Summer is almost here, and you know what that means. It’s time to stock up on coconut oil!
When it comes to caring for your hair, skin, nails and nutritional needs, the versatile tropical oil has you covered—all summer long! Following are 20 wonderful ways to add a little coconut oil to your life from June through August and beyond.
1. Body scrub
Ready to get your summer glow on? Exfoliating is a must before getting a faux (or actual) tan, and coconut oil happens to make an amazing body scrub. Simply combine it with some sugar and use the mixture to slough off those dead skin cells, setting the stage for an even, eye-catching tan.
2. Shaving cream
You’ll likely shave more frequently during the summer, which makes it the perfect time to replace your chemical-laden shaving cream with all-natural coconut oil. This rich, hydrating oil helps provide a smooth, close shave while minimizing razor burn. Yes, please! And with Father’s Day coming up, you can totally make this DIY natural coconut shave cream recipe for him!
3. Deep conditioner
Summer heat and saltwater can cause your luscious locks to become dry and brittle. For a healthy, hydrated mane, massage a generous amount of coconut oil into your scalp and hair, and allow it to rest for a minimum of four hours. For maximum moisture, leave the oil on overnight. Repeat as needed up to several times a week.
4. Frizz tamer
Summer means heat and humidity, which unfortunately can translate to frizz. To keep flyaway locks under control, warm up a dime-sized dab of coconut oil in your hands and gently run it through your hair with your fingers. Take that, frizz!
5. Moisturizer
The summer elements often leave skin in desperate need of hydration. It should come as no surprise that coconut oil makes an excellent moisturizer. In addition to replenishing the skin’s natural oils, it helps build its immune system.
6. Deodorant
You can also use coconut oil in lieu of your deodorant. Seriously. Apply a small amount to your underarms to stave off the sweat and its accompanying stink.
7. Face wash
Because coconut oil has moisturizing and antimicrobial properties, it’s the perfect face wash. Bacteria (a.k.a. potential pimples) won’t stand a chance against this powerful tropical treatment!
8. Makeup remover
Move over, makeup wipes. This tropical oil can rid your face of cosmetics, grease and grime—all while restoring your skin’s missing moisture!
9. Eye cream
If overexposure to the sun and sea cause the skin around your eyes to become dry this summer, forget the expensive eye creams and apply some coconut oil instead. For best results, use a cotton ball to dab a small amount of oil under and around your eyes every night before bed.
10. Tooth whitener
Want a brighter smile to complement your summer tan? Add a drop of coconut oil to your toothpaste and brush as usual. Is there anything this oil can’t do?!
11. Lip balm
If the harsh summer rays and salty ocean leave your lips feeling dry and flaky, not to worry. You can hydrate them in an instant with—you guessed it—a dab of coconut oil! Reapply throughout the day as needed.
12. Cuticle oil
If your nails can’t stand the summer heat, coconut oil makes an excellent cuticle treatment. Simply rub a small amount on each cuticle during your next DIY manicure and push them back as usual. The oil will not only loosen up your cuticles—it will help ward off germs!
13. Pre-sun care
Before you head outdoors this summer, apply a small amount of coconut oil to your exposed skin. It has a natural SPF of 4, and it’s a terrific antioxidant! Remember, it’s always wise to seek some shade during peak hours—especially if you have children in tow.
14. Post-sun care
Did you know that coconut oil also makes a great sunburn treatment? Rub it on dry, sunburned skin several times daily to help reduce redness, restore moisture and prevent peeling.
15. Insect repellent
Want bugs and mosquitoes to buzz off this summer? There’s no need for chemical bug spray. Just mix coconut oil with tea tree oil or rosemary and apply the DIY insect repellant to exposed skin. It will send those pests packing!
16. Skin soother
You can also use coconut oil to treat bug bites and minor skin irritations. Combine it with lavender oil and apply the soothing mixture to the affected area.
17. Detox bath
Want to unwind from a long summer day while ridding your body of toxins? Mix 1/4 cup of coconut oil with 1/4 cup of Epsom salts and add the blend to a warm bath. Let the relaxation begin!
18. Night cream
Add a thin layer of coconut oil to your (clean) face before bedtime, and let it work its moisturizing magic while you sleep. If you have acne-prone or oily skin but still want to reap the hydrating benefits of coconut, add a few drops of the oil to your regular night cream instead.
19. Massage oil
There’s no need to purchase pricy massage oil this summer when you can make your own for less! Combine coconut oil with a few drops of your favorite essential oil (e.g., peppermint, lavender) for a fragrant, soothing, moisturizing massage.
20. Smoothie ingredient
Give your standard smoothie a summer makeover with coconut oil. A few spoonfuls of the oil will add tropical flavor—and essential nutrients! To help maintain a smooth consistency, melt the oil before combining it with the other ingredients. If you’re into this idea, try our creamy vegan cacao-coconut shake recipe.
