Secret Ingredient: Coconut Oil…

As the weather gets warmer and my thoughts drift to the beach only one thing comes to mind, the scent of coconut.  The coconut provides a nutritious source of meat, juice, milk, and oil that has fed and nourished populations around the world for generations. On many islands, coconut is a staple in the diet and provides the majority of the food eaten. Nearly one third of the world’s population depends on coconut to some degree for their food and their economy. Among these cultures the coconut has a long and respected history.  The oil produced from this wonder fruit is a perfect summer jack of all trades and is showing up in all kinds of beauty concoctions, you can pick up a jar of it at any health food store or Whole Foods.  I like to keep some on hand for summer.

Coconut oil has the ability to nourish and heal the skin, something Indians have known for hundreds of years. Saturated with fats that consist mainly of medium chain triglycerides, it has anti-microbial properties and wonderful moisturizing and healing powers, leaving your skin smooth, silky, germ free, and you, looking beautiful.  A few ways you can use virgin coconut oil you may not have though of:  Eye makeup remover, foot smoother, lip balm, hair conditioner.

Here are some of my favorite beauty treatments made with this beauty wonder:

Body Shop Coconut Body Butter One of my all time faves…intense moisturizing that lasts up to 24 hrs.  PERFECT for after the beach or sun.  I only use this in the summer because the scent makes me want to proceed straight to the beach!!

LaVanila – Vanilla Coconut Roller Ball Portable Fragrance Coconut melds effortlessly with Vanilla in this yummy summery fragrance.  Plus you can pop it in your purse!

Organix Coconut Milk Shampoo & Conditioner Luxurious lather and creamy conditioning abound with this duo.  Organic coconut milk and ultra whipped egg white proteins along with weightless coconut oil to hydrate and nourish you hair as gentle cleansers wash away impurities. Plus you ca get em both for under $15.

Mountain Ocean Skin Trip Body Moisturizer One of my all time faves, the consistency may put you off a bit because it IS a bit runny and very light feeling however….one of the best moisturizers that captures the pure scent of coconut without being overly sweet.

The Body Shop Coconut Oil Soap Moisturizing cold pressed coconut oil in a vegetable based preservative free soap.

Stay Pretty!!