The Beauty Benefits of Coconut Oil
Coconut Oil has been getting plenty of press for the past several years. Touted as a “superfood,” coconut oil has been credited with plenty of health benefits – from improving cholesterol levels to boosting brain function to supporting a healthy weight.
But coconut oil has been an especially big hit in the beauty industry. Pinterest and beauty blogs abound with ideas about how to incorporate coconut oil into your beauty routine – both internally and externally.
What makes coconut oil so special?
Coconut oil is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (fatty acids). These fatty acids make coconut oil an excellent emollient – meaning that coconut oil applied topically helps skin retain moisture. This is an important part of maintaining skin’s natural barrier – and studies have shown that coconut oil is particularly helpful in improving the skin’s barrier function.
Coconut oil also contains additional fatty acids: capric, caprylic, and lauric acid. Lauric acid in particular is known for its anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties. This is another way in which coconut oil helps with skin’s barrier function; protecting skin from bacteria.
Moisturize, Cleanse & Exfoliate with Coconut oil
Coconut oil is a great moisturizer, but can also help cleanse and exfoliate your skin. Coconut oil on its own can help gently remove dirt and makeup from skin, while coconut oil can boost the exfoliating benefits of even the mildest scrub – while helping to moisturize at the same time.
What Coconut Oil can NOT do
Coconut oil is an amazing natural ingredient, and is non-irritating for most people. However, some people have claimed that it is an effective sunscreen – and there is simply no evidence to support that. While coconut oil has many healthy skin benefits, sun protection is not one – or at least has not proven to be one. Since sun protection is one of the most important components of any healthy skin care routine, you must use a sunscreen with an SPF rating – preferably of 30 or higher – in order to protect your skin from the sun’s rays. This is not to say you can’t use coconut oil before going into the sun. But if you do, make sure you also apply a proven-effective sunscreen.
Coconut oil is now being used on its own by many health-conscious people as part of their daily diets and skin care routines. As Mellisa B Naturally is committed to using natural and effective ingredients in our skin care, you will also find it in our Pumpkin & Coconut Exfoliating Mask.
