Coconut oil is the rich by-product of the fruit of the coconut tree. Using it on your skin is, according to this article, a natural way to expel many of the toxic ingredients you’ll find in lots of products on the shelves of your favourite high street chemist. But it’s not just effective, it’s also cost-effective.

Coconut oil has a low molecular weight and bonds with proteins in a particular way. As a result, it can penetrate your skin on a deeper level than the average skin moisturising product.

Reasons to love Coconut Oil

1 .Coconut oil is a natural antibacterial. Herbalists swear by it for relieving eczema, acne, dermatitis and all manner of allergic skin reactions.

2. It’s absorbent and quick-drying so it can be effective as a post cleansing skin soother.

3. It’s a popular choice as a carrier oil for aromatherapy massages.

4. Scalp moisturiser: If you’re troubled by a dry and flaky scalp then coconut oil will keep it moisturised and discourage dandruff. Split ends? Rub some oil on them to deep condition them.

‘My mom grew up in the Philippines, and she would use coconut oil. I put that in my hair always – literally, natural coconut oil that you use for cooking. I use that for my cuticles and dry spots on my skin too’ Canadian Actress Shay Mitchell

5. Soothes cold sores: if you’re prone to Herpes Simplex, aka cold sores, then a dab with coconut oil can work wonders to speed up healing time and reduce the discomfort. It will also reduce the risk of scarring or discoloration.

How does it manage this? Well, coconut oil contains three fatty acids: capric, caprylica and lauric acid. They all have disinfectant and antimicrobial properties that have a protective and healing effect.

6. Cuticle oil: like the lady in the quotation says, coconut oil is brilliant on cuticles. It keeps germs at bay and loosens the cuticles so they’re easier to push back or cut.

7. Makeup remover: with coconut oil, you can remove eye makeup without risk of irritating your eyes. It has the added benefit of being extra hydrating. Simply give your eyelids a gentle rub with coconut oil and dab the makeup off with a cotton pad or warm washcloth.

8. Nappy rash preventer: used on a regular basis, coconut oil will keep nappy rash at bay. It will also soothe the itch and redness of nappy rash. No bum notes in sight.

9. Body butter: And last, but by no means least, coconut is great in body butters.

This is one instance at least where saturated fats are good for you! Because the saturated fats in coconut oil are what helps your skin stay moisturised. The fats prevent moisture loss through your skin’s pores and helps it to a healthy, smooth and even tone. All of which is, of course, why it’s one of several delicious ingredients in our Neroli and Frankincense body butter.

The coconut oil soothes and softens –and what’s more it smells heavenly. A touch of tropical paradise in a pot. And even better, the antioxidants will put up a fight against those unpleasant free radicals and help your skin look and feel younger.

So don’t be coconut shy (sorry – couldn’t resist!), browse the Pink and Green online shop and treat your skin to some totally tropical bounty.