Coconut oil is very versatile, doing just as good a job, if not better than any special boxed product; and has become best friend to many people to help them with skin and hair not just over winter, but all year long.
Coconut oil can penetrate the scalp and hair follicles to nourish them with rich fatty acids to replace what cold temperatures have taken. For a deep hair conditioning try applying coconut oil at the base of the scalp right to the tips of hair while massaging it in, then covering your hair with a towel wrap before going to bed. I recommend putting a towel or two over pillows as well. Wash your hair when you wake as per normal, rinsing well. Locks will become frizz free, revived and silky smooth; for best results repeat this process once every two weeks for gorgeous, healthy hair regardless of weather.
Cracked heels are painful and unsightly, especially the deeper ones that hurt with each step. To help ease pain and promote healing try massaging the feet with coconut oil then putting on a pair of socks before going to bed. When you wake wipe off the excess oil for all day softness. Thanks its antioxidant power studies have indicated coconut oil can speed up healing time and promote production of collagen, while antimicrobial properties help to keep infection at bay while healing.
Delicate lips can dry out and peel and become painful. Coconut oil can be a great lip exfoliator to not only remove dead skin but also to protect. Mix some brown sugar in with coconut oil and light rub on the lips in a circular motion for a quick exfoliator leaving the lips fresh and new. Afterwards for moisture a little coconut oil can be applied to the lips, for colour a touch of organic lipwear can even be mixed in.
Inflammatory skin conditions can become exacerbated during winter conditions. Anti-inflammatory properties of coconut oil can help to reduce inflammation to moisturize and promote healing of the skin, and has even been shown to have a soothing and pain relieving impact on sore affected skin.
Dehydrated skin can lose integrity as a barrier to keep bacteria at bay, making it extra important to keep it nourished. Parched and chapped areas exposed to the elements can be painful, coconut oil can help to hydrate and protect it even in harsh conditions. Studies have shown those with moderately dry skin who use coconut oil have significant improvements in hydration; and regular use helps to diminish appearance of scars. For best results moisturize the entire body after getting out of the shower every day, this allows the healthy fats to sink deep into skin layers; keep in mind less is more as a little goes a long way.
Eyes take a hit during trying winter months, to help protect them dab a little coconut oil around the eyes in the morning then again at night, some people report having a reduction in puffiness and wrinkles when they use coconut oil.
Extra virgin coconut oil is best for skin and hair use. Although rare allergic reaction can happen, reactions are typically mild resulting in skin rash or blistering however anaphylaxis can occur on very rare occasion; it is suggested to make sure you are not allergic before use.
