Are you concerned about your skin’s health and looking for a better and more natural way to improve it? Have you ever wondered ‘Is coconut oil good for your face?’ In that case, you’re at the right place as we bring you the secret to healthier skin which is probably in your kitchen right now. And it is – coconut oil! It does wonders for your skin, but you can’t just slather it on your face and expect immediate results. Continue reading this article to learn about this beauty elixir’s many benefits and how to best use it.
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Benefits of Coconut Oil for Your Face
You’ve probably heard many stories about how great coconut oil is for the skin? However, is coconut oil good for your face? Let’s take a closer look at the actual benefits of using coconut on your face.
Cleansing and Moisturizing
Coconut oil application can reduce the dryness of your face and make it more hydrated. It’s made of nourishing fatty acids like linoleic acid (Vitamin F) that allow the skin to retain moisture. It’s an excellent occlusive and protects the skin from trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). It’s also said to remove impurities making the skin cleaner and softer. Lauric acid present in it possesses antibacterial properties. It can also be used in its natural state to remove makeup.
Protection
Applying coconut oil can add a layer of protection that shields the skin from environmental factors like toxins, dirt, and other gross stuff that the skin is exposed to every day. Its emollient properties help repair the skin’s barrier function. It’s very beneficial if you have atopic dermatitis, eczema, or in general, dry and sensitive skin types. It also repairs cracks in the skin’s outer layer, making it harder for harmful bacteria to infect the skin.
Smoothening
This amazing oil smoothens the skin and makes it soft and supple. Its continuous application will gradually improve the texture of your skin. It also enhances the skin tone by lightening the dark patches and spots. To boost its effect, it’s a good idea to add a bit of lemon juice to it.
Anti-Wrinkle
Due to its moisturizing properties, coconut oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, diminishing the signs of aging. It increases collagen production, which helps maintain the skin’s firmness and elasticity.
Calming
Coconut oil can reduce redness and puffiness as it has a soothing effect on the skin. If you have dark under-eye circles, try using it under your eyes regularly and see the change. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help in healing wounds, lightening scars, and reducing inflammation.
Antioxidants
Coconut oil contains phytonutrient and antioxidant compounds, and its continuous use on the face can help reduce the damage caused by environmental stress and aging. It also protects your skin from the sun’s UV rays by neutralizing and preventing free radicals. It’s a good idea to apply it after sun exposure. Ensure not to apply it directly on a sunburnt area as it can trap heat and worsens damage by acting as a sealant.
Exfoliant Base
If you’re making a face scrub, you can use it as a base to mix with granular substances like clays, bicarbonate of soda or finely ground walnut shells. Just mix both the ingredients, rub it all over your face, and wipe it off with a warm wet towel for an invigorating scrub. You can even add essential oils for a more therapeutic effect. But make sure to spot test the essential oil first to ensure it doesn’t cause a reaction before applying it to your face. Never use sugar or salt in a facial scrub as the crystalline structure of the particles can cause microtears in the skin.
Pleasant Odor
You don’t have to think a lot before using coconut oil on your face as it has a pleasant odor. Your face product needs to smell good, and in that respect, this wonderful substance doesn’t disappoint you. If you want a more fragrant experience, you can simply add a few drops of essential oil to the coconut oil and use as is since it’s also a great carrier oil.
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Is Coconut Oil Good for your Face?
DIY Ways to Use Coconut Oil on your Face
To clean your face with coconut oil, rub it in circular motions over your face and massage it. Once done, wash it off with your favorite face wash. Once you’ve started using it, you’ll soon discover if coconut oil is good for your face.
To make a DIY face mask with this oil, mix some turmeric, honey, coconut oil, and lemon juice. Then apply to a clean face, and leave it on for 15 minutes. Rinse it off with warm water, and there you have clean, soft, and glowing skin!
You can also use this oil to remove eye makeup, including waterproof mascara. Use a cotton ball to sweep coconut oil over your eyes and anywhere else on your face to remove the makeup. The oil breaks down solid makeup in a gentle and hydrating manner. Once done, rinse your face and pat dry.
If you have dry skin around your eyes, massage coconut oil under them with your finger before bedtime.
To make a DIY lip scrub, mix coconut oil, sugar, and honey in proportion to attain your desired consistency. Use it regularly for soft and plump lips.
To highlight your cheeks after makeup, sweep a tiny amount of coconut oil on top of makeup to make your skin glow.
In addition to the above, there are many other DIY methods to use coconut oil on your face.
Precautions
Even though this magical substance is highly beneficial for the skin, it’s not suitable for all skin types. If it doesn’t suit your skin and you notice an increase in acne breakouts, you should discontinue its use. It can clog pores as it’s comedogenic and can block the pores of those prone to acne, or with oily skin. If you have oily skin on your face, it’s probably not a great idea to use coconut oil overnight. But if you have dry skin, it could help clear the breakouts and make the skin softer and brighter.
To find out if coconut oil is goof for your skin, we recommend doing a patch test first. Also, if you have a nut allergy, it’s best to check if you have an allergic sensitivity to it before applying in large amounts to your face.
Final Thoughts
We’ve answered the age-old question: Is coconut oil good for your face? It’s best to use organic, virgin, and cold-pressed coconut oil for your skin for best results. Avoid the processed versions, if possible. Cold-pressed oil doesn’t use heat for extraction, and hence, it’s a great way to retain essential nutrients that are beneficial for the skin.
