This is the best multipurpose beauty product in the world. You can use it for your hair, face and body, there are so many beauty benefits of coconut oil. There is a reason it is constantly stocked at your local grocery and beauty store. So if you’ve ever wanted to know why that lip balm you love is made of coconut oil of all things, look no further than here. But before we go into how amazing this product is, and what it does, let’s talk about what it’s made of.
How is Coconut Oil Made?
Coconut oil is made from the kernel (or the white part) of the coconut. This is also what is used to make coconut milk. Coconut oil can be extracted in many ways. However, the best method is to harvest the oil within the first six hours of the coconut being cracked open. This guarantees that the product is fresh and refined.
The Beauty Benefits of Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is antibacterial, anti-fungal, is full of healthy fats, and contains vitamin E. The antibacterial properties will help fight breakouts and blemishes, while the fats and vitamin E can give your hair and skin intense hydration.
It’s also cost effective. A large jug of coconut oil will run you maybe $15, while the gimmicky cleansers from traditional retailers can easily cost hundreds of dollars. Which means you get a better, safer, more effective cleanse, and for much less. There’s no reason to pass this up.
The Many Uses of Coconut Oil
There are many ways to use coconut oil – over 15 according to the research we did. But for this article, we will be focusing on just some of the ways we’ve personally used it, to provide an in-depth review.
Sugar Scrub
Sugar acts as an exfoliate. It helps prevent clogged pores, cellulite, discoloration, and more by getting rid of dead skin. Try taking about 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of coconut oil. Give it a good mix, and lather up your whole body in the shower to achieve the ultimate exfoliation.
Facial Cleanser
Coconut oil is one of the best methods to cleanse your face. Unlike other products, coconut oil is all natural, which makes for a safe alternative to the chemical-heavy generic products. It will completely melt your makeup, eradicate the dirt and oil trapped in your pores, and due to its antibacterial components act as an acne treatment. I even like to keep a packet of coconut oil with my Q-Tips, and use small dabs to help remove the mistakes I make from putting on my lipsticks and eyeliners.
Plus, the hydration that coconut oil offers will help strengthen your skin’s elasticity, and increases collagen production, protecting yourself from wrinkles and other issues.
“Given its composition, coconut oil serves as a great moisturizer, plus some of the fatty acids contained in it, like lauric acid, have antimicrobial effects that can help fight bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens.”
-Robert Finney
Bath
One of our favorite rituals to unwind is to soak in a long, relaxing bath. Though it’s important to remember that excessive hot water is dangerous, and can cause irritations and dry skin. But never fear, just add a couple of tablespoons of coconut oil to your bath water to give you moisturized and glowing skin. Step out of your bath rejuvenated, soft, and supple.
Hair Mask
Coconut oil is great for dry, parched hair. This is because coconut oil can permeate the hair shaft better than other oils, as it contains fatty acids, and a low molecular weight. Nourishing your dry hair with coconut oil will help strengthen it, and protect it from damage in the future. This treatment is especially useful if your hair is prone to coloring or styling. And be sure to use it on your scalp too, as a nice lather can be instrumental to fighting dandruff.
Aftershave
We all know that shaving is awful. It takes far too long, it never lasts like we’d want, and it’s too easy to hit ourselves with razor burns and irritations. Luckily, coconut oil is a great tool to prevent the latter, which easily makes the whole experience suck a little less. And unlike other aftershaves, the aforementioned antibacterial components won’t get trapped in your pores either.
Weight Loss
In with all of these great cosmetic purposes, it’s easy to forget that the coconut is also a fruit. Coconut oil is a excellent and healthy source for saturated fats. So the next time you’re dieting, don’t rush towards the Cheez-Its. Simply consuming a tablespoon of coconut oil can satisfy you for in-between meals. It’s also been proven effective in fighting factors like stress and cholesterol.
“Coconut oil has grown in popularity in recent years, amid claims that it can do everything from supporting weight loss to slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.”
-Medical News Today
General Cleaning
It’s important to not underestimate the importance of a healthy home. There’s an undeniable link between depression and messiness, and between wellness and cleanliness. Thankfully, coconut oil is just as effective on material objects as it is on the human body. Need some help removing goo and rusts from your home appliances? Try some coconut oil. Likewise try it for removing dusts and stains from leather and wooden furniture.
Massage
Last but not least, give your body the same attention as your face and hair, and use coconut oil for a massage. We’ve already covered coconut oil’s moisturizing benefits, and these don’t just apply to your face. A massage with coconut oil can bring relaxation and rejuvenation as it hydrates your skin. And also, it just feels so good. Next time you have a pamper night, try having coconut oil rubbed on your legs and feet. You won’t regret it.
The Best Coconut Oil To Use
The best coconut oil is any that is extra virgin (meaning odorless and tasteless), unrefined, and made exclusively from the kernel. So pick some up today!
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