You may already be familiar with coconut oil as a nutritious option when cooking, but did you know you could also use it as a full-body moisturizer? It turns out coconut oil is a natural substitute for almost any personal care product you currently use! Try it on your face, hair, body or even on your pet’s dry paws for hydration support today.
The light substance that melts like butter immediately upon touching your skin may smell like an afternoon spent baking cookies, but coconut oil is more than just another kitchen staple in the natural health world. The edible plant grease has also quickly become a one-stop, go-to product for daily beauty regimens. Some holistic health practitioners swear by it!
While putting the same oil that you use in your baking recipes on your face may make you a bit uneasy at first, never fear! Men and women all over the world use pure, unrefined, virgin organic coconut oil as a gentle, chemical-free alternative to other skin care products. It is even used in some baby care products.
Here are some of the many ways you can use it as a moisturizer and more!
Coconut Oil for the Face
Coconut oil is often used as a nighttime moisturizer for the face, because it hydrates the skin and absorbs relatively quickly without leaving the skin dry afterwards like some fragranced facial creams or lotions. However, be careful if you have oily skin, as it may spur a minor breakout. If you use it gently around the eyes, it may support hydration of the baby soft skin located there, and can replace your nighttime eye cream. Since the oil spreads easily, you only need to use a small amount in the palm of your hands, gently massaging it into the skin. Try our popular Extra Virgin Coconut Oil from Garden of Life, which contains 100% organic coconut oil, for yourself! (Source)
Coconut Oil for the Hair
For dry hair or split ends, try using a product such as Dr. Bronner’s Fair Trade & Organic Fresh Pressed Virgin Coconut Oil. It may penetrate the hair better than some other oils by hydrating and smoothing out frizz, serving as a leave-in deep conditioning mask, and it can be used as an alternative to a finishing product by providing a glossy, smooth look. However, by the end of the day, your hair may feel a little wilted or greasy, so be sure to only use it in moderation, or use it on your hair overnight and rinse it out in the morning.
Coconut Oil for the Body
Using coconut oil on dry, sensitive or cracked lips, arms, hands, legs, feet and more may leave your skin feeling softer and moisturized. Its antioxidant properties support the skin’s normal aging process, helping to protect against oxidative damage. 100% Natural Coconut Oil from NOW Foods, for instance, is a skin-loving moisturizer, protectant, conditioner and emollient suitable for a wide range of body care uses. The oil can even be used as a body wash, or as a substitute for shaving oil, although it may cause the shower floor to be slightly slippery after use. It may also support water retention in the skin and promote wound healing. Instead of buying massage oil, opt for coconut oil as a slippery, skin-friendly massage oil substitute. It mixes easily with vitamin E oil, jojoba oil, shea butter and essential oils. It can be used in body scrubs with sugar and lemon or ginger. You can even make your own whipped coconut oil moisturizer to use in place of lotion or body butter. (Source)
Coconut Oil for Dogs
Coconut oil can support the skin health of dogs by temporarily relieving itchy or bumpy skin. It can be used liberally to soothe and hydrate their dry, chapped paws, and to smooth their fur. However, not all veterinarians believe it is ideal for dogs, since some canines may have an allergic reaction to it. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian first. (Source)
Other Uses
In addition to using coconut oil as a moisturizer, it can also be used for other needs, including, but not limited to:
Eye Makeup Remover: Similar in functionality to store-bought makeup remover wipes, you can dab a little coconut oil on a cotton pad and carefully swipe your tightly closed eyelid to remove most makeup. However, be careful not to get the oil in your eyes, as it may cause some irritation. (Source)
Mouth Detox Rinse: By pulling and swishing around a glob of the oil through your mouth and teeth over a few minutes of time, without swallowing it, you may support the removal of some toxins in your body and support the health of your gums and teeth. Read more about oil pulling here. Of course, you can also ingest a teaspoonful for its “good” fats.
Nutritional Supplements: The medium-chain triglycerides in coconut oil support energy production, weight management, appetite control, and support cholesterol levels already in the normal range. That’s why taking a dietary supplement such as Extra Virgin Coconut Oil 1000 Mg from Jarrow Formulas may make a difference to your health.
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How has coconut oil made a difference to your skin? What other ways do you love to use it? We’d love to hear your story in the comments below!
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Leslie Benson writes regularly about nutrition and healthy living for Natural Healthy Concepts. Visit NHC.com today to browse a wide selection of vitamins, minerals, and other dietary supplements.
