Coconut oil is one of the hottest new trends and “super foods” in the kitchen. It combines fatty acids, medicinal qualities, fat burning elements and Lauric Acid, which helps to fight infections. But did you know it does more than just help your body?
Here are seven beauty hacks that use coconut oil to make your body look and feel better.
If your hair’s been feeling dry and drab, consider giving it a coconut oil treatment. After shampooing your hair in the shower, run the container of coconut oil under the water with the lid on, to soften the coconut oil. Once it reaches 76 degrees, it should liquify. Depending on your hair length and condition, put up to a quarter sized amount of oil into your hands and spread it through the ends of your hair. Twist up hair and leave the oil on for five minutes. Not only does this act as a deep conditioner for your hair, but it adds moisture and shine as well.
Because of its moisturizing properties, coconut oil makes a great lotion. It contains no alcohol based chemicals which tend to dry the skin. Instead, it moisturizes and softens the skin and leaves a mild scent. Scoop out up to a quarter sized amount of oil into your hands and rub them together until the oil softens. Apply liberally to your moist skin after a shower to help the coconut oil absorb and moisturize.
As we age, many women experience fine lines, puffiness and dark circles around the eyes. But don’t fret, coconut oil can help. Because of its moisturizing qualities, the oil increases the elasticity of the skin and makes it appear more youthful and firm.
When your hair dries out, it can have a tendency to frizz and look unmanageable. By smoothing on a small amount of coconut oil, you can gain control of your wild mane and keep those strands smooth. Use a pea sized amount on dry hair and gently rub it in to the frizzy area of your hair. Not only does it tame it, it creates shinny strands too.
Better and more gentle on your skin than just about any product you can purchase at a beauty store, coconut oil makes a great make up remover. Take a small amount of the oil into your hand and gently massage it into your skin. Although it looks like the make up simply disappears, you’ll still want to rinse your face when your done.
Mix a half cup of coconut oil with a half cup of sea salt or sugar to create an exfoliating scrub for your legs, feet and elbows. Gently rub the concoction over your skin while giving it a little scrub. Rinse off and your legs will be softer, smoother and rid of any dead and dry skin.
If you forgot to grab some shaving cream last time you were at the drug store, don’t worry, coconut oil makes a great shave cream. Simply rub a small amount onto your leg, and your razor will gently glide over the skin. It gives you a smooth, clean and close shave, all while moisturizing your legs.
Coconut oil seems to have just as many uses in the bathroom as it does in the kitchen.
For a more comprehensive list of uses jump over and check out the article on the Healthy Geeks site, “Coconut Oil Uses.” Those guys put some serious time into finding out all of the great benefits and uses of this wonderful oil.