toothpaste with coconut oil

Does Coconut Oil Whiten Teeth? Expert Answers and Advice

Coconut oil has been gaining popularity as a natural remedy for various health conditions, including teeth whitening. But does coconut oil whiten teeth? In this article, we’ll explore the science behind coconut oil and its effectiveness as a teeth whitener, along with tips on how to use it and comparisons to other teeth whitening methods.

Does coconut oil whiten teeth?

The short answer is: probably not.

There is some limited evidence to suggest that coconut oil may have a beneficial effect on oral health, such as reducing plaque and gingivitis. However, there is no clear evidence that coconut oil whitens teeth.

One study, published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research in 2015, found that oil pulling with coconut oil was effective in reducing plaque and gingivitis. However, the study did not measure the effect of oil pulling on teeth whitening.

Another study, published in the Journal of the Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry in 2017, found that oil pulling with coconut oil was effective in reducing plaque and calculus formation. The study also found that oil pulling improved the color of teeth, but the results were not statistically significant.

In fact, coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties that help reduce bacteria in the mouth. Bacteria in the mouth can cause plaque buildup, which can lead to discoloration of the teeth. By reducing the amount of bacteria in the mouth, coconut oil may help prevent discoloration and contribute to overall oral health.

Overall, the evidence on whether coconut oil whitens teeth is mixed. More research is needed to determine whether oil pulling with coconut oil is an effective method for teeth whitening

How to Use Coconut Oil in oral care routine

Coconut oil can be a beneficial addition to your oral care routine due to its potential antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Here’s how to use coconut oil in your oral care routine:

Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is a traditional oral hygiene practice that involves swishing oil in your mouth to promote oral health. To do this with coconut oil:

  • Take a tablespoon of organic, unrefined coconut oil.
  • Swish the oil around your mouth for about 15-20 minutes. Be gentle, and avoid swallowing the oil.
  • Spit the oil into a trash can (not the sink, as it can clog pipes), and rinse your mouth with warm water.
  • Follow with your regular tooth brushing routine.

Toothpaste

You can make your own coconut oil toothpaste or purchase commercial toothpaste that contains coconut oil as one of its ingredients. To make a simple homemade toothpaste:

  • Mix 2 tablespoons of coconut oil with 2 tablespoons of baking soda.
  • Add a few drops of peppermint or tea tree essential oil for flavor and added antibacterial properties.
  • Use this mixture as you would regular toothpaste.

Mouthwash

Coconut oil can be used as a mouthwash to help freshen breath and combat bacteria. To create a coconut oil mouthwash:

  • Mix 1-2 tablespoons of coconut oil with warm water.
  • Swish the mixture in your mouth for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  • Spit it out and rinse your mouth with water.

Oil Blending

You can combine coconut oil with other oral care ingredients, such as baking soda or activated charcoal, to create a customized oral care product. These combinations can help with overall oral hygiene

How to whiten teeth at home

Whitening Toothpaste

Choose a toothpaste that is specifically formulated for teeth whitening. These toothpaste products often contain mild abrasives and peroxide to help remove surface stains.

Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide

Create a paste by mixing baking soda with hydrogen peroxide (3%). Brush your teeth with this paste gently for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Do this sparingly, as excessive use can damage enamel.

Activated Charcoal

Some people use activated charcoal powder to whiten teeth. Dip a wet toothbrush into the charcoal powder, brush for a few minutes, and then rinse thoroughly. Be cautious with charcoal, as it can be abrasive and should not be used daily.

Oil Pulling

As mentioned earlier, oil pulling with coconut oil can help remove bacteria and stains from teeth. Swish the oil in your mouth for about 15-20 minutes before spitting it out.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Gargling with a mixture of water and apple cider vinegar can help remove stains. However, use it sparingly, as its acidic and frequent use can erode tooth enamel.

Dietary Changes

Limit foods and beverages that can stain teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and berries. Drinking through a straw can also minimize contact with teeth.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential for maintaining white teeth. Plaque buildup can contribute to staining, so keeping your teeth clean is crucial.

Professional At-Home Kits

Some dental professionals offer at-home whitening kits that are custom-made for your teeth. These kits typically include customized trays and a professional-grade whitening gel

Final Takeaway

Coconut oil has gained popularity in the oral care industry, but it falls short as an efficient teeth-whitening solution. However, if your primary focus is on maintaining a gentle and consistent oral care routine, incorporating coconut oil can still be a valuable addition if it encourages you to give your dental health the attention it deserves.

what is vegetable glycerin & how to use it in skincare routine

Vegetable glycerin, also known as glycerol or VG, is a colorless and odorless liquid that is derived from plants. This versatile and natural substance has a myriad of uses in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries, and it has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its health benefits and environmentally friendly properties. 

In this article, we will answer the question of what vegetable glycerin is, how it is used, and why it is so beneficial.

What is Vegetable Glycerin?

Vegetable glycerin is a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid that is derived from vegetable oils, such as palm oil, coconut oil, and soybean oil. It is a viscous and sweet-tasting liquid that is commonly used as a food additive, preservative, and humectant (a substance that helps retain moisture). Glycerin is also a natural byproduct of the soap-making process, where it is produced when fats are broken down into their component parts.

Glycerin is unique in that it is both a water-soluble and oil-soluble compound, meaning that it can dissolve in both water and oil-based substances. This makes it an ideal ingredient for a wide range of applications, from moisturizing creams and lotions to soap and shampoo formulations.

What is Vegetable Glycerin Used for?

Vegetable glycerin is used in a variety of ways, both in commercial products and as a standalone ingredient. Here are some of the most common uses of vegetable glycerin:

Food and Beverages

Vegetable glycerin is commonly used as a sweetener and preservative in a variety of foods and beverages, including:

  • Baked goods
  • Chewing gum
  • Ice cream
  • Soft drinks
  • Wine and beer

Because vegetable glycerin is a natural ingredient that is derived from plants, it is often used as an alternative to artificial sweeteners like high-fructose corn syrup or aspartame.

Cosmetics and Personal Care Products

Vegetable glycerin is a popular ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products due to its moisturizing properties. It is often used in products such as:

  • Moisturizing creams and lotions
  • Lip balms
  • Shampoos and conditioners
  • Soaps and body washes

Because vegetable glycerin is a humectant, it helps to draw moisture to the skin, keeping it hydrated and soft.

Pharmaceutical and Medical Products

Vegetable glycerin has several medicinal properties that make it useful in pharmaceutical and medical products, including:

  • Cough syrups and expectorants
  • Suppositories and enemas
  • Toothpaste and mouthwash

Additionally, vegetable glycerin is sometimes used as a carrier for medicine and herbal remedies, as it can help to facilitate the absorption of these substances into the body.

Benefits of vegetable glycerin for skin

Vegetable glycerin is a versatile and effective ingredient that can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions,” said Dr. Joshua Zeichner, a dermatologist based in New York City. As you know, vegetable glycerin functions as a humectant, attracting moisture into the skin and retaining it. This property is highly beneficial for enhancing the skin’s barrier function and overall skin health.

  • Hydrates and moisturizes the skin and hair: Vegetable glycerin can help to draw water into the skin and hair, which can help to keep them hydrated and moisturized. This is especially beneficial for people with dry, flaky skin or dry, brittle hair.
  • Improves skin barrier function: Vegetable glycerin can help to strengthen the skin barrier, which can help to protect the skin from environmental toxins and irritants. This can be especially helpful for people with sensitive skin or skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
  • Reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines: According to a 2021 study published in the journal “Skin Pharmacology and Physiology”: vegetable glycerin can help to improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. The study found that vegetable glycerin helped to plump up the skin and increase collagen production. This is because it helps to increase the production of collagen and elastin, which are proteins that give the skin its structure and elasticity.
  • Soothes irritated skin: Vegetable glycerin has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe irritated skin. This can be helpful for people with skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, or for people who have irritated skin from shaving or waxing.

potential side effects of vegetable glycerin

Vegetable glycerin, while widely used in skincare and various products, can trigger several potential concerns. Skin irritation is a common issue, particularly for individuals with sensitive skin, often manifesting as redness, itching, and a burning sensation. Additionally, as a sugar alcohol, vegetable glycerin may not be completely digested by the body, potentially leading to digestive problems such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea in some individuals. 

Allergic reactions are possible, with symptoms ranging from hives and swelling to more severe manifestations like difficulty breathing and anaphylaxis. It’s essential to be aware of these potential reactions and seek medical attention if any adverse symptoms arise after using products containing vegetable glycerin.

How to Use Vegetable Glycerin in your skincare routine

Add it to your moisturizer

Vegetable glycerin can help to hydrate and plump up the skin, making it a great addition to your daily moisturizer. To add vegetable glycerin to your moisturizer, simply mix a few drops with your regular moisturizer and apply it to your skin.

Use it as a toner

Balance your skin’s pH and eliminate residual dirt and oil by preparing a toner with equal parts vegetable glycerin and water. Spray this mixture onto your face after cleansing and gently pat it dry.

Make a face mask

Formulate a simple DIY face mask by combining one part vegetable glycerin with two parts water. Apply this mixture to your face, leave it on for 15-20 minutes, and then rinse it off. You can also add other ingredients to your face mask, such as honey, oatmeal, or yogurt.

Add it to your bath

Vegetable glycerin can also be added to your bath to help hydrate and soften your skin. To add vegetable glycerin to your bath, simply add a few drops to the running water.

FAQs

  1. What is the difference between vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol? Propylene glycol is a synthetic compound that is often used as a humectant in cosmetic and personal care products. While it shares some similarities with vegetable glycerin, propylene glycol is derived from petroleum and can be potentially harmful when ingested or applied topically. Vegetable glycerin, on the other hand, is a natural and safe alternative to propylene glycol.
  2. Is vegetable glycerin safe to consume? Yes, vegetable glycerin is safe to consume in moderation. It is often used as a food additive and sweetener, and it has no known negative side effects when consumed in reasonable amounts.
  3. Can vegetable glycerin be used on sensitive skin? Yes, vegetable glycerin is gentle and non-irritating, making it an ideal ingredient for those with sensitive skin. It can help to soothe dry or irritated skin without causing any adverse reactions.
  4. Can vegetable glycerin be used as a substitute for alcohol-based extracts? Yes, vegetable glycerin can be used as a substitute for alcohol-based extracts in certain applications. It can help to extract the beneficial compounds from herbs or other plant materials without the harshness or drying effects of alcohol.
  5. Does vegetable glycerin have a shelf life? Yes, vegetable glycerin has a shelf life of approximately two years if stored properly in a cool, dry place.