What are the benefits of coconut oil for the nails?

Derived from the pulp of the coconut (Cocos nucifera), coconut oil is rich in medium-chain triglycerides, particularly lauric, caprylic, and capric acids. These lipids have emollient and protective properties that may help maintain hydration of the skin tissues surrounding the nails and preserve the flexibility of the nail plate. Although research specifically focused on the nails remains limited, the moisturizing, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties attributed to coconut oil suggest that it could help improve the appearance and strength of the nails when used regularly.

Coconut oil moisturizes and nourishes the nails.

The nail plate is made up of dense layers of keratin that require a balanced lipid environment to maintain their flexibility. When nails are repeatedly exposed to water, solvents, or household products, they can lose some of their natural lipids and become more fragile. Thanks to its high content of fatty acids, coconut oil acts as an emollient capable of forming a protective film on the surface of the nail and cuticles. This effect limits water evaporation and helps maintain local hydration. By also nourishing the skin around the nail, it helps soften the cuticles and can improve the overall appearance of the nails.

Coconut oil helps protect the nails from oxidative stress.

Like the skin and hair, nails can be exposed to oxidative stress, particularly due to the effects of the sun’s UV rays, pollution, and smoking. To recap, oxidative stress refers to an imbalance between the amount of free radicals and the body’s endogenous antioxidant defenses. If they are not neutralized, these free radicals can damage cellular structures and proteins, including keratin. Coconut oil contains various antioxidants, including vitamin E and polyphenols, which can help neutralize some of these free radicals and thus contribute to the preservation of the integrity of the nail plate and the surrounding skin.

Coconut oil has antimicrobial activity.

Nails and their surrounding areas are regularly exposed to microorganisms present in the environment. Certain bacteria or yeasts can grow there, especially when the skin around the nail is weakened, and can cause fungal infections. Coconut oil is known to contain lauric acid, a fatty acid that can be converted into monolaurin, a compound with antimicrobial properties. Several studies have shown that these molecules can disrupt the membranes of certain bacteria and fungi. Although these observations come mainly from experimental studies, they suggest that coconut oil could help maintain a healthier skin environment around the nails and cuticles.

Even though these benefits of coconut oil remain hypothetical to date in the absence of clinical studies, the historical use of this vegetable oil suggests that it can effectively complement a nail care routine without adverse effects.

Used regularly, coconut oil may help improve the appearance of the nails and maintain the suppleness of the cuticles.

• Daily nail hydration : After washing your hands, apply a small amount of coconut oil to each nail and gently massage the nail plate as well as the cuticles. This simple action forms a protective lipid film that helps prevent nail dehydration.

• Nourishing overnight treatment : For more intensive care, you can apply a thicker layer of coconut oil to the nails and cuticles before going to bed. Wearing cotton gloves, or aluminum wraps, can promote the penetration of the oil and prevent staining the sheets.

• Preparation of the cuticles before a manicure : Before pushing back or trimming the cuticles, applying a small amount of coconut oil can help soften them. This may help reduce the risk of irritation or minor injuries around the nail.

• Restorative care after a manicure : acetone-based nail polish removers, gels, or artificial nails can dry out the nail plate and irritate the surrounding skin. After removing polish or extensions, massaging the nails with coconut oil can help restore hydration and soothe the skin around the nail.

• SHARMA L. & al. Natural therapy of fungal nail disease. The Pharma Innovation (2012).

• EVANGELISTA M. T. P. & 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).

• KATHURIA D. & al. Cosmeceutical applications of natural oils and fats. Plant Metabolites as Cosmeceuticals (2024).

• 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).