How to Use Coconut Oil for Your Skin and Hair

Looking for a natural way to nourish your skin and hair? Coconut oil might be the answer! Packed with fatty acids, antioxidants, and antimicrobial properties, it helps lock in moisture and protect against damage. Whether you want to soften dry skin, add shine to your hair, or simply remove your makeup, it’s a simple yet powerful option.
Want to unlock its full benefits? Here’s everything you need to know about how to use coconut oil for skin and hair to achieve soft, radiant results.
Why Coconut Oil Works for Skin and Hair
Being packed with medium-chain fatty acids, particularly lauric acid, coconut oil seeps deep into the skin and hair shaft, providing long-lasting moisture retention. Its benefits extend beyond simple moisturisation, with powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Benefits of Coconut Oil for Skin and Hair:
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High lauric acid content: Enhances moisture retention and prevents trans-epidermal water loss in the skin.
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Antimicrobial properties: Targets and inhibits the growth of bacteria and fungi, helping to prevent acne, scalp conditions, and fungal infections.
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Environmental protection: Shields the skin and hair from oxidative stress and damage caused by UV rays and pollution.
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Hair manageability: Improves hair elasticity, reduces frizz, and controls flyaways by strengthening the hair shaft.
How to Use Coconut Oil for Skin
Did you know that coconut oil can replace multiple skincare products in your routine? It’s packed with hydrating and protective properties, but using it the right way is key to getting the best results. Let’s take a look at some of them!
1. Coconut Oil for Dry Skin
Struggling with dry skin? Coconut oil is a great skin moisturiser! It absorbs easily into damp skin to provide deep hydration and restore softness.
How to use:
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Warm a small amount between your hands.
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Apply to damp skin after a shower.
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Focus on elbows, knees, and rough patches.
If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, go for a milder alternative. Use fractionated coconut oil (which is lighter and non-comedogenic) instead of raw coconut oil.
2. Coconut Oil for Skin Issues
Beyond dryness, coconut oil addresses other skin concerns with its healing properties. Understanding how to use coconut oil for healthy skin can help tackle common issues such as:
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Minor Wounds: Protects cuts with antibacterial properties.
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Hyperpigmentation: Lightens dark spots when mixed with turmeric or lemon.
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Eczema & Psoriasis: Reduces redness and itching.
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Chapped Hands & Feet: Helps heal cracked skin.
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After-Sun Care: Soothes sunburned skin.
How to use:
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Apply a thin layer to affected areas.
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Let it absorb naturally—no need to rinse.
3. How to Use Coconut Oil on Your Face
We’ve talked about coconut oil for your body, but what about your face? It’s great for dry or normal skin, giving it a nice boost of hydration. Those with acne-prone or oily skin should use it cautiously to avoid clogging pores.
How to Use:
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Use it as a makeup remover by massaging it into the skin and wiping it away with a warm washcloth.
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Apply a thin layer as a night-time moisturiser.
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Dab a small amount under the eyes to smooth fine lines.
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Mix with honey or aloe vera for a hydrating face mask.
4. Lip Balm for Soft Lips
Dry, chapped lips? Coconut oil is a simple and effective solution, acting as a natural, hydrating lip balm.
How to use:
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Dab a tiny amount onto your lips and let it absorb.
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Mix it with sugar for a DIY lip scrub.
How to Use Coconut Oil for Hair
Coconut oil’s molecular structure allows it to penetrate the hair shaft rather than merely coating the surface. This makes it an effective remedy for dryness, breakage, and scalp concerns. To incorporate it into your hair care routine, try the following methods:
1. DIY Coconut Oil Hair Mask
A DIY coconut oil hair mask is an incredible way to restore moisture, improve texture, and add shine to your locks. It’s ideal for dry, frizzy, or damaged hair.
How to use:
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Warm 1-2 tablespoons in your hands.
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Apply from mid-lengths to ends.
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Leave on for 30 minutes or overnight.
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Wash out with shampoo.
2. Scalp Treatment for Dandruff
Coconut oil hydrates the scalp, reduces itching, and helps fight dandruff with its antibacterial and antifungal properties. It soothes dryness and keeps flakes under control.
How to use:
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Massage a small amount into the scalp.
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Let it sit for 20 minutes.
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Rinse thoroughly with shampoo.
3. Frizz Control & Shine Booster
Coconut oil tames flyaways, reduces frizz, and enhances shine without weighing hair down. It helps lock in moisture, keeping strands smooth and polished throughout the day.
How to use:
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Rub a pea-sized amount between your palms.
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Lightly smooth over flyaways and dry ends.
4. Natural Heat Protectant
Coconut oil forms a light barrier that helps reduce moisture loss and minimise heat damage from styling tools. While it won’t replace a dedicated heat protectant, it provides extra nourishment and protection for dry or damaged hair.
How to use:
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Apply a small amount to damp hair.
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Focus on the ends before using heat tools.
5. How to Use Coconut Oil for Hair Growth and Thickness
A consistent oiling routine may contribute to healthier, thicker-looking hair by revitalising both your scalp and strands. Follow these steps to add it to your hair care regimen:
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Massage warm coconut oil onto your scalp to stimulate circulation and hair follicles.
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Let it sit for at least half an hour or overnight for deeper hydration.
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Rinse thoroughly with a sulphate-free shampoo.
Recommended Coconut Oil-Infused Products
If you’re looking to experience the benefits of coconut oil in your routine without the hassle of DIY, Jericho Skincare ANZ offers a range of natural products enriched with coconut oil, Dead Sea minerals, and other rejuvenating ingredients. Explore this selection of our favourite coconut oil-infused products:
Shower Essentials:
Skin Moisturisers:
Lip Care:
Hair Care & Treatments:
Whether you want to target dry skin, boost hair shine, or have an all-around nourishing boost, we have the perfect solution to elevate your beauty routine. Visit our shop today and explore our full collection of coconut oil-infused products. Treat yourself to natural luxury and unlock radiant, healthy skin and hair