I’m a coconut convert. The foreign scent of the tropical treat used to send me running for the hills, yet as my twenties fly by, I find myself increasingly attracted to its sweet, milky flesh that conjures up images of glassy blue seascapes and arcing palm trees with every bite.
The industry’s obsession with all-things-coconut is clear to see. Both expert insiders and A-listers collectively champion the healing and aesthetic benefits of coconut products across all cultural pillars. From Anne Hathaway’s creamy ‘coconut water manicure,’ sported during a recent red carpet appearance, to Hackney’s ongoing obsession with coconut milk matcha, the fruit’s reign shows no sign of slowing down. (Rumour has it, Gwyneth Paltrow regularly swills coconut oil - believed to reduce plaque and lift bacteria - to help brighten her smile.)
As many skincare enthusiasts will know already, the fibrous food’s nourishing properties have cemented its status as a beloved beauty staple.
© Getty ImagesNaturally high in fatty acids, coconut-based ingredients such as oil help moisturise and soften dry skin while supporting the skin barrier. Its conditioning qualities also make it a popular treatment for dry, damaged hair, helping to smooth strands and boost shine.
The ingredient is commonly found in anti-ageing products due to its ability to improve skin elasticity while increasing the natural production of collagen, reducing dark spots and evening skin tone.
While many use plain coconut oil for bodily rejuvenation and, in some cases, treating mild cuts or acne, others often find the product too cloying, posing the risk of clogging pores and causing break-outs.
Hence why sometimes a little goes a long way. For those who want to dabble in coconut beauty without going overboard, there are plenty of must-try beauty picks to trial this summer. Discover our favourites below.
Coconut beauty buys we're loving:
Body Badalada '39 Lotion 400ml
Sol de Janeiro
Lather yourself in coconut freshness courtesy of Sol de Janeiro. The brand's beloved body cream is a treat for the senses, promoting super soft skin that feels both revived and island-ready.
Balm Dotcom Lip Balm
Glossier
A petite pick to keep on your person at all times, Glossier's coconut-infused lip balm is a handy beauty hero. Enriched with antioxidants that nourish and smooth, this affordable gem ensures you never leave the house looking anything less than kissable.
Coconut Skin Body Mist
Phlur
Considering that the current heatwave shows no signs of easing up, it's imperative one always has a vibrant fragrance to hand. Our choice? Phlur's lightweight, coconutty mist - ideal for scorching summertime spritzing.
Coconut Cream Whipped Shower Foam 265ml
Sundae
Bid farewell to boring baths with a helping hand from Sundae. The brand's sustainably-certified whipped wonder is fun and nourishing in equal measure, packed with ingredients spanning vitamin C-filled kakadu plum to lime for the silkiest finish.
100% Organic Coconut Melt
Kopari Beauty
A true multi-tasking beauty hero, Kopari’s 100% Organic Coconut Melt can be used to moisturise skin, condition hair, remove makeup and even as a shaving oil. Perfect for the lazy beauty lover.
Coconut Hand Balm
The Body Shop
A handbag staple for keeping dry hands at bay, The Body Shop’s Coconut Hand Balm delivers up to 96 hours of moisture. Blending coconut oil and shea butter, its fast-absorbing formula leaves hands feeling baby-soft.
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