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.
Above are five coconut oil-based products to add to your skincare regimen.
