Life

11 Unexpected Uses For Coconut Oil That'll Make You Stock Up For Life

by Ni'Kesia Pannell

As of late, the use of coconut oil has gone from "not so much" to "what else can I use this for?" Though it has previously been thought to be an artery-clogger, the deliciously smelling oil is steadily moving up the totem pole of household favorites. While I've always only thought of it to be used as a remedy for dry hair, I've recently learned that coconut oil can be a great ingredient when used in recipes and now, I've found plenty of other unexpected uses for coconut oil that would cause anyone to head to their nearest grocery store as soon as possible.

Whether you're a DIY-er that loves finding new things to create, the penny-pincher that prefers to make it over buying it, or the all-natural ingredient loving friend that encourages those around you to be more organically based, coconut oil has an expansive usage list that will surprise anyone whose ever decided against picking up a jar when passing down the aisle.

Try: Carrington Farms Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, $16.99, Amazon

From beauty remedies and controlling body order to keeping the house in order, these 11 unexpected uses for coconut oil will make you realize that this oil is pretty much all you need in life to be successful.

1

Facial Scrub

When mixed equally with cane sugar, coconut oil can be used to create a fresh facial scrub to slough off dead skin cells and diminish blackheads. Eating Bird Food has a great recipe for a whipped coconut oil sugar scrub that would be great to start with.

2

Frizz Fighter

According to Allure, coconut oil can be used as a natural defrizzer for hair. Just make sure you apply it to dry hair because water and oil are known to not mix too well.

3

Toothpaste

When mixed with baking soda and a few drops of peppermint essential oil, coconut oil can be used as a toothpaste. With the recipe for minty coconut toothpaste from Bloglovin', you're sure to be blowing sweet kisses all day.

Try: Majestic Pure 100% Peppermint Essential Oil, $12.95, Amazon

4

Deodorant

Although it doesn't stop the sweating, creating some DIY deodorant with coconut oil as the base will have you smelling mighty fresh throughout the day.

5

Shaving Cream

Great for sensitive skin, Food For My Family discovered this easy to make shaving cream using coconut oil that won't dry out the skin.

6

Homemade Wood Polish

Move over Old English; there's a new polisher in town. Everyday Roots has uncovered a quick way to keep your furniture looking new by just simply rubbing coconut oil on the wood.

7

Energy Booster

Wellness Mama created these tasty homemade chocolate coconut energy bars that are a healthy alternative to sugary snacks. Perfect for kids or adults, this recipe is quick and easy to make.

8

Maekup Remover

Ran out of those pricy make-up remover wipes that you only get when they're on sale? Allure suggests substituting coconut oil as a makeup remover the next time you're in need.

9

Cuticle Oil

If you don't have the time to head to the nail salon to catch a quick mani, try using some coconut oil as a cuticle oil at the base of your nails. Not only does it work as a great cuticle oil, but PopSugar says it can also help your manicure last longer.

10

Lip Balm

When using most lip balms, they have the ability to dry out your lips so that you'll use more opposed to filling them with moisture. Wellness Mama suggests using coconut oil for your lip balm to keep your lips moisturized and soft.

11

Delicious Recipes

Whether you're a fan of the sweet or the savory when it comes to your dishes, there are plenty of coconut oil recipes that you can whip up to keep you healthy, fed, and full.