Monoi oil is synonymous with summer, vacation and sandy beach. But it is not just an oil with an intoxicating fragrance, it also surprises with its virtues for the skin and hair. Moisturizing, nourishing, soothing, Monoï oil has it all.
How to imagine a summer without Monoï oil? As the summer season approaches, bottles of this natural cosmetic are popping up in stores and it's hard to resist its delicate smell. While many use it to promote tanning, Monoi oil can actually be used year-round to nourish hair and enhance the skin.
Monoï, the beauty secret from Polynesia
Monoi oil comes from the maceration of the flowers of Tiare Tahiti, a shrub that grows in most of the Pacific Islands, in coconut oil from dry coconut pulp. This recipe has been used since time immemorial by Polynesians to nourish the hair, massage and hydrate the skin. Mixed with sand, it can even be used as a scrub! A 100% natural skincare that is easily found in organic stores, supermarkets or on the internet. Be careful however to check the composition and origin of your Monoï oil because their quality sometimes leaves something to be desired. A good Monoï oil will be made from quality flowers and oil, so always be sure to choose a product labeled "Tahiti monoï".
My monoï is solidifying, what should I do?
Do you think your Monoï oil has a funny face? Don't panic, it's normal. Like coconut oil, it freezes and whitens when the temperature drops below about 20 ° C. A natural phenomenon which is not worrying and does not in any way alter the properties of the product. To restore it to its original appearance, simply pass the bottle under hot water.
Monoi oil: the miraculous potion for dry skin
Monoi oil, both moisturizing and nourishing, works wonders on dry skin. It allows the skin to regain softness and elasticity. It is possible to use it pure on the face and the body but also to dilute it in bath water or to mix it with a care. Unlike certain substances contraindicated during pregnancy, monoi oil can be used safely by pregnant women to prevent stretch marks on the body and chest. For more effectiveness, it is ideal to apply it after the shower on the still wet skin. To make a homemade scrub, and if you do not have a sandy beach close at hand, it is possible to mix the monoi with a little coconut sugar or brown sugar. A treatment that is suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive.
For very dry skin, especially in winter, Monoï oil can also be applied as a mask before going to bed. Upon awakening, the skin is intensely nourished. The delicate smell of monoi, which smells like vanilla, makes it a treatment that is both effective and very delicious. Be careful however if you have combination or oily facial skin, then it is better to use it sparingly because it can give pimples.
The perfect oil for a gourmet massage
Monoi oil is full of benefits. Thanks to its soothing and nourishing properties, it can also be used as a massage oil for the body. In Polynesia, it is even regularly used by parents who thus coat their baby's skin with monoi before going to bed or just after bathing. Perfect for soothing toddlers. Of course, the big ones (and the big ones!) Are not to be outdone. If you can of course use it in self-massage on the legs or the rest of the body to moisturize the skin, nothing prevents you from asking your partner for a more sensual massage.
Monoï for mermaid hair
If Monoï oil works wonders on the skin, it is also a great hair care product. It repairs dry ends, strengthens and gives shine. If this product is suitable for all types of hair, it is particularly effective on frizzy, damaged, split or very dry hair. Monoi oil can be used in different ways:
- In balm : We apply Monoï oil like a traditional hair balm with emphasis on the tips.
- In mask : After applying the oil to the hair, wrap the head with a warm towel and then leave it on overnight. Mermaid hair guaranteed upon waking up after a good shampoo.
- No rinsing at the beach : In Polynesia, women often use Monoï as a protective treatment against the effects of the sun and sea water.
- As detangler : A few drops are enough after shampooing to facilitate detangling.
If you have the soul of a little chemist, you can also create your own hair care by mixing shea butter, coconut vegetable oil or argan oil with Monoi oil.
Monoï and sun: beware of danger!
For many women, Monoï is synonymous with sun, tan and vacation. But be careful, used alone, Monoi oil is absolutely not a sun protection and it is completely ineffective against UVA and UVB. Monoï hydrates the skin, prolongs the tan and thanks to its soothing properties is perfect as an after-sun care. But it does not exempt from using a suitable sun care, the latter is even essential. So yes to nourish your skin or your hair after sunbathing, but no to protect your skin at the time of exposure! There are however sun care products whose formulation includes Monoi and in this case, no reason to hesitate.
Which product to choose?
There are many references of Monoi oil on the market, and it is not always easy to choose. As we said, it is always better to choose an organic product with the designation "Tahiti monoi". Be sure to look at the composition to make sure that the product does not contain any dangerous preservatives or additives. There are also products that mix several oils but whose packaging is sometimes misleading. A pure Monoï contains at least 90% Tahitian Monoï!
Discover our list of products selected especially for you.
Hei Poa Pur Monoï Tahiti Tiaré Perfume (12.60 euros, available on amazon.fr)
A classic, products made in France and a full range of body, hair and tanning treatments.
Monoï Tiki oil (18 euros, available on amazon.fr)
Tiki products are made in Tahiti and are among the best known on the market. The brand also offers versions flavored with vanilla, coconut or Ylang Ylang oil.
Monoï Tahiti Oil, Yves Rocher (11.50 euros)
One of the flagship products of Yves Rocher laboratories which has been selling Monoï oil for many years. In addition, the price is very low!
Organic Monoï oily macerate, Aroma-zone (6.90 euros)
Mention very well for this organic product without any treatment or preservative and Ecocert certified.
Real Tahitian Monoï, Corine de Farme (5.20 euros)
An excellent product which contains more than 99% of pure Monoï stuffed with vitamin E. A treat for the skin! The same brand also offers an SPF 50 sunscreen based on Monoï de Tahiti Designation of Origin.
Monoi AO Tahiti Oil Factory (29.90 euros)
Tahiti Oil Factory sells its Monoï under different brands but it is also possible to buy it pure in a liter bottle. Its packaging is certainly minimalist but you will have a 100% natural product without any perfume or preservative. For purists!
Also read on aufeminin:
Monoï, coconut, vanilla … These beauty products that extend our summer
6 reasons to prefer natural beauty products
Rescue plan for dry hair: 10 effective treatments to revitalize them!