17 Ways to Use Coconut Oil

1. Body Butter

Slather it on after the shower to lock in moisture. Why does coconut oil for skin work so well? In part, it’s due to the saturated fats that helps the skin stay moisturized, with the fat preventing moisture loss through the skin’s pores. These fats give the skin a healthy, smooth and even tone. 


2. Body Scrub 

Moisturize while getting rid of dead skin cells.  Add a bit of sugar to your coconut oil for a sweet scrub.  Sugar is a superior exfoliant to salt which can dry your skin. Try it a few times a week.

3. Body Oil
 
If your skin’s seriously dry, coconut oil for skin is one of the best remedies. Rub coconut oil in hands to warm it up and then use it instead of body lotion. Focus on elbows and knees that tend to get even drier than other spots. 

4. Cold Sore Treatment
 
Prone to cold sores? Dabbing coconut oil on them can help speed up healing time, alleviate pain and reduce the risk of scarring or discoloration. Coconut oil contains three fatty acids; capric, caprylic and lauric acid.  These fatty acids contain both disinfectant and antimicrobial properties, helping to protect against, as well as heal, microbial infections. 

5. Cuticle Oil
 
Use coconut oil in your next manicure. Rubbing the oil into cuticles helps keep germs at bay and will loosen up cuticles, making them easier to push back or cut. 

6. Detox Bath
 
A good detox bath is a great way to eliminate toxins while allowing yourself to relax. Create a simple detox bath with coconut oil by adding ¼ cup of Epsom salts, great for detoxing, to ¼ cup of coconut oil into a hot bath. For added aromatherapy benefits, include a few drops of your favorite essential oils.

7. Diaper Rash - Heal and Prevent
 
Using coconut oil for skin eases the pain, itch and redness of diaper rash. Using it regularly can also help keep diaper rash away. Use about 3 teaspoons full over the area. 

8. Dry Hands
 
If washing dishes or just everyday life is taking its toll on your hands, coconut oil is a great remedy. Keep a jar by the sink to replenish hands. Bonus: Rub coconut oil over hands and then cover with gloves to get skin soft quickly. 

9. Face Wash Insect Repellent
 
With its antimicrobial properties and moisturizing abilities, coconut oil for skin is perfect to clean your face hydrating skin to keep it looking and feeling vibrant. 

10. Insect Repellent
 
Put down the toxic chemicals and make your own repellent to keep insects at bay. To make about eight ounces of repellent, simply mix eight ounces of coconut oil with 40 to 50 drops of essential oils; some favorites are citronella, clove, eucalyptus, mint and lemongrass. While you’ll need to reapply throughout the day, you’ll avoid introducing harsh chemicals and toxins into your body. 

11. Lip Balm
 
The simplest products are often loaded with toxic ingredients. Instead of accidentally ingesting harmful chemicals through your lip balm, make your own instead to get rid of dry, cracked lips.  Lavender is a wonderful essential oil to add for flavor and antimicrobial purposes. 

12. Makeup Remover
 
Using coconut oil for skin around the eye area will allow you to remove makeup without fear or irritating your eyes. Plus, you’ll give extra hydration to that sensitive area. Gently rub coconut oil onto lids and remove eye makeup with a warm washcloth. 

13. Massage Oil
 
Why purchase expensive massage oils when it’s so easy to make your own? Combining coconut oil with several drops of your favorite essential oil does the job just as well. Say goodbye to sore muscles. Good for baby massage too! 

14. Night Cream
 
Keep your skin hydrating and repairing itself while you sleep by applying coconut oil gently on your face. If you’re prone to acne or have very oily skin, try adding a few drops to your normal moisturizer instead to up the hydration without adding too much extra oil.  

15. Scalp Moisture
 
Dry, flaky scalp got you down? Using coconut oil for hair and scalp will help keep your scalp moisturized, in that way discouraging dandruff and keeping hair looking shiny. If you have dry ends as well, rub coconut oil into ends to provide deep conditioning. 

16. Shaving Gel
 
Get a smooth shave by using coconut oil instead of shaving creams or gels. Coconut oil for skin will help prevent ingrown hairs and razor burn plus add moisture. Just rub onto skin, shave and pat dry. 

17. Stretch Marks
 
Stretch marks occur as the skin’s elasticity changes, most frequently after weight gain/loss or pregnancy. Using coconut oil can help reduce the marks that are left behind, helping them fade more quickly while keeping skin moisturized to allow quicker healing.