Coconut oil has been used across the globe for its medicinal properties. In fact, coconut oil is considered to be one of the most powerful natural oils on earth. It is also known as “nature’s cleanser” due to its ability to cleanse the skin without stripping it.
In addition to being a great moisturizer, coconut oil is also very effective at treating dry skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Many people use coconut oil as a natural alternative to commercial skin care products. Here are seven ways to use coconut oil to treat your skin naturally.
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Use Coconut Oil to Treat Acne
Acne occurs when bacteria clog pores on the face or body. This causes pimples and blackheads to form. The main cause of acne is often stressing, but sometimes hormonal changes can also contribute to breakouts.
To prevent acne, wash your face with warm water and coconut oil twice daily. Massage coconut oil into your skin until it melts, then rinse off with lukewarm water. Follow this routine once or twice per week for maximum results.
Remove Makeup
Makeup can leave behind residue on the skin that makes it difficult to remove. To remove makeup, massage coconut oil onto your face and neck before washing with warm water. Let the mixture sit for five minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat this process two times per week for optimal results.
Get Rid of Blemishes
Blemishes are small bumps that may contain pus or blood. They can occur anywhere on the body, including the nose, chin, cheeks, forehead, chest, back, arms, legs, or even scalp.
To get rid of blemishes, mix equal parts coconut oil and lemon juice. Apply this mixture to the affected area using a cotton ball. Allow it to soak in for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. You should see improvement within 24 hours.
Use Coconut Oil to Heal Scars
Scars come in many different colors, shapes, and sizes. A scar can result from anything from a burn to surgery to sun damage.
To heal scars, combine equal parts coconut oil and aloe vera gel. Mix together well, then gently massage into the scar. Cover with plastic wrap and let it sit for 20 minutes. Then, peel off the plastic wrap and rinse with cool water. Continue doing this several times per day for the best results.
Soothe Sunburns
Sunburns happen when the skin becomes too exposed to UV rays. The resulting redness and inflammation can last up to four weeks.
Apply coconut oil to the affected area after you have applied sunscreen. It will help soothe the pain and speed healing time.
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Treat Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic condition characterized by inflamed, scaly patches on the skin. There are over eight million people living with psoriasis in the U.S., making it one of the most common autoimmune diseases.
Coconut oil has been shown to be effective at treating psoriasis because it contains fatty acids that moisturize dry skin. Combine 1/2 cup of coconut oil with 2 cups of baking soda in a bowl. Stir well and use this mixture as a scrub to cleanse the affected area.
Promote Hair Growth
Hair loss is normal throughout an adult human life and during menopause, but some women experience hair thinning before their periods stop altogether. This is called “peri-menopausal” hair loss.
If you notice your hair falling out more than usual, try applying coconut oil to the scalp twice daily. Massage it thoroughly until it feels smooth. Wash your hair normally afterward.
Remove Dandruff
Dandruff occurs when dead skin flakes fall onto the scalp. Most cases clear up without any intervention, but if yours doesn’t, try applying coconut oil.
Combine equal parts coconut oil and olive oil. Rub this mixture into the scalp once a day. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then wash it off with lukewarm water. Repeat this process two or three times per week for maximum effectiveness.
Prevent Stretch Marks
Stretch marks are caused by rapid weight gain or loss. These lines appear as white streaks across the skin.
Mix equal parts coconut oil and cocoa butter. Spread this mixture all over the affected areas. Leave it on overnight, then remove it with a soft cloth. Do this every other night for the best results.
Reduce Cellulite
Cellulite is the dimpled appearance that often appears on the thighs and hips of overweight individuals. It is also known as “cottage cheese syndrome” because it resembles cottage cheese.
Rubbing coconut oil into cellulite-prone areas helps reduce its appearance. To do this, apply a thick layer of coconut oil to the problem areas. Wrap yourself in plastic wrap and leave it on for 30 minutes. Afterward, peel away the plastic wrap and rinse the area with cold water. You should see improvement within a few days.
Make Your Own Body Butter With Coconut Oil
Body butters are great for keeping skin hydrated and nourished. They work especially well for dry winter months.
Melt coconut oil in a double boiler or heatproof glass bowl placed over simmering water. Once melted, add essential oils and stir well. Allow the body butter to cool completely before using. Store in a sealed container.
Fight Bacterial Infections
Bacteria live everywhere, even inside our bodies. When they get into our bloodstream, they can cause serious infections such as pneumonia, septicemia, endocarditis, and meningitis.
Use coconut oil to prevent infection by rubbing it directly on cuts, scrapes, wounds, boils, and sores. Apply it to burns and sunburns, too.
Treat Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that causes redness, itching, scaling, and blisters on the feet.
Apply coconut oil to the infected areas. The fungus will die after several hours, leaving behind healthy skin.
Cure Ringworm
Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection that affects the outer layers of the skin. This condition usually begins as small bumps that turn into scaly patches.
Apply coconut oil directly to the affected areas. Cover them with a bandage to keep the oil from getting washed away. Change the bandages at least four times per day.
Get Rid of Scabies
Scabies is an intensely itchy rash that develops on the hands, arms, legs, and face. It is caused by tiny mites that burrow under the skin.
To treat scabies, rub coconut oil on the affected areas. Be sure to use enough oil so that it gets absorbed deep into the skin. Leave the treatment on for 20 minutes, then wash it away with warm water. Repeat this process once daily until you see improvement.
In conclusion, coconut oil has become increasingly popular over time because of its amazing health benefits. While it’s true that coconut oil doesn’t taste very good, it does contain a number of nutrients that help keep our bodies functioning properly. In fact, coconut oil contains lauric acid, which helps fight viruses and bacteria, and capric acid, which helps boost the immune system.
While coconut oil is often used as a cooking ingredient, it can also be applied topically to treat a variety of conditions. For example, coconut oil can be rubbed onto the feet to relieve pain from arthritis, eczema, and psoriasis. It can also be used to prevent athlete’s foot, sunburns, and insect bites.
Coconut oil can also be used to treat acne, dry skin, hair loss, and dandruff. Simply massage a small amount into your scalp and leave it there overnight. This treatment will help moisturize your hair and scalp, leaving you with soft, shiny locks.
Finally, coconut oil can be used to reduce inflammation and speed healing after injuries. Simply apply a thin layer to affected areas and let it sit for several minutes before rinsing away.