The benefits that can be derived from coconuts are manifold. When it comes to thinking about the plus points of coconuts, we tend to think mainly of the tender coconut juice that cools us during the warm summers. But there are a number of benefits of coconut that we are often unaware of. One of these is the positive effect that coconut oil has on skin and hair.

Coconut oil acts on the skin, hair, and face as a moisturizer. The oil is therefore used in various cosmetic and medical products. Its anti-microbial properties are highly effective against bacteria and fungi. In addition, coconut oil has a pleasant smell compared to other oils.

How is coconut oil extracted?

Coconut fruit is dried in the sun and cold pressed. This is the traditional way of extracting coconut oil. There is another type of coconut oil called refined coconut oil, wherein the oil is subjected to heat and other conditions. Both refined and cold pressed oil offer unique benefits.

Benefits of coconut oil for hair, skin, and face

• Moisturizes the skin
  Coconut oil serves to reduce water loss and keep the skin hydrated and fresh. It has a moisturizing effect on the skin and is very helpful in summer – when your chances of suffering dehydration reach an all time high.
• Promotes wound healing
  Coconut oil over open wounds helps promote the healing of that wound. It forms a film over the wound and prevents microscopic organisms from settling on the wound. It also provides space for the wound to repair and has an anti-inflammatory effect on open wounds.
• Acts as a cleansing agent
  Coconut oil is a good agent for cleansing your face. It acts by removing the debris settled on the skin. To do this, you need to apply the oil gently over your face and scrub it in a circular motion. Then leave it for few seconds and wash your face. It will give you a natural glow. If you have an oily skin or acne, you should not use coconut oil for the face.

• Adds shine to the hair
  Applying coconut oil on your hair gives a natural shine. Another way of using coconut oil for your hair is to apply the oil, keep your hair oiled overnight, and then rinse it the next day. It helps the nutrients of the coconut oil seep into the hair follicles, thus helping strengthen your hair.
• Body scrub
  Coconut oil, along with other components, can form a healthy body scrub. Either you can use it directly under the shower, or scrub it onto your body and leave it on for sometime before hitting the shower.
• Can be used as a massage oil
  Coconut oil can be effective as a massage oil.The massaging will help improve the blood circulation of the skin, which will flush the toxins and debris accumulated on the skin. Let the oil stay on your skin for 15-20 minutes after the massage. Then, shower using a body scrub. This will add a natural glow to your skin.
• Removes eye makeup
  Coconut oil can be used to remove makeup from the eyes. It can easily remove stubborn waterproof eye makeup as well.
• Helps you get rid of dandruff
  Coconut oil is a natural antifungal, antimicrobial, antibacterial, and has soothing properties. As a result, it nourishes the scalp, and thus offers relief from dandruff conditions.
• Helps with shaving
  If you have a problem using lather or foam for shaving, then you can try using coconut oil. It moisturizes your skin for an easier shave and prevents ingrowth.
• Soothes dry hands
  Coconut oil can be used to soothe tired and dry hands after a day’s work. This property of coconut oil is particularly useful during summer when your hands get dried fast.

One of the advantages of using coconut oil is its easy availability and reasonable cost. Found almost everywhere in the world, at a very affordable price, and having no side effects, coconut oil is something truly miraculous!

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