Coconut water has been praised for its skin-hydrating and moisturizing properties. Coconut water is rich in natural vitamins and minerals.
However, it is important to consider when it is better to eat it and when it is better to apply it directly to your skin.
Coconut water is rich in vitamins and nutrients. However, the majority of coconut water’s skin care benefits are purely cosmetic. Some research suggests coconut water can be beneficial when applied topically.
Continue reading to learn more about the benefits and safety of coconut water for your skin.
Beauty is individual. No matter what your skincare routine looks like, how often you wash it, or which cosmetics you are interested in,
We rely on diverse educators and writers to help us share tips, from how product application differs to which sheet mask is best for you.
We recommend only products we love. If you see a link to a product or brand in a shop, likely, our team has thoroughly researched the item.
Table of Contents
Coconut water has skin benefits.
Acne and scarring from acne
Coconut water may have antimicrobial properties that could help with acne.
Hayag states that there is insufficient evidence to support using coconut water for acne, scarring, skin pigmentation, or dark spots.
Coconut water is not a cure for acne alone, but it can be combined with other ingredients to speed up the healing process.
Madfes suggests that you mix coconut water and turmeric to make a mask for your acne-prone skin. You can also use it as a mist for dryness. “Coconut water won’t heal acne scars, but it can speed up healing.
Support for the elderly
In 2015, a study on rats revealed that coconut water could boost the antioxidant system. This can reduce the harmful effects of free radicals and promote anti-aging (or pro-aging as we like it to be called).
This study was conducted on rats that ingested coconut water. However, no evidence has been found to suggest that coconut water applied topically can have any pro-aging benefits.
Coconut water has no skin benefits.
Coconut water applied to the skin will not help with certain skin conditions, such as:
- redness
- Blackheads
- Pigmentation and dark circles
- skin brightening
No evidence has been found to suggest that coconut water applied topically can reduce skin reddening, blackheads, and pigmentation.
Madfes points out that although coconut water contains skin-brightening substances like vitamin C and amino acids, the amounts are too low for any skin-brightening effects.
Coconut water is good for your skin.
Coconut water is rich in vitamins like vitamin B2, vitamin A3, vitamin C, and vitamin B3. It also contains other ingredients that can be beneficial for the skin.
Coconut water could be a good option:
- Reduce wrinkles and fine lines
- Increase skin hydration, elasticity
- Increase collagen production
- Give your skin a visible glow
Hayag explains that coconut water contains a phytohormone called Kinetin. This may have anti-aging or antioxidant effects. It’s also rich in micronutrients, aiding antioxidant activity against free radicals.
Coconut water is rich in antioxidants and electrolytes, which may benefit your skin.
Hayag states that while it doesn’t directly hydrate the skin, properly hydrated can positively impact overall health and skin care.
A healthy body has a balanced amount of electrolytes, which is vital for many bodily functions. Coconut water is rich in electrolytes, including:
Insufficiently hydrated skin can cause dry, itchy skin, fine lines, and even irritation. To avoid these negative effects, it is important to stay hydrated.
High levels of vitamin C are also found in coconut water, which is an important cofactor for collagen synthesis.
Lutz says that collagen is lost as we age. This leads to thinner, more fragile skin. Vitamin C can be used to stimulate collagen production and slow down the aging process of the skin.
Amy Shapiro MS, RD. CDN, registered dietician and founder of Real Nutrition, believes coconut water to be “nature’s Gatorade.”
She says that hydrated skin is plumper and more vibrant. This gives her a healthy glow. “Coconut water also contains vitamin C, which aids in cell turnover and prevents wrinkles.
Hydration is also important for clearer skin and a radiant glow.
Which is the most efficient use of your data?
There are not enough studies to prove that coconut water can be applied topically to the skin.
Hayag states that although there isn’t much research on the topical use of coconut water, it has been shown that ingredients have greater efficacy when they’re ingested rather than applied topically.
However, it is important to remember that nutrients can only be absorbed if your gut is healthy. Shapiro says that coconut water is not a quick fix.
It does appear to be a great cleanser and can provide hydration for the skin when applied topicallySafety concerns
Coconut water is safe unless you are allergic. However, it is a good idea for your skin to test the new ingredient.
Coconut water is safe for most adults.
Lutz explains a few contraindications for people with chronic kidney disease and those who take medications like ACE inhibitors. These individuals should be careful due to the high potassium levels in coconut water.
Coconut water also contains high levels of FODMAPs. This group of carbs can worsen symptoms in people with IBS.
Lutz states that if this is the case, then Lutz recommends sticking with topical coconut water. “One final thing you should note is that coconut water must be 100 percent pure and free of sugar and preservatives.
Coconut water is not recommended for people with kidney disease, digestive issues, or taking ACE inhibitors.
Before adding coconut water to your daily diet, consult a doctor if you are unsure.
Coconut water for your face
Coconut water can be used as a substitute for your favorite toner or face wash or as a supplemental ingredient in your favorite moisturizer or face mask.
To wash
- Coconut water can be used to splash your face.
- Use your cleanser as normal.
- Coconut water can be used to wash off the cleanser.
Tone
- Use coconut water to saturate a cotton ball.
- Use to dry, clean skin
- Follow up with moisturizing
Masking
- Combine 2 tsp. Coconut water, 1/2 teaspoon. Honey, 1/2 tsp. Mix the turmeric powder in a bowl.
- Apply to your skin.
- Allow the mask to sit for 10 minutes, and then rinse off with warm water.
To refresh
- Make pure coconut water into mist bottles
- Coconut water can be applied to the skin throughout the day to give it a radiant, glowing glow.
To moisturize
- For extra hydration, add a few drops of coconut water to your moisturizer/facial oil.
Takeaway
Although there are very few studies showing coconut water topically can be beneficial for the skin, the vast majority of research supporting coconut water’s benefits for overall health is solid.
Tender Coconut Water can increase your skin’s hydration by increasing electrolyte and vitamin levels.
