Why coconut oil is still the ultimate beauty hero in Indian homes
Handed down through generations, coconut oil is a time-tested elixir for balance, healing, and daily care.
Long before the world caught on to clean, minimalist skincare, beauty shelves in Indian households were lined with a multi-tasking golden elixir: coconut oil. Whether it your grandmother used it with fenugreek seeds for a soothing pre-shampoo champi or your mother rubbed it onto chapped elbows and knees, coconut oil has always quietly done the heavy lifting. And even today, while glossy serums and high-tech formulas fight for space in our beauty routines, this humble elixir continues to hold its ground—quietly powerful, deeply nourishing, and ever-reliable.
A legacy rooted in culture
In India, the coconut palm is so revered that it’s named kalpavriksha in Sanskrit, which loosely translates to “the tree of life”. Ancient texts like the Ramayana and Mahabharata often refer to it as sriphala, or “the god’s fruit”, Thus, the fruit, in one form or the other, forms a part of various celebrations and auspicious events—from weddings and worship rituals, to housewarmings.
The oil, extracted from the dried kernel has, over time, become a household staple used in cooking, healing, and, of course, beautifying. Coconut oil has a rich history in wellness, especially in Ayurveda. The ancient Indian system of medicine has long praised coconut oil for its cooling and calming energy, especially its role in balancing Pitta dosha. Another case in point is, Abhyanga—an Ayurvedic oil massage that’s meant to reduce stress, boost circulation, and ground the body. Even nabhi chikitsa (navel therapy), where oil is gently massaged into the belly button, was part of the beauty-meets-healing traditions we didn’t think twice about as kids. Coconut oil was always there—warm, familiar, and soothing. Every weekend oiling session, every homemade remedy for a rash or dry patch, was more than just a routine—it was a ritual. Passed down from grandmothers to mothers to daughters, these moments carried not just care, but legacy.
How coconut oil fits into modern beauty routines
Despite the rise of 10-step routines and high-performance actives, coconut oil continues to be a go-to for many. Why? Because it works. And sometimes, old-school is just better.
Natural makeup remover
Turns out, your grandmother’s makeup removal trick still holds up. “Coconut oil is excellent at breaking down makeup owing to its rich lipid content,” says Mumbai-based cosmetic dermatologist, Dr Jaishree Sharad. “It also leaves the skin soft and hydrated, which is especially helpful for those with dry or sensitive skin,” she adds.
Just massage a small amount all over your face, gently working it into your lashes and lips, then wipe clean with a warm towel. Follow it up with your regular face wash for a clean (but not stripped) finish.
Barrier-boosting and sun-soothing
Dry skin? Irritated barrier? Got a little too much sun at that beach picnic? Coconut oil might just be the comforting fix you need. “It can calm redness and irritation, protect against dryness, and even help with conditions like eczema,” shares Dr Sharad. That’s thanks to its high lauric acid content, which is both antibacterial and anti-inflammatory.
Pro tip: Try it as a body oil before your shower or make your own scrub by mixing it with crushed brown sugar and a few drops of your favourite essential oil. It’ll leave your skin soft, smooth, and smelling divine.
A few notes of caution
As nourishing as coconut oil is, it’s not a one-size-fits-all miracle. “Coconut oil is highly comedogenic—it ranks four out of five on the comedogenic scale,” Dr Sharad points out. “That means it can clog pores and worsen breakouts for those with acne-prone skin.” Her advice? Avoid using it as a facial oil if you’re breakout-prone and save it for areas that need extra love, like your arms, legs, or as a deep-conditioning pre-shampoo mask.
Also, be mindful not to leave oil sitting in your hair or on your back for too long. “Oils form an occlusive layer on the skin, which may aggravate acne or even cause folliculitis,” warns Dr Sharad. She also flags Mudichood dermatitis—a rash often triggered when oil from the scalp trickles onto the neck and back. Like with most good things, moderation and method are key.
The nostalgic magic of coconut oil
More than anything, coconut oil is a feeling. It’s the scent of Sundays spent sitting cross-legged on the floor while your mum worked her way through your knots. It’s the comfort of knowing there’s a simple, natural fix in your cabinet when your skin throws a tantrum. “I am not really an oil person,” admits Dr Sharad, “but I do remember my mom warming it with methi seeds for our weekly champi. She swore it would nourish our hair.”
It’s that kind of memory that makes coconut oil so special—it’s not just a product, it’s a part of who we are.
From the kitchens of our grandmothers to the beauty bags of Gen Z, coconut oil continues to evolve without losing its soul. In a world obsessed with overnight fixes and the next big thing, its quiet confidence is a reminder that sometimes, the most powerful beauty staples are the ones that have always been there. Not flashy, not trendy—just timeless.
Lead image: Getty
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