Benefits of Coconut Oil

 Coconut oil is everywhere right now. You don’t know whether to eat it, drink it, or bathe in it. Are you going cuckoo for coconut oil? Let us help break it down for you in simple terms so that you can try these great uses for coconut oil tonight!

Note: For any at-home treatment the best kind to use is certified organic, RAW, virgin coconut oil and stored at room temperature. You don’t want to use any coconut oil that has been extracted with heat or refined in any way because that strips the oil of its powerful antioxidants and healing properties.

Hair Care

Oil Treatment

Coconut oil can work wonders for dry, damaged, and frizzy hair. Its fatty acids soften hair. The best way to apply it is to rub a small amount between your hands, so you’re moisturizing them at the same time. Then, apply it to your hair from roots to ends, one section at a time, and comb through. The longer you can leave it in the better! Wrap your hair in a towel for at least 15 minutes and then follow with a gentle shampoo. If you are feeling extremely bold, consider sleeping with it and shampooing in the morning.

Dandruff Treatment

Dandruff and dry scalp go hand in hand. So send moisture right to the roots with a nightly coconut oil treatment. Just apply lightly to roots and massage in, which will also stimulate hair growth. Leave in for a few minutes, then shampoo.

Frizz Tamer

This is one of the most popular coconut oil beauty uses because its natural oils repel water and prevent frizz. Smooth a tiny amount of coconut oil onto the ends of your hair to add a little shine, or lightly coat over the top of your hair, smoothing loose strands. Remember that a little goes a long way.

Oral Care

Coconut oil has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. Gargling and swishing (about a tablespoon amount) for 20 minutes with a spoonful of oil (a.k.a. oil pulling) can help clear up germs in the mouth and plaque, which can lead to fresher breath, whiter teeth, healthier gums, and can even help prevent tooth decay.

Skin Care

Eye Makeup Remover

Yes, coconut oil even works on waterproof mascara! Put a little on a cotton ball and gently sweep it over your eyes, paying attention to your under-eyes as well. The oil does a great job breaking down waxy, inky eye makeup, and leaves the delicate area hydrated too. Once you’re done, wash your face as usual.

Cheekbone Highlighter

Nothing perks up a tired face like a little highlighter. Simply sweep a small amount of coconut oil on top of your makeup. It gives your skin a glowing, dewy look. You can dab directly on the inner corners of the eye and on the apples of the cheeks for a fresh-faced look.

Night Cream

Although coconut oil can be used alone as a moisturizer, I always recommend cleansing the skin and applying a serum that penetrates the skin. Coconut oil can be mixed in with your favorite moisturizer because the fatty acids help reinforce the skin’s natural lipid barrier. This process helps lock in moisture, promoting hydration, while the antioxidants are great for smoothing fine lines and wrinkles.

Lip Balm

Coconut oil is the ideal remedy for chapped lips because it’s semisolid at room temperature. Pack a bit in a miniature jar and smooth over lips throughout the day.

Shaving Balm

Due to the lubricating nature of coconut oil, it makes for a great shaving balm. Conventional shaving cream is an expensive cocktail of chemicals that you don’t need to get a nice clean shave on your legs or underarms. As an alternative, coconut oil is inexpensive, naturally antimicrobial, and smells divine. Plus, its skin-soothing properties will leave your legs looking hydrated (but never greasy)!

Miscellaneous

Coconut oil provides so many benefits for the skin. It can promote faster healing for wounds, provide comfort for burns, and even increase hydration and reduce water loss in dehydrated skin.

DIY Beauty Products

Just finished making breakfast for the kids and don’t have time to get to the spa? Here are some quick and easy DIY uses for coconut oil that will leave you soft, smooth, and feeling pampered!

Body Scrub

• Heat 1/2 cup of coconut oil on very low heat. Remove from heat, then add 1 cup of brown sugar. (If you want a scrub that will stimulate the muscles and detoxify the body, substitute for 1 cup of coffee grounds.) Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil.

Healing and Hydrating Face Mask

• Combine 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Apply directly to dry, clean face and neck. Let mask set for 15-20 minutes. Then remove with a warm washcloth.

Anti-Aging Body Lotion

• Mix 1/2 cup of coconut oil, 1 cup shea butter, and a few drops of vanilla extract.