Is Coconut Oil Good for Babies?

Coconut oil is lauded for its many benefits and is a staple in the skin and hair routines of many people around the world.

Indeed, it has been used in cooking, skincare, and hair care for centuries!

Plus, the good news for you is that the benefits of coconut oil extend to baby skin as well. That's right, you don't have to look far if you're worried about what to use to nurture and protect your baby's delicate skin. 

Skin experts agree that coconut oil is a fantastic and easily accessible natural remedy that can combat a range of skin and hair issues in babies and grownups alike.

From moisturizing efficiently to combating allergies and other skin conditions, there are many reasons why coconut oil is a great addition to your baby's skincare routine.

Now, let's dive right in and explore exactly how and why coconut oil is excellent for your baby's skin. 

What are the Benefits of Coconut Oil for Baby Skin? 

Babies have soft and sensitive skin that requires careful nourishment and protection.  But remember, always patch test coconut oil before using it regularly on your baby.

Additionally, don't forget to consult your paediatrician or dermatologist before introducing coconut oil into your baby's diet, skincare, and hair care.

Given below are some of the most important and well-known benefits of coconut oil for baby skin. 

Coconut Oil Soothes and Moisturizes Baby Skin

Coconut oil is a rich source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can moisturize and protect your baby's skin from irritation and dryness.

Packed with saturated fat and medium-chain fatty acids, coconut oil traps moisture in the skin and maintains its natural barrier.

Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties can effectively soothe a number of baby skin issues, such as eczema and diaper rashes.

So, the takeaway is that you can use coconut oil to moisturize your baby's skin every day. Just take a little bit of warmed-up coconut oil and gently massage your baby right after giving them a bath.

In short, shower them with water and love and slather them with coconut oil! 

Coconut Oil Combats Baby Eczema 

Eczema is a common skin issue in babies that is characterised by dry and itchy patches on the skin that are reddish or purplish. If you notice these patches on your baby's skin, use coconut oil to soothe and moisturize it.

Remember, it's extremely important to keep your little one's skin hydrated and protected at all times. Coconut oil's anti-inflammatory properties can also help in reducing the redness and inflammation associated with eczema. 

Additionally, coconut oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can further protect your baby's sensitive skin.

You can massage your baby with coconut oil post-bath, focusing more on the affected areas. Lots of people strongly maintain that coconut oil is the best home remedy for baby eczema. Using extra virgin coconut oil is your best bet here! 

Coconut Oil Can Help Prevent and Treat Acne in Babies 

Acne is another common skin issue that affects babies. While this skin condition is mostly seen in teenagers and young adults, newborns and infants can also develop acne due to a number of reasons such as irritation, dryness, or infection.

But don't worry, baby acne is normal and doesn't warrant immediate medical assistance. In fact, you can simply use coconut oil to help your little one get rid of this pimply problem!

The fatty acids and nutrients in coconut oil effectively reduce inflammation and shield the skin from harmful bacteria. Plus, coconut oil's antioxidants can protect your baby's acne-prone skin against further damage from free radicals. In short, coconut oil is good for baby acne.

So if your little one is experiencing neonatal acne, apply a small amount of coconut oil to the affected areas twice a day. Be sure to gently massage it into their skin and leave it on for at least 30 minutes before rinsing off with water.

It's also believed that applying coconut oil regularly will prevent baby acne since the skin will be hydrated and protected. 

Coconut Oil Can Treat Ringworm in Babies 

Ringworm is a common fungal infection that can be passed on to babies via contact with infected people or animals. It typically manifests as red, itchy, and raised rashes with discernible centres.

Yes, ringworm rashes do look like coiled red worms sometimes, but they aren’t! Luckily, coconut oil contains antifungal properties that can help treat this skin infection efficiently. 

To use coconut oil to combat your baby's ringworm infection, simply apply it to the affected areas and massage gently until fully absorbed. Make sure your baby's skin is clean and dry before you apply the oil. Repeat this routine at least twice a day until the skin infection has cleared up.

The oil will also relieve itching and thus make your baby feel better. Of course, if the infection is too severe or stubborn, take your baby to the doctor and opt for antifungal creams. 

Coconut Oil Can Be Used to Clear Up Cradle Cap

Most babies end up dealing with cradle caps at some point or another. This common baby skin condition brings about white or yellow scaly patches on your little one's scalp; babies, however, are usually not disturbed by these unsightly scales as they aren't itchy or painful.

A cradle cap is usually seen on the scalp, face, or neck. Skin experts and doctors aren't exactly sure what causes it, although there are several theories. The bottom line is that this particular baby skin issue isn't serious and can be dealt with easily using coconut oil.

Simply massage coconut oil into the affected areas and leave it on for at least 15 minutes before gently wiping off and loosening the scales with a soft cloth or brush. You can do this right before giving your baby a bath with mild soap and shampoo.

Use coconut oil daily until the cradle cap has cleared up completely; usually, the scales and flakes disappear on their own in a few weeks. 

Nature's Baby Organics Brings to You the Goodness of Coconut Oil 

Whether you're looking for an organic solution to your baby's skin issues or simply want to pamper them with some coconut oil goodness, Nature's Baby Organics has excellent plant-based and minimally processed skincare options for you.

Our baby care products are formulated keeping in mind the sensitive skin issues and allergies often faced by little ones. Additionally, our skin and hair care products are suitable for all skin types and good for the whole family. 

So, if you're looking for some fantastic Nature's Baby Organics products containing coconut oil, check out our USDA certified Organic Massage & Baby Oil Mandarin Coconut.

Or, you could give our SLS- and paraben-free Shampoo & Body Wash Coconut Pineapple a try.

Of course, you can always go for the Essential Bath Bundle - Coconut as it contains our Coconut Shampoo, Coconut Conditioner, and Coconut Foaming Bath & Shower Oil — a perfectly coconutty treat for your baby's gentle skin!