The Best Uses and Benefits of Coconut Oil for Your Health and Beauty

Is Coconut Oil In Your Beauty Regimen?

A few years ago, coconut oil wasn't on your radar. It was only available in your local health food store or online. Now, coconut oil is in every grocery store, and it's in more than one section: the cooking oil section, the beauty section, and sometimes even the supplement section.

If you haven't tried coconut oil in your daily health and beauty routine yet, check out the applications below. Coconut oil's benefits include skin hydration, dry skin treatment, and relief from eczema symptoms due to its fatty acid composition and antioxidant properties.

What is Coconut Oil?

Coconut oil is a plant-based oil extracted from the meat of mature coconuts. This oil is rich in saturated fats, mostly medium-chain saturated fatty acids (MCTs) and lauric acid. These are known for their many health benefits, including a metabolism boost and quick energy. Unsaturated fats are recommended in dietary guidelines for heart health and cholesterol management.

Coconut oil is unique because it's solid at room temperature but melts into a liquid when heated. Its high smoke point makes it perfect for cooking, baking, and even industrial use. Available in different forms, virgin, refined, and unrefined, each type of coconut oil has its own characteristics and uses, making it a staple in both kitchens and beauty regimens.

Nutritional Profile

Coconut oil is a nutrient powerhouse comprising medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) and saturated fats. One tablespoon (14g) of coconut oil has:Calories: 120

• Calories: 120

• Fat: 14g

• Saturated fat: 12g

• Carbohydrates: 0g

• Protein: 0g

• Fibre: 0g

• Vitamins: E, K

• Minerals: Iron, Phosphorus

Coconut oil is unique because it contains a high amount of saturated fats, especially medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). These MCTs are known for their quick energy release and metabolism boost, which makes them different from other fats and oils.

Is Coconut Oil Good For You? Health Benefits

We approach beauty from the outside in, but beauty really starts from within. By replacing some of your other cooking oils with coconut oil, you can achieve beauty from the inside out.

While coconut oil has its benefits, vegetable oils are recommended for heart health due to lower saturated fat content and cholesterol management. Here are the benefits of coconut oil when ingested:

• It cleanses and detoxes the liver, essential for healthy and beautiful skin.

• It reduces internal and external inflammation, which also calms skin irritants.

• Coconut oil contains three healthy fatty acids: caprylic acid, lauric acid, and capric acid. These acids balance hormones, improve digestion, and provide natural antibacterial and antifungal benefits. They help promote healthy and youthful skin.

• Populations that consume a lot of coconut oil in their diet (because of their location, like in the South Pacific) are healthy and have low rates of heart disease.

• Coconut oil can reduce your appetite and increase your metabolism; you eat less and lose fat. The medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) in coconut oil are easier to digest and boost metabolism, weight loss and brain function.

Coconut Oil For Hair: MCT Benefits

Coconut Oil can penetrate the hair and reduce protein loss from your hair. Its nourishing properties can promote hair growth and overall hair health. Here's how to use it:

• Rub a few drops of oil in your palms and use before or after shampooing your hair. You can also apply it directly to split ends in between salon trips.

• Coconut oil can be decanted into smaller containers to be used as a daily hair oil. It tames flyaways and is a chemical-free moisturiser and anti-frizz serum for curly hair.

• You can also use coconut oil as a deep-conditioning hot oil treatment. Warm the desired amount for a few seconds in the microwave, apply to clean, wet hair, put on a shower cap, and leave on for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse and style.

Coconut Oil For Skin

Here are a few benefits of using coconut oil on your skin:

• Coconut oil is an excellent makeup remover. It can be used to remove stubborn mascara, eye makeup, and other pigment-rich makeup. Apply it with a cotton ball, and it will dissolve your makeup.

• Coconut oil is a natural antifungal, and its antibacterial properties can heal small rashes, abrasions, and skin irritations.

• It has light SPF, is ultra moisturised, and can help with eczema symptoms.

• Use as a natural lip balm on chapped lips for hours.

You can apply this oil directly to your skin, but it will absorb better with a carrier lotion. Just add 1 drop to your daily facial moisturiser and 5 to 7 drops to your head-to-toe moisturiser.

Types of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil comes in several forms, each with a different processing method and characteristics:

• Virgin Coconut Oil: Extracted from fresh coconut meat, this type has a rich coconut flavour and aroma and a higher concentration of antioxidants and nutrients. It is suitable for culinary and beauty use.

• Refined Coconut Oil: Made from dried coconut meat (copra), this oil undergoes a degumming and deodorisation process and has a milder flavour, making it good for cooking and neutral in taste.

• Unrefined Coconut Oil: Raw coconut oil is extracted directly from coconut meat without further processing and has an intense coconut flavour and aroma.

• Organic Coconut Oil: It is produced from coconuts grown under organic standards, and no synthetic pesticides and fertilisers are used, making it a healthier option.

Virgin Coconut Oil

Virgin coconut oil is the crème de la crème of coconut oils. Extracted from fresh coconut meat, it has a rich coconut flavour and aroma and a higher concentration of antioxidants and nutrients like vitamin E.

This type of coconut oil is rich in medium-chain fatty acids, especially lauric acid, which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Since it undergoes minimal processing, virgin coconut oil retains more natural nutrients and flavour, making it good for both culinary and beauty use.

Refined Coconut Oil

Refined coconut oil is derived from dried coconut meat (copra). The refining process involves degumming, neutralisation, bleaching and deodorisation.

While this process removes impurities and improves the oil's colour and texture, it also removes nutrients and flavour. Refined coconut oil is good for cooking due to its higher smoke point and neutral taste, making it a kitchen-friendly option.

Which Virgin Coconut Oil to Choose

There are many brands of coconut oil to choose from, but if you will use it for skincare, choose organic and virgin/unrefined. Refined coconut oil is made by using chemical solvents like hexane to extract oil from dried coconut meat, which is good for cooking.

Coconut oil is unique because it solidifies and liquefies depending on the temperature. If your oil has solidified, run the jar or bottle under warm water for a few seconds.

Just a slight increase in temperature will melt enough for you to use. Unlike olive oil, coconut oil does not have a regulatory distinction between 'virgin' and 'extra virgin' labels.

Precautions When Using Coconut Oil

While coconut oil has many benefits, use it wisely since it's high in saturated fat. Remember:

• Saturated Fat Content: Coconut oil is mainly composed of saturated fats. If overused, it can increase LDL (bad) cholesterol and may increase heart disease risk. Use in moderation.

• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some may experience allergic reactions, such as skin irritation or digestive issues. Always patch test before using extensively.

• Medication Interference: Coconut oil may interfere with certain medications, like blood thinners, reducing their effectiveness. Consult your healthcare provider if you plan to increase coconut oil consumption.

• Quality and Processing: Coconut oil's benefits vary depending on its quality and processing. Choose high-quality oil from reputable sources for the best benefits.

Remembering these, you can use coconut oil safely in your beauty and health regimen.

Storage and Handling

Storage and handling are essential to keep your coconut oil fresh and effective. Here are some tips:

• Cool, Dark Place: Store coconut oil in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard to prevent light and heat.

• No Moisture: Keep the oil away from moisture to prevent spoilage.

• Clean Utensils: Use a clean and dry scoop or spoon to handle the oil without contamination.

• Minimise Air Exposure: Limit the oil's exposure to air to prevent rancidity.

• Refrigeration: Store coconut oil in the fridge in hot weather to keep its consistency and prevent spoilage.

How to Use Coconut Oil in Your Beauty Regimen

Using coconut oil in your beauty regimen can change your skin, hair and overall health. Here are some simple ways to maximise this oil:

1. Moisturiser: Virgin coconut oil, with its MCTs and lauric acid, is good for dry skin. Apply it to elbows and heels after bathing to lock in moisture.

2. Hair Mask: Apply melted coconut oil to hair ends and work up to roots. Leave for an hour before shampooing to reduce protein loss and add shine.

3. Makeup Remover: Use coconut oil on a cotton pad to remove makeup and leave skin hydrated.

4. Shaving Cream: Apply a thin layer before shaving to prevent razor burn and soothe skin.

5. Lip Balm: Apply coconut oil throughout the day to keep lips soft.

6. Cuticle Oil: Massage coconut oil to each cuticle to prevent hangnails.

7. Face Mask: Apply a thin layer to the face for 30 minutes to deeply moisturise the skin.

Choose high-quality virgin coconut oil for the best results, and use it in moderation to avoid clogging pores.

To Avoid The Oily Mess, use Coconut Soap.

Many health and beauty companies offer small, easy-to-dispense bottles of coconut oil, but these small bottles cost as much as a whole jar.

So, to avoid the oily mess of applying coconut oil from a big bottle or jar, why not use a turkey baster or small plastic syringe to dispense from big bottles into smaller containers? Melted coconut oil is also versatile in cooking and baking, like replacing butter in recipes or drizzled over popcorn.

A less messy way is to buy a natural coconut oil beauty bar and use it to wash your entire face, body, and hair! These beauty bars are not only convenient but also packed with coconut oil goodness, making them a great addition to your skincare routine.

The beauty bar can help maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier because of its rich content of medium-chain fatty acids and antioxidants.

Plus, using a coconut oil beauty bar can reduce the need for multiple products, simplify your beauty regimen, and give your skin and hair the hydration and care they need.

This eco-friendly option is for those who want to reduce waste, live a more sustainable life, and enjoy the luxury and natural scent of coconut oil.

These are just a few ways to incorporate coconut oil into your daily or weekly health and beauty regimen, but there is much more to explore.

Conclusion

In conclusion, coconut oil is versatile and nutritious when consumed in moderation. Rich in MCTs, saturated fats, and antioxidants, it's excellent for cooking, skincare, and hair care. When choosing coconut oil, choose virgin coconut oil for a higher nutrient content and natural flavour. Proper storage and handling are essential to maintain the oil's quality and shelf life.

Coconut oil is an ingredient in many health and wellness products, and for good reason. Its unique composition and nutritional profile make it a great choice for overall health and wellness. Whether you use it for cooking, skincare, or hair care, coconut oil will become a household staple.

Et Vous?

Do you eat a lot of coconut oil? How do you use it in your diet, and how do you follow any specific guidelines? Do you use coconut oil for your skin or hair? Let me know in the comments below. Like and share this post, so I know you're reading :)