Coconut oil as an anti-cellulite treatment?

The cellulite results from a complex set of biological mechanisms involving both genetic, hormonal, and structural factors. It is related to a specific organization of subcutaneous adipose tissue, where adipocytes tend to enlarge while exerting pressure on the surrounding connective tissue. At the same time, an alteration of the collagen and less efficient microcirculation can limit fluid drainage and promote localized retention. Altogether, these phenomena lead to the uneven appearance commonly described as "orange-peel skin".

In this context, certain vegetable oils are investigated for their ability to reinforce the skin barrier and to improve the mechanical properties of the skin, among which coconut oil. Extracted from the kernel of the mature coconut (Cocos nucifera), it is distinguished by a high content of medium-chain fatty acids, notably lauric acid (approximately 49%), myristic acid (18%), and caprylic acid (8%), along with smaller amounts of oleic and linoleic acids.

This lipid composition imparts to coconut oil significant emollient and occlusive properties that enhance skin suppleness, theoretically diminishing the visible appearance of cellulite without addressing its underlying causes.

According to a review published in 2022, certain vegetable oils, including coconut oil, are mentioned as promising in cosmetic approaches targeting cellulite. It should be noted, however, that this review is based primarily on experimental, mechanistic, or indirect data rather than on clinical trials demonstrating a direct and measurable anti-cellulite effect in humans. The authors propose several hypothetical biological mechanisms through which coconut oil could contribute to improving the appearance of skin affected by cellulite.

• Regarding the extracellular matrix, coconut oil could support the synthesis of certain structural proteins, such as collagen and elastin, via an improvement in the skin environment (hydration, lipid protection), without a direct stimulatory effect on their production having been formally demonstrated in vivo. Similarly, by reinforcing barrier function and limiting dehydration, it could indirectly contribute to maintaining the mechanical integrity of the ECM, an important factor for the skin’s resilience and tone, and thus for the appearance of cellulite.

• Furthermore, the authors mention a potential anti-inflammatory effect, primarily attributed to certain medium-chain fatty acids and their derivatives, such as monolaurin. In theory, reducing low-grade inflammation could be beneficial, since chronic inflammation may damage the extracellular matrix and disrupt microcirculation—two factors involved in the pathophysiology of cellulite. Finally, the presence of compounds with moderate antioxidant activity could help limit the oxidative stress local, a known factor in weakening skin structures over time.

Overall, coconut oil appears more as a supportive agent rather than as an ingredient capable of treating the cellulite per se.

Note : If cellulitis becomes painful or progresses unexpectedly, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist. Persistent swelling or redness may indicate an underlying condition, such as infectious cellulitis, requiring medical management.

• RAWLINGS A. V. & al. Cellulite and its treatment. International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2006).

• SANTIAGO J. L. & al. Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2017).

• SATRIA D. & al. The role of coconut oil to increase expression of MMP-9, PDGF-BB, and TGF-β1 in NIH-3T3 cell line. Open Access Macedonian Journal of Medical Sciences (2019).

• GHEORGHITA E. & ROSOIU N. Review: Vegetable oil and butters, their anticellulitic effect, composition, mechanism of action and clinical trials. Academy of Romanian Scientists Annals Series on Biological Sciences (2022).