Virgin coconut oil is not just a healthy and delicious food. It is also a gift for the skin and summer is the best time to benefit from its qualities. We explain 14 ways to use it.
In general, vegetable oils and especially coconut oils are nutritious for the skin, because they provide the necessary nutrients to regenerate their structure, and prevent dehydration of the skin by forming a protective barrier.
They also protect the skin against external aggressions (pollution, smoke, cold, wind, sun, etc.)
Look for a good virgin coconut oil, preferably with ecological certification. If it is solid, you just have to let it liquefy in your hands or warm it for a few seconds in a water bath.
Coconut oil is ideal for skin and hair.
The components of virgin coconut oil are able to penetrate the skin and improve its condition. They soften it, protect it and keep it hydrated. They also act on the teeth, mucous membranes, hair or nails.
1. Before sunbathing
Apply a small amount of coconut oil before exposing yourself to the sun. It is ideal if you are not going to be a long time nor in the central hours of the day. The virgin coconut oil, without further additives, has a natural protection factor of 4.
2. After the beach
On the beach it is necessary to put on a certified natural protective cream with mineral filters. After the shower you can put the coconut oil to prevent dehydration of the skin and protect it thanks to its antioxidant compounds.
3. As an insect repellent
Mix a little coconut oil with tea tree or citronella essential oil and apply it on the areas most liked by mosquitoes.
4. If you have already been bitten by a mosquito
Mosquito bites are practically unavoidable. Putting a thin layer of coconut oil on top reduces the discomfort of itching and protects the area from the dirt of the bacteria. It is also useful in scratches and scrapes.
5. Before dry or damaged hair
The salt water of the sea and the chlorine of the pool leave your hair scummy. Put coconut oil in your hands and treat it by the hair before jumping into the pool or diving into the sea.
You can also apply it after washing your hair, like a natural conditioner. Let it act for a minimum of 4 hours before clarifying it.
6. When shaving
Coconut oil is better than shaving foams. It is softening and moisturizing, without the need of any chemical ingredient. But the most important thing is that it minimizes skin erosion.
7. Perfect lips
The skin of the lips is very thin and sensitive to solar radiation. Pass through them a finger moistened in coconut oil; It can mean the difference between dry and juicy lips.
8. A luminous complexion
Take advantage of the moisturizing and antimicrobial properties to clean the face. You can moisten a cotton disc with the oil and clean your skin well. It serves to remove makeup.
9. As deodorant
You can apply it as is in the armpits or make a homemade bar deodorant. Mix 100 ml of each of the following ingredients: baking soda, coconut oil and cornstarch. Mix bicarbonate and cornstarch first with a fork. Then add the coconut oil little by little until a paste forms.
10. To exfoliate the skin
Mix a little coconut oil with sugar to create a body scrub with moisturizing properties. In summer it is more necessary than ever to eliminate dead cells and all kinds of impurities that accumulate on the skin.
11. Eye contour without wrinkles
The specific products for the environment of the eyes are not cheap and are often loaded with chemicals. Apply coconut oil every night before going to bed and in the morning, when you look in the mirror, you will see the surprise.
12. Whiter teeth
Drop a drop of coconut oil on top of the toothpaste and brush as usual. The gums will suffer less with brushing and the surface of the teeth will appear cleaner.
13. Healthy nails
Some experienced doctors look at the nails to guess the general health of the patient. For your nails to be perfect and protected, rub a small amount on each cuticle. It will protect you from annoying infections.
14. Oil for a relaxing massage
Convincing your partner to a friend to give you a mutual massage. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil (lavender or calendula are very nice and relaxing, for example) to coconut oil and spread it generously over your partner's shoulders and back. Knead well the trapezoids to undo any contracture.