Feniu founder Mele Olivetti
There’s no arguing that coconut oil has been a polarising ingredient these past few years. Some people love it, while others are still a little sceptical. Much of this scepticism came from the fact that it may not be the healthiest ingredient to consume after all. However, the topical benefits are still largely untapped. Here to talk us through why it’s set to make a comeback for your skin is Mele Feniu Olivetti, the founder of Feniu.
Why do you think coconut oil is making a comeback?
Well, it got a bit of bad rap these past few years, thanks to its high level of saturated fats that can be unhealthy if consumed in high levels, however, the skin benefits remain the same. Applied topically, coconut oil offers incredible benefits for the skin and is something that has been used for years in Tongan communities. One of the great things about coconut oil for the skin is that it can really be multi-purpose, whether it be acting as a hydrator for the hair, body, or also as a make-up remover. That’s why at Feniu we use coconut oil as a hero ingredient in most of our products.
What are the skincare benefits?
It locks in moisture: While coconut oil, like most skincare oils, doesn’t actually hydrate the skin, what it does do is lock in moisture. It is occlusive, meaning it sits on top of the skin and traps moisture underneath, keeping it locked in and significantly reducing levels of transepidermal water loss (TEWL). This means that it doesn’t actually hydrate the skin per se, but because moisture stays locked in, it can definitely provide a feeling of hydration.
It has anti-ageing properties: Many people don’t realise that coconut oil has considerable anti-ageing benefits and can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids, which help to retain the moisture content of your skin, which ultimately leaves it looking smooth and supple. What’s more, because it helps to keep connective tissues strong and supple, skin is less likely to wrinkle.
It’s versatile: Coconut oil as an ingredient can be used as a deeply hydrating oil, used as a body moisturiser, or to treat roughened hands, however, it also works as a great after-sun oil and as a hydrator for the hair. What’s more, coconut oil can be considered as a leading make-up remover because it attracts dirt and build-up on the skin but is also antibacterial. The lauric acid, capric acid, and caprylic acid found in coconut oil give it potent antibacterial properties. This helps protect your skin from pathogens, which can cause an array of skin concerns.
If you’re looking to streamline your skincare routine, coconut oil can easily be integrated and become your go-to. Thanks to its ability to keep skin moisturised, coconut oil can become your substitute for serums or moisturisers. We love Feniu’s Tongan Coconut Oil, which is made from 100% organic coconut and sandalwood from Tonga. An exceptionally nourishing face and body oil, Feniu’s Tongan Coconut Oil will boost skin moisture and fights against the signs of ageing.
It’s safe for most skin types: The truth is that coconut oil is an incredible ingredient when applied topically. There are so many ways it can be incorporated into a skincare routine, and it is safe for most skins (anyone with acne-prone skin may like to tread with caution due to its comedogenic properties).
It eases redness: According to a 2019 study, virgin coconut oil was found to suppress inflammatory markers and protect the skin by enhancing skin barrier function. Coconut oil can help to ease inflammation by improving antioxidant status. Antioxidants work by stabilising free radicals in the body and neutralising the reactive atoms that can contribute to inflammation.
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