beauty tip : uses of coconut oil |

Coconut oil is a fantastic and natural way to condition your skin as well as your hair. It is made from the pressed white flesh of the coconut, and is rich in saturated fatty acids, making it not only great for your health but your skin and hair too.

When my hair was looking dull and feeling dry and brittle a friend of mine suggested that I use coconut oil as a hair treatment. I had never heard of this and was a little skeptical at first but thought what the hell might as well try it. After trying it once I was addicted, it makes your hair feel so silky and smooth.

I then started doing some research and found that you can also use coconut on your skin…it makes your skin soft and so hydrated.

I now keep two bottles in my house – one in my bathroom for my skin and hair and one in my pantry for cooking. Wouldn’t be caught without it!

Below is a list of coconut oil uses and tips:

skin moisturizer

Coconut oil works wonders as a moisturizer for all skin types, especially dry skin, leaving it refreshed and hydrated. Apply a small amount into your hand to melt it and then apply it on your face or body. It might takes about 15 minutes for the oil to absorb completely into your skin. While you wait, you can either hang out in your bathroom or put on a bathrobe so you don’t get oil on your clothes.

lip conditioner

Coconut oil makes an excellent lip conditioner, as it will soften and moisturize your lips. The best part is that it’s completely edible, so no need to worry about ingesting a little.

hair treatment

A coconut oil treatment to your hair helps to make it silky soft and strong. Melt some coconut oil in a small microwavable bowl, take a small amount in your hand and apply generously to your scalp and hair. Keep applying it till all your hair is covered in oil, massage it in, tie your hair up and leave it for at least four hours or overnight. Then wash and style your hair as normal. It is best to treat your hair at least once fortnightly or more often if you like.

cuticle oil

It is best if you apply coconut oil to clean hands, so wash our hands first. Then apply about a pea-sized amount of coconut oil per hand to your cuticles. Rub into cuticles until fully absorbed – remember it takes about 15 mins to be fully absorbed.

massage oil

Often coconut oil is in a semi solid state, so pop two – three tablespoons in a microwaveable dish and melt in the microwave. If you would like to you can scent it with a few drops of your favourite essential oil, such as lavender or use it as it is. When it has melted, make sure that it’s not too hot (as it will not be romantic if you burn yourself or your partner), use it as a sensual homemade massage oil.

smooth flyaways

Rub about a pea-sized amount of coconut oil between your hands until it melts and then smooth it over your hair to get rid of any frizz or flyaways on your head.

bath soak

While running your bath, place about two tablespoons of coconut oil in your warm/hot bath. Swish the water around to dissolve the coconut oil. Then climb in and soak for a while. Do this as often as you like or until you notice your skin is no longer dry.

other tips

Remember : a small amount goes a long way, so be careful not to use too much.
If you do not have a microwave to melt the oil, you can place the coconut oil bottle under a steady stream of hot water.
A dry skin scrub can be made by mixing some coconut oil with sugar – really great for your skin.
Apply a small amount to your legs after shaving to moisturise and sooth your skin