there are some risks associated with feeding this substance as a dietary supplement. With 80-90% saturated fats, the oil supports skin health by locking in moisture, fighting inflammation, and fighting microbial infections.
What Does Science Say About Coconut Oil?
There are multiple studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of coconut oil to treat skin conditions. Below are a few examples.
- A study in rats demonstrated that topical application of virgin coconut oil can improve healing in skin wounds.
- Using a double-blind study, researchers demonstrated that coconut oil is as effective as mineral oil in treating dry, itchy skin.
- The oil contains lauric acid, and research reveals this substance has antibacterial and antifungal properties in vitro.
Although these studies were not conducted on dogs, they suggest that coconut oil can effectively treat canine skin conditions that cause itching.
Studies on the effectiveness of coconut oil as a treatment for various skin conditions demonstrate it can help improve healing, soothe dry and itchy skin, and fight bacterial and fungal infections. These studies have not yet been performed on canines.
How Do I Apply Coconut Oil To My Dogs Skin?
If your pooch has generalized redness and itching of the skin, you can apply some virgin coconut oil throughout the fur.
- Pour some of the oil into your hands and rub it over the coat with your palms.
- Lightly brush the coat to distribute the material throughout the body
- Leave the oil in for 5-10 minutes
- Rinse your dog to remove excess oils if the hair is too greasy
For localized patches of irritation such as a bug bite or hot spot, you can use your fingers to rub some oil into the area. Another option is to pour a few drops onto the spot and gently massage the oil into the skin.
For general itching, apply the oil throughout the body by using your hands and a brush to rub it into the coat. If you have a localized itchy area, you can rub the oil in with your fingers or pour some directly onto the spot and massage it in.
How Often Should I Apply Coconut Oil On My Dogs Skin?
How frequently you apply coconut oil to your dogs skin will depend on the severity of the skin condition and your pups response to therapy. If your furbaby responds well to the oil and shows marked improvement, you may only need to apply it about once a week to control itching.
Dogs with severe cases may benefit from treatment with coconut oil two or three times per week. Do not apply the substance more than three times a week. The oil can be absorbed through the skin, and too much oil in the system can give your dog diarrhea.
When you apply coconut oil to your dog, observe him closely. Some dogs can have allergic reactions to the substance. If you see any increased itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, contact your veterinarian.
Depending on the severity of the condition and your dogs response to the treatment, you can apply coconut oil 1-3 times per week. Because the skin can absorb the oil, applying it too frequently may result in diarrhea.
Can I Leave Coconut Oil On My Dog Overnight?
When you apply coconut oil to your dogs skin and coat, its best to rinse off any excess oil after about 5-10 minutes. The problem is the substance can clog your dogs pores if you leave it on too long.
For humans, coconut oil can exacerbate acne, and the same is true for our canine companions. Therefore, allowing the oil to stay on the skin overnight can do more harm than good. Particularly sensitive dogs may develop pimples or other skin reactions.
If your dog doesnt suffer from sensitive skin, you may be able to leave virgin coconut oil on overnight. This form is unrefined and less likely to clog the pores. However, you should clean the remaining oil from the skin in the morning.
Generally, you should not leave coconut oil on your dogs skin overnight. The residue can clog pores and irritate sensitive skin. However, virgin coconut oil may be left on the skin if your dog doesnt suffer from sensitive skin.
What else can I do to relieve my dogs itching?
Coconut oil is not the only topical substance you can use to relieve itching in your dog. Some other options include:
- Aloe vera gel Aloe vera helps to heal and protect the skin. Its an excellent option to treat hot spots and other localized itchy areas. This material is full of minerals and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Jojoba oil This oil is hypoallergenic and moisturizes dry skin. Rubbing a few drops into the skin can help ease itchiness and heal the skin.
- Baking soda When applied to the skin, baking soda exerts anti-inflammatory effects. You can sprinkle it on the coat and massage it in, create a 50/50 water, baking soda paste, or make a spray solution with 2 tablespoons of the powder dissolved in 1 cup of water.
- Colloidal oatmeal With a mixture of finely ground oats and water, you can help soothe itching and irritation in your dogs skin. Colloidal oatmeal contains phenols and saponins that have anti-inflammatory effects and help to gently cleanse the skin.
- Tea soaks/bags Green tea and some herbal blends like chamomile contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce itching in your pooch. You can either steep tea in a bath or use steeped tea bags to treat irritated skin in your dog. Make sure the tea bath or bags are cool before you use them on your dog.
- Apple cider vinegar As an acid, vinegar has antibacterial and antiseptic properties. You can treat dry, itchy skin by creating a 50/50 solution of apple cider vinegar and water. Store the mixture in a spray bottle and apply it topically as needed.
- Anti-itch shampoo There are several over-the-counter and medicated shampoos available to treat itching in dogs.
In addition to topical treatments, you can also use supplements that support skin health, try feeding your dog a hypoallergenic diet, and investigate Fidos environment to see if any recent changes triggered the itching.
There are a variety of topical applications you can try to help relieve your dogs itching. You can also make dietary and environmental changes if you suspect that the inflammation is due to a sensitivity or allergic reaction.
What kind of coconut oil should I get for my dog?
There are two kinds of coconut oil: refined and unrefined, also known as virgin or cold-pressed oil.
- Refined oil goes through heating and bleaching as part of the extraction process. As a result of the process, this oil may not have the same nutritional value. Some refined oils may also have partially-hydrogenated fats added to reduce the price and give them a longer shelf life.
- Unrefined oil is not cooked during the extraction process. It is cold-pressed to remove the oil without harming the nutrients. There is also no bleaching. Because the nutrients are intact, this oil tends to have greater anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects than refined coconut oil. It does cost more and has a shorter shelf life.
When choosing coconut oil for your dog, you should look for virgin(unrefined) or cold-pressed coconut oil. As compared to refined oil, virgin products have higher nutritional content and better anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Are there other benefits of coconut oil for dogs?
In addition to helping with itchy skin, coconut oil has many other health benefits for dogs. Consisting of 90% saturated fats, most of which are MCTs, it qualifies as a superfood that offers an excellent source of energy for your pooch. Additionally, various MCTs exert antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral effects so they can help your pooch fight microbial infections.
Some other potential benefits of coconut oil for dogs include:
- Boosting brain function Because MCTs provide an energy source for the brain, they can help slow the decline of your dogs cognitive functions.
- Repelling fleas and ticks Although the results are mostly anecdotal, some people believe coconut oil may serve as an effective flea and tick repellant.
- Treating epilepsy Some studies suggest that using coconut oil as part of a dietary management plan may help reduce epileptic seizures in dogs.
- Treating intestinal parasites Your dogs digestive system can convert some MCTs into substances that kill tapeworms and other intestinal parasites.
- Aiding digestion With its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, feeding small quantities of coconut oil to your pooch can help manage digestive disturbances like inflammatory bowel disease. It also helps the body with nutrient absorption.
- Cleaning your dogs teeth You can use coconut oil to clean your dogs teeth. Due to coconuts antimicrobial properties, brushing Fidos teeth with a soft brush thats dipped in coconut oil can help prevent tooth decay. It may also help to neutralize bad breath.
The above list of health benefits is not exhaustive. However, you can see that coconut oil is an excellent resource to have on hand for your pooch.
Coconut oil can provide your pooch with several health benefits beyond relieving itchy skin. For example, this substance may benefit your pups brain function and reduce epileptic seizures. It can also help fight internal and external parasites and much more.
Final Woof
With omega-6 fatty acids and MCTs, coconut oil has nutrients that can help relieve itchy skin and more.
This substance is safe to apply topically on your dog to help address general inflammation or localized issues. You can also use it sparingly as a food supplement as long as you dont overdo it.
You can apply coconut oil to your dogs coat or on localized itchy spots 1-3 times a week depending on the severity of your pups skin condition and how he responds to treatment.
While coconut oil is highly effective to treat itchy skin in many dogs, there are other natural options you can try to help your pooch find relief. Due to the natural properties of MCTs and omega fatty acids, coconut offers several other benefits beyond relieving itchiness.
