Here are some of my favorite uses for coconut oil.

1. All Natural Exfoliating Skin Scrub

Exfoliating at least 2 times a week is essential for a smooth and glowing complexion. Here is a basic scrub recipe you can customize to your liking.

Basic Recipe:

1 cup fine sugar 

1/2 cup coconut oil
essential oil of choice (optional)

Combine ingredients and stir well. 

This scrub is especially suitable for people with dry skin.

2. Hair Mask

Coconut oil makes a wonderful hair mask for all hair types as it helps deep condition the hair and nourish the scalp. This mask is excellent for dry, brittle hair.

Procedure:

On clean, damp hair, rub a few teaspoons of the oil between your hands and apply it as you would any hair mask, focusing mainly on the ends. Leave the mask on for 30 minutes to an hour and shampoo your hair again. If you choose to leave it on overnight, cover your hair with a shower cap and rinse it off in the morning. Do this once a week (or twice, if your hair is very damaged) for soft and shiny hair.

3. Makeup Remover  

One of my favorite things about coconut oil is its ability to remove all of my makeup effectively without using harsh chemicals that are found in most conventional makeup removers. It even removes more potent formulas, like waterproof mascara, in a swipe.

Procedure:

 Rub the oil between the pads of your fingers and massage it all over your face and neck. Let it sit for a few seconds, to allow the makeup to dissolve, before gently removing the oil with a cotton pad slightly dampened with water. Repeat steps until there are no more traces of makeup left. Afterwards, cleanse your face as usual.


4. Incorporate It Into Your Diet

I find different ways of incorporating coconut oil into my diet. It is one of the healthiest oils you can consume. You can use it on your salads and smoothies and even as a substitute for butter in baked goods..a helpful tip for vegans. I personally like adding a couple of teaspoons into my cups of green tea everyday.


5. Oil Pulling

I have just recently learned about oil pulling. Its like using an oil as mouthwash. Oil pulling is claimed to freshen your breath, whiten your teeth, and with regular use, promote great improvements in your oral health. Oil pulling has been used by cultures around the world for thousands of years and has been proven effective by science. Lots of people nowadays swear by it. You basically swish a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 15-20 minutes to reduce harmful bacteria. Afterwards, spit out the oil and brush your teeth.

Tip: Try to use extra virgin coconut oil as it is closest to its natural state.