Extracted from fresh coconuts that are not stripped of anti-oxidant and beneficial components by the chemical refining and bleaching process conventional coconut oil undergoes. As well as being rich, creamy and deliciously healthy to eat, coconut oil is a fantastic moisturiser keeping the skin soft and smooth. It quickly re-establishes the skin's natural anti-microbial and acid barrier. Its small molecular structure allows for easy absorption, giving both the skin and hair a soft smooth texture without feeling greasy. As well as aiding healing and repair, its effects are long lasting. Research shows that the hugely antioxidant properties of coconut oil help prevent premature aging and wrinkling. (Antioxidants are vital in preventing the free-radicals that break down our skin's connective tissue causing it to sag and wrinkle.) Coconut oil has also been recognised for its quality of strengthening the structure of damaged, lack-lustre hair. Beauticians who are familiar with coconut oil swear by it as a hair conditioner. It softens the hair and conditions the scalp through the action of minerals such as magnesium, potassium, calcium, and iron.