Using Coconut Oil as a Moisturizer

Dr. Kathleen Scala, AP DOM

Coconut oil is a nutritious cooking option, but did you know it can also be used as a full-body moisturizer? Coconut oil is a natural substitute for almost any personal care product! Try it on your face, hair, body, or even on your pet’s dry paws for hydration support. The light substance melts like butter immediately upon touching your skin. It may smell like baked cookies, but coconut oil is more than just another kitchen staple in the natural health world. The edible plant grease has also quickly become a one-stop, go-to product for daily beauty regimens. Some holistic health practitioners swear by it! Putting the same oil you use in your baking recipes on your face may make you a bit uneasy at first, but never fear! Men and women all over the world use pure, unrefined, virgin organic coconut oil as a gentle, chemical-free alternative to other skin care products. It is even used in some baby care products. Here are some of the many ways you can use it as a moisturizer and more!

Coconut Oil for the Face

Coconut oil is often used as a nighttime moisturizer for the face because it hydrates the skin and absorbs quickly without leaving the skin dry like some fragranced facial creams or lotions. However, be careful if you have oily skin, as it may spur a minor breakout. Use it gently around the eyes to support hydration in that sensitive area. It may even replace your nighttime eye cream. Since the oil spreads easily, you only need a small amount. Place it in the palm of your hands and gently massage it into the skin. Try our popular NOW Foods Pure Fractionated Liquid Coconut Oil, which contains 100% organic coconut oil, to see how it improves your skin’s appearance! (Source)

Coconut Oil for the Hair

Nature’s Way Liquid Coconut Premium Oil is an excellent choice for dry hair and split ends. It may penetrate hair better than other oils. It hydrates and smoothes out frizz leaving your hair looking terrific. It makes a great leave-in deep conditioning mask and can be used as an alternative to a finishing product. Be aware that coconut oil may make your hair greasy, so use it in moderation or leave it on your hair overnight and rinse it out in the morning.

Coconut Oil for the Body

Coconut oil is ideal for moisturizing dry skin and cracked lips. It will leave your skin feeling soft and moisturized. Its antioxidant properties support the skin’s normal aging process and protect against oxidative damage.

Coconut Oil for Dogs

Coconut oil can support the dog’s skin health by temporarily relieving itchy or bumpy skin. It can soothe and hydrate dry, chapped paws, and smooth fur. However, some canines may be allergic to coconut oil. Consult with your veterinarian before using it on your pup. (Source)

Other Uses

Coconut oil can also be used for other needs, including, but not limited to: Eye Makeup Remover: Dab a little coconut oil on a cotton pad and carefully swipe it across your tightly closed eyelid to remove most makeup. Be careful not to get the oil in your eyes as it may cause irritation. (Source) Mouth Detox Rinse: Swish a glob of coconut oil through your mouth and teeth for a few minutes without swallowing it to remove toxins from your body and support gum and tooth health. Read more about oil pulling here. You can also ingest a teaspoonful for its “good” fats. Nutritional Supplements: The medium-chain triglycerides in coconut oil support energy production, weight management, appetite control, and cholesterol levels already in the normal range. A dietary supplement such as Extra Virgin Coconut Oil 1000 Mg from Jarrow Formulas provides these health benefits making it an ideal addition to your dietary routine. Shop Natural Healthy Concepts’ diverse product line today!
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About the Author

Dr. Kathleen Scala, AP DOM

Dr. Kathleen Scala, AP DOM, is an NCCAOM FL Board Certified Acupuncture Physician and Doctor of Oriental Medicine. She graduated with honors from East West College of Natural Medicine in Sarasota, FL and received NCCAOM diplomas for both acupuncture and Chinese Herbology. Through her acupuncture and herbal training she also became skilled in nutrition and homeopathy. While a medical student Kathleen managed the herbal clinic at East West College. She brings extensive supplement knowledge from over twenty-four years in the natural health and wellness industry.

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