Harness Cloves and Coconut Oil for Healthy, Glowing Skin

Harnessing the Healing Powers of Cloves and Coconut Oil

Cloves and coconut oil each offer an array of benefits for skin health and beauty. Using these ingredients together maximizes their nourishing and therapeutic effects. Here's how to take advantage of this dynamic duo for glowing skin.

Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Benefits

Both cloves and coconut oil possess powerful antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that protect skin from damage.

The active compound eugenol in cloves exhibits strong antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral capabilities to fend off infections. Cloves also contain antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative stress that ages skin.

Lauric acid in coconut oil also boasts antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial qualities to cleanse skin of harmful germs. Meanwhile, antioxidants in unrefined coconut oil like vitamin E nourish cells and restore moisture.

Anti-Aging Perks

Using cloves and coconut oil together provides a one-two punch against signs of aging. The antioxidants in both ingredients defend against wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin by protecting elastic collagen fibers from breaking down.

They also encourage new collagen production for plumper, firmer skin with improved elasticity. The antimicrobial qualities keep pores clear of bacteria that can cause acne and breakouts, leading to a more youthful complexion.

Healing Skin Irritations

Thanks to their anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antimicrobial effects, cloves and coconut oil can calm and treat many inflammatory skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

Applying coconut oil hydrates and repairs skin's protective barrier, while cloves ward off infection and soothe redness and swelling. Together, they accelerate healing in irritated skin prone to flare-ups.

Moisturizing Dry Skin

Coconut oil is an ultra-hydrating moisturizer, as the medium-chain fatty acids penetrate deeply to replenish lipids and retain moisture in the skin.

Adding a few drops of clove essential oil boosts moisture-retaining capabilities while bringing blood flow to the surface of the skin for an immediate plumping effect. This combination nourishes and revitalizes dull, dry skin.

DIY Clove and Coconut Oil Skin Recipes

You can whip up several nourishing skin treatments at home using these two simple ingredients:

Moisturizing Face Oil

Mix a tablespoon of coconut oil with 2-4 drops clove essential oil. Gently massage into cleansed skin morning and night for a luminous complexion.

Acne Spot Treatment

Dab a dot of coconut oil on blemishes followed by 1 drop clove essential oil to blast bacteria, reduce swelling and speed healing.

Anti-Aging Serum

Add 2 tablespoons coconut oil with 5 drops each clove and frankincense essential oils for a powerful serum to minimize fine lines and wrinkles.

Healing Skin Salve

Whip 1/4 cup coconut oil with 2 tablespoons beeswax until creamy. Remove from heat and stir in 8-10 drops clove oil. Apply to cuts, bites, rashes, etc. to promote healing.

Cellulite Smoothing Cream

Blend 1/4 cup coconut oil with 5 drops each clove, grapefruit, and cypress oils. Massage into cellulite-prone areas to boost circulation and drainage.

Skin-Renewing Bath Oil

Mix 1/4 cup coconut oil with 10 drops clove oil. Add to a warm bath and soak to soften, soothe, and restore skin all over.

Tips for Using Cloves and Coconut Oil on Skin

To enjoy the most benefits from this dynamic duo, keep these tips in mind:

Perform a Patch Test

Before wider application, do a patch test by applying a small amount to your inner arm overnight to check for any irritation or allergic reactions.

Always Dilute Essential Oils

Only use a few drops of clove essential oil per tablespoon of coconut oil. Concentrated essential oils can cause skin reactions otherwise.

Look for Organic when Possible

Seeking out organic clove buds and extra virgin coconut oil ensures you get the highest quality with maximal nutrients and no chemical residues.

Store Properly

Keep coconut oil in a cool, dark place like the fridge to prevent rancidity. Essential oils should be kept in dark bottles away from heat and light.

Use Gentle, Circular Motions

When applying blends to the face, use soft, gentle motions outwards from the center to boost circulation without tugging at delicate skin.

Targeting Specific Skin Conditions

In addition to basic skincare, cloves and coconut oil can provide targeted relief for common skin complaints like:

Acne

The antibacterial qualities help clear congested pores and prevent further breakouts. Reduce inflammation and redness.

Eczema

Hydrate flaky, irritated patches and enhance skin repair. Reduce stinging and discomfort during eczema flares.

Dermatitis

Soothe itchy, inflamed skin and calm rashes. Speed up healing of skin damage from scratching.

Cold Sores

Wipe out the virus and treat sores with antiviral, antimicrobial action. Cloves numb pain.

Warts

Boost immunity against the virus. Antivirals fight infection while improving skin cell turnover to slough off warts.

Dark Spots

Brightening and inflammation-reducing properties help lighten age spots, acne marks, and sun spots for clearer complexion.

Oily Skin

Regulate excess sebum production. Antimicrobials prevent breakouts by inhibiting bacteria on the skin.

Maximizing Results

For best results, adopt these tips as part of your regular skincare routine:

Cleanse Gently

Use a mild, non-drying cleanser suited for your skin type. Avoid harsh scrubs or soaps that strip the skin.

Tone

Spritz skin with an alcohol-free toner containing ingredients like apple cider vinegar to restore pH balance and boost absorption of oils.

Exfoliate Strategically

Use a gentle chemical or physical exfoliant 2-3 times per week to slough off dead cells and maximize penetration of oils.

Moisturize Daily

Apply your clove and coconut oil blends after cleansing to reinforce the skin barrier and lock in hydration.

Eat a Healthy Diet

A diet rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids provides building blocks for great skin. Take 1 Tbsp coconut oil daily.

Drink Plenty of Water

Proper hydration plumps up skin cells and delivers nutrients. Aim for at least 2 liters of water daily.

Reduce Stress

Chronic stress takes a toll on the skin. Adopt relaxation techniques and get enough sleep to manage stress levels.

Safety Tips

When using cloves and coconut oil topically, keep these precautions in mind:

Avoid Contact with Eyes

Rinse immediately with water if oils get

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.