You may have heard about coconut oil's heart health benefits, namely the saturated fat called lauric acid that helps improve cholesterol ratio levels. But coconut oil—sold in health food stores and the natural foods aisle at your supermarket—isn't just for cooking: It's also a versatile beauty product. Here are ten ways coconut oil can help you look and feel great:

1. Frizz control

Rub a small amount of coconut oil in the palm of your hand until it's melted. (The oil is solid, so warming it gently in your hand will help it liquefy.) Then rub it through the ends of your hair to control frizz and flyaways. It's especially great for managing curly hair. 

2. Daily conditioner

After shampooing, apply about a teaspoon (use more or less depending on the length and thickness of your hair) to damp hair. Comb through, and style. Coconut oil leaves your hair shiny, manageable, and super soft.

3. Deep conditioner

Before bed, apply a couple of tablespoons (use more or less depending on the length and thickness of your hair) of hand-warmed oil to your scalp and run it through your strands. Leave on overnight. (Wear a shower cap or place a towel over your pillow to prevent staining.) In the morning, shampoo as usual.

4. Makeup remover

Warm a small amount of oil in the palms of your hands, then apply it to your face. Use cotton balls or a damp washcloth to wipe off the makeup and remove the coconut oil. You can also dip a cotton ball in warmed coconut oil and use it as an eye makeup remover-the oil will condition your lashes, too!

5. Exfoliant

Mix softened coconut oil with sea salt or sugar and use as a facial scrub. Rinse off with warm water.

6. Facial moisturizer

After cleansing your skin, apply a small layer of coconut oil directly to your skin. It absorbs quickly and won't leave an oily residue.

7. Body moisturizer

Apply all over your body right after you shower for lightly scented, soft, glowing skin all day long.

8. Dry skin remedy

Rub coconut oil on elbows, heels, knees and anywhere you have especially dry skin. Leave on your skin overnight. In the morning, use your coconut oil/sugar exfoliant to slough off dead skin. Follow up with another application of the oil.

9. Makeup

Dab coconut oil right under your brows and on top of your cheekbones for a natural highlighter. Apply to your lips as a moisturizing balm and gloss.

10. Nail conditioner

Coconut oil makes a great cuticle softener and nail conditioner. Apply overnight to prepare nails for a next-day manicure. Be sure and wash all oil off before applying polish, or leave on your nails for natural shine.  

Liesa Harte, M.D. reviewed this article.