Coconut oil, derived from the meat of coconuts, is a plant-based powerhouse packed with nutrient-rich benefits that the skin adores. Celebrated for its hydrating, healing, and soothing properties, coconut oil has been used for centuries, quickly becoming a global phenomenon! Read on to explore the benefits of coconut oil as a body cream, along with DIY coconut oil body butter recipes you can easily enjoy right at home.
Let's get right into it: yes! Coconut oil is a fantastic natural body cream alternative that will leave your skin feeling supple and soft. Thanks to the oil’s high fatty acid content, it deeply penetrates the skin for awesome results. Coconut oil is also highly antibacterial and antifungal, supporting anyone facing minor skin infections or regular breakouts. As it's completely natural and free of harsh chemicals and synthetic additives, it’s a wonderful natural alternative to chemically laden, store-bought body creams.
While coconut oil works well for most skin types, people with oily, or very acne-prone skin should use it sparingly to avoid overly clogging their pores.
These are the five leading benefits of coconut oil!
It’s deeply hydrating
One of the leading reasons to use coconut oil is its exceptional ability to hydrate and lock in skin moisture. Its emollient properties soothe and soften dry, flaky skin while acting as an occlusive barrier to seal in moisture, preventing dehydration throughout the day.
Coconut oil’s impressive fatty acid content restores and maintains your skin's natural moisture levels, leaving your skin feeling smooth, soft, and rejuvenated—especially when the weather’s cold.
It fights against bacteria
Thanks to coconut oil’s antibacterial and antifungal properties and lauric acid, it's great for anyone living with acne or minor skin infections and combating harmful bacteria and fungi on the skin.
The lauric acid content also reduces acne-causing bacteria, preventing unwanted breakouts, while calming skin and promoting quick healing.
It reduces inflammation
Whether you're dealing with eczema, psoriasis, or another skin irritation, coconut oil works to reduce redness, swelling, and discomfort. It delivers essential nutrients directly for the skin's healing process while building a barrier from further harm.
It offers a gorgeous glow
When used consistently, coconut oil produces a natural, healthy glow. This is thanks to the vitamin E and other antioxidant properties that protect the skin from environmental pollution and UV rays, which can lead to premature aging.
The antioxidants neutralize free radicals, improve the look of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots, and promote a youthful, radiant complexion. Coconut oil also evens out skin tone and texture, supporting your skin’s natural beauty. It doesn't hurt that it smells amazing, either!
It’s chemical-free and non-toxic
Natural really is best! Coconut oil is completely free from harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and preservatives commonly packed into commercial lotions. Opting for natural decreases the chance of irritating the skin.
Making your very own coconut oil body butter ensures it's 100% natural and toxin-free.
Plus, when you make it yourself, you can completely customize it, allowing you to add in your favorite essential oils, or other nourishing elements such as shea butter, almond oil, or vitamin E. It doesn't hurt that it's extremely cost-effective, too, allowing you to enjoy a luxurious product at a fraction of the cost.
Ingredients
1 cup of solid organic virgin coconut oil
1 tsp of vitamin E (optional)
3 drops of essential oils (optional)
Instructions:
Place ingredients into a mixing bowl - don’t melt the coconut oil.
Whip the oil on high speed with a wire whisk for 6-7 minutes, or until it becomes a light, airy consistency.
Spoon the whipped coconut oil body butter into a glass jar and cover tightly.
Store at room temperature, or in the refrigerator if your house is so warm it melts the oil.
Whipped body butter offers the following:
Intense Moisturize: It’s incredibly hydrating and can lock in moisture, making it great for dry or rough skin.
Light Texture: The whipped consistency is lightweight and airy, making it easier to apply and absorb.
Long-Lasting: Thanks to its rich formulation, it lasts longer on the skin, providing all-day moisture and softness.
It's a go-to product for anyone looking for soft, smooth, and glowing skin.
Cold-pressed coconut oil, refined coconut oil, extra virgin coconut oil, and virgin coconut oil…oh my!
While there may be a few choices, there are a few differences between organic and processed coconut oil. Both refined and unrefined coconut oils contain triglycerides, so either offer excellent hydration. Refined oil removes many antioxidants due to the high temperatures in the manufacturing process.
The application of coconut oil is nice and simple, too. You simply swap coconut oil for whatever moisturizer or body lotion is used in your skin care routine! It can be applied on dry skin or moist skin following a shower or bath.
Coconut oil is versatile and can be used as:
Makeup remover
Coconut oil is a naturally gentle makeup remover, able to remove even stubborn waterproof makeup. Coconut oil binds to the oils in your makeup, breaking it down so it wipes off easily.
To use coconut oil as a makeup remover, simply warm a small amount in your hands and gently massage it into your skin. Allow it to sit for a moment as it melts away makeup, then wipe off the oil with a soft cloth and continue to cleanse your face as usual. Its gentle nature makes it safe for both sensitive skin and areas like around the eyes, too.
Hand cream
Whenever you're working with coconut oil in the kitchen, don't forget to rub a small amount into your hands and nails! Its hydrating properties make it an excellent hand cream, softening rough patches and nourishing your cuticles.
Hair treatment
Coconut oil can transform dry and damaged hair! Simply apply a small amount to the ends of the hair to revitalize and smooth, reducing split ends and frizz.
For a deeper treatment, use coconut oil as a conditioning hair mask, by massaging a generous amount into your scalp and hair, then allow it to sit for 30 minutes to several hours before rinsing it out.
What do you like to use coconut oil for?!
You can absolutely mix coconut oil with body cream. Adding it in can support by locking in moisture, and adding extra hydration while boosting antioxidants and vitamins for a more powerful skin care solution.
You can adjust the amount of coconut oil to suit your skin type. For drier skin, you might want to add more coconut oil, whereas for normal or oily skin, a small amount will do.
To mix it in, opt for virgin coconut oil, as it's less greasy. Start with small quantities, adding equal parts coconut oil and body cream. Shankara’s moisturizers, including the Timeless Moisturizer and the Rich Repair Moisturizer, make for a great pair with coconut oil!
While coconut oil has many benefits, there are some side effects to be aware of:
Clogged pores: Coconut oil is considered comedogenic, meaning it can block pores, which could cause breakouts and blackheads, particularly for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
Acne or breakouts: The high comedogenic levels, can aggravate acne by trapping dirt and bacteria inside clogged pores.
Clogging hair follicles: Excessive coconut oil may block hair follicles, fostering irritation and infections.
Allergic reaction: Anyone with nut allergies, should be cautious by performing a comprehensive patch test.
Always use coconut oil sparingly and patch-test, particularly if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Using coconut oil as a body butter body cream is a wonderful way to nourish and hydrate your skin. With its deep moisturizing properties, anti-inflammatory benefits, and ability to combat bacteria, coconut oil is a natural powerhouse!
Whether you're dabbling with it in its purest form, or combining it with other ingredients, coconut oil is a beneficial solution for many skin types. Comment below what you love the most about coconut oil!
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