Coconuts are everywhere in the kitchen. The meat is eaten in pies and curries. You drink the water The casing can also be burned as fuel. But the real story is in the oil.
It’s in the shampoo. It’s in the body wash. It’s in the foam you wash your skin with every morning.
Why? Because bubbles appear.
The science of bubbles
Soap makers love coconut oil. It’s not just the smell. But because of that behavior.
Most soaps depend on fatty acids to work. Coconut oil contains special fatty acids that create a rich foam. This is not subtle. Very aggressive.
When the soap contains about 10% coconut oil, it produces more foam. The foam becomes creamy. This is how it feels in your hand. This is the structure.
But there are also compromises. Too many bubbles can cause dehydration. Coconut oil removes oil. It cleans very well. Maybe it’s too good.
Health claims and reality
People talk about the health effects. They really do.
Some studies show that virgin coconut oil can speed up recovery from pneumonia in children. This is special. This should be noted.
Then there is the discussion of losing weight. Coconut oil is rich in fat. It has unhealthy cholesterol levels. Can it make you thin? Science hasn’t solved it yet. It’s very messy. Don’t bet on diets.
Some claim that coconut oil unclogs pores. Breaks down dirt. Let’s fight acne.
The problem? There is little scientific evidence to support this. Sounds very logical. Oil dissolves oil. However, your skin is not a filter. This is an organ. Treat it gently.
Outside the bottle
These benefits extend beyond the bathroom sink.
Monolaurin is a coconut oil extract. Recent studies suggest that it has antibacterial properties. Used as a food preservative. Forms a barrier against harmful microorganisms.
It’s not just about looking good. It’s about staying safe.
Next time, squeeze out a drop of shampoo or lather with soap. Look at the label.
You may see coconut oil listed. It’s there for the foam. It’s there for the preservation.
This is not magic. This is chemistry.
Coconut oil adds foam and creaminess to soaps and is in basic cleaning products.
Where next
If you want to learn more about how these ingredients interact with your skin. More links are available.
Check out our articles on:
– The most popular skin cleanser
– How body wash works in practice
– Why are exfoliating soaps too harsh?
– Does daily showering damage the skin protection?
– The truth about sodium lauryl sulfate in shampoo
The discussion about coconut oil continues. Data changes. But one thing is clear.
It’s in your soap. It works.
Does it work for you? It’s up to you.
Source:
– Collins, Royal. “A skin cleansing composition containing alkaline earth metal carbonate as a skin texture conditioner.” US Patent No. 4,557,853. Free Patents Online. 10 December 1985. (24 September 2009) http://www.freepatentsonline.com/4557853.html
– Gordon, Serena. “Coconut oil can help fight pneumonia in children.” U.S. News & World Report. (25 Aug 2009) http://health.usnews.com/articles/health/healthday/2008/10/30/coconut-oil-may-fight-childhood-pneumonia.html
– Institute of Food Technologists. “Coconut oil extract could be a weapon against food bacteria.” ScienceDaily. 10 Sep 2009. (24 Sep 2009) http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/09/090908103931.htm
– Mayo Clinic. “Can coconut oil help you lose weight?” (25 Aug 2009) http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/coconut-oil-and-weight-loss/AN01899
