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 Joanna Adduci is a Kings Park resident, currently working as a writer. She has a B.S. in Journalism from St. John's University and is active within her community working as a blogger and piano teacher. She enjoys cooking, traveling and performing with her dad in their LI-based cover band, Next Generation. Joanna can be reached by email at joanna.adduci10@gmail.com or you can visit her personal blog https://foodiefreelancer.wordpress.com/ |
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Winter is officially here, and our beauty regimens need to be revamped to avoid dry skin, damaged hair and brittle nails. Instead of heading to your local drugstore and purchasing over-the-counter, chemical-packed beauty products, why not use coconut oil to soothe those cracked lips and dry skin? That’s right, coconut oil. Loaded with antioxidants, coconut oil can prevent many things we wish to avoid this winter, including dry scalp, splitting cuticles and dehydrated, damaged hair and skin. While many of our favorite store-bought products tend to do the trick, they are often overpriced and packed with harmful chemicals. Instead of masking your discomfort, try switching your perfume-loaded lotions and lip balms for extra virgin coconut oil, which can heal and repair. (Plus, it smells amazing!) * Extra virgin coconut oil, in comparison to virgin coconut oil, is generally unprocessed, and has not been deodorized or refined. Derived from fresh, unaltered coconut meat, this oil is suggested for ultimate hydration and health benefits. This product is easily accessible for purchase in supermarkets, health food stores and online through sites such as Amazon. Naturally acting as an antibacterial and antifungal, this is the real deal. Don’t be skeptical of the thick, greasy texture. Slather the coconut oil on your hair for an easy hair masque, or use as a hydrating face cream to repair and increase moisture. Top beauty uses for coconut oil range from a voluminous, frizz-free hair masque to an organic breath freshener – free of all chemicals and additives. Coconut oil is also frequently used to delay the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin, and even to treat skin conditions including eczema and psoriasis. Eczema is prevalent during the winter months, and while many store-bought lotions and creams tend to temporarily relieve the symptoms, they don’t restore and repair the damage. Coconut oil is the perfect way to tend to your irritation, while targeting the problem and healing it. Extra virgin coconut oil can be purchased at your neighborhood supermarket, and is your best bet for soft skin this winter season. Not only does it work wonders for dry skin, this fragrant, thick oil can be used to tend to your cuticles, dry scalp and even your teeth! Research has shown that coconut oil is a great preventive treatment for dandruff, when used as massage oil. The versatility of this household staple is truly notable, and is safe to use on young children, due to its organic nature. Next time you’re noticing your hands feeling the wrath of winter, or your lips beginning to crack, head to your neighborhood supermarket or health food store and pick up some coconut oil. Whether you use it in your hair or for your skin, you’ll be happy you did. |
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20 lucky winners will win $500 each in prizes totaling $10,000. 