There’s a reason why coconut oil for hair and skin is so trendy these days. From taming frizzy hair to moisturising dry, flaky skin to keeping your heels smooth and  fungus-free, this natural ingredient has a wide range of beauty-boosting and healing properties.

Coconut oil is used in a variety of hair and skincare products including cosmeceuticals, cosmetic products that have drug-like benefits and are intended as a bridge between the physician’s office and traditional cosmetics. Coconut oil effectively prevents skin changes and some skin disease with their active ingredients. Coconut oil is commonly used in cosmetics and cosmeceuticals to help calm itchy, dry skin.

A study published in December 2013 in the Journal of International Dermatology found that virgin coconut oil improved skin barrier function in patients with atopic dermatitis.  

A 2003 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science showed that coconut oil is able to penetrate inside the hair shaft because of its fatty acid structure.  If your hair feels dry or is prone to breakage try coconut oil as an overnight treatment.  

The benefits of coconut oil are many. Coconut oil contains antibacterial and antifungal properties making it the perfect ingredient to use to prevent toenail infections and foot fungus.