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Use Coconut Oil For Healthy Hair And Skin

Updated on September 9, 2010

Coconut trees are known as the “Tree of Life”, and for good reason too. Coconuts provide us with an astounding number of uses. Just a few of these uses are to help keep our bodies healthy and beautiful.

Coconut oil is unique since its molecular structure is quite small. This allows the coconut to be absorbed by the skin and hair very easily. Coconut oil can be used to treat damaged skin and hair, but can also be used as a preventative measure.

Protection From Sun Damage & Wrinkles

People who live in tropical climates where coconut oil is consumed regularly as well as used topically end up having less cases of skin cancer. The reason being is that coconut oil is filled with antioxidants. Antioxidants are responsible for savaging for free radicals (cancer causing cells) in the body.

You can use coconut oil just as you would use olive oil. It can be added to salads, to sauté vegetables or even to fry eggs. Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which is naturally antiviral. Lauric acid can help strengthen weakened immune systems. The key to having healthy skin is to make sure you are eating the right foods. Coconut oil will help your body get enough of the “good fats” that enable your skin to build collagen, which keeps skin firm and elastic.

Using coconut oil topically on our skin will also provide us with Vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant that protects our skin from damage and wrinkles. While coconut oil provides protection from the sun, you should still always use sunscreen.

Soften Rough Feet

After your shower or bath use a pumice stone to slough off all the dead and hardened skin from your feet. Right before going to bed massage some coconut oil into your feet.

Wear a pair of cotton socks to keep the oil on your feet. For best results soak your feet in an Epsom salt bath before exfoliating.

Remove Eye Makeup Gently

Add a bit of coconut oil to a cotton ball or pad.  Gently wipe over your eyelids until clean.  Use a damp cloth to wipe off excess coconut oil.  Coconut oil will also condition your eyelashes in the process.

Prevent & Heal Chapped Lips

Coconut oil is a perfect remedy for chapped lips. Not only will it heal your lips, it is delicious to wear. Using solid coconut oil is best for when you are on the go. Keep some solid coconut oil in a small screw top plastic container. Apply throughout the day as needed. NOTE: Solid coconut oil will liquefy if it is too warm. Try to keep solid coconut oil below room temperature. Room temperature is generally between the range of 68 °F (20 °C) to 77 °F (25 °C).

Condition & Protect Hair

Even if you don’t suffer from split ends and dry, damaged hair coconut oil is a treat to keep your hair healthy, shiny and beautiful. After shampooing your hair mix 1/2 teaspoon of coconut oil with your regular conditioner. Leave in while you shower and then rinse out like normal.

Alternatively, you can use coconut oil alone before your blow-dry your hair. Add a couple of drops of coconut oil to your palm and massage into the tips of your damp hair. The coconut oil will seal the tips of your hair and will leave you with shiny, healthy looking hair. Be sure to only use a small amount of coconut oil, since too much can make your hair look greasy.


Deodorize Underarms

Coconut oil will not stop you from sweating, but it will act as a natural deodorant. Add a few drops to a cotton ball, and wipe over your underarms. You will be surprised at how odor-free your underarms will be!

Prevent Razor Burn

Coconut oil can be used instead of shaving foam.  Just apply some coconut oil to your legs or underarms and shave like normal.  Not only will you have a smooth shave minus the cuts, you will have soft skin when you are finished.

Moisturize Skin

Apply coconut oil to the back of your hands everyday to keep them soft and looking youthful. Coconut oil will soften cuticles and will give nails a boost of nutrients. If you have dry, wrinkled, or cracked skin massage a generous amount of coconut oil into your hands and go to sleep wearing spa gloves.

Coconut oil can be used in conjunction with your current lotion or moisturizer. Just incorporate massaging coconut oil into your skin after showers or before bedtime. Coconut oil is so effective at keeping skin healthy that it can be used alone. These tips will not only heal, soothe, skin they can help smooth away wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin.


Disclaimer:

The information given in this hub is not a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or health care provider before taking any home remedies or supplements. Only your health care provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.

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