Nariyal tel: coconut oil for skin and hair
Why coconut oil is India's favourite hair oil, what trials show for dry skin and childhood eczema, and when it is not the right choice.
1 min read · Updated 2026-11-14
India's hair oil
From Kerala to Kolkata, nariyal tel is the base of the weekly champi. Our guide to hair oiling covers the hair science in detail: a 2003 study found coconut oil, unlike mineral or sunflower oil, reduced protein loss from hair, probably because its lauric acid can enter the hair shaft.
Coconut oil on skin
In a 2014 double-blind trial in the Philippines, 117 children with mild to moderate eczema applied virgin coconut oil or mineral oil twice a day for eight weeks. Eczema severity fell by 68 per cent with coconut oil versus 38 per cent with mineral oil, and coconut oil also improved skin hydration and barrier measurements.
When it is not the best choice
- Acne-prone faces: coconut oil can clog pores.
- Coconut allergy: rare, but avoid if you react.
- Infant massage: ask your paediatrician; different oils suit different babies.
In Kart Naturals
Coconut is in Nourishing Secrets Hair Oil, Natural Styling Gel and Caring & Strengthening Hair Oil.
This guide is general information, not medical advice.
Questions
Is coconut oil good for the face?
It can clog pores in acne-prone skin. It suits dry skin and the body better than oily faces.
Virgin or refined?
Trials used virgin coconut oil. Refined oil is less fragrant but still a good emollient.
Is coconut oil safe for babies?
It has been used safely in studies, but talk to your paediatrician, especially if there is eczema or allergy in the family.
Sources
- Evangelista MT, Abad-Casintahan F, Lopez-Villafuerte L. The effect of topical virgin coconut oil on SCORAD index, transepidermal water loss, and skin capacitance in mild to moderate pediatric atopic dermatitis: a randomized, double-blind, clinical trial. Int J Dermatol 2014;53(1):100-108
- Rele AS, Mohile RB. Effect of mineral oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil on prevention of hair damage. J Cosmet Sci 2003;54(2):175-192
This guide is general information about traditional and natural care. It is not medical advice. For a skin, scalp or health condition, speak to a dermatologist or qualified practitioner.
