SKIN SOFTENER – Coconut oil is an intense moisturiser, soothing dry skin by coating it in a non-greasy layer of lightweight hydration. In fact, studies have shown it is a superior oil moisturiser, so apply liberally, rub it in, and enjoy super soft skin – with no oily residue.
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY PROPERTIES – Ingesting coconut oil has been praised for its ability to reduce inflammation within the body, but it can also work topically. If your skin is inflamed due to burn, rash, acne or an infection, apply some coconut oil. This will help your skin not only look healthier, but actually be healthier. Alternatively, you can actually ingest it to give your skin an all-around boost of anti-inflammatory agents that will help you glow from the inside out.
ANTIBACTERIAL BENEFITS – The lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic acid in coconut oil give it potent antibacterial properties. This helps protect your skin from pathogens that will eventually flourish into bacteria, causing acne and blemishes. To reap the rewards of this acne-fighting natural oil, simply apply coconut oil to your skin daily. You can use it as an exfoliant or a moisturiser. Either way, you’ll see the same blemish-busting results.
FIGHTS FUNGUS – Thank coconut oil’s anti-microbial functions for its ability to take on fungal infections. That’s right: coconut oil can actually inhibit the growth of potentially harmful micro-organisms that can wreak havoc on your skin. So if you have a yeast infection, eczema or ringworm, reach for your coconut oil for fast relief. Apply a little to the affected area, and let it do its work.
SCALP TREATMENT – A dry itchy scalp isn’t only annoying, but it’s unattractive. You want to itch, but when you do, you release a flurry of dandruff. What to do? You guessed it: grab your coconut oil. As an intense moisturiser and a fungus fighter, coconut oil provides a formidable scalp treatment that will condition and cleanse your skin, to leave your hair shiny and soft. To apply, simply heat a few tablespoons of coconut oil until it becomes liquid. (The exact amount of coconut oil needed will depend on the length of your hair.) DON’T allow the oil to boil! You just want it to melt. Next, rub the warm (not hot!) oil into your scalp, applying evenly. Wrap your head in a towel and let the goodness soak in for two hours. Shampoo and condition your hair as usual.
CHAPPED LIP RELIEF – Just like coconut oil can relieve dry skin, it can relieve dry lips. All you have to do is dab it on – and since it tastes good, you don’t have to worry about ingesting a little (or a lot!). Simply apply it as needed for refreshed, hydrated lips.
SUNBURN PREVENTION & TREATMENT – Most people don’t think of slathering on oil as a great way to prevent a sunburn. Oils can often cause people to get a burn. This is why it will probably come as a surprise that coconut oil can protect your skin from the sun thanks to a natural SPF of 4. Of course, this isn’t going to give the sort of protection most people need for prolonged sun exposure, but if you only need a mild SPF, then coconut oil is a great, safe option. Apply it to all exposed skin.
Already got a sunburn? Then get coconut oil, fast. Because coconut oil can help your skin repair itself, it is particularly useful for people who are suffering from sunburns. Not only are sunburns exceptionally painful, but they are itchy, can become infected, and can even leave permanent skin damage. Slather on a healthy dose of coconut oil and soak up the anti-inflammatory, skin rejuvenating properties.
STRETCH MARK MINIMIZATION – You’ve lost or gained weight. You’re pregnant or just had a baby. You’ve gone through a growth spurt. All these things can cause stretch marks, and while they are completely natural and harmless, many of us would prefer smoother looking skin. Fair enough. Apply coconut oil to your body regularly to diminish the appearance of stretch marks. If you are pregnant, apply it as baby grows to prevent stretch marks. Even add another oil like wheatgerm oil to make it a super boost to the skin
SHAVING PROTECTION – Moisturise your skin while getting a great shave by using coconut oil as your shaving lotion. In addition to getting softer, more hydrated skin, using coconut oil will also prevent razor burn and ingrown hairs – two of the most dreaded outcomes of shaving. Just rub it into your skin and shave away. That’s it!
ALL-AROUND BABY CARE – If you have a wee one at home, stock up on coconut oil. Coconut oil is hypoallergenic and super gentle on baby’s sensitive skin. Use it to combat a nasty case of diaper rash, massage it into baby’s scalp to treat cradle cap and rub it into baby’s skin for intense, delicate moisture. It doesn’t matter if baby ingests some: like breast milk, coconut oil has been shown to build a stronger, healthier immune system. Of course, you shouldn’t be feeding your wee one coconut oil if they are not eating solids yet, but if they happen to ingest some, it certainly won’t hurt.
BUG BE-GONE – Mix coconut oil with peppermint, rosemary, tea-tree or citronella essential oil for a natural and effective insect repellent. Not only will your skin enjoy an intense hit of hydration, but it will also enjoy an insect repellent free of harsh chemicals – harsh chemicals that can be absorbed into your system through the skin.
To concoct this DIY repellent, simply combine three teaspoons coconut oil with 3-4 drops of your essential oil of choice. Blend them together with a spoon, and apply to all exposed skin. You can make a big batch of this and store it in a cool, dry place.
SOOTHE CRACKED HEELS – If you have cracked heels, you know how painful they can be. Your skin actually splits, forming rough, deep crevices that bleed and are prone to infection. Cracked heels are caused by chronic skin dryness and exposure to the elements, particularly the cold. They can also be the result of fungal infections, psoriasis, hypothyroidism, vitamin deficiencies, obesity and thickening of the skin on the heel due to palmoplantar keratoderma.
Heal your cracked heels fast with coconut oil. Part of what makes it so powerful is its low molecular weight and ability to bond well with your skin’s proteins. This means coconut oil can penetrate your epidermis more effectively than most products, so use coconut oil or products containing it for the ultimate skin repair treatment and moisturiser.
For best results, blend with some shea butter and apply it liberally before bed at night. Put on a pair of socks so you don’t smear the oil all over your bed linen – and so the oil stays in place. You can also use this same treatment for cracked fingertips or palms.
UNDERARM CARE – Show your armpits some TLC with a liberal dose of coconut oil. You can use it to exfoliate the area and prevent ingrown hairs, and its antifungal and antibacterial properties also make it a wonderful natural deodorant. Use it on its own, or make your own deodorant by combining coconut oil (⅓ cup), baking soda (2 tbsp), arrowroot powder (1/3 cup) and a few drops of your essential oil of choice. Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl until creamy. Store in a jar and apply it to your underarms as needed. Simple as that!
HEAL CUTS – Since coconut oil helps your skin repair faster and more effectively, it is the perfect topical treatment for minor cuts. Combine this with its antifungal and antibacterial power, and you’ve got an all-in-one treatment to help heal your skin, prevent infections and reduce the likelihood of scarring. Simply apply coconut oil to the cut and cover it to keep the wound clean.
SKIN DETOX – The super strength of coconut oil’s antioxidants has been thoroughly researched and well documented. Tap into this power to detox your entire body. You can ingest it to detox from within, or add it to your bath in combination with some Epsom or Himalayan salts to soak in the antioxidants from the outside. Your skin will be the visible evidence of the detoxifying power of coconut oil, both feeling and looking smoother, softer and refreshed.
WE DO NOT RECOMMEND USING COCONUT OIL FOR FACE SKIN CARE – UNDER THE MICROSCOPE WE CAN SEE THE SEPARATION OF THE LAYERS WHEN YOU USE AND OIL ONLY – KEEP IT ON YOUR BODY. Your skin is a mix of oil and water and by apply just oil you upset the delicate balance of the skin barrier.
