Benefits Of Using Coconut Oil Face Masks
1. Coconut Oil Kills Harmful Microbes On Your Skin
Coconut oil benefits the skin in many ways. It contains lauric acid that prevents the growth of harmful bacteria. A study revealed that out of 30 types of fatty acids tested on 20 different strains of bacteria, lauric acid was found to be the most effective one in prohibiting bacterial growth.
2. Coconut Oil Is Useful In Reducing Inflammation
Any skin condition is marked by inflammation. And coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe your skin. A study published in the journal Pharmaceutical Biology found that extra virgin coconut oil, when used on inflamed ears of rats, not only relieved inflammation but also reduced pain. What more? Coconut oil also improves your body’s antioxidant status by stabilizing the harmful free radicals and the reactive atoms responsible for inflammation.
3. Coconut Oil Treats Acne Effectively
If you think that coconut oil may clog your pores and worsen your acne, then think again. Because research says otherwise. Laboratory results show that compared to benzoyl peroxide (used for treating acne), coconut oil is better at reducing the growth of acne-causing bacteria (as it contains lauric acid) (2).
4. It’s An Excellent Moisturizer For Dry Skin
Say goodbye to dry and flaky skin with coconut oil. In a controlled trial, it was found that coconut oil hydrates the skin and is equally effective as mineral oil (3). Another study published in the journal Dermatitis: Contact, Atopic, Occupational, Drug reveals that application of coconut oil reduces eczema. So, all of you out there with dry skin – grab your bottle of coconut oil today!
5. It Facilitates Wound Healing
Virgin coconut oil can heal wounds. A study published in the journal Skin Pharmacology and Physiology claims that application of virgin coconut oil improved the antioxidant status of the skin and increased the levels of collagen (a skin protein that heals wounds). Now you see why coconut oil is a darling of all those die-hard fans of natural skin care products! A word of caution: Our skin is extremely sophisticated. We do not know how it’s going to behave or react to certain products. And that’s why it’s always better to use Virgin or Extra Virgin coconut oil for your face compared to refined coconut oil. Virgin and extra virgin coconut oil are unrefined, meaning, they aren’t exposed to chemicals. And as such, it’s safe for your skin (even for those with oily skin!) Now, I will tell you how you can include coconut oil in your regular beauty routine. Remember, when I say coconut oil, it means only virgin or extra virgin coconut oil and not those regular processed ones. So, here you go!
Coconut Oil Face Masks For Glowing Skin
DIY Coconut Oil Face Mask Recipes For Different Skin Issues
1. Coconut Oil And Honey Face Mask For Radiant Skin
¼ cup coconut oil 1 tablespoon raw honey ¼ cup shea butter
If you have dry skin, use this once every day (otherwise thrice a day) Coconut oil, honey, and shea butter moisturize your skin and unclog the pores. Coconut oil and honey have antimicrobial and antifungal properties that eliminate germs and keep your skin healthy. Note: If you are looking for face masks for eczema, go for it. Let the oil and butter cool down properly before applying.
2. Overnight Coconut Oil Face Mask For Clear Skin
1 tablespoon coconut oil 2-3 drops tea tree oil
Note: In case you want to make it in large quantities and store it, add 10 drops of tea tree oil in 1 cup of coconut oil. Every day (for sensitive and combination skin) or every alternate day (for oily skin) Both coconut oil and tea tree oil have antiseptic and healing properties. When you sleep, your body works in repairing and rejuvenating the skin cells and other systems. And this oil mask helps further in that process, giving you radiant skin the next day. Be judicious when using essential oil. Don’t use more than the recommended number of drops. [ Read: How To Use Tea Tree Oil For Acne ]
3. Turmeric And Coconut Oil Face Mask For Skin Lightening
3 tablespoon coconut oil (melted) ½ teaspoon turmeric powder ½ teaspoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon honey
2-3 times a week Turmeric has antiseptic properties that help in getting rid of dark spots and blemishes, making your skin clear and bright. Lemon’s astringent properties keep your face blemish-free. Honey and coconut oil keep your face hydrated, nourished, and glowing. You can feel the difference with regular use. Note: If you are looking for a coconut oil face mask for sensitive skin, then try this one. Avoid adding too much lemon juice, especially if you have dry and sensitive skin. Use it sparingly.
4. Coconut Oil And Baking Soda Face Mask For Blackheads
1 tablespoon coconut oil 1 teaspoon baking soda
Twice a week This face mask works like a cleanser. It eliminates the dirt and dead skin cells from the pores and brightens your face. Don’t use baking soda if you have broken, flaky or extremely dry skin.
5. Coconut Oil And Coffee Face Mask For Glowing Skin
1 teaspoon coconut oil 1 teaspoon coffee powder
Twice a week. Coffee and coconut oil are rich in antioxidants that protect your skin from harmful free radicals. Also, they boost collagen production and make your skin glow! Do not press too hard on your skin or massage too fast. It might damage the skin. [ Read: 10 DIY Coffee Scrubs For Smoother Skin ]
6. Coconut Oil And Aloe Vera Face Mask
1 teaspoon coconut oil 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel (extract the gel from the plant)
2-3 days a week. Both coconut oil and aloe vera have a cooling effect on your skin. This face mask soothes irritated skin, kills acne-causing bacteria, boosts cell production, and removes age-related spots. Nothing as such. This face pack is safe for any skin type.
7. Coconut Oil And Cinnamon Face Mask For Acne
1 teaspoon coconut oil 1 teaspoon organic cinnamon powder
Thrice a week. Both coconut oil and cinnamon have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. They work wonders for acne-prone skin. Before applying cinnamon, do a patch test. Adjust the amount of cinnamon as per your skin’s tolerance levels. The spice might sting a bit, but that’s NORMAL!
8. Coconut Oil And Oatmeal Face Pack
1 tablespoon coconut oil ½ cup oats (rolled)
2-3 times a week Coconut oil has healing properties, and it also works like magic in killing acne bacteria. The oatmeal helps in exfoliation. So, if you have acne prone skin and you are looking for coconut oil face masks for treating both acne and scars, go for this! Start by using this once a week and then depending on your skin sensitivity, increase the frequency.
9. Coconut Oil, Lemon, And Yogurt Face Mask For Oily Skin
½ tablespoon coconut oil 1 tablespoon yogurt ½ tablespoon lemon juice
How Often You Should Do This
Twice a week. Coconut oil and yogurt hydrate and nourish your skin and unclog the pores. Lemon has astringent properties that brighten your skin by reducing marks and blemishes. Lemon juice is acidic, so it may cause irritation. You may adjust the quantity of lemon juice as per the tolerance level of your skin.
10. Coconut Oil And Avocado For Younger Looking Skin
1 tablespoon coconut oil ¼ tablespoon ripe avocado ½ teaspoon nutmeg powder
Twice or thrice a week Both coconut oil and avocado hydrate your skin and protect it from free-radicals, thus slowing down the aging process. Is coconut oil good for under eyes? Yes, since the skin under your eyes is thin and makes dark circles look more prominent, coconut oil may thicken the skin barrier by increasing cell turnover. This may diminish the appearance of dark circles under your eyes (4). Does applying coconut oil on the face increase facial hair? No. Currently, there are no studies that suggest coconut oil stimulates facial hair growth.
