Here are some of the insights from skin care expert Shahnaz Husain, founder, chairman and CEO of Shahnaz Husain Group, on coconut milk.
What is coconut milk?
Coconut milk is a milky white, high-calorie liquid extracted from the grated pulp of mature coconuts. Coconut milk is a delicious, sweet, and creamy beverage that can replace cow's milk in some cases of lactose intolerance or vegetarianism.
Benefits of coconut milk for skin and hair
- Hair moisturizer
Coconut milk is a great moisturizer for hair. When applied to dry, damaged hair, it restores health and makes hair soft and manageable.
- Use as conditioner
After shampooing, gently massage a small amount of coconut milk into hair. Leave on for two minutes and rinse with water to help condition hair.
- Helps remove makeup
Mix two tablespoons of coconut oil with one tablespoon of coconut milk, then gently massage the mixture onto your face for a few minutes, then wipe clean with a damp cotton ball.
- Slows down the aging process
Coconut milk is rich in antioxidants, which help slow down signs of aging, such as wrinkles, crow's feet, and age spots.
- Use as an ointment for sunburned skin.
Apply a little coconut milk to the sunburn to help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
How to make coconut milk at home
- Prepare 1.5 cups of fresh grated coconut and 4 cups of water. Choose ripe, old coconut to get rich and smooth milk.
- Add hot water to the grated coconut and mix well. Mix in batches so everything is well combined and the coconut is completely crushed.
- Strain the mixture after blending through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the coconut solids. Squeeze the cheesecloth or press the solids with a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Squeeze out all the water and repeat the process until done.
