The Benefits of Coconut Oil for the Skin

My 4yo has dry skin.  We also live in Colorado Springs, Colorado where the mountain air is very dry.  Trying to get her to put lotion on after her bath can sometimes be a battle.  In an effort to get her to put something, anything on her skin to relieve the dryness and itching I recently asked her if we could put coconut oil on.  She thought that was pretty cool and ever since has asked if she could put coconut oil on after her bath.  While I wish she would let me use lotion, I'm ok with the coconut oil as not only is it moisturizing, it also has other benefits.

Coconut oil is a common ingredient in many natural skin care products.  According to Organic Facts: 

Coconut oil...is a safe solution for preventing dryness and flaking of skin. It also delays wrinkles, and sagging of skin which normally become prominent with age. Coconut oil also helps in treating various skin problems including psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema and other skin infections. Therefore coconut oil forms the basic ingredient of various body care products such as soaps, lotions, creams, etc., used for skin care. Coconut oil also helps in preventing premature aging and degenerative diseases due to its antioxidant properties.

Coconut Connections states:

It can help to keep the skin from developing liver spots, and other blemishes caused by aging and over exposure to sunlight. It helps to keep connective tissues strong and supple so that the skin doesn't sag and wrinkle. In some cases it might even restore damaged or diseased skin. The oil is absorbed into the skin and into the cell structure of the connective tissues, limiting the damage excessive sun exposure can cause.

Coconut oil will not only bring temporary relief to the skin, but it will aid in healing and repairing. It will have lasting benefits, unlike most lotions. It can help bring back a youthful appearance. The coconut oil will aid in removing the outer layer of dead skin cells, making the skin smoother. The skin will become more evenly textured with a healthy "shine". While doing this the coconut oil will penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin and strengthen the underlying tissues.

I have used it as a makeup remover to remove my waterproof mascara.  It can also be used as a hair treatment and as a sexual lubricant (however, do not use it with condoms as it can degrade the condom).

Of course, my 4yo doesn't have to worry about wrinkles, restoring connective tissue, and premature aging.  But, there is security in knowing that not only is coconut oil moisturizing her skin, but if she continues to use it in the long-term the benefits will be long lasting.

If you choose to add coconut oil to your beauty regime be sure to get raw, organic, extra virgin and fair trade certified oil to ensure you are getting the maximum social and health benefits.