You might have coconut oil in your kitchen, but beauty experts swear to adding the miracle ingredient to your cosmetic bag too. As well as being a multi-purpose wonder for beauty struggles like dry hair, skin and cuticles, it has anti-ageing and anti-bacterial properties. It also cleanses and brightens skin and smells divine. So get ready to embrace a natural, all-round winner that gives you a dose of the tropics.
Eye make-up remover: Instead of using those products packed with chemicals, try coconut oil as an eye-make up remover and see the magic work. Just a teaspoon (or less) of coconut oil can wipe off eye make-up, even the type that has the most staying power like waterproof mascara! The oil does a great job of cleaning away waxy or inky make-up, as well as leaving the delicate area hydrated and soft. Added bonus: it will aid in diminishing wrinkles.
Hair conditioner: Coconut oil is a top hydrating hair oil as it can penetrate dry hair better than other types of oils, enabling it to strengthen and improve the hair’s flexibility and prevent protein loss. You can use it as a deep conditioner by leaving it on overnight, just comb a dollop through your hair and cover it with a towel or shower cap and wash it out the next morning. If you simply want to add some shine or moisture, just add a teeny bit to the ends after your normal styling routine.
All-over moisturiser: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, coconut oil is not only safe, it’s good to use on all parts of your body. Plus, its skin-soothing properties and creamy texture leave skin hydrated but not greasy, so feel free to slather all over. Your parched hands will thank you, and you can even use it as cuticle treatment. Coconut oil can be ultra effective on body parts that get really dry like elbows and knees.You can use coconut oil as a base with other lotions or oils or alone. You know what, it’s even known to be used instead of shaving cream.
Lip balm: Have your chapped lips got you feeling less than desirable? Coconut oil can help you in that department too. Dry and cracked lips don't stand a chance against the ultra-hydrating, rich oil. If you’re gunning for smooth and moist lips, all you have to do is dab some on, mixing it with some sugar if you want. What’s more, you’re free to lick away once you want to remove it.
Body scrub: To give your skin a long-lasting shine, all you need to do is mix some coconut oil with sugar or salt. You can make this amazing homemade scrub any time you feel like a pampering session by mixing half a cup of sea salt or sugar with an equal amount of melted coconut oil. The scrub moistens while removing dead skin cells, leaving you with skin that is baby soft. Add a little more salt or sugar for the extra tough areas like feet.
Cheekbone highlighter: Highlighters do a fantastic job at making us look sprightlier, and coconut oil can give you the same results. In fact many natural make-up brands use it as a main ingredient in their formulas. So for glowy, fresh and hydrated skin all you need to do is swipe a small amount of liquified coconut oil on top of make-up and leave it. The areas to concentrate on are the tops of your cheekbones, the dip above your upper lip and just above the eyebrows.
