Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably heard by now that coconut oil can do wonders for your body. It’s miracles extend beyond its widely praised health benefits when ingested to some insanely impressive benefits for your skin. The perks of using these sweet smelling oil go beyond mere moisturising (though it does that, too!) and venture into some pretty surprising territory. Read on to learn about some of the impressive and lesser known benefits of using coconut oil on your skin.
Reduce Inflammation
If you have inflamed skin due to acne, a rash, an allergic reaction or sunburn, coconut oil can help. This miraculous oil extracted from the kernel of mature coconuts has been touted for its anti-inflammatory properties for centuries, and the claim has stood the test of time for a reason: it works!
Fights Dandruff
1 in 5 people suffer from dandruff, but thanks to coconut oil, they don’t have to keep fighting the battle of the flake. Rubbing some liquified coconut oil into your scalp will not only moisturise your skin, which will reduce flakes, but it also has antifungal properties, so it can treat the cause of dandruff.
Bonus: coconut oil is a powerful cleansing agent, so the roots of your hair will also get an amazing clean. For best results, leave the oil on your scalp for a couple of hours before you rinse, shampoo and condition as usual.
Removes Makeup
Makeup can make your skin glow, but failing to remove it can result in dry, tired, older looking skin. Coconut oil provides a safe, natural, effective makeup removal method that’s particularly powerful on your eye area. Simple rub it into your skin, then wipe off with a clean, damp and warm face cloth.
Boosts Collagen
Our bodies’ collagen production reduces as we age. For those of us who value younger, firmer more elastic skin, this is a major bummer, since collagen is a major contributor to our youthful appearance. However, coconut oil has been shown to increase collagen production, helping our skin look more taut.
Gently rub it on your skin and ingest a tablespoon a day for best results.
Coconut Oil Helps Heal
Coconut oil is an excellent source of vitamin E — the micronutrient most associated with its healing powers. Apply over sores or wounds to help your skin heal itself.
Obviously, there’s a lot your skin will love about coconut oil. Head to your pantry or the closest grocery store and treat your precious epidermis to its many, amazing benefits!
Written By: Eva Forde