We at Mona Moon Naturals are the biggest fans of coconut oil. No seriously. We are so obsessed, we have it in every single product: from our incredibly nourishing lip balm to our deliciously fluffy body whip, to our simple but effective, four-ingredient natural deodorant. We know, we know - people have been talking about coconut oil for years. But slathering on the heavy oil can be intimidating, right? Once, we show you all its benefits you’ll be stocking up on your coconut oil supply.
If we started listing all the benefits of the humble coconut oil this would be an extremely long blog post. So let’s narrow it down to our skin, shall we?
What are the benefits of Coconut Oil?
We probably don’t need to tell you that coconut oil comes from the meat of the coconut, but the secret lies in its natural fats. Coconut oil is a plant oil that contains Vitamin E, healthy fats, and a unique combination of fatty acids, specifically, essential amino acids, linoleic (beneficial for acne-prone skin) lauric, and caprylic acid. These acids are anti-fungal, antibacterial, antimicrobial and antiviral. Here are all its benefits:
Anti-bacterial: Coconut oil kills bacteria on the skin and reduces inflammation. The lauric acid gives coconut oil this property.
Locks in Moisture: Contrary to popular belief, coconut oil is not hydrating! Instead it helps lock in existing moisture by preventing water loss from the body through the epidermis.
Pro Tip: Layer coconut oil right over your moisturizer to lock in all that soft skin goodness!
Reduces inflammation: Studies on humans suggest that eating coconut oil can reduce markers of oxidative stress and inflammation, however, further research is needed.
Anti-aging: The Vitamin E and Vitamin A in coconut gives it its anti-aging properties, improving skins elasticity, collagen production and may help to reduce the damage from free radicals and the sun.
How To Use Coconut Oil
Like we said, we absolutely love coconut oil and we want to share that love by letting you guys into all the ways we use it! Coconut oil is the ultimate multitasker, as you’ll soon find out, but remember to use organic, unrefined, cold-pressed coconut oil. That will ensure you get the best naturally occurring phytonutrients and polyphenols (micronutrients packed with antioxidants).
Let’s dive in!
Lock In Moisture, Everywhere!
We wouldn't recommend using oil on your face if you’re acne-prone but it works amazingly on the rest of your body. You can use it on your dry hands, feet, cuticles, and lips. For unbelievably soft, glowy skin try out our Body Whip with coconut oil as one of its ingredients!
2. Take Your Makeup Off
Have you guys heard about double-cleansing? If you wear makeup then you probably should consider jumping onto this trend! It’s simple. Use a oil-based cleanser/balm followed by a gentle cleanser to ensure you get rid of all traces of makeup. But why use anything else if we already have a jar of our favorite coconut oil in our bathroom cabinets? It works just as well! Take a small amount of it, rub between your palms to warm and liquefy, then simply massage into your face to gently dissolve that long day’s grime. Follow up with your favorite gentle cleanser and you’re done!
TIP: Coconut Oil works great for waterproof mascara!
3. Face Cleanser
If you don’t have makeup on to remove you can use it as an oil cleanser. Oil dissolves oil which makes coconut oil an effective cleanser. Do the same steps described above but remember that unless you have really dry skin, make sure to properly remove the oil left on your skin.
4. Create a DIY face mask.
Who doesn’t love an at-home pamper session? Try out this simple, healing mask with all natural ingredients:
Turmeric (anti-inflammatory)
Lemon Juice (Natural Vitamin C)
Raw Manuka Honey (great for acne)
Melted Coconut Oil (hydration)
Leave on for 15 minutes. Wash it off and pat your skin dry for hydrated, bright skin!
5. Freshen your breath.
Yes, coconut oil can help with that morning breath as well! Oil pulling is a technique where you swirl coconut oil around the inside of your mouth for about 10-20 minutes until it’s milky white, then spit it out in the trash. Remember not to spit it into your sink! The coconut oil will solidify and clog your sink. Oil pulling generates antioxidants which damage the cell wall of microorganisms and kill them.
6. Soothe Eczema And Psoriasis
Coconut oil is a safe natural remedy for skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Apply a thin layer on affected areas or add a couple tablespoons in a hot bath.
Final Takeaway
Unless you are acne-prone and easily get congested, coconut oil is a great, natural addition to your beauty routine. Just make sure to check the label on the jar to ensure it does not have any additives. Always go for the purest form possible!
Want to try products with coconut oil in them? Check out Mona Moon Naturals’ products, all with coconut oil in their ingredient list!