Discover one of those ingredients that has been passed down through Thai generations without losing its place
Natural coconut oil is one of those ingredients that has been passed down through generations without losing its place. In Southeast Asia, including Thailand, it has been used for centuries to care for skin and hair. Today it is part of beauty routines all over the world. In this article we explain what it is, what its properties are, what benefits it offers and how to use it at home.
What is natural coconut oil?
Natural coconut oil is made from the flesh of mature coconuts. For skin care, it is best to choose cold-pressed extra virgin coconut oil. This extraction method uses no high temperatures or chemical processes, so the oil better preserves its properties, its soft scent and its characteristic texture.
Below about 24 °C, coconut oil solidifies and turns white. When you warm it between your hands, it melts and becomes clear. This is completely natural and does not affect its quality.
Extra virgin or refined coconut oil: which should you choose?
Extra virgin: cold-extracted from fresh coconut. It keeps its scent and properties, and it is the best choice for skin and hair.
Refined: goes through filtering and heat processes. It has no scent, but loses some of its natural compounds.
To care for your skin, look for the words “extra virgin”, “cold-pressed” and, if possible, “organic” on the label.
Properties of natural coconut oil
The key lies in its composition. Natural coconut oil is very rich in medium-chain fatty acids, especially lauric acid, which makes up almost half of its content. It also provides vitamin E and other antioxidant compounds.
This combination forms a thin film on the skin that helps retain moisture and strengthen its natural barrier.
Benefits of coconut oil for the skin
Deep hydration
This is one of its strengths. Coconut oil helps prevent the skin from losing water and is a great ally for dry or rough skin. It is especially useful on areas such as elbows, knees, heels and hands.
Softer, more supple skin
If you use it regularly, you will notice your skin feels softer and more supple. To boost the effect, apply it after showering, while your skin is still slightly damp.
After-sun care
After summer, skin tends to be drier and dull. Natural coconut oil helps nourish it and restore comfort. However, it is not a substitute for sunscreen. If you have sunburn, wait for your skin to recover or consult a professional.
Ideal for self-massage
Its soft texture and delicate scent make it very pleasant for a massage at home. It melts with the warmth of your hands and glides easily.
Benefits of coconut oil for the hair
Coconut oil is one of the few oils able to penetrate the hair fibre. If you apply it as a mask before washing, it helps to:
- Protect hair from washing and styling.
- Reduce frizz.
- Restore shine to hair that is dry or damaged by the sun, chlorine or seawater.
How to use natural coconut oil at home
Natural coconut oil is very versatile and fits easily into your daily routine. You can use it as a body moisturiser: apply a small amount to your still-damp skin after showering and massage in circular movements until absorbed. If you are looking for a homemade scrub, mix two tablespoons of natural coconut oil with one of sugar, gently apply the mixture to damp skin and rinse. Your skin will be soft and ready to be moisturised.
It is also a great ally for your hair. Use it as a hair mask: spread it from mid-lengths to ends, leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour and wash your hair as usual. Applying it once or twice a week is enough to notice more nourished, shinier hair.
It has even more uses in your toiletry bag. A very small amount softens dry lips and cares for cuticles, and it also works as a gentle make-up remover. Afterwards, cleanse your skin with your usual cleanser. And to end the day, try a self-massage before bed: warm a little oil between your hands and massage your neck, shoulders or feet. It is a small ritual that helps you relax and sleep better.
Self-care at home and at Thai Spa Massage
Caring for your skin between sessions is a simple way to make the feeling of well-being last longer. After a massage at Thai Spa Massage, you can keep your skin soft with small gestures at home, and natural coconut oil is an easy option to find and use.
If you apply it unhurriedly and with slow movements, your moisturising routine becomes a moment to listen to your body and release tension. In Thai tradition, well-being is understood as a balance between body and mind that is built through everyday gestures.
