When it comes to coconut oil, many of us would most likely be more familiar with how it helps to smooth dry, damaged hair. But besides being a frizz-tamer and wonder treatment for tresses, coconut oil has many other benefits in beauty.
According to Gigi Goldman, founder of coconut-based skin and body care brand Kopari, coconut oil has one of the highest concentration of fatty acid among the different types of oils. These fatty acids, which are antimicrobial and antibacterial, also help hydrate and soothe skin, and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Besides being a great ingredient to hydrate and treat sensitised skin, coconut oil is packed with vitamin E and other essential amino acids. All these help to repair and strengthen skin, and maintain healthy skin barrier functions while preventing moisture loss. Plus, virgin coconut oil is non-comedogenic, which means that it is less likely to clog pores or cause congestion, making it suitable even for those with oilier complexions.
So how do you use it? For starters (besides applying it on your hair), it can be used to remove makeup as the oils help to break down heavy or waterproof makeup without clogging up your pores. And since it is known for its hydrating benefits, it can also be used as a body moisturiser or scrub. Just add in oats or ground coffee to create the latter. Last but not least, it can double as a shaving balm so your skin feels smoother, softer and more well-hydrated post-shave.
Here are four coconut oil-based products to add to your skincare regimen:
#1: Kopari Coconut Oil, $49 for 150ml
This is formulated with organic coconut oil to hydrate and impart a dewy, healthy-looking glow to the skin. Not only can it be applied to the body and face to soothe dry and sensitive skin and combat inflammation, it can be used on the hair to treat chemically damaged locks by sealing in moisture to dry hair.
#2: Coco & Eve Like A Virgin Super Nourishing Coconut & Fig Hair Masque, $50 for 212ml
Powered by raw virgin coconuts and figs, this nourishing hair mask restores moisture and shine to dry and damaged locks. It is also made with linseed and argan oils to prevent split ends. Shea butter imparts long-lasting moisture for soft, smooth locks.
#3: Essano Argan Oil of Morocco Hair Recovery Serum, $19.95 for 50ml
This harnesses the benefits of six powerful oils including coconut, macadamia, argan, linseed, avocado and pomegranate. These oils work together to instantly treat and soften damaged hair. Over time, tresses appear less frizzy and feels more hydrated.
#4: Herbivore Lapis Facial Oil, $112 for 50ml
Besides coconut oil, this is also saturated with azulene oil, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help reduce redness, clarify the complexion and balance out skin’s hydration levels. Ideal for oily and combination skin types, this is said to be fast-absorbing and even forms a natural lipid barrier to lock in moisture for plump, hydrated skin without greasiness.
Related articles:
10 Superfood Skincare Ranges And Products For Your Best Complexion Ever
Is Double Cleansing Really Worth The Effort?
Seven Best Concealers For Any Skin Emergency You’ll Ever Be In
