Mira Kapoor on the worst skincare advice she ever received: ‘It broke me out’

Mira Kapoor is a follower of clean beauty rituals, and often talks about her go-to routine, the products she uses, and strictly avoids. Now, the entrepreneur — who recently launched her skincare brand — has opened up about the worst skincare advice she has ever received. “Coconut oil. It broke me out,” Kapoor told The Nod. 

Surprised by her revelation — considering coconut oil is touted as a potent remedy for many hair and skin issues — we reached out to experts.

“People often try to use coconut oil on their faces to treat skin problems like acne, fine lines, wrinkles, and breakouts, without understanding that it can worsen your conditions,” said Dr Shareefa Chause, dermatologist and cosmetologist, Shareefa’s Skin Care Clinic, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Chembur and Criticare Asia Hospital, Kurla Mumbai.

Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has antibacterial properties and can help reduce acne-causing bacteria. “However, the high concentration of fatty acids can still clog pores,” said Dr Jatin Mittal, co-founder, cosmetologist and skin expert, Abhivrit Aesthetics New Delhi.

According to Dr Chause, coconut oil is comedogenic, meaning it can aggravate acne by causing clogged pores — and should be avoided by people with oily skin type.

Explaining how acne multiplies, Dr Chause said that it is a common skin problem yet can be a cause of concern. “Acne occurs when the hair follicles start clogging due to excess oil (sebum), bacteria, and dead skin cells. Certain factors like frequent hormonal changes can cause your skin to produce more sebum making it appear oily and greasy, along with increased humidity, and aggressively rubbing and touching your face with infected or unwashed hands,” said Dr Chause.

However, people with dry or normal skin may tolerate coconut oil better, as it is highly moisturising, contended Dr Mittal.

Who should avoid coconut oil?

People with certain skin types like oily and sensitive skin should avoid using coconut oil on the face as it can cause inflammation, redness, and sometimes allergic reaction, cautioned Dr Chause.

Do you apply coconut oil to your face? (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

What can help?

If you have sensitive skin or are prone to acne, it might be better to use a non-comedogenic oil, like jojoba or argan oil, said Dr Mittal.

If you still want to use coconut oil, consider applying it sparingly and monitor your skin’s reaction. “It may be more suitable for use as a makeup remover, followed by a thorough cleanse, rather than as a leave-on moisturiser,” said Dr Mittal.

Try consulting a certified dermatologist to discuss your skin concerns for a better solution. “S/he might closely examine your skin and recommend suitable skin care products by considering various factors like skin tone, texture, type, and problems to solve,” said Dr Chause.

She also cautioned against home remedies found on the internet and suggested doing a patch test, or consulting a dermatologist before trying out any new hacks.

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