Coconut Oil: The Natural Multi-Purpose Skin Health Remedy
How to use coconut oil for moisturizing, makeup removal, and healing dry patches.
Coconut oil has been a skin care staple in tropical climates for centuries, and its popularity in Western skin care is well-deserved. It contains lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid with significant antimicrobial properties, as well as vitamin E and antioxidants that support skin health.
As a moisturizer, coconut oil is most effective for dry to very dry skin — its occlusive properties create a barrier that locks moisture in. For oily or acne-prone skin, it may contribute to breakouts in some people, so approach cautiously and watch your skin's response.
My favorite use for coconut oil is as a makeup remover — it dissolves even waterproof mascara gently and effectively, without the harsh surfactants in many commercial removers. Follow with a gentle cleanser to remove the oil residue.
Ingredients
- Virgin (unrefined) coconut oil
- Optional: a few drops of lavender essential oil for fragrance and added skin benefit
How to Use
- 1For moisturizing: take a small amount (pea-sized for face, more for body) and warm between palms until melted.
- 2Apply to slightly damp skin after bathing for best absorption.
- 3For makeup removal: scoop a small amount and massage gently over face, including eye area.
- 4Wipe away with a warm, damp cloth, then cleanse face normally.
- 5For dry patches or cracked heels: apply liberally and cover with a sock or cotton glove overnight.
- 6Store at room temperature in a sealed glass jar — it will solidify in cold weather and melt in warm.