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Refreshing, soothing and delicious, it's no wonder many people go to great lengths to climb up a towering palm tree just for one sun-kissed coconut. Not only does the fruit include a pearl white flesh that satisfies any growing appetite, but its thick, creamy milk can be either savored like a tropical milkshake or used to moisturize one's hair. There's no denying that there are many ways to use coconuts daily, but what if you want to wear it as your new signature scent? Coconut fragrances may not be as common as your usual citrus or floral aromas, but it can be worn properly with some simple tricks. Get cracking!
Don't Be Modest ... Be Picky!
While alcohol-based perfumes may be too overpowering for day wear, a subtle hint of coconut can tone down any strong scent. However, it doesn't mean that you should instantly make it your signature scent. Jen Sulligan, owner of Little Batch Botanicals in New Jersey, believes that shoppers shouldn't be afraid to be picky before buying any fragrance that features coconut. "Since coconut is a fruit scent, you might want to stay away from perfumes that blend with other fruit notes such as pineapple ...unless you want to smell like a tropical drink," says Sulligan. "For blends, think tropical flowers instead. Frangipani is a great choice. Its sweetness and tropical floral scent is a great foil for coconut." If you're not a fan of flowers, don't fret. Sulligan believes that coconut smells just as delicious alone, especially if worn as an oil-based perfume, which goes on lighter than any expensive eau de parfum.
Cool Off With a Coconuty Body Mist
Sizzling hot afternoons call for easy-breezy body splashes that cool down rising temperatures and leave us feeling refreshed...No wonder coconut is so irresistible! After taking a shower, use a spritz or two of an alcohol-free body mist that highlights the skin-soothing treat from Mother Nature, which will keep you moisturized throughout the day. Best of all, the creamy milk from the fruit evokes sweet thoughts. "Coconut evokes memories of summer, so wear it with pride and flair," explains Roberta Perry, owner of natural skincare product line Scrubz in Bethpage, New York. "Nothing beats a warm day like a breezy dress, strappy sandals, and the scent of the tropics in the air. Enter the smell of coconut! Too much is too much, but a little bit will definitely evoke that summertime feeling." Perry advises not to mix coconut with other scents. Rather, let it stand on its own for a longer-lasting effect.
Keep it Minimal
Need a scent that's ideal for both the office and happy-hour cocktails with the girls? Simply wear a coconut-themed perfume, which isn't teeth-shattering sweet like candied body sprays or headache-inducing like those pesky florals. Just be warned: When it comes to coconuts, too much can be a bad thing. Detroit-based makeup artist and beauty blogger Racquel Simone feels that coconut fragrances can quickly become tiresome if worn all over the body. "The main disadvantage of wearing coconut-scented perfumes is that people can just get sick of smelling it," says Simone. "Although it's a clean scent, it can also be very sharp. When mixed with florals, it can lead to an overpowering scent." Always keep in mind that when it comes to wearing any scent, less is more. Consider sticking to a body spray or perfume only and applying to pulse points. Simone also recommends exfoliating daily to remove dead skin cells and leave your skin silky smooth, and to allow fragrances to be absorbed more easily.
Explore Coconut-Themed Products
Coconuts are key for repairing dry skin, as they're loaded with moisturizing properties that not only hydrate skin, but also leave it smelling summery fresh. However, if spritzing body sprays or even perfumes aren't your thing, consider looking into other beauty products that have yummy coconut as a primary ingredient. From body scrubs to hair conditioners, there are many ways you can rock coconut -- and all you need to do is head to your favorite boutique or pharmacy. Body lotions, hair conditioners, bath soaks and foot creams are just a few of the many ways you can quench your skin's thirst, all while benefiting from the luscious, lip-smacking scent. Like with any aroma, don't be afraid to experiment until you find the best way to wear a new scent -- and highlight one important attribute: your amazing personality.
