Coconut oil is often recognized for its health benefits when consumed, but it also holds potential for skincare and haircare applications. Dermatologists, natural beauty enthusiasts, and scientific research are shedding light on the advantages of using coconut oil on the skin and hair.
Using Coconut Oil for Hair Care: Tips and Techniques
1. Deep Conditioning Treatment
Coconut oil is a popular ingredient in hair conditioners because it penetrates hair strands easily and helps prevent protein loss. Use coconut oil for deep conditioning.
Apply a quarter-sized amount of coconut oil to your hair, comb through, and then loosely tie your hair into a bun.
For best results, cover your pillow with a soft towel or wear a shower cap overnight. In the morning, rinse with a gentle shampoo.
2. DIY Hair Mask
Create a nourishing hair mask by mixing 3 to 5 tablespoons of organic, refined coconut oil (in its liquid state) with 20 drops of rosemary oil.
Massage the mixture onto your hair, then cover it with a shower cap. Leave it on for 30 to 60 minutes before rinsing it out with shampoo.
This combination can help soften and rejuvenate your hair.
3. Frizz Control
Coconut oil is excellent for taming frizz. Simply rub a small amount of coconut oil between your fingers and apply it to areas of frizz to leave your hair looking smooth and polished.
For an alternative, consider using a frizz-fighting serum that contains coconut oil, such as Nexxus’ coconut oil-infused serum, which also nourishes and strengthens the hair.
4. Adding Shine
For darker hair, applying a small amount of organic coconut oil to the ends can enhance shine.
Use a tiny dab to avoid making your hair appear greasy. This technique adds a subtle luster to the hair while keeping it smooth.
5. Dandruff Relief
Coconut oil may help reduce dandruff by lowering the levels of yeast on the scalp that contribute to inflammation, flaking, and itching.
For a moisturizing coconut oil treatment, heat 2 to 3 tablespoons of coconut oil on low heat until it liquefies. Let it cool slightly before massaging it into your scalp.
You can also apply the excess oil to the rest of your hair. Leave the treatment on for 30 minutes before rinsing it out with shampoo.
Using a shower cap during the process helps prevent any oil from dripping.
If coconut oil alone doesn’t alleviate dandruff, you can try a dandruff shampoo, such as Dove Dermacare Shampoo, which contains yeast-fighting pyrithione zinc.
6. Use as a Pre-Cleanse Face Wash
Coconut oil’s natural antibacterial, antifungal, and moisturizing properties make it a popular choice for facial cleansing, especially as part of a nightly skincare routine.
To use, massage a small amount of coconut oil in circular motions across your face and neck. This will not only cleanse the skin but also provide a soothing massage.
Once complete, follow up with a gentle face wash to remove any residue and ensure your skin is thoroughly cleaned.
7. DIY Face Mask for Hydration and Healing
Pamper your skin with a nourishing DIY face mask using coconut oil as a base. One popular recipe includes turmeric for its anti-inflammatory benefits, lemon juice for brightening, raw manuka honey for treating acne, and melted virgin coconut oil for added hydration.
After applying the mask to a clean face, let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the ingredients to work their magic.
If you prefer a store-bought option, try the Yes to Coconut Ultra Hydrating Paper Mask, which incorporates coconut oil along with other plant extracts to revitalize your skin.
8. Gentle Eye Makeup Remover
Coconut oil is also highly effective at removing even stubborn waterproof mascara.
Apply a small amount to a cotton ball and gently sweep it over your eyes, focusing on the under-eye area as well.
The oil helps break down the waxy formulas of eye makeup while also leaving the delicate skin around the eyes hydrated.
After removing the makeup, proceed with your usual face wash routine to remove any remaining oil.
9. Use Coconut Oil as an Eye Cream
If you’re dealing with dry under-eye skin due to colder weather, dehydration, or aging, coconut oil can serve as a quick alternative to traditional eye creams.
Simply dab a small amount of coconut oil under your eyes using your ring finger to avoid excessive pressure.
The oil will hydrate and protect your skin. For best results, apply before bedtime as it may be too slippery for daytime use under makeup.
10. Make a DIY Lip Scrub
Many commercial lip scrubs contain coconut oil, but you can easily create your own at home.
Combine coconut oil, brown sugar, and honey to form a gentle yet effective lip scrub.
Adjust the proportions to achieve your desired consistency. Use it as an exfoliating treatment before bed, then wipe it off with a damp cloth to wake up with smoother, softer lips.
11. Create a DIY Lip Balm
For a nourishing lip balm, melt together 2 tablespoons each of coconut oil, cocoa butter, and grated beeswax in a heat-resistant container placed in a pot with 2 inches of simmering water.
Once the ingredients are fully melted, stir occasionally and then remove from heat.
Carefully pour the mixture into lip balm containers, adding two drops of cinnamon essential oil per container for a touch of flavor.
Refrigerate to cool and solidify, then share your homemade lip balm with friends!
12. Make a DIY Lip Gloss
To create a hydrating tinted lip gloss, mix small portions of an old lipstick with coconut oil.
This simple DIY recipe will keep your lips moisturized while adding a subtle pop of color.
13. Freshen Your Breath with Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient practice that involves swishing coconut oil (or any organic vegetable oil) in your mouth to reduce harmful bacteria.
To try it, swirl the oil in your mouth for 10 to 20 minutes before breakfast until it turns milky white, then spit it out into the trash (not the sink to avoid clogging) and rinse with water.
Keep in mind, oil pulling is not a substitute for brushing and flossing.
14. Highlight Your Cheeks
Coconut oil can double as a natural highlighter. To brighten your complexion, apply a small amount over your makeup.
It gives a dewy, glowing effect to the skin, which is why many natural beauty brands use coconut oil in their formulas.
Coconut Oil for Skin and Body Care
15. Hydrate Dry Hands
Coconut oil is a natural solution for soothing dry, itchy skin. Keep a jar of organic extra virgin coconut oil by the kitchen sink and applying a small amount after washing hands to maintain softness and moisture.
While this method works well at home, it’s best to carry a hand cream for on-the-go hydration.
16. Shave Your Legs
Instead of relying on chemical-laden shaving creams, coconut oil offers a natural and cost-effective alternative.
It is naturally antimicrobial, smells pleasant, and its moisturizing properties leave your skin smooth and hydrated after shaving, without any greasiness.
17. Replace Lotion
Coconut oil is commonly used as a hydrating ingredient in moisturizers or in its raw form.
It’s a great option if you’re seeking an affordable, nourishing, and fragrant moisturizer.
You can use coconut oil directly or explore lotions that include it as a key ingredient to keep your skincare routine fresh.
18. Use as Massage Oil
Many commercial massage oils contain coconut or jojoba oil as their base. You can skip the store-bought versions and apply coconut oil directly.
It provides a skin-friendly, moisturizing, and slippery texture, making it an ideal option for massage.
19 Create a Luscious Body Scrub
Coconut oil is perfect for making your own chemical-free body scrub at home. Melt ½ cup of coconut oil and pouring it over 1 cup of brown sugar or salt.
Stir well and add five drops of essential oil, such as eucalyptus or lavender, or a splash of vanilla extract for a fragrant scrub that is both moisturizing and gentle on your skin.
20. Nourish Dry Cuticles
Coconut oil can also work wonders for your cuticles. By massaging it into your cuticles and the skin around your nails, you can hydrate brittle nails, prevent cracked skin, and avoid hangnails.
This often overlooked part of the body benefits greatly from the moisturizing properties of coconut oil.
21. Relieve Psoriasis
Coconut oil can serve as a natural remedy for those suffering from psoriasis, an autoimmune condition characterized by the buildup of skin cells, leading to rough, red, scaly patches.
Add a few tablespoons of coconut oil to a warm bath can help alleviate itching and reduce the appearance of scaly skin, making it a safe and soothing option for relief.
22. Treat Athlete’s Foot and Cracked Heels
Athlete’s foot, a fungal infection caused by sweaty feet, may be soothed with coconut oil.
After applying a topical antifungal treatment, a layer of organic coconut oil can help reduce irritation and flaking.
For cracked heels, the moisturizing properties of coconut oil can provide additional relief. Simply apply the oil and cover with cotton socks for enhanced healing.
23. Soothe Eczema
For those with eczema, a condition that causes red, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin, coconut oil may offer relief.
A small study found that applying virgin coconut oil twice daily reduced dryness, redness, and staph bacteria on the skin, especially in patients with atopic dermatitis.
To soothe eczema, apply a thin layer of virgin coconut oil to affected areas twice a day.
24. Soothe Your Dog’s Paws
Coconut oil can also be beneficial for your furry companions.
If your dog’s paws become cracked or raw from outdoor activities, coconut oil acts as both an antiseptic and moisturizer.
Apply a small amount to the affected areas to help soothe and heal the skin. Before trying this treatment, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian, especially if your dog has any preexisting health conditions.
