Coconut oil to soothe itching of the scalp and skin?

The coconut oil is not limited to dietary use: its specific lipid composition explains the interest it generates in skin and hair care. It is primarily composed of medium‐chain saturated fatty acids, with lauric acid accounting for a major proportion. This fatty acid exhibits a particular affinity for the skin, where it is recognized for its antibacterial, antifungal, and inflammation‐modulating properties. Thanks to their molecular size, medium‐chain fatty acids can more easily integrate into the lipids of the stratum corneum, thus contributing to the strengthening of the barrier function.

Moreover, coconut oil also acts as an emollient and an occlusive agent. By forming a film on the skin and scalp surface, it limits transepidermal water loss, thus improving conditions of dryness and irritation and alleviating discomfort. Finally, the coconut oil contains phenolic compounds, such as ferulic acid and p-coumaric acid, which confer moderate antioxidant activity. By neutralizing some of the free radicals involved in cutaneous oxidative stress, these compounds may contribute to the limitation of local inflammatory processes.

The combination of these different mechanisms – support for the skin barrier, reduction of dehydration, and oxidative protection – explains why coconut oil is often considered for caring for sensitive or itch-prone skin and scalps.

Several scientific studies have investigated the effects of virgin coconut oil in dermatological contexts associated with itching and skin irritation. In children with atopic dermatitis, a clinical study conducted by EVANGELISTA and colleagues demonstrated that a daily application of coconut oil significantly reduced symptom severity more than a mineral oil. The authors observed an improvement in skin barrier function, marked by a decrease in transepidermal water loss, as well as a reduction in SCORAD, a scale assessing eczema severity. These biophysical changes resulted in a reduction in feelings of dryness and itch, two manifestations closely linked to the chronic barrier impairment seen in atopic dermatitis.

The benefits of coconut oil extend even further. A recent study by SHARMA and his team examined its impact on the microbiome of the scalp, particularly in the context of dandruff and related irritation. Over a 16-week period, daily application of coconut oil was associated with an increase in bacterial populations considered beneficial, along with a decrease in fungi of the genus Malassezia, which are involved in the pathophysiology of dandruff. This modulation of the microbiome was accompanied by a alleviation of itching and signs of scalp irritation. Lauric acid, known for its antifungal activity, appears to be one of the primary drivers of this rebalancing effect.

Finally, SODIKIN and his team demonstrated that a combination of massage and coconut oil application could reduce itching in patients with diabetes. The study suggests that when applied twice daily using a gentle massage, coconut oil can improve skin hydration and decrease the itching associated with dry skin.

These studies suggest that coconut oil offers a natural option for alleviating skin itching.

Despite its beneficial properties, coconut oil is not necessarily suitable for all skin and scalp types.

In individuals with oily or acne-prone skin, applying it undiluted—especially to the face—can promote the appearance of blemishes. The coconut oil is actually classified as moderately comedogenic, which means it can contribute to pore clogging and the development of lesions in skin prone to excessive sebum production. Conversely, in situations of marked skin dryness or a compromised barrier, such as in cases of xerosis or atopic dermatitis, its occlusive properties can be relevant for limiting dehydration and soothing discomfort.

The choice of oil type is also critical. Virgin coconut oil is generally preferable to refined oils, as it retains a greater proportion of its fatty acids and naturally occurring antioxidant compounds. This richness provides VCO with better skin affinity and generally improved tolerance. Moreover, although available studies do not report any major adverse effects associated with the use of coconut oil, caution remains advisable in individuals with sensitive skin or those with an allergic predisposition. The performing a preliminary test helps minimize the risk of skin reaction. Additionally, in the case of dandruff, coconut oil can be incorporated into an overall routine, but it may show its limitations, necessitating dermatological consultation.

Coconut oil offers an interesting natural option for alleviating sensations of itching and irritation, but it is not a miracle solution.

• VERALLO-ROWELL V. M. & al. A randomized double-blind controlled trial comparing extra virgin coconut oil with mineral oil as a moisturizer for mild to moderate xerosis. Dermatology (2004).

• EVANGELISTA M. T. & al.. The effect of topical virgin coconut oil on SCORAD index, transepidermal water loss, and skin capacitance in mild to moderate pediatric atopic dermatitis: A randomized, double-blind, clinical trial. International Journal of Dermatology (2014).

• ADKIS C. A. & al. Endotypes of allergic diseases and asthma: An important step in building blocks for the future of precision medicine. Current Allergy and Asthma Reports (2016).

• SHARMA V. K. & al. Longitudinal study of the scalp microbiome suggests coconut oil to enrich healthy scalp commensals. Scientific Reports (2021).

• SODIKIN M. & al. The effectiveness of massage and virgin coconut oil (VCO) combination therapy on reducing itching in diabetes mellitus. Journal Kesehatan Komunitas Indonesia (2023).

• GEW L. T. & al. A comprehensive review of plant-based cosmetic oils (virgin coconut oil, olive oil, argan oil, and jojoba oil): Chemical and biological properties and their cosmeceutical applications. ACS Omega (2024).