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Seborrheic dermatitis (sometimes called seborrheic eczema or cradle cap) develops in areas of the skin that produce oil. Treating seborrheic dermatitis often involves moisturizing the affected areas with lotions and oils, including coconut oil. Although coconut oil is generally good for dry skin, there’s some debate about whether it’s the best choice for seborrheic dermatitis.
Members of MySebDermTeam try to help each other by discussing what works for them. “You can use coconut oil to help with the flakes. It will make the itch subside too,” suggested one member.
If you’ve thought about using coconut oil for your seborrheic dermatitis, here’s what you should know.
Coconut oil is a natural oil made from mature coconut kernels. It contains high levels of lauric and linoleic acids, which are medium-chain fatty acids. The saturated fat in coconut oil makes it solid at room temperature. However, it quickly melts when it comes in contact with heat, including body heat.
Coconut oil is a popular cooking product, often used in baking or to prevent food from sticking to the pan. Coconut oil is also a common ingredient for beauty products. It’s used as a makeup remover, teeth cleaner, and hair mask.
Coconut oil is an effective moisturizer for dry skin. People also use it for other skin concerns, like infections and inflammation, but there isn’t as much research on these uses. Clinical trials have shown that virgin coconut oil boosts skin hydration and improves the skin’s barrier function in people with atopic dermatitis (a type of eczema). It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Although coconut oil is hydrating, it’s not great for people with acne. Topical application (applying it to the skin) clogs the pores, so you may want to avoid it if you have acne-prone skin.
Some MySebDermTeam members use coconut oil products on their face with good results. “My face gets red every day, and my skin is dry and flaky,” said one member. “The best thing I use for my face is Advanced Clinicals Coconut Oil Moisturizing Cream, which I purchased from Amazon. This is the only thing I have used that works,” they shared.
Coconut oil, like other plant oils, provides some protection against ultraviolet (UV) rays. Specifically, it helps block UVB rays. While coconut oil is not a substitute for broad-spectrum sunscreen, it may offer some protection against visible signs of skin aging and skin cancers caused by UV exposure.
The lauric acid in coconut oil helps soothe skin dryness and irritation. It’s also antimicrobial, meaning it helps kill germs. As a result, some people find it helpful for small injuries like razor burn.
Coconut oil also has antifungal properties, which can be helpful for people with seborrheic dermatitis. Some members of MySebDermTeam have used antifungal shampoos that contain coconut oil. One member shared, “I found a shampoo that has pyrithione zinc with coconut oil and apple cider vinegar. It makes my hair feel softer, and it does help with the itching.”
Other members apply coconut oil after washing. “I started a new regimen. I wash my head and beard on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday with Dermarest and 2 percent ketoconazole,” said another member. “Friday night, after my hair is mostly dry, I rub coconut oil in a mix of Eucerin Healing Lotion. Then, I use the blow dryer to heat it up and rub it on the ends of my fingers to apply it. I leave it on overnight, and it lasts until Monday night with minimal itching,” he shared.
Members have also mentioned using coconut oil to dilute essential oils for seborrheic dermatitis, like tea tree oil. In this case, coconut oil would be considered a “carrier oil.” Since some other oils, like olive oil, have been shown to damage the skin barrier, coconut oil may be a better option for this purpose.
Before trying a new product for seborrheic dermatitis, you should ask your dermatologist for personalized medical advice. Coconut oil is a natural oil, but it’s not right for everyone. One MySebDermTeam member wrote, “I had a bad experience with coconut oil on my scalp and got welts. I struggle with oils because they clog my pores and hair follicles,” they shared.
In addition, applying antifungal products to the skin isn’t always enough to get rid of fungal problems that are paired with immune system issues, like seborrheic dermatitis. Although coconut oil offers some antifungal benefits, it’s not as effective as stronger prescription antifungals.
Some experts say that the use of hair oils, including coconut oil, may worsen seborrheic dermatitis in Black people by actually encouraging yeast overgrowth.
If your health care provider approves, consider trying a patch test before applying coconut oil to a large area of skin to see how your body reacts. This is a good way to check for a potential allergic reaction or other negative side effects.
The best treatment options for seborrheic dermatitis are usually over-the-counter antidandruff shampoo and antifungal creams. Sometimes oral antifungal medications (like Itraconazole), corticosteroids, or prescribed treatments, like calcineurin inhibitors, can help with flare-ups. Before you start adding coconut oil to your routine, check with your dermatologist to make sure it won’t interfere with your other treatments.
If you decide to buy coconut oil, be mindful of what’s in the product. Pure, unrefined coconut oil that’s cold-pressed has the most nutrients. Skin care products and hair products that contain coconut oil may also have other ingredients that are irritating to your skin, such as fragrances or chemicals. It’s important to read the label and choose products with minimal additives, especially if you have sensitive skin.
MySebDermTeam is the social network for people with seborrheic dermatitis and their loved ones. On MySebDermTeam, more than 15,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with seborrheic dermatitis.
Have you tried natural remedies like coconut oil to treat dandruff and other symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis? If so, how did it go? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.
References
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Steven Devos, M.D., Ph.D.
received his medical degree and completed residency training in dermatology at the University of Ghent, Belgium.
Learn more about him here.
Anastasia Climan, RDN, CDN
is a dietitian with over 10 years of experience in public health and medical writing.
Learn more about her here.
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