Loco for coconut oil? Yup, us too! This beauty cure-all is a magic potion for your skin and hair. Read all about its beauty benefits here.
The world may have gone cuckoo for coconuts – whether it’s a refreshing glass of coconut juice, coconut ice cream or the occasional Piña colada – we love ‘em all. Coconut oil, in particular, has quickly become the trendy food product du jour. But in recent years, its health benefits has been met by controversy – experts claim its high saturated fat content can raise the “bad” low density lipoprotein cholesterol in one’s blood, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Whatever your views on its nutritional benefits, one can’t deny its status as a beauty staple. This sweet-smelling stuff is magic for skin, and melts upon application. But it’s more than just a moisturiser – it’s a multi-tasking miracle. Put your sceptical mind to rest. We give you the lowdown on coconut oil’s most unexpected beauty uses.
As a moisturiser
Forget fancy creams, lotions, and hair products; cold-pressed coconut oil is all you really need as an all-in-one beauty product. If you have dry skin, apply coconut oil all over your body (legs, elbows, cracked heels, cuticles…you name it!) or leave it in your locks overnight; it works great as an ultra-hydrating hair mask. We especially love the scrumptious, tropical scent – it reminds us of beach vacays!
As a makeup remover
Think of the cold creams your grandma swore by. Coconut oil as a makeup remover works the same way. Massage onto skin the way you would with an oil cleanser, or wipe it off with cotton pads. Use a warm washcloth to wipe any excess off, before rinsing again with warm water.
As an all-natural highlighter
Who needs to buy $60 highlighters when you’ve got an all-natural jar of it sitting in your kitchen cupboard? Sweep a little on your cheekbones for a natural, radiant glow.
As a shaving cream
Keep a small jar of coconut oil in your bathroom – the heat from a hot shower will easily melt one that’s solidified. Shave your legs at the end of your shower when your follicles have opened up from the heat. Pat the coconut oil on and shave off your fuzz with a sharp razor. You’ll leave with a close clean shave, and super smooth legs.
As a frizz fighter
In the unbearable Singapore heat, adding oil to one’s beauty routine may be inconceivable, but coconut oil actually works wonders to smoothen your hair. To tame your mane, take a little dab of coconut oil to cut your frizz and tame flyaways. A little goes a long way here!
As a makeup brush cleaner
Yup, you read that right. Simply create a mixture of two parts coconut oil, three parts lemon juice and swirl your brushes around in it. The oil helps pull grime and dirt out while the juice removes nasty bacteria.
As a next-level lip balm
Supercharge your lip game with coconut oil. Simply mix an old lipstick and a bit of it in an old jar, and smear it on for for a just bitten look.
As an eyelash growth serum
Skip expensive eyelash serums for an all-natural alternative. It’s rich in fatty acids and proteins – what eyelashes thrive on for growth. It won’t work overnight, but rub it on overnight to prevent lashes from falling out (especially after a perm or extension) and watch it grow luscious and long in time.
To make your own DIY deodorant
Forget the anti-perspirant deodorant from the dollar store and make your own – it’s the best way to know exactly what you’re putting on on your lymph node area. To create your own, combine baking soda and cornstarch, essential oils of your choice and mash in coconut oil until it’s well-mixed.
Type of coconut oil to buy
Coconut oil comes in various forms. Choose virgin (also known as unrefined) as it’s typically made from fresh coconut. Refined ones, on the other hand, are made from dried coconut shells, and have undergone various levels of processing (including deodorising and bleaching) which is always a no-no in our books. Also opt for the cold-pressed variety, as it’s mechanically pressed at temperatures not exceeding 120 degrees to preserve its benefits. It also goes without saying that you should always opt for organic too.
Where to buy coconut oil
These days, you can find coconut oil just about anywhere, from your average supermarket to upscale ones. Favourites include the Nakula Organic Cold Pressed Oil or Dr Gram’s Organic Virgin Coconut Oil. The best ones are found in organic stores, and even Mustafa Centre, which is home to one of the largest organic sections in Singapore.
