Monday, November 28, 2011

Skin Care Series - Eye Cream


Today I want to share my favorite eye cream with you.  It is super simple to make using only two ingredients - coconut oil and Vitamin E.  In yesterday's post we learned that coconut oil is a protective antioxidant and supports tissue repair and healing.  

This is what www.healthy-skincare.com has to say about Vitamin E:


In terms of skin health and skin care, vitamin e benefits are numerous. In fact, skin care products that contain vitamin e have become an essential part of healthy skin care.

Antioxidant
First of all, because of its antioxidant activity, vitamin e is vital in protecting skin cells from ultra violet light, pollution, drugs, and other elements that produce cell damaging free radicals. It is believed that vitamin e is most effective in its natural alcohol form rather than its acetate form where it is a less effective antioxidant. Watch for this in the labelling of skin care products.

Regulator for Vitamin A
The vitamin e benefits for healthy skin care also include its ability to regulate vitamin a in the body, which itself is important for healthy skin.

Anti-Aging Benefits of Vitamin E
Vitamin e added to lotions, creams, and other skin care products, as well as taken orally, plays a role in the anti-aging of skin. It helps skin look younger by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Also, free radicals are believed to play an important role in skin aging and therefore the antioxidant activity is quite valuable for this skin problem.

Treatment of Skin Diseases
Vitamin e can aid in the treatment of various skin diseases or skin conditions. Topical applications such as those used to treat psoriasis is one of the benefits of vitamin e. Orally ingested vitamin e can help treat erythema (a skin inflammation that results in reddish, painful, and tender lumps).

Skin Cancer Benefits of Vitamin E
One of the most important benefits of vitamin e is the prevention of skin cancer. This occurs because of its sun protection quality and of course its powerful antioxidant properties, which help reduce or prevent sun damage.

Other Vitamin E Benefits
There are a variety of other benefits of vitamin e for skin care:
  • vitamin e products help reduce the appearance of stretch marks
  • vitamin e can help prevent the appearance of age spots
  • it helps maintain the skin’s oil balance during the cleansing process
  • it reduces transepidermal water loss from skin and strengthens the skin’s barrier function
Overall for skin care, more benefit is obtained from topical application of vitamin e through creams or lotions rather than taking vitamin e orally. Skin is able to absorb natural vitamin e effectively. However, taking vitamin e orally is important for the good health of other areas of the body. 

Now that you know why we're using coconut oil and Vitamin E, let's find out how to turn them into an eye cream.  First you need to find a container to make your cream in.  The one in the picture is a miniature jelly jar.  My guess is that it is between a half and one ounce.  In the past, I've just used clean eye contact containers.  

Fill your container with coconut oil.  It is solid at room temperature and doesn't begin to melt until it reaches 76 degrees Fahrenheit.  So, at this point I put it in the microwave for just a couple of seconds until it begins to melt.  Next, you poke a hole in your Vitamin E capsules and add to the melted coconut oil.  For the jar above I used 3 capsules.  I use 1 capsule per side when using contact containers.  Then, I use a tooth pick or wooden skewer and blend them together.  At this point I put the cream in the refrigerator to become solid again.  After that happens there is no need to keep it refrigerated.  The oils will not become rancid.  

That's all there is to it.  When my sister was here visiting I let her try it and she was immediately hooked.  So I made her up a batch and sent it home with her.  About a week later she sent me an e-mail telling me that she LOVES this eye cream.  She said it was better than the expensive stuff she was buying.  And this costs nearly nothing per batch. :0)




I got the recipe for this wonderful eye cream from a fantastic book, "Return to Beauty" by Narine Nikogosian.  It is full of awesome recipes using natural ingredients.  Narine breaks the recipes down not only by skin type, but by season as well.  I rented it from my local library, but it is one I would definitely invest in.

*Update, 3/5/13 ~ This blog post was written a year and a half ago and has absolutely shocked my socks off that so many people would end up seeing it. I began this tiny blog as a creative outlet. Period. I am a mom who has had her fair share of skin issues and am on a journey to better health. I thought it would be nice to share the things I was learning along the way. Notice the keyword JOURNEY. I don't claim to have all the answers. I don't claim to do everything perfectly. Having said that, there have been many comments about melting the oil in the microwave. In the time since this post was written I have stopped melting the coconut oil in the microwave. Use your own judgement. No one is going to arrest you if you still use the microwave. If you are someone who avoids it like Chernobyl, that's fine, too. Just please keep in mind that everyone is in a different stage of their journey - so be kind in your comments. You attract more flies with honey than vinegar.

As far as the proportions go...relax. You're not going to mess this up. It's kind of like making good ol' southern cornbread. You'd really have to go out of your way to ruin it. Use whatever container you have available and guesstimate the amount of Vitamin E you should add. I used 3 capsules to an ounce. If you don't want to use capsules, use oil.

Be aware...some people are allergic to Vitamin E. If you make make this and your eyes swell up...well, you might be one of them. Just leave it out next time. The coconut oil is still wonderful on its own. 

Coconut is a unique oil in that it will become liquid at 76 degrees F. If you live in a warm climate where this is an issue, feel free to keep it in the fridge. It will still work exactly the same way if it is melted, though.

I hope that this has answered many of the questions that arise. If not, please read through the comments. Many of the same questions have come up again and again and I have attempted to answer them in the comments. If that still doesn't cut it for you, then by all means, ask away!

One final reminder...in everything you do (including making this eye cream) - use your best judgement. If you know something that would work better, do it. If you know you have an allergy to an ingredient, skip it. Everyone is different and what works for one may not work for another.

Click here to view more posts in this series.

Next, we'll tackle exfoliating scrubs.  Hope to see you then!

I'm sharing this post @ Frugal Days, Sustainable WaysWildcrafting WednesdaysSimple Lives Thursday and Your Green Resource.

229 comments:

  1. I am SOOOO going to try this!!! Thanks for sharing:D

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  2. What a great post! :) Thanks for sharing on Wildcrafting Wednesday! :)

    ~ Kathy @ Mind Body and Sole

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  3. Thanks for sharing. I am going to have to try this!

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  4. I love this! I don't buy eye cream because it is so dang expensive but this is doable. Maybe add a little evening primrose oil since it's good for aging skin?

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  5. Stephanie,

    That would be a wonderful addition!

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  6. Pam, just wanted to say "thank you" for this skincare series. I am really enjoying it! I managed to track down some Witch Hazel at a pharmacy yesterday - it mustn't be quite as common here as in the US. I'm excited to try it out.

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  7. Lacey,

    I'm so happy that you're enjoying this series!! And, I'm glad that you were able to find witch hazel. I find it interesting that it's not as easily available there as it is here in the US. Keep me posted on how you like it. :0)

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  8. Pam, do you think that you could use vitamin E oil (not in the capsule) instead? Thanks

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  9. Torie ~ That would absolutely work!

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  10. I love this series. I just stumbled across it but have been making all kinds of my own beauty products. The reason I'm writing is that you mentioned using 3 vitamin e oil capsules, do you know how much oil that is? The vitamin E oil I have is just a bottle of oil and is not in capsules.

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    1. I know this is late...but I just read that vitamin E oil should never be put on skin directly and should always have a carrier oil (like coconut)with a proper dilution of at least 50%. So it just depends on how much of a carrier oil you use:)

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    2. I had a breast care surgeon prescribe topical vitamin E oil to help in the reduction of a breast tissue abnormality. It is straight vitamin E oil without a carrier oil. No problems whatsoever, and it has helped the abnormality reduce in size.

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    3. Vitamin E oil is great without a carrier - i've never had any problems with it...i'm wondering what the article said were the adverse effects..

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    4. Vitamin E oil can MOST definitely be put directly to the skin. We have used it in my family for almost 4 generations. We use it on an wounds that may scar it helps do 1 of 2things: A) lessen the appearance of scaring or B) make the scar disappear completely. A family member was in a terrible car crash 15 years ago and has had multiple surgeries to correct the damage done. There are only 2scars that remain. The rest have disappeared due to the vvitamin E.

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    5. Alma Hats off to the Vitamin E oil. I used it on my bruises because I bruise very easily due to taking Warfain which thins the blood. I was so amazed at how quickly the bruised disappeared. So if you take a blood thinner you just get those unknown bruises and Vitamin E oil takes them right away. Pretty wonderful for me.

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    6. Instead of poping a capsul, can we use fit E straight from the tube? It's much cheaper that way

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    7. How about the skin disorder "Vititligo"? It's an auto immune def. pertaining to the skin cell pigment? Any natural help for that??

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    8. I have it aswell....I'm hoping that you might know of any natural product that might help. Thanks!

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  11. Brittany ~ I'm so glad that you've been enjoying this series! 3 vitamin E oil capsules equals 1/4 teaspoons. Thanks for coming by and leaving me a comment. I hope you have a wonderful week!

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  12. Making this today as I have all items on hand.

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  13. I'm definitely going to have to try this ! I love coconut oil for the skin ! I just made a home-made body lotion from coconut oil and I LOVE LOVE IT ! Looking forward to trying the eye cream ! Thanks for sharing and posting :)

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  14. Putting the oil in the microwave reduces it's benefits. Setting it in warm water melts it really fast, but preserves the properties. This is great advice you are writing. I use coconut oil for a lot of things. Don't put anything on your skin you couldn't safely eat. It all ends up in your blood stream! Also, don't get any in your eyes - I did and it was painful!

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    1. Yes, Denise, you're right. Microwaving does reduce the benefits. Since the time this post was written I have changed the way I make the eye cream and do it in a double boiler. Thanks for the input. :0)

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    2. Glad I kept reading! I was going to take you to task for promoting the use of a microwave. Unhealthy! Get rid of it, you don't need a microwave, it's nothing but a re-heating tool. Love the eye cream recipe, will try it without the microwave radiation!

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    3. I'm glad you kept reading, too. :-) Becoming healthy is a process and we are all at different stages - improving as we learn. I hope you like the eye cream!

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    4. I would NEVER put my beauty products in a microwave! Even for a couple seconds, it zaps the wonderful antioxidants up to 97% of them. Since it's melting point is only 76F, Boil a teapot of water, place your jar of coconut oil in a bowl and pour the boiling water in your bowl and let it sit for about five minutes, until the glass gets warm then it will be easy to work with.

      I am excited about the recipe otherwise and am excited to try it. I would also like to point out that one should purchase their coconut oil wisely as well. make sure that your coconut oil is not extracted with chemicals. I buy mine at Costco ($22 bucks for a gallon) and it is organic nutiva brand. There are many other good brands, just take the time to do the research. Always remember anything you ingest, touch and breathe in affects your system.

      I take the time to make my own toothpaste, deodorant and laundry detergent. The start-up costs can be pricey (for essential oils in most part), in the long run, these things will last quite a long time and you will just be purchasing your carriers and other needs and you will SAVE MONEY and your health :)

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  15. What's the consistency of the final product supposed to be? Mine looks solid and when I touch it it feels like an oil. Is it supposed to be like this, or creamier? Thanks so much!!

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    1. Hi Stephanie!

      It sounds like you got it right. :-) Since the eye cream has a coconut oil base it will feel like an oil. Coconut oil is a unique substance in that it is a solid, but turns to a liquid at 76 degrees. It is a drier oil, however, so it should soak into your skin rather quickly. A little really does go a long way, though. If you prefer a creamier consistency you can refrigerate it and then whip it until it's fluffy. That can be tricky with smaller quantities, though. Even if it gets warm and melts it won't affect the quality of the ingredients. No matter the consistency, it will produce the same results.

      You'll have to let me know how you like it. :-) Thanks for commenting!

      Pam

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    2. Pam,

      Are you saying that I should apply the 'liquid' oil instead of the 'solid' one? I only refrigerated the oil the very first time. After that, it can stay in the room temperature. Is it correct? Thanks.

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    3. Hi Carolslu,

      You can use this eye cream whether it is cooler and in its' solid state or warmer and in its' liquid state. It is fine to leave it at room temperature. I do. However, some people who may live where it's warm enough to keep the eye cream in a liquid state at room temperature may prefer to keep it in the fridge so it remains solid. Any way you like it you're still going to end up with the same results from the ingredients. It's just a matter of personal preference whether you mind if it's a liquid or not. I hope I've answered your question... :-)

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    4. Pam,

      Thanks. You did answer my question. We just had about 3 months scorching hot weather and I kept it in the fridge to make it non-liquid form. In the meantime, I was puzzled as how to apply the solid form. Now I understand either way is effective. Thanks again.

      Carol

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    5. Yeah, we had that scorching heat, too! Glad you figured it out!

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  16. You can also melt the coconut oil in the sun.

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  17. i like you post thanks for sharing i think this good for eys Herbal Eczema Treatment

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  18. About how many ounces is the little jar you used. .. just want to make sure to get it right (sorry. .I'm a little OCD)

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    1. Hi Holly,

      I'm not exactly sure the size because it was a mini or sample size jelly jar, but I'm guessing 1/2 - 1 ounce. It doesn't really matter, though. I usually used a clean contact lens container, adding 1 Vitamin E capsule per side. You won't be able to mess this up, I promise. :-)

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  19. The skin care cream for eyes has been described here.know all about it

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  20. What do you think about adding a little liquid vitamin C in the mix?

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    1. Go for it! I actually add some other stuff to mine now, too. :-)

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  21. I'm thinking about making this as a Christmas gift for my sister and was wondering if it takes away dark circles and puffiness?

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    1. Hi Megan! Everyone I've ever given this eye cream to as a gift has loved it! It has wonderful anti-aging properties in it and does a great job at softening those pesky lines. But, as for the dark circles and puffiness - I really can't give you an honest answer as I don't deal with either of those myself. I do know that chamomile or green tea would work wonders on puffiness, but don't really know how you would incorporate those into this recipe. Sorry I don't have a better answer for you.

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    2. I know this is a little late but maybe some one will benefit from it. Cucumber is the most amazing ingredient for dark circles and puffiness. I love it but have only found it in the fresh form. To use it in this recipe puree it in the blender and mix it in the original recipe. The only concern is that it is a fresh ingredient and can easily spoil. Another great ingredient is frankincense oil, it is AMAZING on elasticity issues and wrinkles. But beware a little of it goes a very long way.

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  22. How long do you think the shelf life is?

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    1. Coconut oil will stay good for years and Vitamin E also extends shelf life. So, I'd say you'll definitely use it up long before you have to worry about it going bad!

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  23. I just made some and can't wait to try it out! I already use a mixture of castor oil, primrose oil and vitamin e oil as a face "wash" and absolutely love it! Im sure this will be just as fabulous!

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    1. Yay for you! You'll have to let me know how you like it. :-) I love to do an oil cleanse, too. I've never used the primrose oil in it, though. I may have to give that a try next time! Thanks for commenting. :-)

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  24. Such a terrific site you have, feels real in here! Love it, look forward to all of your shares!

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    1. Thanks so much Roxanne! Thank you for coming by!!

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  25. Terrific posts, awesome & wholesome site!

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  26. When and how often do you apply?

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    1. I use this every morning and every evening (when I'm not too lazy to wash my face at night). ;-)

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  27. Just stumbled across your site. I love that you've put this together and are actually sharing! Can't wait to put mine together. Thank you :-)

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  28. This product sounds amazing, but does it get rid of under eye darknes? If so, this is the next thing on my to do list. :)

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    1. Everyone I've ever given this eye cream to as a gift has loved it! It has wonderful anti-aging properties in it and does a great job at softening those pesky lines. But, as for the dark circles and puffiness - I really can't give you an honest answer as I don't deal with either of those myself. I do know that chamomile or green tea would work wonders on puffiness, but don't really know how you would incorporate those into this recipe. Sorry I don't have a better answer for you.

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  29. Hi!
    Thanks so much for sharing! I was wondering about the actual application process- do you leave it on or wait a few minutes then wipe it off? If you do wipe it off, about how long do you leave it on? Also, does the type of coconut oil matter (refined vs. unrefined)?
    Thank you!
    Hannah

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    1. Hi Hannah! I don't wipe it off. I just use a very little bit and it soaks into the skin within a few minutes. I have used both refined and unrefined oil. You can use either, but I actually prefer the unrefined organic oil.

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    2. Okay {{Pam}} I've been following along,(just discovered your site and I love it,)and am really looking forward to making some of your creation but...if you use it as a makeup remover( and I'm assuming that covers waterproof mascara too,) if you DON'T wipe it off, where does that leave your makeup?

      thanks

      adrienne

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    3. If you use coconut oil for cleaning your face, massage it into your skin for a minute or so, then wet a washcloth with fairly hot water and press it over your face for a few seconds before using it to wipe away the oil (and dirt, and yes, even waterproof mascara!). Rinse your washcloth and wipe off your face again if you feel it needs it.

      Now your skin is clean! use this eye cream like you would any other and watch your eyes look younger! The vitamin e is really the key in reversing/stopping the aging process, so I need to make mine with a higher ratio of e to coconut oil. I started by just popping one of my e capsules and smearing that all over my eye area, face and neck and it works very well all by itself - though it is stickier and thicker than in the cream.

      Good luck!

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  30. I am so excited to make this for myself and give to my mom as a Christmas gift. She loves the smell of lavender so I might add some lavender for a night cream. Not sure if that would be as issue around the eyes, any advice on that would be helpful. I found empty spice jars at bed bath and beyond 4 for $4.

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    1. Lavender is excellent for the skin! I often use it in my recipes. Carrot seed oil is another great one, as well as Frankincense. There are actually many EO's that are great for the skin. But, since your mom already loves the smell of lavender - go for it! :-)

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  31. I LOVE your all natural skin care series!! Have you tried all natural sampoo bars?! I bet you would love them. I use the bars from http://www.chagrinvalleysoapandsalve.com/ and LOVE them! No, I do not work for them, just love their products! What brand of vitamin E do you buy? I cant find any capsules that are 100% pure vitamin E. Thanks for your help!

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    1. Thanks, Jennifer! I'm glad you enjoy my posts! I have tried shampoo bars and liked them. I sometimes use my homemade soap as shampoo. But, for my particular hair issues, I found a recipe for liquid shampoo that is working well for me. I've thought about trying my hand at making shampoo bars and may do that one day when I'm feeling froggy. :-) As for the Vitamin E, I buy it from Mountain Rose Herbs. Hope that helps!

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  32. What brand of vitamin e do you use? Every brand i see contains tocopherol acetate which the site you cited said is less effective.

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    1. Hi Jenny! I buy my Vitamin E from Mountain Rose Herbs.

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  33. Hi pam I have vitamin e moisturizer would that work?

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    1. Hi Gloria! I would personally stay away from that because most conventional moisturizers have chemicals in them that do more harm than good. Unless, you have a brand that isn't full of chemical fillers, that is. An easy alternative is to just puncture a Vitamin E capsule and squeeze it into the coconut oil. If you don't have that, you could always just use the straight coconut oil. It has enough benefits on its own that it would still be worth using until you can pick up some Vitamin E. Often drugstores will run buy one get one free sales on their supplements. Hope this helped!

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  34. Thanks for this! I use both items almost daily but haven't thought to mix them together for an eye cream. I just mixed up a batch. The contact lens case is a great idea, I sharpie'd the letters so I don't mix it up with a regular case. The R side is for regular and the L side is for the mix with a drop of lavender in it.
    Warm tap water is enough to melt the oil.

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    1. Hi Shelli! Love that you made two versions!! Have a Merry Christmas!

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  35. Love this idea and can't wait to try it! I have eczema and am searching for natural products to not only wash my face, but to also moisturize! I'll be following you for additional natural tips!

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    1. So glad you like this! I haven't had a lot of time for blogging lately, but check out my "Natural Skin and Body Care" tab at the top for more recipes. :-) Have a Merry Christmas!

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    2. I also had eczema and 40 years ago read an article about washing with salt. I took a small amount in my hand added water till it was a paste and washed the areas where the eczema was a problem. After drying I moisturized and haven't had any eczema since. Hope this helps.

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  36. Hello Pam, thank you for this great post! I got Trader Joe's Vitamin E Oil and the ingredients are: Soybean Oil, Vit E, Coconut Oil. Do you think 1/4 t. of this mixed w/coconut oil would be effective or should I return this and get plain Vit. E? Thanks!!!
    Mackenzie

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    1. Hi Mackenzie! I think it would be fine since you'll be using coconut oil as a base anyway! Thanks for stopping by!

      Merry Christmas!
      Pam

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  37. just found your post,great info for natural skin care I will be making and using the eye cream and face wash,thank you

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    1. Thanks for your kind words! I'm so glad you like what you've found here.

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  38. Great site! I found your site on Pinterest and I am going to go make that eye cream right now! Thank you!

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    1. Welcome, Emily! Thanks so much! I'm glad you like what you've found here. :-)

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  39. Eyes speak about you. Thanks for sharing the series for eyes here.

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  40. thx for the info!!! you rock :)

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  41. Way cool! Some very valid points! I appreciate you penning this article
    and the rest of the website is really good.
    Stop by my blog ... skin lightening

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  42. What IU vitamin E capsule do you use? Mines is 400 and I think that is quite low.

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    1. Honestly, I started with the capsules that were on sale in the store (can't remember the brand). But, now I buy Vitamin E oil in bulk online because I use so much more of it. I probably bought my oil last time at Mountain Rose Herbs or Frontier. Sorry I can't be more specific.

      Thanks so much for coming by!!

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  43. I made something very similar to this & I love it. The only difference is I added pure cocoa butter. I use it all over, I've even put some in my hair (on the ends) before taking a shower and washing my hair. It smoothed out my split ends & my hair was super soft.

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    1. I LOVE cocoa butter! I use it in lotion and occasionally in hair butter. And, it smells so good. :-)

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  44. I just wanted to tell you that you are amazing and I am addicted to your site. I found you via Pinterest.

    Most capsules do have other ingredients and I spent 20 minutes figuring that out at Whole Foods. Someone helped me and directed me to Vitamin E oil with Vitamin E being the only ingredient. Not all the oils are that way either. lol. I can't wait to try it because I am addicted to coconut oil. I use it alone on my face and it works great.

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    1. Awww...Thank you!! I no longer use the capsules, either. I buy the oil in larger quantities because I use it for so many things. Coconut oil rocks for everything - including the face. :-) Thanks for coming by!

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  45. hi, wot kind of coconut oil do u use, virgin?? and does it smell like coconut purfume??? thanks,

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    1. I personally use organic extra virgin CO. I've never smelled coconut perfume, so I can't answer as to that. :-) But, if you buy un-refined (like I use) it will have a slight coconut scent to it. You can also buy refined, which will eliminate any scent. It takes some of the beneficial qualities with it, but it's still going to be good for your skin and WAY better than conventional products full of chemicals!

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  46. made this and several other of your products....loving it so far. Now if you could come up with a hair gel for curly hair....mine is super pricey and I can only get it online.
    thanks for all the good tips and info. I will be recommending your site !!

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    1. So glad you've liked my recipes, Robin! I've been working on that very thing for my hair! ;-)

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  47. erika walk1243@gmail.comJanuary 7, 2013 at 3:09 AM

    what is the quantity of coconut oil to start with?

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    1. It depends on the size of your container. You just fill a small container with the c.o. and then add the Vitamin E. I used a contact lens case, but you use what you have. :-)

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  48. Hey Pam!
    Just a little FYI. I bought the coconut oil at Fresh and Easy and it has no smell. If you want the coconut oil smell, Traders Joe's oil is scented. Also, you can buy liquid vitamin E at the 99 cent store. I use a few drops and it worked fine!
    Thanks for sharing!

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    1. Thanks for the great tips, Christy!!

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    2. The coconut oil that "doesn't smell" is refined. The raw CO naturally has the smell of coconut.

      Meital

      http://natural-alternative-therapies.com

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  49. Cannot wait to try this! I've been wondering about natural eye creams since I switched over to the oil cleanse method for my face. Thank you for the post!

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    1. Hi Jenny! Feel free to add any essential oils that are good for the skin as well. You'll have to come back and report how you liked it. :-)

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  50. where do you find the coconut oil?what part of the store?

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    1. You can find it in the baking isle with all of the other oils if your store carries it. Many do now-a-days.

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  51. Replies
    1. Many major grocery stores are starting to carry it - even the good stuff. Health food chains (think Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, Earth Fare, etc.) always have it. Smaller health food stores should carry it. And, if all else fails...order it online. Online retailers like Tropical Traditions, Vita Cost, Azure Standard, and Amazon are just a few. I buy mine from Amazon.

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  52. hello, can i use enriched skin treatment vitamin E oil.

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    1. I'm sorry, but I'm not familiar with that? I guess I would read the ingredient list and see what it is enriched with, first of all. If it's natural ingredients, then it's probably fine.

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  53. Vitamin E is incredible. My son pulled a hot cup of tea on himself and burnt his arm. The hospital gave us betadine but when that was gone used Vitamin E. When I took him back to the doctor's he asked me what I had been using. I was worried I did something wrong but he commended me for using the Vitamin E. Said the healing was much quicker than he anticipated - so this is good stuff.

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    1. Thanks for sharing your story. That's awesome!

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  54. I love this! I cleaned out a Chapstick tube and filled it. Stuck it in the fridge until it became solid and now all I have to do is twists and apply.

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    1. Brilliant application idea!! Thanks for sharing!

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  55. Hi Pam, would you put this on at night before bed or in the am?

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  56. hello!! i have turned into a mad scientist making all sorts of creams and such.. but i really feel secure when i have guidelines to go by.. next time u make ur cream could u please measure out the coconut oil u use? ive gathered from other comments that the vitamin e oil is 1/4 tsp, does that seem right?
    thanks!!
    m.s.

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    1. I'm sorry, but it varies each time I make it. You really can't go wrong with it. I've detailed a bit more in some of the comments if you'd like to read through those. But, you can do this!! I think what you're referring to is that each vitamin E capsule is approximately 1/4 tsp.

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  57. I just love this and can't wait to make it! I know your jar is a couple ounces, but I wanted to double check and see if this recipe on yields a couple ounces or if it makes more. I ask because I plan on making it for about 6 people

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    Replies
    1. You can certainly increase it as much as you like. Just make sure you increase the Vitamin E oil as well. :-)

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  58. Would this be okay to apply to your entire face?

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  59. FANTASTISC! I LOVE IT THANK YOU FOR SHARING THIS RECEIP.
    A HUG FROM DENMARK
    JUANITA

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  60. The reason you have to add a carrier oil (like Coconut oil) to the Vit. E is that the molecules in Vit. E are too "big" to be absorbed into the skin without a carrier oil.
    I love all natural skin things as opposed to creams and lotions that have scents and parabens!

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  61. Thank you for this great recipe. When my daughter was four years old (she is now 21) she was in a very bad car accident. Her face was burned from the air bag. She was burned so bad on one side of the face, she was hospitalized for a few days. Dr said she would probably end up with scarring, The women in the room with us, told me I should try Vitamin E. I immediately ran out and bought some and applied it to her face for a few weeks. She was left with no scarring at ALL. The Dr was in shock that she had absolutely no marks, or scars. Vitamin E was a blessing!!

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    1. What an awesome testimony!! Thank you so much for sharing that. :-)

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  62. Can't wait to try this! Thanks for sharing!!

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  63. A quick note: I might be careful if I put Evening Primrose oil in this, as it degrades quickly if not refrigerated. :) (Of course, the easy fix for that is...store it in the fridge!)

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  64. This is amazing! I have been using it for a month and I love it!! my Mom asked me what was I using in my face because my skin had a beautiful glow, I made her a batch and she loves it!!! THANKS!

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    Replies
    1. Thanks for sharing this! I'm so glad that both you and your mom love it!

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  65. Very interesting topics here. Can't wait to read more of your blogs. Just keep it coming. best ageexperts

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  66. What about adding some grapeseed oil with or instead of the Vitamin E to the coconut oil since Grapeseed Oil is supposed to be particularly good for the under eye area??

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    Replies
    1. Grapeseed oil is great for the skin. I use it in my face moisturizer. Try it out and see what you think. You can fudge with this recipe as much as you like. :-)

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  67. See, I loathe the microwave so I would melt it in a pot of hot water.

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    1. I no longer use the microwave for melting oils, either. We make changes as we learn and grow in this journey called life. :-)

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  68. I swear by Vitamin E for skin repair. I had 1st degree burns on my face (78') and between the vit E and cocoa butter I used. I have no scarring. I have a bit of discoloration in one area that's it. Going to try this recipe for sure.

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    1. I'm so happy to hear how Vitamin E has helped your skin to keep from scarring! I hope you enjoy this eye cream!

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  69. approx. how much coconut oil ?

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    1. It depends on the size of your container. In the picture I used about an ounce. Sometimes I make it in something smaller.

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  70. What brand of coconut oil do you use??? Thanks

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    1. There are many good brands. I personally use Nutiva Organic Extra-Virgin Coconut Oil, simply because of the quantities I buy it in and the price I can get it for. Some people swear by Tropical Traditions. You may just want to buy something you can get locally for starters.

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  71. Got rid of my microwave 17 yrs ago and have never missed it! Also, be aware that this cream will become an oil in warmer temps. I live in TX and my coconut oil is solid part of the year an completely liquid part of the year. In the summer, I keep my house at 78 during the day. Still, it great for the skin!

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    Replies
    1. Yes, it will melt if it's above 76 degrees F. And, yep, it's not a big deal. :-) The fridge is a great place to keep it for those who are bothered that it liquifies when warm. I no longer melt it in the microwave either. Live and learn!

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  72. Hi CC,

    My cocoa butter is in little disc shapes. If yours is a solid mass, maybe you could try warming a spoon under hot water before scooping it out. Cocoa butter will take longer to melt than coconut oil. If you heat it in a double boiler or in a glass measuring cup in a pan of warm water with a wash cloth in the bottom of the pan, it will melt down like you want it to.

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  73. Wonderful information, Thank you! Will definitely be trying this tonight! Keep it coming.

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  74. Do you put the eye cream on the eyelid area, too, or just under the eye?

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  75. I have a similar recipe for Under Eye Dark Circles using 2t aloe vera, 1t almond oil(high in Vit E) and 3 vitamin E capsules. I am going to make yours too and see if it is just as good. The vitamin C that you commented on sounds like an amazing idea too that I might have to incorporate into any eye lotions I make in the future. Thank you for your blog and thank you for this recipe! I am excited to try the coconut oil as I have never used it. ~God Bless~

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    Replies
    1. Hi Josie! There are so many great natural products out there. The beauty of it all is that we can customize what we make to fit out personal needs. Thanks for weighing in!

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  76. Really liked your recipe for eye cream....so simple....and yet the two ingredients coconut oil(which I use all the time)and I take vitamin e everyday)but how big a capsule?

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    1. I don't it really matters all that much. Just use what you have.

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  77. Hi, a little off topic, but yiu may. Want to research the benefits on the skin of active manuka honey. I have used it topically on my psoriasis and it works really well to soften and heal the skin. I find one application works so i only apply when my skin gets dry and shows first signs of cracking. It isn't instant in healing but about one week after applying it is noticeably better and continues to improve until it's gone. Take a look into it. I think you will like what you read about it.

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    Replies
    1. I have heard that Manuka honey is wonderful for a lot of things, though I've never used it. Thanks for the tip!

      Delete
  78. Microwaving anything is just not a good idea. I would suggest melting the coconut oil over a low heat on the stove or leaving it in a bowl in sunlight.Other than the microwave part if your recipe, this looks great and I'm going to give it a try.
    Thanks.
    Elizabeth

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  79. Aside from your suggestion of microwaving the coconut oil to soften it, I think this looks great.
    Thank you.

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  80. I bought a coconut put a hole in it and drained it into a small container and stored in refrigerator, is the white creamy substance that has formed in the bottom the oil of the coconut?

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  81. I massaged Vitamin E oil directly on my belly when pregnant, and not a single stretch mark after.

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  82. Can i use something other than coconut oil

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  83. So I have never used an eye cream, so is this for like under eye circles or bags or what?

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  84. We are so excited to try this eye cream. Thanks for sharing. We would love to have you share this at our Strut Your Stuff Saturday link party at sixsistersstuff.com -The Six Sisters

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  85. Omg I am so happy we stumbled unto you! I am making this as we speak

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  86. I knew I kept those cute little jelly jars for a reason! I made one for myself and one for my friend. I love it.

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  87. Do you mind if I quote a few of your articles as long as I provide credit
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    ReplyDelete
  88. Would it be ok to put lemon juice in this? Or will it go bad? I have dark circles under my eyes and know that lemon juice lightens skin.


    Thanks!

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    Replies
    1. Honestly, I'm not sure. Since you'd be putting a liquid with an oil it may want to separate unless you melt a binding agent with it (such as beeswax). Play around with it see what you come up with. :-)

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  89. What can you recommend as a moisturizer
    For oily skin and some acne also dark circles under my eyes thank you

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  90. I just started using it and I love it! Specially the eye lids, they get tense immediately, it's like a mini lifting. I'm using it in all my face and even my chest and it really works there too, but you recommend it as an eye cream. Do you think it's not ok to use it in the rest of the face or body?
    Have a great day and thank you for your wonderful recipies!

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  91. I rarely create comments, but after looking at some of the remarks here "Skin Care Series - Eye Cream".

    I actually do have a couple of questions for you if it's okay. Is it simply me or do some of these remarks look as if they are written by brain dead individuals? :-P And, if you are posting on additional places, I'd like
    to follow anything fresh you have to post. Would you list of all of your
    shared sites like your twitter feed, Facebook page or linkedin profile?


    my site: nfl jerseys cheap

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'm going to leave the first question to your own opinions. ;-) Actually, I haven't been blogging here for a while (although I do still check the comments) because with time limitations I have felt that I need to focus on building and improving my business. You can find my etsy shop here: www.etsy.com/shop/pureyankabilly. I also have a business FB page - http://www.facebook.com/PureYankabilly.

      Thanks for your interest!
      Pam

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  92. Although these skin care creams are known to contain high-grade chemicals and ingredients, which are uniquely formulated to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, most dermatologists still agree that proper skin care can help people maintain younger looking skin.

    dry skin lotion

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  93. I just made this last night for my daughter's pre-k teachers, along with some foot scrubs. I love the DIY aspect of it. :) I found some small containers in the travel size section of Target. I got 3 containers for less than $2 (the Up and Up brand). I'm excited to see how they like them. I plan to make some for myself when I run out of my own eye cream.

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    Replies
    1. Your daughter's teachers are going to love your gift! Nothing like being pampered at the end of the school year. ;-)

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  94. Can this cream be used as an all over face cream or just an eye cream?

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  95. * quick note microwaving coconut oil kills a lot of the good qualities...even if for just a few seconds... try a "bath" of hot/almost boiling water :)

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  96. will this cream reduce the appearance of wrinkles around the eyes? how long usually before you see results?
    Thank you

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  97. Yeah-they mentioned that like two months ago.

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  98. hi just wondering if this cream will reduce fine lines?

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  99. Do you mind if I quote a couple of your posts as long as I provide credit and sources back to your site?
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    ReplyDelete
  100. i'm 20 years old...can i use this cream?

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  101. My mom has been using this and says she loves it. I'm going to make a batch today and try it out. Is it only for eyes? Can I use it on the rest of my face or will it cause breakouts?

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    Replies
    1. I don't see why you can't use it all over. My experience has been that my skin loves organic unrefined coconut oil, but had some break outs if I used refined (like LouAna). Try it and see how your skin responds.

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  102. Hello and thank you for this information, I am excited to try this, now I know that this may sound really really stupid and I have read all of the comments, and I know that you have said what co you are using, but here is my problem - co is so many different things, cooking co, co as an essential oil and I just confuse myself with shopping. Is this the same co as the solid that you buy for cooking? Maybe I just dug a little too deep, but even the lady at my health food store showed me many different types. I am in Montana and I have difficulty finding may products. P.S. vit E did not help me with scarring but believe it or no Emu oil is amazing have you heard of it?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Ahnora! There isn't one particular brand that I recommend. I simply use Nutiva b/c I personally get the most bang for my buck with it. I also order it online. There are many brands to choose from, both online and in the stores. The main thing to look for no matter the brand is that you're buying organic, unrefined co. It will still be with the cooking oils (if you're buying it in a brick and mortar store) but it is a higher quality.

      I know not everything works for everyone with their skin. I have an aunt who is actually allergic to Vitamin E, so she can't use it at all. The co still has tremendous benefits even without it. I have read about Emu oil, but don't have any personal experience with it. I will have to give it a try. Thanks for the recommendation!

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  103. I love this mixture. I have been using it for a few months now. I use it all over my face! I am in TX and the heat has started, but my face never feels oily or anything. I used to get the occasionally pimple during that time of the month and now nothing!!!!! best face moisturizer ever!

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  104. Any ideas on adding Vit C to Coconut oil?

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  105. I'd like to buy the book, but it s 159.00 and I don't have a kindle. Where can I find it at a reasonable cost?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I actually checked this book out at my library - which is very small. You may want to start there. Also, you can download the Kindle app for free onto your computer, phone or tablet. You don't have to actually have a Kindle device to be able to purchase Kindle books (or get them for free).

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  106. Ridiculous question - am I the only one out there who wears makeup? I ask because I use this wonderful coconut oil/vitamin E mixture as moisturizer (and LOVE it) but when I use the tiniest bit under my eyes in the morning, my makeup just seems to disappear later on. I've tried waterproof but it doesn't seem to make a difference. Suggestions??

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I wear a full face of make-up nearly every day. Try letting it sink in a little longer before you apply your make-up. Also, don't apply the moisturizer all the way up to the lash line. It will naturally work its way up anyhow. This holds true for any moisturizer.

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  107. Awesome! I can't wait to try all these ideas! Where is the best place to buy vitamin E? Does it matter where it comes from? Are there cheap brands or are they all the same?
    Thanks so much!

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    Replies
    1. I'm no expert on Vitamin E {or anything else for that matter :-)}. I have used it squeezed from gel caps I've bought at the drug store. I've also bought bottles from Mountain Rose Herbs. I don't know if all brands are the same - probably not because that usually the case with everything. But, I figure whatever kind you use you're still going to end up with a much better and less toxic product than most things you'd buy in the store. If the kind of Vitamin E you use is a concern for you, you could also do some research on it. It's amazing the info you can find through an internet search. :-)

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  108. At the risk of entering a question twice as I can't find your answer to my first...or even the question!.. You said that you do NOT wipe off the eye cream after you apply it. If you are using it also to remove makeup, say waterproof mascara, then what happens to the makeup? Sorry if I'm posting twice.

    xoxo

    Adrienne in Miami

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    Replies
    1. Hi Adrienne! If you're going to also use it as a make-up remover then it's best to wipe it off with a cotton ball, piece of toilette paper or something. You can then add a little more. A very little goes a long way. Actually, I usually cleanse my face and remove my make-up at the same time with the Oil Cleanse Method and then apply my eye cream. I'm sure everyone has their own system.

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