The Magical Benefits of Coconut Oil

I have tried so many beauty products in my lifetime and admit that nothing has really wowed me, especially moisturizers. No matter what the price or brand I was never able to find moisturizers that fit my personal skin care routine. In my ongoing quest for softer skin and how to smooth my unruly and frizzy hair, I finally found something magical a few years ago! Coconut Oil! It is natural and has so many great uses! The Silver Lining: It smells great while performing miracles on my skin and hair! Here are just a few of the benefits that I have discovered:

• It’s best to use the solid extra virgin cold pressed and unrefined coconut oil. I have found that the solid form of coconut oil is more effective than the refined liquid but I have used both. A little bit goes a long way so use sparingly. Scoop out a small amount onto your palm, rub hands together until it liquifies then apply. You can always layer if the first application isn’t enough.

• Coconut oil is a great daily skin moisturizer for face, body, hands, and feet.

• It serves as a soothing remedy for skin irritation and wound healing.

• Coconut oil also makes removing makeup easy, especially eye makeup. Be careful to not get it in your eyes.

• This can be used to moisturize eyelashes and help prevent breakage.

• Coconut oil soothes chapped lips.

• If you use gua sha facial stones, coconut oil helps glide the stones over the face and neck more easily.

• I have also found that mixing Retin A (Tretinoin) with coconut oil minimizes the dry, irritated skin I sometimes experience with Retin A by itself. I create an emulsion by rubbing the two products together in my hands before applying to my face and neck. Talk to your dermatologist first about any potential risks before use.

• Using coconut oil on cuticles and nails helps moisturize nails between manicures and pedicures. It also reduces the appearance of those dry white patches that can appear on the toenails from nail polish.

• Coconut oil is perfect for hair moisturizer, smoothing, and reducing frizz. It can also serve as a heat protector when styling. A little goes a long way. Start with a small amount and layer if necessary.

• If you suffer from vaginal dryness, coconut oil is also great as a personal lubricant/moisturizer. Consult with your doctor before use.

*Talk to your health care provider about the benefits and risks of coconut oil before using it, especially if you have sensitivities and allergies.