Is Coconut Oil Good for Psoriasis?

Partly: coconut oil may soften dry psoriasis scales when applied to intact skin because it acts as a moisturizer, but it is not a proven psoriasis treatment. Evidence that coconut oil controls psoriasis itself is lacking, so use it cautiously alongside, not instead of, prescribed care.

Can coconut oil help psoriasis?

Coconut oil may be worth trying if dryness and scaling are uncomfortable and your skin is not open, weeping or infected. It can make the skin feel softer, but it should not be expected to stop a flare or address the immune activity behind psoriasis.

For related dietary information, see the best foods for psoriasis and best drinks for psoriasis.

How does coconut oil work on psoriasis?

Coconut oil is an emollient: it can reduce moisture loss from the skin and soften the dry outer layer. That may make scales feel less rough and help with discomfort associated with dryness. The effect is on the skin’s surface, however, and may be temporary.

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated condition that can cause inflamed, scaly patches. Moisturizing can be part of skin care, but softness alone does not mean the underlying inflammation is controlled. A patch that feels smoother may still need medical treatment.

Coconut oil is not necessarily the best moisturizer for everyone. If it irritates your skin or feels unpleasant, a fragrance-free moisturizer that you tolerate is another option.

What is the evidence for coconut oil and psoriasis?

There is not enough psoriasis-specific clinical evidence to establish whether coconut oil improves plaques, itching or flare frequency. Its ability to moisturize does not, by itself, demonstrate that it treats psoriasis.

Claims that coconut oil directly reduces psoriasis inflammation or changes the course of the condition go beyond the available evidence. Likewise, a benefit observed for another skin condition would not establish that coconut oil works for psoriasis.

Be cautious with product claims. Labels such as “virgin” or “organic” do not show that coconut oil is an effective psoriasis treatment, and a product marketed for skin care is not necessarily suitable for broken or irritated skin.

How should you use coconut oil for psoriasis?

If you want to try coconut oil, use a plain product without added fragrance or essential oils. Start with a small amount on a limited area of intact skin and watch for irritation before applying it more widely. Do not use it if you have a known allergy to coconut or an ingredient in the product.

1. Wash your hands and gently clean the area with lukewarm water.
2. Pat the skin dry, leaving it slightly damp rather than rubbing it.
3. Apply a thin layer of coconut oil to intact dry skin or scales. Spread it gently; do not pick or scrape at plaques.
4. Stop using coconut oil if the area becomes more irritated, itchy or painful.

Avoid applying coconut oil to open cracks, weeping skin or areas that may be infected. Do not cover treated skin with plastic wrap or another airtight dressing unless a clinician specifically advises it; covering skin can affect irritation and how prescribed products are absorbed.

If you also use a prescription cream or ointment, ask your clinician or pharmacist how to fit a moisturizer into your routine. Do not mix coconut oil into a medication or replace prescribed treatment with it without medical advice.

Who should be careful, and when should you seek care?

Speak with a clinician before relying on coconut oil if your psoriasis is extensive, painful, affecting sensitive areas or not improving with your current treatment. People who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and parents considering it for a child, can ask a clinician for skin-care advice suited to their situation. Continue prescribed medication unless your clinician advises otherwise.

Stop using coconut oil and seek medical advice if it causes a new rash, worsening redness or significant irritation. Seek prompt medical care for signs of possible infection, such as increasing warmth, swelling, pain, pus or fever.

Seek urgent medical care if redness spreads over much of the body, especially with fever, chills or feeling very unwell. Get emergency help for trouble breathing or swelling of the lips, tongue or throat after using a product.