5 Ways with Coconut Oil

Coconut is the oil du jour but did you know there are different types and many uses for this wonder product? Coconut oil is the richest source of lauric acid available in nature and has antibacterial properties that help keep skin clear and healthy. Contrary to what you might think, it’s great for spots!

When buying, look for unrefined, raw and organic oil; it can be pricier than the culinary grade oil but a little goes a long way and your skin will thank you for it.

Here are our top 5 things to do with this hardworking hero:

1. Body oil

Coconut oil is a wonderful body moisturiser; oil up after a shower before you go to bed and you’ll wake up feeling super soft and smelling totally tropical. Use it on your legs before going out to get that supermodel sheen.

2. Cuticle care

Are your nails weak or just feeling the effects of too many shellac manis? Keep a small pot at your desk and rub it on your cuticles throughout the day to help your nails grow long and strong.

3. All about eyes

No eye make-up remover? No problem. Pop some coconut oil on a cotton pad and even the most stubborn make-up will come off in an instant. It’ll also keep the delicate skin around your eyes hydrated, helping to fight puffiness and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, winner.

4. Heavenly hair

If your hair is feeling thirsty and your scalp needs some TLC, ?apply some coconut oil before bed, rinse thoroughly in the morning et voila, your crowning glory will be soft and oh-so-shiny. Do this once a week and and soon you’ll have a mane to rival Scherzinger’s.

5. Lip service

Use coconut oil as a lip balm; it’ll taste like you’re eating Bounty bars all day, minus the calories.

Dr Jackson’s (available at Clerys) and Holland & Barrett both stock the good stuff.

Sarah Doyle | @BurnTheBlonde