Picture the Maldives in your mind’s eye and what comes into view? Aquamarine waters lapping at powdery sands, as palm fronds sway gently above. With its curved woody trunk and shade-giving leaves, the palm is an unmistakable emblem of the Maldives. So sacred to the Maldivians is the coconut palm, known as the ‘tree of life’, it’s even on the Maldives national flag. Harvested for all manner of uses, from food and drink to fibre and fuel, the coconut is one of nature’s most versatile fruits.

 

Extracted by Maldivians for thousands of years, coconut oil is their secret for well-nourished skin and radiant, natural beauty. Rich in vitamin E, fatty acids and antioxidants, it’s bursting with beneficial powers. At Jumeirah Maldives’ Talise Spa, coconuts (or kaashi in Dhivehi) are collected from the ground of Bolifushi Island to produce 100% organic coconut oil. Handcrafted using traditional methods, virgin coconut oil is extracted from the kernel and meat of matured coconuts and used in our signature treatments. Here, we explore the incredible properties of coconut oil.

 

Hair conditioner

For strong and glossy hair, coconut oil works as a deep conditioning treatment by nourishing the scalp and penetrating the hair shaft, conditioning it from within. It will also help prevent pesky split ends, preventing breakage. Treat your locks by applying two tablespoons of coconut oil to your dry hair and scalp, massage in well ensuring each strand is coated them leave for 20 minutes. Rinse off with shampoo after. For an extra-conditioning treatment, leave overnight with a shower cap on.

 

Skin SOS

Aside from being a great all-round moisturiser, coconut oil can even help problematic skin complaints. The medium-chain fatty acids found within possess antimicrobial properties that can help acne while protecting the skin from harmful bacteria. What’s more, coconut oil’s lauric acid content makes it great for soothing itchy skin and eczema. For any cuts or grazes, dab a bit on – coconut oil is packed with antibacterial and antifungal properties, which will keep the wound clean.

 

Massage oil

Easily absorbed and non-greasy, coconut oil is perfect for soothing tired joints and muscles with a rejuvenating massage. Once melted at 25 degrees, the liquefied oil makes a great carrier and can be scented with a few drops of essential oils like lavender. At Talise Spa our homemade oil is used in conjunction with white sand to exfoliate dead skin as part of our Glowing Radiance treatment. Our Kurubaa Kaashi experience is finished with a serenity-inducing massage with our island-made oil.

 

Make-up remover

Switched on beauty consumers are turning away from skincare containing harsh chemicals like parabens and SLS. When it comes to cleansing skin, make-up removers often house chemicals that can leave the skin dry. This is where coconut oil comes in. For a freshly cleansed face, using only your hands (avoid cotton pads or washcloths) rub a little solidified oil into your dry face and your make-up should melt away. Rinse well with water and wipe with a flannel or cloth.

 

Our guests are invited to attend demonstrations of coconut oil being produced by the spa team in front of their eyes. Handmade, natural coconut oil is available to purchase at the resort’s Talise Spa Boutique and is also used in several of our nourishing massage treatments.

Immerse yourself in a world of natural beauty and panoramic views of an island paradise at Jumeirah Maldives.