Is your bathroom loaded with lotions and potions and other personal care products? Then it may be time to clear the clutter, simplify your beauty routine, all while saving a few bucks.

Imagine replacing your body lotion, make-up remover, teeth whitener, deodorant and hair conditioner with one product!  In addition to all of the health benefits of ingesting coconut oil, health enthusiasts have been adding this non-toxic superstar to their daily beauty routine too.

Bruce Fife, ND, author of Coconut Cures: Preventing and Treating Common Health Problems with Coconut Oil states coconut oil has antiviral, antibacterial, anti-parasitic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic and fever-reducing properties.  In addition, it’s a natural sunscreen with protection up to SPF 15.  Be sure to purchase organic unrefined coconut oil.

Body Lotion – You will love the way your skin feels, especially if you suffer from eczema, psoriasis or rough, dry skin.  Coconut oil makes a wonderful body moisturizer or can be added to your favorite organic body lotion to give it a boost of antioxidants.  Since it can be a bit messy, it’s best to stand on a towel while applying to damp skin after bathing.  If you prefer a lighter feel, you can whip it in a mixer and add a few drops of your favorite essential oil.

Make-up Remover – Synthetic make-up removers often have toxic ingredients that can cause breakouts and can be especially irritating to the delicate tissue around the eyes.  A little coconut oil goes a long way and easily removes mascara and other makeup. If your coconut oil has solidified, just warm it in your hands before applying.

Teeth Whitener – If your teeth are yellowing or your gums are inflamed then you’ll want to try oil pulling.  You may have heard of oil pulling for its other health benefits, but the most obvious is whiter teeth and beautiful healthy gums.  On an empty stomach, take a teaspoon of coconut oil and swish around in your mouth for 10 to 15 minutes.  It can be a bit boring so do this while showering.  Do not swallow the oil (it’s filled with bacteria) and discard it in the garbage so it doesn’t clog your drain.

Hair Conditioner – Coconut oil is a wonderful hair conditioner and anti-dandruff remedy.  Apply to dry hair and scalp for 20 minutes, then shampoo and style. Apply a pinch of oil to treat split and dry ends.

Deodorant – Mix ½ cup of baking soda, ½ cup of arrowroot and enough melted coconut oil to make a thick paste.  Add 15-20 drops of sandalwood oil or your favorite essential oil and mix.  Store in a glass jar.