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| - Last Updated on January 7, 2025 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that drinking coconut water everyday can cure acne. We did the fact check to term this claim as false.
The Claim
We received a claim through our WhatsApp tip line number +91-85078 85079. According to the Instagram post, “Drinking coconut water once a day can naturally get rid of frizzy hair, reduce hair fall, cure acne, protect against skin infections, and make skin glowing and healthy.”
Fact Check
Can drinking coconut water cure acne?
No, it cannot. Coconut water has antimicrobial properties and antioxidants that may support skin health when consumed or applied topically. However, acne is a complex condition which can occur due to hormonal changes, excess oil production, and bacterial growth. Drinking coconut water alone cannot cure acne. Proper skincare, a balanced diet, and medical treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid are more effective.
We spoke with Dr Ekansh Shekhar, Dermatologist, Cosmetologist, Trichologist, and Aesthetic Medicine Consultant based in Lucknow, for his expert opinion on coconut water for acne. He says, “There is no evidence to suggest that drinking coconut water can cure acne. While it is hydrating and contains antioxidants, acne is a complex condition influenced by hormones, genetics, and skin care habits. Effective treatment often requires a combination of proper skincare, a balanced diet, and, in some cases, medical intervention.”
Does coconut water cure frizzy hair and reduce hair fall?
Not really. Coconut water is hydrating and contains nutrients like potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants. These can support overall health, but there is no scientific evidence to suggest that drinking coconut water directly reduces frizz or hair fall. Dryness or humidity primarily causes frizzy hair, so you need topical treatments like conditioners or oils to manage it effectively. Genetics, hormonal changes, or deficiencies often trigger hair fall, and drinking coconut water alone cannot solve these issues.
We checked with Dr Rashi Soni, Co-founder and Consulting Dermatologist at Rashi Hospital in Mumbai, for her perspective on drinking coconut water to combat frizzy hair and reduce hairfall. She says, “Drinking coconut water cannot directly reduce frizzy hair or prevent hair fall. Frizz is primarily managed with external hair care products, while hair fall often has deeper causes like genetics, stress, or nutritional deficiencies. Staying hydrated is beneficial, but coconut water alone is not a solution for these issues.”
Does coconut water protect against skin infections?
Unlikely. Coconut water has minor antimicrobial effects, but these are insufficient to protect against skin infections. Skin infections can be a result of fungi, bacteria, or viruses and require specific treatments such as antifungal or antibacterial creams. Drinking coconut water may support hydration, which is beneficial for skin health, but it is not a preventive or curative measure for infections.
Can coconut water make skin glowing and healthy?
Partially true. Coconut water is hydrating and full of vitamins and minerals that can support overall health, which might benefit your skin. Staying well-hydrated helps improve skin elasticity and appearance. However, healthy skin depends on many factors, such as a nutritious diet for glowing skin, good skincare habits, and overall health. Coconut water on its own won’t magically transform your skin.
What are effective ways to fight acne and achieve glowing, healthy skin?
To fight acne and achieve glowing, healthy skin, you need a combination of good skincare, a healthy diet, and consistent habits. Start by using a gentle cleanser to keep your skin clean and free from excess oil. Choose products with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide if you have breakouts. Moisturise daily, even if your skin is oily, to maintain balance.
Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can also support skin health. Avoid sugary and processed foods, as they may worsen acne for some people. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, which helps flush out toxins and keeps your skin looking fresh.
Don’t forget to protect your skin from the sun with sunscreen, as UV rays can cause damage and darken acne scars. Despite the proven effectiveness of sunscreen, some still claim that sunscreens are useless, which is not true. Moreover, avoid touching or picking at your skin, as this can spread bacteria and worsen acne. If acne persists, consult a dermatologist for personalised treatments such as medicated creams, chemical peels, or other professional options.
Consistency is key. Healthy skin takes time, so stick to your routine and focus on overall wellness for the best results.
THIP Media Take
The claim that drinking coconut water everyday can cure acne is false. While coconut water is hydrating and offers some nutritional benefits, it cannot directly cure acne, reduce frizzy hair, or protect against skin infections as claimed. These issues actually need targeted treatments and a holistic approach to health and skincare.
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