When it comes to organic beauty solutions, coconuts should definitely not be overlooked! They’re great for hair, skin and believe it or not… teeth! Here are some of my favourite tips.

Some people are under the impression that coconut oil is “bad” to include in your regular beauty regime. This is a common misconception and over-usage of any natural material can do more harm to you than good. Coconuts are a natural, quick way to revitalise your skin and hair as well as improve your teeth in the long run. 

For all these tips, the product that I’d recommend and works a treat is Vita Coco’s extra virgin coconut oil from Holland & Barrett for £15.99.   You can find similar ones in Boots or even your local Tesco but this 750 ml tub from Holland & Barrett is affordable and will last you for months on end. 

 Hair

Coconut oil is very rich in Vitamin E and fatty acids. These components instantly bring your hair back to life! Vitamin E keeps your hair and scalp healthy by locking protein into your hair and reinforcing your hair’s natural shine. Whereas, the fatty acids in coconut help to stimulate hair growth, prevent hair loss and breakage in the long run.

One way you can use coconut oil on your hair is as a mask. Wash your hair as normal but try to stray from using shampoos that are for dry hair as this will be too much moisture for your hair. You want to create a balance between moisture and protein to keep your hair looking nice and healthy.

Next, Use a conditioner of your choice and rinse out. Then you want to take 3 heaped tablespoons of coconut oil and use your fingers to comb it through your hair. Make sure every part of your hair is covered, from the root to tip!

Leave this on for 30 mins to an hour for the best results, then rinse it out and style your hair as desired.

Skin

Vitamin E is also great to use for in your skincare routine. Especially for your face! There’s two ways that I have found coconut oil to be effective when it comes to skincare. 

One way is to use it as a makeup remover. Coconut oil is a gentle and effective makeup remover for all skin types as the properties in it are kinder to your face and leave it moisturised. 

To wipe the day away:

• Apply a dab of coconut oil onto a cotton pad or cloth. 

• Then, wipe gently until all traces of makeup are gone.

• After doing this a few times, your skin should feel softer and moisturised. 

Another way to use coconut oil on your skin is as a face mask. A coconut face mask will help to lock in moisture, make your skin look radiant and feel softer, especially if you have a dry or dry combination skin type. 

A mixture of honey to detoxify your skin and coconut for moisture and radiance is a face mask that should definitely not be undermined!

Face Mask Recipe

• Mix two tablespoons of honey with one tablespoon of coconut oil with a fork. 

• Mix well so that the coconut oil is not separated from the honey. 

• Using your fingers or an applicator, spread evenly over your face.

• Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.

• Rinse off with lukewarm water.

Teeth

There are many ways to use coconut oil for your teeth but the most popular way is a process known as oil pulling. Oil pulling originated from India and has been around for thousands of years. It is definitely an old trick that can make your teeth look and feel fresh as ever!

One of the fatty acids in coconut oil is Lauric acid which makes up almost 50% of the oil. While you’re here, a fun fact is that coconut oil is actually the richest source of Lauric acid known to man! 

Lauric acid attacks harmful bacteria in the mouth that can cause bad breath, tooth decay and gum disease. This leaves your teeth whiter and cleaner! 

• Put a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth.

• Swish the oil around for 15–20 minutes, pushing and pulling it between teeth. Yes 15-20 minutes… so you will definitely need to have some time on your hands if you want to try this method ladies!

• Spit out the oil, into the toilet because it can clog the sink drain!

• Brush your teeth as normal

Written by Madihah Rahman, also @mxddieee_r on Instagram.