Coconut oil has widely gained popularity for its hair, skin and dietary benefits. It is an all-in-one solution with uses spanning from breath freshener, hair mask to homemade lip scrub and much more. The oil contains medium-chain fatty acids which are a form of saturated fat.Here are the benefits of incorporating this natural ingredient into your daily skin care routine.

Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties which protects the skin against bacterial or fungal infections. Applying coconut oil on the skin helps protects the skin from many types of skin infections such as acne, cellulitis, folliculitis and athletes foot. These infections are primarily caused by bacteria or fungi. Coconut oil contains lauric and capric acid which inhibit the growth of infectious microbials on the skin.

Inflammation is the leading cause of different types of skin disorders such as psoriasis, eczema and contact dermatitis. Various studies have shown that coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties. When applied to inflamed areas on the skin, it significantly reduces inflammation and also relieves pain. Coconut oil works by stabilizing free radicals in the body thereby neutralizing the reactive elements which may lead to inflammation.

Among its many cosmetic applications, coconut oil can be used to remove eye makeup. The oil is effective at breaking down waxy, inky eye makeup and leaves the skin hydrated too. It can also be used to create a natural face mask. A mixture of turmeric, lemon juice, raw Manuka honey and virgin coconut oil can be used to make an effective healing face mask.

Coconut oil greatly reduces the amount of trans-epidermal water loss. It has a high concentration of fatty acids and is rapidly absorbed into the skin. This makes it an effective moisturizer as it leaves the skin soft and radiant. In addition, the oil shows great promise in treating eczema which is characterized by scaly, itchy rashes. Keeping the skin hydrated promotes its barrier function and maintains skin integrity.

Acne is an inflammatory condition treated by targeting and controlling inflammation. Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties which may help control and treat acne outbreak. It also has antibacterial properties which significantly reduce the rate of growth of acne causing bacteria.

Coconut oil can be used as a natural alternative for a shaving cream. Conventional shaving creams contain a number of chemicals that may be harmful to the skin. Coconut oil is naturally antimicrobial and inexpensive. It also soothes the skin leaving it soft and moisturized.

Dandruff is a condition characterized by inflammation, flaking and itching. Coconut oil can be used to minimize dandruff. It works by lowering the levels of yeast on the skin which is responsible for inflammation.

Coconut oil may also be used to help with wound healing. Application of coconut oil on wounds significantly accelerates the healing process. This is because is increases the level of collagen which is a protein that helps in wound healing. A mixture of coconut oil can also be used to treat burn wounds. Coconut oil also helps in healing wounds by preventing infections. This is due to its anti-microbial properties thereby accelerating wound healing.