Coconut oil for sun protection, a natural product for summer

Summer is officially starting in a few days, the days are getting longer, the temperatures are rising, and every occasion is perfect for a little relaxation, escaping the heat of the cities.

Taking a few days off from routine and treating yourself to a well-deserved vacation... Some prefer the coolness of the mountains and long walks in nature, while others prefer the sea and love to relax for hours on a sunbed!

One thing is certain: what is really important on vacation, whether you choose the sea or the mountains, is to protect yourself adequately from the sun and use the right products before and after exposure.

Proper nutrition, rich in vitamins, and good hydration are also essential to keep the skin healthy and to have a beautiful tan at the end of the summer!

Coconut Oil as a Tanning Agent?

Coconut oil is a very versatile vegetable fat in the kitchen, both for sweet and savory recipes.

When used in culinary preparations, its fragrance is really incredible, even if delicate and non-invasive, it instantly makes you feel like you're on a tropical island vacation.

Like other vegetable oils, being 100% pure and natural, it can also be used on the body and hair.

The most frequently asked question is: can coconut oil be used as a tanning agent?

The answer is, better not.

In fact, coconut oil has an SPF of about 4 (sun protection factor). Since it is not high, it is absolutely necessary to use a protective cream with a higher SPF for sun exposure, especially for prolonged periods.

Some studies have shown that the agents present in sunscreens can be harmful, both to wildlife and humans, so the ideal would be to opt for natural sunscreens.

By "natural" we mean creams made with physical filters, with organic and skin-compatible ingredients, without chemical filters.

Physical filters have shielding properties, that is, they are substances that act as a screen for UV rays, thanks to their opacity. They basically act like mirrors and protect against harmful radiation through a reflection/diffusion mechanism.

How to Protect Your Hair from the Sun with Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is, however, a good product to protect hair not only from the sun but also from pool chlorine or salty sea water, which often makes it dry and brittle.

Just apply a few drops of coconut oil to all lengths of slightly damp hair before going to the beach, and they will be protected and at the same time deeply nourished.

Another reason to use coconut oil on your hair before going to the sea?

The truly intoxicating fragrance and the fact that they will stay neat even in the wind and will be easier to detangle!

The important thing is to always reapply a small amount after each swim or shower, so as to provide protection and nourishment throughout the day.

To eliminate the greasy effect, it is necessary to use a gentle shampoo at the end of the day, rinsing the hair thoroughly, which will remain soft and shiny for a long time.

Coconut Oil as an After-Sun

Even if it is preferable not to use it during sun exposure, coconut oil remains a valid and natural product to use as an after-sun. It can hydrate and deeply nourish the skin, especially if applied to still damp skin.

You can dissolve a few tablespoons in warm water for a relaxing bath, apply a few drops of coconut oil to the body skin after a shower, or use it for a nourishing and regenerating massage.

Additionally, it is very useful as a natural soothing agent in case of redness due to excessive sun exposure, as it helps to calm burning and itching.

Using coconut oil as an after-sun represents a natural and healthy choice, as it is a 100% pure product.