A newborn's skin is still developing. It's thinner, more permeable, and continues to build its protective barrier during the first months of life.

That means what you put on your baby's skin can be absorbed rather than simply sitting on the surface. In a 2005 study published in Indian Pediatrics, researchers found that topical oil massage in newborns was associated with changes in blood fatty-acid profiles corresponding to the type of oil used.

So, Why Coconut Oil?

Nearly 50% of virgin coconut oil is made up of lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid. Lauric acid is also naturally present in human breast milk.

Research on skin penetration has found that lauric acid can enhance the movement of substances through the skin's outer layer, making its behaviour on skin particularly interesting.

Why Coconut Milk Oil?

Our Coconut Milk Oil is made from fresh coconut milk, rather than dried copra. It is cold-pressed and centrifuged to separate the oil, without a drying stage.

So when you're choosing an oil for your baby's massage, it's worth looking beyond the label and asking: what is actually in the bottle, and how was it made?

Before You Massage Your Baby

✓ Choose a virgin, cold-pressed coconut oil
✓ Patch test a small area and wait 24 hours
✓ Avoid use if your baby has a known coconut allergy
✓ If your baby has eczema, very sensitive skin, or was born prematurely, speak to your paediatrician before introducing a new oil.

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always patch test the oil. Avoid use if your baby has a known coconut allergy. Consult your paediatrician before introducing any new oil to your baby's skincare routine.

Sources

Choi EH. Skin Barrier Function in Neonates and Infants. Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Research. 2025;17(1):32–46. DOI: 10.4168/aair.2025.17.1.32.

Solanki K, et al. Transcutaneous Absorption of Topically Massaged Oil in Neonates. Indian Pediatrics. 2005;42:998–1005.

Fernandez A, et al. Oil Application in Preterm Babies — A Source of Warmth and Nutrition. Indian Pediatrics. 1987;24:1111–1116.