Is There Anything Coconut Oil Can't Do?

There's no doubting the benefits of the ingredient...or denying its celeb fans. Gwyneth Paltrow uses it to clean her teeth. Mindy Kaling uses it for shiny hair, according to People. Kourtney Kardashian has even touted its metabolism-boosting, weight-loss-assisting, skin-preserving properties on her blog.
The beauty industry and certainly the world at large are obsessed. But can you be using coconut oil the wrong way? Here's what you need to know.

As a Face Moisturizer: Everyone's skin is different, but a good rule of thumb is to apply your beauty products in order from lightest to heaviest consistency; coconut oil has a medium consistency. "Coconut oil helps aid hydration levels, protects your skin and helps retain moisture, kind of like a sealant," said Melody Carl, aesthetician at the Cleveland Clinic. You may want to use any medicated products first and then the oil to seal the deal, followed by any heavier moisturizers or sunblock. For normal skin, a quarter-size amount should do the trick.

Timing Matters: If you're prone to acne, an excess amount of coconut oil can clog your pores. "Use it at night—as opposed to in the day—when the skin cells are turning over and repairing itself," recommended Melody. "Pores and glands are more active during the day, when we're sweating more."
As a Body Moisturizer: Coconut oil is already easily absorbed but for maximum impact, use it after your daily cleanse. "My favorite time to use it is right after shower, when you're damp and warm," said Dr. Amy Kassous, of the Cleveland Clinic. "Nobody talks about its saturated fat. It has antibacterial properties so it can be stored at room temperature. You don't have to worry about added ingredients like parabens and preservatives. Just use it plain and simple."

As a Hair Strengthener: Studies have shown that coconut oil can slow down protein loss, which can cause damaged, brittle hair. Adding one tablespoon to your morning meal may lead to thicker or fuller hair, suggested celeb hairstylist Marc Mena. "Coconut oil can also be used once a week as a scalp treatment by massaging it into the scalp before shampooing to moisturize dry hair," said the pro. "However, if you have oily hair, I only recommend applying the coconut oil to the hair ends."