Coconut oil is one of the most famous oils in cosmetology. It has gained the attention of a lot of customers especially women due to the fact that it can help to improve the condition of the whole human body including skin and hair.
Coconut oil is enriched with lauric acid which enhances the metabolic processes in the body. It is a super food for heart health; helps with digestion and offers a wide range of benefits. Being an incredible moisturizer, it is also great for you hair and skin.
There are different methods of using this oil for the whole body.
Coconut Oil for Hair
Coconut oil is used widely in hair care. It deprives the shine and the structural protein of the hair. Moreover, coconut oil applied before the shower protects the hair from the harmful effects of sulfates in shampoo. It also protects your hair from external damaging during the process of drying and combing.
You can make a simple and effective hair mask using pure coconut oil or the combination of the oil and honey. Mix coconut oil with honey. Apply the mask for 30-40 minutes before washing your head. Then wash and condition your hair as usual.
Mask for hair loss. Mix coconut oil with salt and rub that scrub into the scalp before washing for 2-5 minutes. You can practice this mask no more than 2 times a week for one month. It is important to try and check the result after the first procedure because it may harm sensitive skin. It will be clear whether this mask fits your hair or not after the first session.
Coconut oil added in shampoo or conditioner. You can also add oil (a few drops for one wash or a couple of spoons into a bottle) into your favorite shampoo or conditioner. However, try to avoid using conditioner with oils on the hair roots very often, as it may clog the pores.
Coconut oil after washing hair. If you apply a little bit of this oil to your hair right after you wash them; it will nourish your hair and give it a shiny look. This will also help to dry your hair faster.
If you apply coconut oil after washing your hair(2-3 drops skipping the hair roots), the hair won’t look oily and hair tips will look fresh and healthy.
Coconut Oil for Skin
Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids, therefore it helps your skin to stay moisturized and smooth. Researches have shown that it helps soothe the skin, reduce irritation, inflammation and help heal minor scratches and wounds. Lauric acid in this oil has proven anti-bacterial and anti-fungal benefits.
You can use coconut oil as a facial moisturizer as well. Rub a drop of oil in between the palms and gently tap your face, without rubbing the oil into the skin. After five minutes, blot the remaining oil with a paper towel.
Moisturizing mask: prepare your face by moistening skin with a wet towel and apply this oil to cleansed face for 10-15 minutes. Then, rinse with facial foam or cleanser. Use the mask 2-3 times a week for better moisturizing effect.
You can also make a cream mask with this oil. Mix 1 tbsp. spoon of sour cream or milk, 1 spoon of honey and 10-15 drops of the oil. Apply the mixture to the face for 20 minutes and wash off with warm water.
Another great facial mask is Baking Soda+Coconut mask. Mix 1 spoon of baking soda and 10 drops of oil. Apply a mixture to the face with massaging movements. Then, rinse with warm water.
Coconut oil and honey is also a great combination. Apply a mixture of oil and honey onto clean skin for 15 minutes. Then, rinse with warm water. This mask is antibacterial. By the way, honey expands the pores, so try to use this mask regularly but not too often.
Other Uses and Benefits
You can use coconut oil in order to remove makeup and also, instead of shaving cream for sensitive skin. This oil also has antimicrobial properties and can protect your skin from harmful bacteria. It is also a great massage oil and personal lubricant.
Unrefined or virgin coconut oil is a better choice than refined one, because it contains all the naturally occurring phytonutrients and polyphenols and provides more health benefits.
Although this oil is suitable for most types of skin, it is highly recommended that you apply a small amount first to see how your skin reacts, if you are using the product for the first time.
