Unconventional Coconut Oil Hacks That Will Surprise You

Coconut oil has reached a new level of popularity in the last few years. The versatile substance has made its way into a large majority of homes, but many people are still unsure about what to do with the oil besides using it for cooking. However, as these coconut oil hacks show, cooking is only the beginning for using coconut oil.

Coconut oil has many healing properties and is an excellent resource for your body. From natural makeup remove and instant moisturizer to a coffee creamer substitute and stain remover, there are thousands of hacks when it comes to using coconut oil.

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The Perfect Moisturizer

Coconut oil works wonders on the skin. The oils are known for their moisturizing qualities that instantly refresh the skin to keep those elbows nice and soft. While the oils are known for keeping the skin fresh and revived, they also have protective qualities that other moisturizers can lack. Coconut oil has UV filters, which helps protect the skin from the harmful qualities from the sun. To use coconut oil as a moisturizer, warm it up by rubbing it between the palms on your hand. The natural friction will make the coconut oil more pliable and allow it to be applied evenly and smooth.

Deep Conditioner

Coconut oil is known for its moisturizing qualities making it the perfect ingredient for a deep conditioner. All you have to do is mix 1 cup of hot water with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. Once combined, massage the mixture into your scalp, working your way down to cover every inch of your hair. You can even use a wide-toothed comb to make sure you don’t miss a spot. After the mixture is applied, tie your hair back in a bun and let the oil sit for an hour. Once the time is up, rinse out the deep conditioner with warm water and dry thoroughly for the best results.

Dairy-Free Substitute

If you are looking for a healthy substitute for butter, look no further than coconut oil. The natural oil is much better for your body than butter or lard and has a nice and refreshing flavor. Along with being healthier, coconut oil is known to be a natural energy booster in food.  The oil can be used wherever you would think to use butter. It can be spread on toast or used in your favorite cake recipe. In order to use coconut oil like butter, make sure it is melted. You can do this in the microwave or on a stovetop.

DIY Shaving Cream

Say goodbye to shaving cream with harsh chemicals and hello to coconut oil shaving cream. This shaving cream is full of natural ingredients that are great for the body. Simply mix together coconut oil, shea butter, olive oil, and eucalyptus oil. Once combined apply the mixture to the shaving area and shave away. The mixture will not lather like traditional shaving cream, but it will provide the same protection and give you a super close shave. You can even add in a few drops of your favorite essential oil for a memorable scent.

Crayons on the Wall

If you have little ones running around the house, it might help to keep some coconut oil on hand as it acts as a natural stain remover against crayons. Crayons on the wall can be tricky to get off, but coconut oil helps to speed up the process. In order to remove the marks, just rub the coconut oil on the wall. The markings will disappear and keep your walls intact, looking brand new. The same method could be used to remove scuff marks from the floor. Just rub some coconut oil on the scuff mark and watch it disappear.

Improving Brain Function

There are many rewarding factors to using coconut oil, but perhaps the most gratifying impact of coconut oil is what it can do to the brain. After coconut oil is ingested, it is broken down in the liver to produce MCT. The MCTs are then transformed into ketones, which is a main source of energy for the brain.  MCTs are known for helping to keep the brain fit and healthy. They fight off brain disorders such as epilepsy and Alzheimers. The same factors are also true for dogs. Dogs who take small supplements of coconut oil are found to have an increase in their ketones levels and improved cognitive function.

Natural Deodorant

Coconut oil has a natural property that helps to kill off body odor, making it the perfect ingredient for a natural deodorant. To make natural deodorant, mix together coconut oil, arrowroot powder, and cornstarch. If you would like, you can also add in your choice of essential oil to give the natural deodorant a pleasant smell. Once fully put together, the mixture can be stored in a container or a homemade deodorant stick. This mixture will keep the sweat away and prevent the odor from making an appearance, especially on those hot, humid, and muggy summer days.

Hair Hacks

Not only are the properties in coconut oil good for your skin, but they are also great for hair health. Applying a small amount of coconut oil to your hair will make a huge difference. The oil will help smooth split ends and keep them from drying out. It will also give your hair a natural shine and a healthy look. Applying coconut oil in your hair will also keep dandruff away. The coconut oil helps keep your scalp fresh, and makes sure the roots are strong and healthy. Just make sure that your hair is completely dry before applying the oil.

Cuticle Cream

Your cuticles will thank you once you apply this natural cuticle cream to them. The cuticle cream is just plain coconut oil that is rubbed on to the cuticle and nail bed area. The oil has soothing properties that will heal the skin, soften your nails, and even give them some extra strength. The cream can be applied at any time of the day.  This hack will be especially useful in the winter and colder months when the skin is prone to cracking and when your hands are dry. Make it easy to apply by keeping a small amount of coconut oil in a small container.

Jammed Zipper

Now, this may be an unconventional use for coconut oil, but it is definitely a useful hack. Coconut oil is good to use on a jammed or stuck zipper. If you find yourself with a stuck zipper, simply take a cotton ball or paper towel and dab some coconut oil on it. Once the oil is absorbed, rub it up and around the zipper. The natural lubricants in the oils should loosen the zipper and allow it to get back on the track. Hopefully, you should not have to use this hack every day, but it is good to keep in the back of your mind.

Natural Makeup Remover

Your stubborn mascara won’t stand a chance against coconut oil when using it as a makeup remover. In order to use coconut oil as a makeup remover, meltdown the oil and allow it to cool to room temperature. The coconut oil can be applied directly to the face using a cotton ball or left to sit for a few minutes as a scrub. After removing the majority of the makeup, use a warm compress to remove the excess coconut oil. The makeup remover can also be made ahead by letting cotton balls soak in the coconut oil overnight. The natural remover will keep your skin fresh and away from harsh toxins and chemicals.

Nosebleed Prevention

This coconut hack is great for all those people who suffer from nose bleeds. Use coconut oil to keep your nose from getting dry or itchy. All you need is a small amount to keep the nose lubricated. Simply apply the coconut oil to the inner side of the nasal passage for a full effect. The soothing and motorizing qualities of the coconut oil will keep the nasal passage moist, preventing nose bleeds. This is the perfect hack for the winter months when the nasal passage is known to get dry and uncomfortable, causing nose bleeds.

DIY Chocolate Shell

Calling all ice cream lovers, this coconut oil hack is just for you. Coconut oil and chocolate is the perfect match for a hard chocolate shell. All you have to do is combine 1 to 2 cups of chocolate with 1 cup of melted down coconut oil. Once the mixture is cooled, it can be put in a jar or squeeze bottle to be stored in a cool location. When you want to use it, just spoon some on top of the ice cream and watch it do its magic! Don’t be afraid to add other flavors to the mixture as well. The shell also tastes great with some orange or mint extract added in.

Healing Qualities of Wounds

Keep coconut oil in mind the next time you have a cut, scrape, or open wound. The anti-inflammatory qualities of the oil will help wounds or cuts heal on a faster time frame. Before you apply the coconut oil to the wound, make sure it is properly cleaned out. Then apply the coconut oil and cover the open wound or cut with a bandage.  The coconut oil will help the wound heal, as well as helping the production of collagen in the skin. The natural remedies of the coconut oil will help the wound heal on a faster than normal rate.

Keeping Your Hair Tame

Coconut oil is an excellent product to use on your hair. It prevents dandruff, keeps roots strong, and is a great natural deep conditioner. Coconut oil is great to use as a natural de-frizzer. In order to use the coconut oil as a de-frizzer, simply rub in a small amount to your dry hair. This will work for all hairstyle and textures of hair. Not only will it keep your hair under control, but it will also last for a long time. The same method can also be used to tame flyaways and random pieces of hair that refuse to stay in place.

Coconut Oil and Pets

Not only is coconut oil good for human health, but it is also excellent for pet health. Coconut oil is a great moisturizer for pets and their fur. It will keep their coat smooth and keep away dry patches and the itchy skin that comes with it. The coconut oil can either be rubbed directly into fur as you would a topical cream, or it can be consumed directly in small doses no bigger than 1 teaspoon. However, you should check with your pet’s vet before giving them any of the oil, both topical and as food, just to avoid any allergic reactions.

Face Scrub

Say goodbye to those fancy face scrubs that don’t work and leave your skin all dry! With coconut oil, you can make your face scrub that will instantly refreshen your skin. To make a DIY face scrub, add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil to 1 tablespoon of baking soda and mix well. You can even add a splash of your favorite essential oil in to take the scrub to the next level. Use the scrub in the morning or night a few times a week. This will give your skin an instant glow and keep you feeling refreshed and good as new.

A Coffee Substitute

If you are vegan or are simply looking for a non-dairy substitute in your coffee, try adding in a spoonful of coconut oil or coconut butter. The oil or butter will replace the milk in the coffee, but will still give it the creamy and luscious flavor you expect to have in your coffee. The coconut oil or butter works great as a substitute in hot coffee, iced coffee, and tea.  For an even creamier drink, add the coconut oil or butter to a blender and bled for 1-2 minutes. This will give the drink a thicker texture and make it frothy on the top.

‘Pup’Sicles

Coconut oil can be used to make delicious baked goods and treats, but did you know that it can also be used to create treats for your dog? Treat your dog to a “pupsicle” by melting coconut oil and peanut butter together. Once combined, freeze the mixture into ice cube trays or popsicle molds. Let the mixture sit in the freezer until frozen. Once complete, surprise your dog with the scrumptious mixture. Your dog will go wild over these yummy and tasty treats. These treats are great for any time of the year but are especially perfect on a hot day.

Bone Health

Coconut oil is full of antioxidants that have many redeeming qualities. One of those redeeming qualities helps keep your bones strong and in excellent shape. The healing qualities in coconut oil lend themselves to neutralizing free radicals. This process helps to keep the damage out of the cells, allowing your body to strengthen your bones. Along with more strength, coconut oil will help with bone volume and overall structure. In order to take in the redeeming factors from the coconut oil, either add it to your food or ingest the oil in supplements. This will keep your bones hearty and strong.

Soothing Skin

Coconut oil is a natural anti-inflammatory agent and works well against bug bites, sunburns, and rashes. All you have to do is rub the coconut oil directly onto the inflammation. Not only will the oil help the infected or burned area heal, but it will also soothe the skin giving you some relief from the pain. Just keep a small jar of the oil in the fridge and apply when needed. The oil will harden in the fridge, so just spoon out a chunk when needed. This hack can also be used to ward off scars, stretch marks, and fade dark spots on the body.

Relief From Hemorrhoids

Coconut provides soothing relief to many areas of the body, including those that you would not normally think of. Coconut oil can be used to ease the uncomfortably and the inflammation caused by hemorrhoids. Simply freeze a small amount of the oil so it will harden. When the oil forms into a hard texture, it can be used as a suppository for instant relief. The oil can also be applied directly to the area in the oil form as well. This will help ease the itchiness and give you a soothing feeling. This hack will provide instant ease from the pain.

Natural Lip Balm

Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer making it a top ingredient for lip balm. Not only does it has soothing qualities, but it also has healing qualities for chapped lips. The oil can be used on its own or combined with other ingredients for a DIY lip balm. To make a homemade lip balm,  meltdown all of the ingredients of your choice in one bowl and then freeze for up to 30 minutes to harden the mixture. There are many combinations you can choose from. Popular homemade lip balms include mixtures of aloe vera or shea butter.

Makeup Brush Cleaner

Let’s be real, you probably are not cleaning your makeup brushes are much as you should be. After learning about this coconut oil makeup brush cleaning solution, you will be cleaning your makeup once a week. Scoop out a couple of tablespoons of coconut oil and microwave them until smooth. Then simply dip your brushes into the oil and rub them on a paper towel. Once everything looks covered, run the brushes under warm water. The mixture will remove the excess makeup and keep the bacteria out from the brushes. This hack will have your brushes looking bright and new.

Eczema Relief

The healing properties of coconut oil can work wonders on the skin. The oil can soothe skin making it the perfect solution for an eczema outbreak. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, the coconut oil can reduce itching and alleviate inflamed areas. While many people normally use mineral oil during an outbreak, coconut oil has proved to be the superior natural healing remedy. In order to stop the outbreak, just rub some of the coconut oil on the impacted area. Let it dry and feel the instant relief of the coconut oil at work. You will never go back to using mineral oil after this.