Coconut provides enormous natural benefits for your hair and skin
By incorporating coconut oil into your beauty routine, you can reap enormous benefits for your skin and hair. Many commercial face washes or soaps are harsh or drying and may actually be doing your skin more harm than good. Additionally, many shampoos contain ingredients that have been proven to damage your hair.
By using coconut oil in lieu of these products you can keep your skin and hair moisturized and clean in a natural way. From makeup remover to shaving cream, coconut oil can be used to give your beauty routine a healthy boost.
SPOT TREATMENT
Coconut oil consists of a number of medium-chain fatty acids such as lauric, capric, caproic, and caprylic acids. Each of these have strong antimicrobial effects and have been found to kill Propionibacterium acnes, which is one of the causes of acne. By applying coconut oil directly to the skin, its antibacterial properties can kill P. acnes as well as other bacteria that cause acne. Additionally, coconut oil can moisturize the skin; keeping the skin adequately moisturized will aide its ability to fight infection and heal, as well as prevent scarring.
While there are many benefits of applying coconut oil to your skin, it may not work for everyone. People with oily skin in particular may not benefit from applying coconut oil to their face, as coconut oil can clog pores. When applying coconut oil to your face, use a very thin layer. Additionally, if you like the process of using coconut oil on your skin but don’t want it to clog your pores, you can apply it normally and then use a warm washcloth to gently wipe the excess oil off of your face.
MAKEUP REMOVER
Coconut oil can be used as a gentle, additive-free makeup remover that can handle everything from full-face foundation to waterproof mascara. Warm some coconut oil with your hands and gently rub into your skin in a circular motion. Use a cotton pad or round to remove the coconut oil and makeup with it. Repeat as needed and rinse once your makeup is removed.
HAIR CONDITIONER
Use coconut oil as a deep conditioner to give your hair the extra moisture it needs. Rub coconut oil into the ends of damp hair and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. For a more intense moisturizing effect, apply the coconut oil onto dry hair. Wash and style your hair as usual.
Tip: When applying the coconut oil, focus on the ends, as prolonged contact of the oil with your roots can make your hair greasy.
MASSAGE OIL
Coconut oil makes a wonderful massage oil due to its ability to penetrate skin and provide vitamin E. Coconut oil is easy to warm with your hands to make it the perfect consistency for a massage.
PERSONAL LUBRICANT
Coconut oil can be used as a personal lubricant as it contains no parabens, petroleum, glycerin, or other harmful additives. It is important to note, however, that coconut oil degrades latex, so is not safe to use with latex condoms or other products.
Tip: If you are planning on using any products that are made of latex, an organic water-based personal lubricant is a safer choice.
MINIMIZE STRETCH MARKS
Stretch marks are scars that result from skin stretching too quickly or beyond its elastic capabilities and occur in men and women alike. While stretch marks are a natural and common experience, some people wish to prevent their occurrence and minimize their existing stretch marks. Coconut oil is an easy way to do that as it contains high levels of vitamin E, which can help repair damaged skin and keep the skin moisturized, reducing the production of more stretch marks.
While stretch marks are scars that cannot be eliminated through any topical means, the regular use of coconut oil can dramatically reduce the appearance of stretch marks as well as function as a preventative measure for further scarring.
ELIMINATE LICE
Lice are tiny parasites that invade hair shafts on the scalp and body. They are irritating to endure, difficult to remove, and are commonly a problem among children, although anyone is susceptible. Head lice reproduce very quickly, making it very difficult to eliminate the parasites. Many shampoos sold for the elimination of lice contain harmful ingredients. For a healthier approach, try these recipes.
Lice Removal
Combine 1 teaspoon tea tree oil, 1 ounce child-friendly shampoo, and 3 tablespoons coconut oil. Apply the solution liberally throughout hair and onto scalp. Cover head with a shower cap and leave covered for at least 30 minutes. Rinse hair thoroughly with the hottest water you can tolerate. While hair is still wet, use a fine-toothed comb to remove any dead lice.
Tip: Tea tree oil is a natural insecticide. By combining tea tree oil with coconut oil you can make an efficient lice remover.
Overnight Lice Removal
Rinse hair thoroughly with apple cider vinegar and allow it to dry. Follow up by completely saturating the hair and scalp with coconut oil. Cover head and hair with a shower cap and leave it on overnight, or at least 6 to 8 hours. Once time has passed, comb through hair and shampoo as usual. Repeat this process daily for 1 week to eradicate lice naturally.
Tip: Coconut oil will stop lice from moving and reproducing due to its lubricating nature.
CLEAN MAKEUP BRUSHES
Keeping your makeup brushes clean is very important as dirty makeup brushes are a breeding ground for bacteria. Additionally, dirty brushes become dry and abrasive, meaning they are likely to irritate your skin. Regularly washing your makeup brushes ensures that your brushes maintain their quality for longer. To make a DIY brush cleanser, combine 2 parts antibacterial soap and 1 part coconut oil. Simply apply the mixture to the brush you are cleaning and rub the bristles in a circular motion against your palm or a brush cleaning pad, then rinse with warm water. Repeat this process until the water runs clear and wring any excess water from the brush. To maintain their proper shape and to avoid damaging the handle of your brush, hang the brush upside down until completely dry.
LIP BALM
Chapped and cracked lips can be annoying, painful, and unsightly. Many commercial sticks can actually worsen dry lips. For a natural solution, simply apply coconut oil to your lips regularly and be sure to drink plenty of water. For a convenient portable solution, just pack some coconut oil into a small jar or tin and apply to your lips throughout the day.
BODY SCRUB
Follow these simple recipes to create a moisturizing, exfoliating body scrub. You’ll save money by opting for these scrubs over store-bought alternatives and you’ll benefit your body and the environment by using natural ingredients stored in reusable containers. Gently scrub your body with the mixture in the shower and rinse to reveal smooth, moisturized skin.
VERSATILE BODY SCRUB
Combine 1/4–1/2 cup granulated sugar with 1/2 cup coconut oil. The amount of sugar will depend on how coarse you want your scrub to be and the type of sugar will determine the same: the larger the crystal, the more exfoliating the scrub. For a natural citrus scent, add 1 tablespoon citrus fruit zest. Depending on your preference, you can use lemon, grapefruit, lime, or orange. If you add citrus to your scrub, do not apply to your face, as it may irritate your skin and eyes.
Note: Be sure not to heat the coconut oil before combining ingredients, as it will melt the sugar.
HAND SCRUB
Combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar with 1/4 cup coconut oil and mix thoroughly. This ration of sugar to coconut oil provides a much higher level of exfoliation and is therefore perfect for your hands. Try adding citrus zest or essential oils to your preference.
Note: Adding essential oils to your scrub will ensure a longer shelf life than if you were to add citrus zest.
SALT SCRUB
Combine 2 cups coconut oil with 1 cup Epsom salt and stir. Add essential oils or citrus zest to your preference to add scent. Store in a lidded jar.
Warning: Be careful when using any of these body scrubs in the shower as the coconut oil may leave your tub slippery. Particular care should be taken when applied to your feet.
LIP SCRUB
Combine 1 teaspoon coconut oil, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1 tablespoon honey in a small bowl. Apply to the lips with a finger and gently rub in a circular motion to exfoliate any dead skin. This lip scrub can be made at need or you can make a larger amount and store it in a small jar or container. Try adding 1–2 drops of peppermint essential oil for a tingling sensation.
SHAVING CREAM
Many commercial shaving creams can dry your skin as you shave. Switch your old shaving cream out for your own coconut oil shaving cream for smooth, moisturized skin.
Coconut Oil Shaving Cream
3/4 cup grated shea butter soap
1/4 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup aloe vera gel
1/4 cup witch hazel
Tip: Be sure to use a witch hazel that does not contain alcohol.
Grate shea butter soap. Combine grated soap, coconut oil, and witch hazel into a small heat-safe bowl and place it in a saucepan or pot of water to create a double boiler. Heat the pan on a low flame until the soap melts, stirring occasionally. Once the mixture has been thoroughly combined, carefully remove from the heat and add the aloe vera gel. You can add a few drops of your favorite essential oils at this stage if you wish. Combine the mixture well by hand or with an immersion blender. Once the mixture is room temperature, mix again to create a creamy consistency. Store your new shaving cream in a reusable squeeze tube or a lidded jar or container and apply with your fingers.
TREAT DANDRUFF
Often times, dandruff is the result of a dry scalp. Get right to the source of the problem by moisturizing your scalp nightly with coconut oil. Apply a light amount of coconut oil to your roots and gently massage, efficiently applying the oil and stimulating hair growth. Rinse after at least 1 hour or let sit overnight, then shampoo hair as usual.
Tip: If your hair gets too greasy from the coconut oil, reduce the frequency of this treatment.
TAME FRIZZ
If you have frizzy hair, simply warm a dime-sized amount of coconut oil in your palms and smooth the ends of your hair to eliminate frizz and amplify shine. Be sure to rub the coconut oil over your entire hand to avoid any uneven coconut oil application.
CRACKED CUTICLES
Just as coconut oil can remedy cracked lips, it can do wonders for your cuticles. Apply coconut oil directly to the base of your nails to counter peeling skin and keep your nails healthy.
DEEP CONDITION
For healthy hair and ends, take a generous amount of coconut oil and warm it in your hands before applying it to your hair. Finger-comb the oil through dry hair for a pre-shower treatment and let it sit for at least 1 hour before shampooing and conditioning as usual.
BODY OIL
After a shower, apply a light layer of coconut oil to your skin for a moisturizing bonus and pat dry.
REDUCE ACNE
As coconut water possesses antibacterial properties, it can be used to combat acne. Make a natural toner by combining 1/2 cup coconut water with 1 teaspoon honey. Soak a cotton ball or round in the mixture and dab onto a clean, dry face. Let it sit for 10 minutes and gently wipe it away with a damp washcloth. Honey also possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties; the combination of honey and coconut water can reduce swelling and soothe your skin.
Coconut milk contains high levels of iron, sodium, selenium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, as well as vitamins B1, B3, B5, B6, C, and E. Your hair and skin both need many of these vitamins and nutrients to stay healthy and coconut milk can provide a solution.
STIMULATE HAIR GROWTH
Coconut water contains nutrients that can help your hair grow. As a lack of certain nutrients can stunt hair growth or cause hair to fall out, coconut water could be the natural solution to your hair problems. Simply massage 1/2 cup coconut water into your scalp regularly to aid hair growth. Massage the coconut water into your scalp with your fingers and let it sit overnight. In the morning, shampoo as normal. You can use this method up to every other day.
RESTORE DAMAGED HAIR
Coconut milk can be used as a tonic for an itchy, dry, and irritated scalp due to its excellent moisturising properties. Apply coconut milk to your scalp and massage gently for at least 5 minutes or so. Follow this process with a hot towel for a nourishing effect. This method is particularly beneficial for restoring dry, brittle, and damaged hair and split ends.
CONDITION YOUR HAIR
Combine coconut milk with your regular shampoo in an equal-parts mixture to condition your hair while you clean it. Additionally, you can use coconut milk as a leave-in conditioner, which will add volume to your hair and make it less greasy.
MAKEUP REMOVER
To make a gentle makeup remover, combine 2 parts olive oil with 1 part coconut milk. Using a cotton pad or round, apply the mixture to your face and gently wipe your makeup away. Not only will it effortlessly remove your makeup, but it will leave your skin deeply nourished.
LEAVE-IN CONDITIONER
Coconut milk can be used to restore and detangle hair while promoting growth. Store coconut milk in a spray bottle and spray the ends of your hair to help brushing.
ACNE PREVENTION
The antibacterial properties of coconut milk make it a good natural cleanser for those with oily and acne prone skin. The fats in coconut milk do not clog pores, lowering the possibility of a breakout.
MOISTURIZE THE SKIN
Coconut milk has soothing properties, making it a great moisturizer. Apply coconut milk directly onto the skin and rub it in for 20–30 minutes to promote healthy skin and combat dryness. To add a moisturizing element to your bath, add 1 cup coconut milk to the water. Soak for about 15 minutes to help restore dry skin.
TREAT SKIN TROUBLE
The fatty acids in coconut milk can help treat dry and irritated skin caused by skin complains such as eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. Additionally, the antibacterial properties of coconut milk may help remove harmful bacteria.
BODY SCRUB
In a coffee grinder or food processor, grind 1/2 cup dry rice. Combine rice with 1/2 cup coconut milk, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 11/2 tablespoons grated ginger in a small bowl. Stir until you have a thick, evenly-mixed paste. Apply this mixture over your entire body, rubbing in circular motions to exfoliate the skin. Rinse the mixture off in the shower to reveal moisturized skin.
PIÑA COLADA AGE SPOT MASK
Pineapple is a good choice for battling age spots and blotches; its high levels of vitamin C and the enzyme bromelain make it excellent for your skin. In a blender, combine 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple with 1 tablespoon coconut milk and blend until smooth. Spread a thin layer of the mixture over clean, dry skin and let it sit for 5–10 minutes. Rinse with warm water and pat your face dry with a soft towel. The enzyme bromelain is a natural exfoliator, so be sure not to use this mask more than once a week.
BODY WASH
In a clean, empty bottle, combine 1/4 cup coconut milk with 1/2 cup liquid castile soap. Shake well to mix thoroughly. For best results, shake before each use. This natural, moisturizing body wash can also be used as face wash or shampoo.
MILK BATH SOAK
Combine 2 cups coconut milk and 1 tablespoon honey in a bowl. Take 1/2 cup old fashioned oats and grind them into a powder, then add to the coconut milk and honey. Once combined, add the mixture into your bath water and soak.
If you’re preparing the bath soak for someone special, you can add flowers to give it a beautiful look.
WARNING!
Do not use oats if you are allergic to them. Some people with Celiac disease can be sensitive to them as well.
SUGAR SCRUB
For a healthy homemade body scrub, combine 1/2 cup coconut milk with 1/2 cup granulated sugar. For an added moisturizing bonus, add 1–2 teaspoons coconut oil. Stir well, then apply the mixture to the skin using your hands, rubbing in circular motions to thoroughly exfoliate the skin.
