Coconut oil has been a staple kitchen ingredient in most Indian homes for as long as we can remember, but in the recent years, people all around the world are recognizing the worth of coconut oil for the numerous beauty benefits that it offers. Coconut oil is a wonderful beauty ingredient. Not only is it completely safe, natural, affordable and very easily available, it also has numerous healing properties. It has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and deeply moisturizing properties, which make it a power-packed ingredient to incorporate into your beauty routine. A quick tip before we move on—in case you dislike the smell of coconut oil, do keep in mind that deodorized versions of coconut oil are also easily available in the market. Coconut oil that is sourced from either Kerala or the Andamans is my preference.
Here are 10 amazing ways in which you can incorporate coconut oil into your beauty routine:
1. As a body moisturizer:
Ditch those expensive creams and lotions for this pure, natural and affordable oil. Not only does it save your skin and body from the harm that those chemical-laden moisturisers can do, it more than solves your purpose. If you have dry skin, then coconut oil can be your best friend. You can use as much (or as little) of it as you want, all over your body. It is best used straight after a warm shower as it then gets absorbed best by the skin. If you suffer from eczema or dry patches, coconut oil is your best bet.
2. As a shaving oil:
Instead of using a stripping shaving cream or something of that sort, you can use coconut oil for shaving purposes. Use it on your skin while in the shower and then shave. You will find that not only does it help you shave easily without bruising your skin, but it will also leave your skin feeling incredibly soft, smooth and exfoliated.
3. As a makeup remover:
Instead of using cleansing oils, makeup removing creams or making up removing wipes, all you need is a teaspoon of coconut oil. Apply it all over your face, give it a few seconds and then wipe it away with a damp washcloth. You will find that this breaks down and removes every trace of your makeup (waterproof mascara included) and leaves your skin feeling soft and supple. You should follow this up with a regular facial cleanser to remove any excess oil.
4. As a body scrub:
Take a little bit of coconut oil, some white sugar granules and a little bit of instant coffee powder to make yourself a delicious coffee body scrub. This leaves your skin feeling nice and exfoliated, while also getting rid of cellulite. Your skin will feel incredible once you wash this off.
5. As a teeth whitener:
Chemical teeth whiteners and whitening toothpastes do little to whiten your teeth. Moreover, their ingredients list is not favourable. Try swishing some coconut oil in your mouth for a few minutes everyday (this technique is known as oil-pulling), and you will see that the anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties in it will not only deep cleanse your mouth and prevent oral infections, but it will also leave your teeth looking whiter.
6. As a hydrating hair mask:
Coconut oil has been the secret ingredient for soft and shiny hair in India for a very long time. Don’t worry about deep conditioning and branded hair masks. Drench your tresses in coconut oil and wrap a warm towel around your head. Wash it off to get incredibly soft and nourished hair. Coconut oil also helps to prevent split ends, frizz and dandruff, and promotes hair growth.
7. As an anti-ageing potion:
Still looking for an anti-ageing potion that works? Coconut oil is your answer. As long as your skin does not react to it (especially if it is acne-prone), you can use coconut oil to prevent wrinkles, fine lines and even protect your skin against sun damage and premature ageing.
8. As a cuticle softener:
Don’t have time for a manicure at the salon? Apply some coconut oil to your cuticles and leave it on for a while before washing it off. It will soften your cuticles and your nails will look shiny, nourished and well-manicured.
9. As a cheekbone highlighter:
Tap onto your cheekbones a tiny bit of coconut oil. Its light-reflecting and moisturizing properties make for a wonderful cheekbone highlighter that will give you that ‘lit from within’ look. An easy and effective alternative if you don’t have a highlighter in your makeup kit.
10. As an under eye cream:
If you don’t want to spend your money on an expensive eye cream but want to reap its benefits, then all you need is a few drops of coconut oil. Apply the oil under your eyes before you get into bed. This will nourish your delicate under eye region, take care of the dark circles and prevent wrinkles under your eyes.
Apart from these incredible uses of coconut oil, there are many more. So, go ahead and get yourself a bottle of coconut oil and let it works its magic!
OGX Weightless Hydration Coconut Water Shampoo
Health and Beauty benefits of Coconut Oil
9 Superb Beauty Benefits and Uses of Coconut Water
Fenugreek Seed Infused Coconut Oil for Long Hair & Split Ends:DIY
10 Surprising Facts about Lipsticks
17 Surprising Beauty Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
Ayurvedic Beauty Regimen
5 Must-Have Baby Products For Your Beauty Regimen
8 Reasons to include Coconut Milk in your Health and Beauty Regimen
