Using Coconut Oil to Treat Rosacea

Rosacea is a long-term skin disorder with no clearly identified cause. Most signs of rosacea appear on the face. Common manifestations include visible, widened blood vessels and small pustules and pimples on the cheeks, nose, and forehead.

Coconut oil is obtained from the white flesh of mature coconuts. It’s loaded with antioxidants and has hydrating benefits. The oil also contains fatty acids that can rejuvenate and restore your skin’s protective barrier.

There is limited anecdotal support for using coconut oil as a home remedy for rosacea, but rigorous clinical studies are still missing.

Could coconut oil offer benefits?

At present, no clinical trials confirm coconut oil as a rosacea treatment. Still, topical application of coconut oil has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory, wound-repairing, and barrier-restoring effects, according to 2018 research.

That evidence indicates coconut oil may help ease rosacea symptoms, although a direct causal relationship hasn’t been proven.

Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which can calm irritated skin. Because coconut oil has been evaluated for reducing inflammation, it might be useful for rosacea-related swelling on the nose, cheeks, and under the eyes.

Coconut oil also has antioxidant properties. Research suggests oxidative stress — from environmental toxins and diet — can make rosacea appear more pronounced on the face.

By supporting cell regeneration and countering oxidative damage, coconut oil may help reduce visible signs of rosacea.

There’s less evidence that ingesting coconut oil will improve rosacea. Although it contains antioxidants, you would likely need to consume very large amounts to produce measurable skin benefits.

Because coconut oil is very high in fat, the risks of consuming excessive quantities outweigh any theoretical dermatological advantages.

How should you apply coconut oil for rosacea?

If you decide to try coconut oil for rosacea, do not discontinue any prescribed treatments without consulting your clinician. Talk with your dermatologist about potential side effects and whether coconut oil is suitable for your skin type.

Avoid coconut oil if you have a known coconut allergy. Individuals allergic to walnuts or hazelnuts may also react to coconut oil, so be mindful before using it broadly on your face.

Even if you suspect no allergy, perform a patch test: apply a small amount to an area on your inner arm and check after 24 hours. If there’s no irritation or reaction, it’s likely safe to use on your face.

Choose cold-pressed, virgin coconut oil to minimize additives and chemicals. This is the form most commonly used in studies assessing its effects.

You can purchase it at health-food outlets, pharmacies, online retailers, and in some supermarkets.

Coconut oil solidifies at room temperature. Scoop about a teaspoon and rub it between your palms to melt it and make it easier for your skin to absorb.

Then gently apply it to your face, concentrating on areas where rosacea tends to flare. Unlike many topical therapies, coconut oil is generally safe to use around the eye area.

Applying coconut oil overnight allows the skin more time to absorb its nourishing components.

Are there risks to using coconut oil for rosacea?

Topically, coconut oil is considered safe for most people.

However, do not use coconut oil if you’re allergic to coconuts.

Exercise caution if you have acne-prone or oily skin, since coconut oil can be comedogenic — it may leave a residue that clogs pores when not fully absorbed.

People whose rosacea presents primarily with redness and flushing may see better results than those whose symptoms include acne-like lesions.

Stop using the oil immediately if your rosacea worsens after application.

Takeaway

Coconut oil may be a potentially safe and helpful option for rosacea, but evidence from research is still insufficient. There are personal reports from people who find it effective and others who don’t notice any benefit.

We do know coconut oil has anti-inflammatory effects that could reduce redness and swelling associated with rosacea.

Ultimately, more high-quality studies are needed to determine how and to what degree coconut oil can address rosacea symptoms. If you try coconut oil, keep in touch with your dermatologist about your progress.

If coconut oil doesn’t improve your symptoms, ask your provider about alternative topical options or oral medications that may work better for you.

For related skin concerns and care tips, you might find useful information on topics such as eczema vs rosacea and the effects of oils like coconut oil for tanning.