Coconut oil is a popular oil that can be used to moisturize and hydrate skin. What about using coconut oil to treat cellulite? Does it really help?
Although cellulite is not something to be ashamed of, coconut oil may be able to help reduce cellulite.
Although there isn’t much medical evidence to support the claim that coconut oil reduces cellulite or reverses it, its benefits may be significant when used on the skin.
What is cellulite?
Cellulite is a result of fat building up under the skin. The skin can appear uneven or dimpling as a result. This is a cosmetic issue and not a health risk.
Cellulite is most common in areas such as the:
- Butt
- Hips
- Thighs
- Abdomen
Cellulite can affect anyone. However, it is more common in women. Research has shown that cellulite will affect between 80 and 90% of women after puberty.
Why do you have cellulite?
Cellulite can be attributed to genetics, but there are other factors that could increase it.
- Weight gain
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Hormonal factors
- Diet
Is coconut oil effective in reducing cellulite?
What does science really say about coconut oil for cellulite? It’s not much. However, there are some studies that show it has moisturizing and collagen-boosting qualities.
Coconut oil can help your skin feel super moisturized and soft.
A study from a long time ago showed that virgin coconut oil could be as effective as mineral oils when used as a moisturizing agent. This could help reduce the appearance of bumps by covering the dimples.
Virgin coconut oil has also been shown to have healing effects on the skin by boosting collagen production in the skin. Collagen is all about firming and tightening the skin, and it may help hide cellulite.
What are the other options for cellulite treatment?
There are many cellulite creams and scrubs on the market, but there isn’t a magic cure.
You can add more exercise to your daily routine in a healthy and cost-effective way. This can prevent future cellulite by exercising more and toning your muscles.
Lipomassage and radiofrequency lasers may be an option if you are willing to go through a more difficult and expensive procedure.
What can coconut oil do to the skin?
Moisturize your skin
Coconut oil is very hydrating for your skin, as we have already mentioned. Coconut oil can be used as a body lotion for people with dry skin or normal skin.
Tend to your skin
Coconut oil is full of antioxidants that can help eliminate damaging free radicals hurting your skin (aka cause wrinkles). Coconut oil is moisturizing, collagen-boosting, and hydrating for the skin.
Eczema symptoms can be reduced
Research has shown that virgin coconut oil can improve the skin’s barrier. This in turn can be used as a natural remedy for eczema to moisturize the skin and reduce inflammation and discomfort.
Wound healing
Okay, don’t forget the Neosporin! But, studies have found that treating wounds with virgin coconut oil speeds up the healing time, improves antioxidants, and increases levels of collagen (which is an important protein that helps heal wounds!)
Stretch mark treatment
While coconut oil cannot actually eliminate stretch marks, it can help reduce their appearance by hydrating and tightening skin.
Coconut oil: How to use it for cellulite, skin and more
Coconut oil can be used as your main cooking oil. The mix of the fatty acids may have positive benefits to your health such as boosting fat loss, improving heart health, reducing hunger, and helping brain function.
Coconut oil massage and moisturizer
Massage any areas of cellulite with coconut oil using your hands. Any excess coconut oil can be applied to your legs and arms (or anywhere else you need it) for extra moisture.
Coconut oil overnight face mask
A glowing, moisturized skin is a must. A coconut oil overnight mask is a great way to pamper yourself.
Mix 1 tablespoon coconut oil with your hands. It will solidify when cool. Use your fingertips to gently rub the oil onto your skin. Use a soft tissue to blot any parts that are too heavy. Do not get it in your eyes. Leave it alone overnight. This remedy can be used once per week.
Coconut oil can be used to dry brush
Dry brushing can improve circulation and exfoliate your skin. After a hot shower, dry brushing with coconut oil directly is the best way to do this.
Coconut oil can be used to coat your entire body, from head to toe. Move the natural fiber brush in an upward circular motion.
Coconut oil and coffee scrub
All coffee lovers, this scrub will make your mouth water and will help you locate your nearest Starbucks.
This is a natural exfoliant that can be used on your skin. This will reduce cellulite and leave your skin soft and smooth.
- 1/4 cup ground coffee
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar, or regular sugar
- Warm coconut oil: 2 to 3 tablespoons
Combine all ingredients and place in a container. Let the scrub sit for at least 15 minutes before you rinse it off. For best results, repeat this process 2 to 3 times per week.
Combine essential oils and coconut oil
If you love the smell of essential oils in your diffuser, you can mix skin-friendly oils like frankincense or lavender with coconut oil. Apply the mixture to the areas you wish to moisturize or firm. Make sure you test any new oils first.
Coconut oil: Safety and dangers
You may be allergic to cocout oil. To determine if you are experiencing any allergic reactions, always perform a patch test on a portion of your skin. Stop using the product immediately if your skin is red, itchy, or skin rash occurs.
Too much oil can cause skin problems such as acne and bumps. Coconut oil is not recommended for people with oily or acne-prone skin.
You might also want to consider coconut oil as a supplement. Coconut oil is high-in saturated fat, so it’s easy for people to overuse it. Before you consume large quantities of coconut oil as an addition to your diet, consult your doctor.
Takeaway
Coconut oil is not a magic cure for cellulite. It’s possible to change your diet and exercise routine, but it is up to your genetics.
Love your body, even your cellulite. You can moisturize your skin with natural coconut oil if you want cellulite to disappear.
