Sign in
Register now
My Reward PointsWhen it comes to oils, no matter which supermarket or online store you visit, you are flooded with options to consume. However, when you have to choose, the biggest confusion arises between coconut oil and virgin coconut oil. This is because we are not well-informed about the differences between these two oils. This is where we are going to help you today. In this blog, we will be discussing in detail about Coconut oil vs Virgin coconut oil to help you make an informed choice.
What Is Coconut Oil?
Coconut oil is extracted from the flesh of coconuts through a heating extraction method. Basically, it is made from dried coconut kernels, also known as copra. The copra is pressed, extracted, and then the oil is refined and bleached. This oil is useful in many haircare and skincare regimens for moisturization and replenishment.
What Is Virgin Coconut Oil?
When we talk about virgin coconut oil, it is extracted from the fresh milk of the coconut using the cold process or wet process method. Note down the fact that in virgin coconut oil, there’s no refining, bleaching, or deodorizing, which helps maintain the natural constituents and antioxidants of the oil. The cold process of oil extraction helps virgin coconut oil keep its natural aroma and flavour.
Key Differences Between Coconut Oil and Virgin Coconut Oil
Now that we know what coconut oil and virgin coconut oil basically are, it’s time we discuss the key differences between these two oils to understand them better.
1. Texture and Absorption
Although Coconut oil vs Virgin coconut oil look almost the same, the texture is a bit different. Virgin coconut oil can be absorbed easily into the skin and hair in comparison to regular coconut oil.
2. Nutritional Content
The nutritional content of both virgin coconut oil and regular coconut oil is the same. But the regular coconut oil is hydrogenated due to the presence of trans fat. On the other hand, virgin coconut oil is rich in medium-chain fatty acids and has good cholesterol.
3. Moisturizing and Hydration
Virgin coconut oil offers superior moisturizing and hydration benefits compared to regular coconut oil, making it a better choice for skin care focused on nourishment, healing, and hydration.
4. Anti-Aging and Skin Repair
Coconut oil also makes headlines when it comes to anti-aging and skin repair. Virgin coconut oil is rich in Vitamin E and essential proteins that help in anti-aging and skin repair.
5. Scalp Health and Acne Control
Coconut oil is not rich in essential nutrients like the Virgin coconut oil. Virgin coconut oil as extracted through the cold process method, helps moisturize and nourish the scalp, repairs the damage, giving the hair its natural shine and radiance.
6. Sun Protection and Healing
Both the oils, virgin coconut oil and regular coconut oil, are amazing for moisturizing and sun protection. As it is rich in essential proteins and trans fats, it helps in skin replenishment and healing.
7. Use in Hair Treatments and Masks
Virgin coconut oil is rich in lauric acid, which helps repair the damage of hair, and this is the reason it is used in hair treatments and hair masks by many hair experts in the industry.
Benefits: Coconut Oil Vs Virgin Coconut Oil
We have discussed the differences between Coconut oil vs Virgin coconut oil; it’s time to discuss their benefits in detail.
1. Moisturization and Hydration
Virgin coconut oil gets absorbed into the skin and helps lock in moisture, keeping skin soft and plump. On the other hand, regular coconut oil hydrates but with less potency.
2. Anti-Aging and Skin Repair
If you need intense results in skin damage and to reduce fine lines, then virgin coconut oil is a better option than regular coconut oil because of the presence of antioxidants.
3. Hair Conditioning and Frizz Control
Regular coconut oil offers smooth hair, but virgin coconut oil tames frizz, conditions, and adds shine to your hair by preventing protein loss.
4. Treatment for Acne and Blemishes
Virgin coconut oil possesses antimicrobial properties, which help in the treatment of acne and blemishes. But it might not be suitable for every skin type.
5. Sun Protection and Healing
While not a replacement for sunscreen, virgin coconut oil offers minor UV protection, eases sunburn, and accelerates healing with its anti-inflammatory benefits.
6. Anti-Inflammatory Effects on Skin
Regular coconut oil does not contain the amount of polyphenols we find in virgin coconut oil. This is the reason it helps reduce inflammatory responses better.
7. Hair Growth and Strengthening
Both oils make your hair healthier, but the hair growth and strengthening properties of Virgin coconut oil are better. It helps drive away any type of irritation and nourishes your scalp.
8. Gentleness for Sensitive Skin
We know the extraction method between the two oils is different, and Virgin coconut oil, being minimally processed, makes it a gentle choice for sensitive skin.
9. Natural Exfoliation for Skin
By softening dead skin cells, virgin coconut oil aids exfoliation, leaving skin smoother than regular coconut oil, which may offer less effective results.
10. Treatment for Dry, Damaged Hair
Lastly, virgin coconut oil helps repair damaged and dry hair with its intense moisture levels better, while regular coconut oil offers a basic moisturizing effect.
Which is Better: Coconut Oil Vs Virgin Coconut Oil?
In the end, we can say both the oils, refined and virgin coconut oil, have almost the same nutritional profile, but virgin coconut oil is more nourishing and is always a better choice. Just make sure the coconut oil vs. Virgin coconut oil choice comes down to your own skin, hair, or requirements.
Conclusion: Coconut Oil Vs Virgin Coconut Oil
In conclusion, the differences of Coconut oil and Virgin Coconut Oil basically lie in the extraction, aroma, taste, and retention. No matter which oil you choose, refined coconut oil or virgin coconut oil, you will reap the nourishing benefits of coconut either way. Just choose the one you believe will be better for your skin, hair, or health.
FAQs: Coconut Oil vs. Virgin Coconut Oil
Q. What’s the Best Way to Use Coconut Oil for Skincare?
Ans. One of the best ways to use coconut oil for skin care is to use it as a makeup remover or as a moisturizer.
Q. Can I Use Coconut Oil on My Face?
Ans. Yes, coconut oil is safe to use on your face. However, do a patch test if you have oily or sensitive skin.
Q. Can Coconut Oil Help with Sunburn?
Ans. Coconut oil hydrates and soothes the skin, so yes, it helps with sunburn.
Q. Should I Use Coconut Oil or Virgin Coconut Oil for Dry Skin?
Ans. If you have dry skin, then you should use virgin coconut oil, because it is less processed.
Q. Can Coconut Oil Help with Stretch Marks?
Ans. Coconut oil is highly emollient, so yes, it helps reduce stretch marks.
