The benefits of coconut oil on the skin are well known, but could a specially formulated version be even better? Here at bh, we’ve been big fans of the humble coconut oil for years. So when we heard about Redwin Coconut Body Oil – which blends coconut oil with other ingredients – we decided to see how this newcomer actually compares.
Read on to find out how it stacks up against some very important criteria…
Test #1: Ingredients
Primarily composed of saturated fats and medium-chain fatty acids, natural coconut oil is intensely nourishing and nutrient-dense. Studies on people with dry skin show that it can improve the moisture and fat content of the skin*, while others show it can also protect against hair damage**, making it an effective hair treatment. Turns out, the internet hype is well and truly justified!
But wait, it gets better: Not only is Redwin Coconut Body Oil formulated with 100 per cent organic coconut oil, it also contains other nourishing ingredients such as jojoba oil, sunflower oil and shea butter to repair dry skin and provide hydration, nourishment and protection. So basically, it offers all the benefits of regular coconut oil – and then some! #Winning.
Test #2: Versatility
Coconut oil is famed for its versatility. As well as being an effective body moisturiser, it can also be used as a cuticle oil, massage oil and hair treatment. Seriously, is there anything it can’t do?!
Similarly, Redwin Coconut Body Oil can also be used to smooth dry, frizzy hair. Just one pump is enough to help revive my medium-length strands, but you may need a little extra if you have long hair. I recommend rubbing it between your palms, then applying it sparingly along the lengths, focusing on those dry ends.
Test #3: Absorption rate/drying time
There’s no denying it: When applied to dry skin, coconut oil can be pretty slow to absorb. In my experience, one way to combat this is to use it in the shower instead. I rub it into my damp skin, then rinse off and gently pat dry for super-soft skin.
Alternatively, Redwin Coconut Body Oil is formulated to absorb quickly and easily – a big plus for girls on the go. The light oil can be used all over the body, including dry areas such as knees, elbows, hands and heels, leaving your skin soft and dry to touch within minutes. So dry, in fact, that I’m able to get dressed pretty much straight away after using it in the morning, without worrying about the oil staining my clothes. Too easy!
Test #4: Consistency and application method
Those who have used coconut oil before will be familiar with its fickle consistency. When the bathroom heats up, it melts to a runny liquid, which can be messy (and also a bit unhygienic, if you’re scooping it out of the jar with your hand). The rest of the time, it’s rock solid and difficult to scrape out of the jar. #thestruggleisreal.
Sick of breaking a nail every time you go to use your coconut oil? Redwin Coconut Body Oil comes in a convenient pump bottle, which eliminates the need for the awkward hand-in-jar approach and makes it easier to control the amount of product you use (for me, two pumps is enough to cover one arm). To avoid making a mess, I pump the formula into my palm first, before rubbing it into my skin. Oh, and here’s a tip: If it’s a hot day, try popping the bottle in the fridge for a few minutes. The liquid formula will transform into a super-smooth mousse that it is even easier to pump, and melts upon contact with your skin. The pleasantly cool sensation is a bonus!
Test #5: Scent
Pure coconut oil has a very light, natural scent, making it suitable for those who prefer to keep fragrance to a minimum. Fragrance lovers, on the other hand, will adore Redwin Coconut Body Oil, which is infused with a slightly stronger, yet still discreet, coconutty scent. *Cue Caribbean holiday fantasy*.
Test #6: Transportation and storage
Not only does a big ol’ jar of coconut oil take up a lot of space, you also need to screw that lid on tight when you take it on vacay, lest it leak all over your toiletry bag. One way to secure it is to decant a portion of the oil into a small tupperware container or travel bottle – but this involves some extra effort.
Redwin Coconut Body Oil, on the other hand, is a great lazy-girl option. The formula is contained in a sleek, 125 mL bottle that takes up next to no room in my handbag, let alone a suitcase. It also has a pump dispenser and a plastic cap to help prevent leaks, which means I can cart it to and from the office with ease!
Have you used coconut oil as a skin or hair treatment?
