Is Coconut Oil the Natural Sunscreen You’ve Been Searching For?

Did you know that there is natural SPF in coconut oil? Coconut oil as sunscreen has an SPF protection of approximately 4-5. While it’s not a replacement for high-SPF sunscreen, coconut oil still moisturizes and soothes skin effectively.

Coconut oil has been used as a natural African skin care ingredient for a long time. It has many rich and versatile properties.

Coconut oil comes from the meat of mature coconuts. It’s packed with medium-chain fatty acids, including lauric acid, which gives it its nourishing and protective qualities. It’s popular for its moisturizing capabilities. Coconut oil helps maintain the skin’s natural barrier and keeps it hydrated. Over the years, coconut oil has become more popular as a natural alternative for different skincare needs, including sun protection.

But is coconut oil a natural sunscreen? Is it reliable? Let’s explore coconut oil sun protection, its potential, and its limitations.

How Does Coconut Oil Work as Sunscreen?

Research shows that coconut oil can have a natural SPF range of 4 to 7. This means it provides a little bit of protection against UV rays.

The SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, tells you how well a substance can shield your skin from UVB rays. UVB rays are the leading cause of sunburn. It's true that coconut oil’s SPF level can block some UV rays, but it is lower than the recommended SPF 30 or higher for adequate sun protection.

Coconut oil is also rich in antioxidants that get rid of unstable atoms from sun exposure that can also damage the cells. But unlike conventional sunscreens, coconut oil does not provide broad-spectrum protection. It does not effectively block UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin. It cannot prevent the speed up of aging and it also increases the risk of skin cancer.

Coconut sunscreen oil can be good for brief, low-exposure periods. The limited SPF and lack of broad-spectrum coverage is not enough for extended sun exposure or high UV index conditions.

Is Coconut Oil Enough to Protect Your Skin?

Coconut oil’s appeal as a natural sunscreen comes from its simplicity and nourishing properties. But as we mentioned, the low SPF of approximately 4-5 means it only blocks about 20% of UVB rays. That’s far less than the protection offered by conventional sunscreens with higher SPF ratings.

If you’re doing activities like short walks or when you’re lounging in shaded areas, coconut sunscreen might be enough. However, it is not good for longer exposure to intense sunlight. Coconut oil sunscreen is not enough protection during beach outings, hiking, or outdoor sports.

And if you have fair or sensitive skin, or are at high risk of sun damage, avoid relying solely on coconut oil. A higher SPF sunscreen, combined with protective measures like wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and clothing with UV protection, is important for minimising skin damage.

Coconut oil can be part of a sun care routine but should not replace conventional sunscreen for reliable protection.

A Thorough Comparison of Coconut Oil and Conventional Sunscreens

Aspects	Coconut Oil as Sunscreen	Conventional Sunscreens
SPF Level	SPF 4-5; minimal UVB protection	SPF 15-50+; more UVB protection
Broad-spectrum	Does not offer broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.	Most are formulated for broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Water Resistance	Not water-resistant; washes off easily with sweat or water.	Many are water-resistant, good for swimming and outdoor activities.
Ingredients	100% natural, free of chemicals	May contain artificial ingredients
Application	Easy to apply; doubles as a moisturizer.	Requires even application and reapplication for maximum effectiveness.
Effectiveness	Not enough for prolonged or intense sun exposure.	Effective for long-duration outdoor activities.

How to Use Coconut Oil as Sunscreen or as Addition to Your Sun Protection Routine

While coconut oil may not replace traditional sunscreen for heavy sun exposure, it can still play a role in your sun protection routine when used carefully. Here are some tips to use coconut oil sunblock effectively and safely:

• Apply Generously and Evenly: Use enough coconut oil to create a visible sheen on your skin. Make sure you have full and even coverage. Avoid missing spots because it could lead to sunburn.

• Reapply Frequently: Coconut oil’s natural SPF goes away quickly, especially if you sweat or swim. Reapply every 30-45 minutes for continued protection.

• Combine with Physical Barriers: Pair coconut oil with other sun-protective measures. Wear lightweight, long-sleeved clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses.

• Stay in the Shade During Peak Hours: Use coconut oil as an additional measure while avoiding direct sunlight between 10AM and 4PM. These are the times of the day when UV rays are strongest.

• Blend with Natural SPF Boosters: To get higher SPF, consider combining coconut oil with natural ingredients like zinc oxide or raspberry seed oil. These additions can enhance its protective properties.

The Benefits of Coconut Oil Beyond Sun Protection

But coconut oil is not just a sunscreen alternative. It also offers many benefits that go beyond sun protection. Because it’s so versatile, coconut oil is a must-have in any natural beauty routine.

What does coconut oil do? It:

• Deeply moisturizes skin. Coconut oil is full of fatty acids like lauric acid. It helps hydrate and nourish dry skin. Because of its lightweight texture, it penetrates the skin deeply and leaves skin soft and smooth.

• Soothes irritated skin. Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties. It reduces redness, calm irritation, and even provides relief for mild sunburns. Applying it after sun exposure helps restore moisture and speed up healing.

• Has natural antibacterial properties. Coconut oil can help fight bacteria. It’s a gentle yet effective option for minor cuts, blemishes, or skin irritation.

• Improves skin elasticity. Using coconut oil regularly helps maintain skin elasticity. It lessens the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.

• Is a multipurpose beauty solution. Aside from skincare, coconut oil is a great natural makeup remover, lip balm, cuticle softener, or as a base for DIY beauty products. They can also be used as a moisturizer or hair conditioner. You can also use coconut oil after sunburn.

Final Thoughts

Coconut oil is a beloved must-have in natural skincare. It carries many benefits and is very versatile. Its SPF offers minimal sun protection, but combining it with other natural ingredients can make it a more effective alternative for mild sun exposure.

If you choose to create DIY coconut oil and sunscreen, remember to perform a patch test before use to make sure there are no bad reactions. Keep the sunscreen in a cool, dry place to prevent melting.

But for intense sun exposure and longer time spent outdoors, go for high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreens and use coconut oil as additional sun protection to ensure full protection.

Coconut oil is still a great oil after-sun care, daily hydration, and countless other beauty uses. Explore the premium range of coconut oil available at Africa Imports to improve your skincare routine today.