Although there’s no cure for eczema, certain treatments and at-home remedies may help relieve symptoms like dry skin, itchiness, and scaliness. Finding what works best for you may take some trial and error, as everyone’s skin responds differently.

Coconut oil is a popular product that some members of MyEczemaTeam have tried to manage their eczema symptoms. It’s an oil pressed from fresh or dried coconut meat and has a paste-like consistency at room temperature. This article considers the potential skin benefits of coconut oil and whether it can be used to manage symptoms.

Before trying coconut oil or other over-the-counter products for your eczema, talk to your dermatologist. Even natural products like coconut oil, mineral oil, and virgin olive oil can cause allergic reactions in some people.

Is Coconut Oil Good for Eczema?

According to the National Eczema Association (NEA), the short answer to this question is that it depends.

First, it’s important to note that coconut oil cannot treat eczema, but it may help manage dryness and itchiness associated with eczema. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) must test and approve a product before it can be considered safe and effective for treating a health condition.

That said, some of coconut oil’s properties may make it beneficial in the everyday management of eczema symptoms like dry skin. As the NEA notes, one of the first steps to managing itchy skin caused by eczema is to prevent it with daily moisturizing, which helps repair the skin barrier. Because coconut oil can penetrate the skin quickly and efficiently, it can help hydrate and fight itchiness associated with dry skin.

One member of MyEczemaTeam shared their experience using coconut oil for itching compared to prescription treatments: “I think I’ve found what is helping: coconut oil! It’s taking a little longer than the steroid creams, but I can tell [there’s] a difference! I’ve been using it for three days now, and it seems to be working, slowly but surely.”

Research on the Benefits of Coconut Oil for Eczema

Although coconut oil isn’t FDA-approved to treat eczema, several studies have identified skin care benefits.

One study conducted in 2018 found that coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which could help protect the skin from eczema-related inflammation and improve how the skin barrier works.

Another study published by the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine in 2019 found that coconut oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties. The study found coconut oil helped reduce the presence of multiple pathogens (foreign bodies) on the skin, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This is because coconut oil contains lauric acid, a fatty acid that’s involved in fighting against bacteria, fungi, yeast, viruses, and other pathogens. Because eczema affects the skin’s ability to protect itself from environmental factors like allergens and irritants, coconut oil’s antimicrobial properties may help manage symptoms triggered by these substances.

A 2024 study found that lotions and moisturizers with coconut oil may improve itch and reduce the need for topical steroids in people with mild to moderate eczema. These moisturizers, called emollients, may also reduce the presence of Staphylococcus aureus on the skin. Staph aureus is a type of bacteria that causes skin infections and is commonly found on the skin of individuals with eczema.

Risks of Using Coconut Oil for Eczema

Keep in mind that eczema varies from person to person. Everyone has different eczema triggers, and coconut oil or products that contain it may trigger your symptoms. Some people may find benefits from coconut oil and others may not.

Coconut oil is not recommended if you have acne-prone skin. It can clog pores and cause acne or make existing blemishes worse.

Some people may have an allergy to coconut oil. In this case, coconut oil could make your skin symptoms worse instead of improving them. Always talk to your healthcare provider before beginning a new treatment or product, even if it’s natural.

How To Use Coconut Oil for Eczema

You can apply coconut oil to the affected area once or twice a day. Applying a thick layer of moisturizer, such as coconut oil, to damp skin within three minutes of getting out of the shower or bath can help protect your skin barrier. Coconut oil has a melting point of 78 degrees Fahrenheit, so it often has a firm, paste-like consistency. When applying coconut oil to the skin, you may need to warm it in the palm of your hand.

Types of Coconut Oil

There are several different types of coconut oil, depending on how the oil is made. According to the NEA, cold-pressed and virgin coconut oil may be recommended for eczema. These types have higher levels of antioxidants (substances that may prevent or delay certain kinds of cell damage) than refined oils.

Other types of coconut oil include refined coconut oil and partially hydrogenated coconut oil. In some cases, chemical solvents are used in the extraction process for refined coconut oil. These chemical residues may remain after processing, and some people with eczema may be sensitive to these chemicals.

Ask your dermatologist what they might recommend. They can also answer other questions, like whether you should use coconut oil for eczema on your face and other sensitive areas.

How To Store Coconut Oil

Generally, coconut oil should be stored in a cool, dark location in a sealed container or the refrigerator. Virgin coconut oil can last for two to three years when stored properly without exposure to heat or light. Do not use coconut oil and immediately dispose of it if it shows signs of spoilage, including mold, a yellowish tint, or an unpleasant smell.

Because coconut oil melts at 78 degrees F, it may turn to liquid or become very runny on warm days. If this happens, stir the coconut oil well before using it or put it in the refrigerator to allow it to solidify, if you’d like a firmer texture.

MyEczemaTeam Members’ Experiences With Coconut Oil for Eczema

Some MyEczemaTeam members have discussed using coconut oil to help manage their symptoms. One member wrote: “I used some shea butter with coconut oil and haven’t itched all day.” Another member saw success after combining coconut oil with another product, writing: “I tried coconut oil and calendula mixed together. It’s helping so far.”

One member found more success trying a different natural remedy: “It’s day four of using avocado oil on my arms and face after the worst flare-up this summer. So far, it has proven to work better for me than coconut oil, hemp oil, and sunflower oil.” Ultimately, although both member stories and scientific studies have supported the possibility of coconut oil helping manage eczema symptoms, it may not work for everyone.

Join the MyEczemaTeam Community

On MyEczemaTeam, the social network for people with eczema and their loved ones, more than 54,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their experiences with others who understand life with eczema.

Have you used coconut oil for your eczema? What was your experience like and what tips would you offer to others? Share your eczema remedies by starting a conversation on your Activities page today.