By Mera Tabarruk
Coconut oil has always been kept in my home, whether that be for cooking, using it on my hair, body or skin – the oil keeps my skin feeling soft and plump while giving me immense hydration.
In general, oils help the skin’s lipid barrier to retain moisture. Coconut oil, in particular is a non-fragrant plant oil that is full of amazing fatty acids, such as linoleic acid and lauric acid that contain antibacterial properties. These acids also work as an emollient that moisturises and softens the skin.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF COCONUT OIL?
LEAVES SKIN FEELING HYDRATED
There is a lot of confusion around this one and rightly so. Because coconut oil is occlusive, it actually sits on top of the skin and traps moisture underneath. This means that it doesn’t actually hydrate the skin per se, but because moisture stays locked in, it can definitely provide a similar feeling. Extra virgin coconut oil has been found to significantly reduce levels of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and increase skin surface lipid levels. What’s more, coconut oil has the ability to plump the skin, giving incredible anti-aging effects. More on that below!
ANTI-AGING BENEFITS
Many people don’t realise that coconut oil has considerable anti-aging benefits and can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids, which help to retain the moisture content of your skin which ultimately leaves it looking smooth and supple. What’s more, because it helps to keep connective tissues strong and supple, skin is less likely to wrinkle.
OFFERS MULTIPLE BENEFITS
One of the great things about coconut oil is that it can really be multi-purpose and offer an array of benefits. Beyond using it to keep skin looking smooth and supple, it can also act as a hydrator for the hair, body, or also as a make-up remover. Coconut oil can be considered as a leading make up remover because it attracts dirt and build-up on the skin but is also antibacterial. The lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic acid found in coconut oil give it potent antibacterial properties. This helps protect your skin from pathogens which can cause an array of skin concerns.
EASES INFLAMMATION
According to a 2019 study, virgin coconut oil was found to suppress inflammatory markers and protect the skin by enhancing skin barrier function. Coconut oil can help to ease inflammation by improving antioxidant status. Antioxidants work by stabilising free radicals in the body and neutralising the reactive atoms that can contribute to inflammation.
HOW TO USE COCONUT OIL
If you’re looking to streamline your skincare routine (hello skin minimalism!), coconut oil can easily be integrated and become your go-to. Thanks to its ability to keep skin moisturised, coconut oil can become your substitute for serums or moisturiser. We love Feniu’s Tongan Coconut Oil which is made from 100% organic coconut and sandalwood from Tonga.
An exceptionally nourishing face and body oil, Feniu’s Tongan Coconut Oil will boost skin moisture and fights against the signs of aging. This goodness in a bottle offers deep hydration for dry skin, improving skin tone, balance and radiance. The great news is that Feniu’s Togan Coconut Oil is ethically sourced as part of Feniu’s mission to give back to the Tongan community and to maintain harmony with nature. Feniu engages with a local Tongan youth organisation who not only use traditional methods to source and produce coconut and sandalwood oil, but also prioritises agricultural preservation and water purification efforts.
www.feniu.com.au