Coconut oil has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various hair-related issues. This tropical treasure offers a multitude of benefits that can transform your hair care routine.
In this article, we will explore the most relevant reasons why coconut oil is good for your hair.
Article summary
The Science Behind The 10 Best Coconut Oil’s Benefits for Hair
Coconut oil, a natural elixir derived from the tropical coconut palm, has been gaining immense popularity in the world of hair care. Revered for its incredible benefits and versatility, this miraculous oil can truly transform the health and appearance of your locks.
Let’s delve into the numerous advantages of incorporating coconut oil into your hair care routine, uncovering the secrets behind its nourishing properties and how it can help you achieve lustrous, strong, and healthy hair.
1. Deeply Moisturizes Your Hair
One of the most well-known benefits of coconut oil is its ability to deeply moisturize your hair. This is primarily because it is composed of medium-chain fatty acids, which can easily penetrate the hair shaft, providing deep hydration. As a result, coconut oil can be an excellent remedy for dry or damaged hair.
2. Reduces Protein Loss
Hair is predominantly composed of a protein called keratin, which is essential for maintaining its strength and structure. Research has shown that using coconut oil as a pre-wash treatment can significantly reduce protein loss in both damaged and undamaged hair (2). This is due to the oil’s ability to form a protective barrier around the hair shaft, preventing the breakdown of essential proteins.
3. Promotes Hair Growth
Coconut oil is known to contain essential nutrients, such as lauric acid, capric acid, and vitamins E and K, that can promote healthy hair growth (3). By nourishing the hair follicles and improving scalp health, coconut oil can help stimulate hair growth and prevent breakage.
4. Fights Dandruff
Dandruff is a common scalp condition that can be caused by various factors, including dry skin, fungal infections, and excess oil production. Coconut oil has natural antifungal and antimicrobial properties that can help combat dandruff by eliminating the root cause (4). Additionally, its moisturizing properties can soothe a dry, itchy scalp.
5. Tames Frizz and Adds Shine
The fatty acids in coconut oil can help to smooth out frizzy hair and add a natural shine. By sealing the hair cuticles and providing a protective barrier against environmental damage, coconut oil can leave your hair looking smooth, shiny, and more manageable.
6. Protects Against Heat Damage
Heat styling tools, such as hairdryers, curling irons, and straighteners, can cause significant damage to your hair. Coconut oil can act as a natural heat protectant by forming a barrier around the hair shaft, reducing the likelihood of heat-induced damage (5).
7. Prevents Split Ends
Regular use of coconut oil can help to prevent split ends by nourishing and strengthening the hair shaft. By improving the overall health of your hair, coconut oil can help to minimize breakage and reduce the occurrence of split ends.
8. Natural Lice Treatment
Coconut oil has been shown to be an effective natural treatment for lice infestations. A study found that combining coconut oil with anise spray was more effective at eliminating head lice than a traditional insecticide treatment (6).
9. Enhances Hair Color
Using coconut oil as a pre-coloring treatment can help to enhance the vibrancy and longevity of hair color. By deeply moisturizing and conditioning the hair, coconut oil can help to create a more even and long-lasting color result.
10. Cost-Effective and Versatile
Coconut oil is an affordable and versatile hair care solution. It can be used as a hair mask, leave-in conditioner, heat protectant, and more, making it a valuable addition to your hair care routine.
In resume
With its numerous benefits and versatility, coconut oil is truly a wonder ingredient for hair care. From deep hydration to promoting hair growth and fighting dandruff, this tropical treasure offers a multitude of benefits that can transform your hair care routine. By incorporating coconut oil into your hair care regimen, you can unlock the power of this natural remedy and enjoy healthier, more beautiful hair.
How to Use Coconut Oil for Hair
Coconut oil is a fantastic natural remedy for various hair-related issues, offering numerous benefits such as deep hydration, promoting hair growth, and fighting dandruff.
To ensure you’re using coconut oil safely and effectively, it’s essential to follow the correct application techniques.
Check out this step-by-step guide on how to safely use coconut oil for hair.
Step 1: Choose the Right Coconut Oil
Select a high-quality, unrefined, virgin or extra virgin coconut oil. These types of coconut oil have undergone minimal processing, retaining the maximum amount of nutrients essential for hair health.
Step 2: Determine the Right Amount
The amount of coconut oil needed depends on your hair length, thickness, and the specific issue you’re addressing. For most applications, a tablespoon of coconut oil is sufficient for medium-length hair. Adjust the quantity as needed for longer or shorter hair.
Step 3: Soften the Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is solid at room temperature, so you’ll need to soften it before applying it to your hair. To do this, scoop the desired amount of oil into a small bowl and warm it gently using a double boiler or by microwaving for a few seconds. The oil should become a liquid with a smooth consistency.
Step 4: Apply Coconut Oil to Your Hair
There are several ways to apply coconut oil to your hair, depending on the desired outcome:
- For deep conditioning: Apply the warmed coconut oil evenly to damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Gently massage the oil into your hair and scalp. Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave the oil on for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum results. Afterward, wash your hair with a gentle shampoo and follow up with a conditioner.
- As a pre-wash treatment: Apply coconut oil to dry hair before washing to reduce protein loss and prevent damage. Focus on the mid-lengths and ends, avoiding the scalp. Leave the oil on for at least 20 minutes, then wash your hair as usual.
- To tame frizz and add shine: Use a small amount of coconut oil as a leave-in treatment by rubbing a pea-sized amount between your palms and lightly running your hands through your hair, focusing on the ends.
Step 5: Wash Your Hair Thoroughly
If using coconut oil as a deep conditioner or pre-wash treatment, ensure you thoroughly wash your hair to remove any excess oil. Too much oil residue can weigh down your hair and make it appear greasy.
Using coconut oil safely for hair involves choosing the right type of oil, determining the appropriate amount, and applying it correctly based on your desired outcome. By following these steps, you can enjoy the numerous benefits of coconut oil for your hair and enhance the overall health and appearance of your locks.
TOP Frequented Asked Questions About Coconut Oil
How to get coconut oil out of hair?
To get coconut oil out of your hair, follow these steps:
1. Apply a gentle shampoo directly to your oiled hair before wetting it. This will help break down the oil more effectively.
2. Massage the shampoo into your hair and scalp.
3. Rinse your hair with warm water to remove the oil and shampoo mixture.
4. If needed, repeat the shampooing process to ensure all the oil has been removed.
5. Finish by applying a conditioner, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends of your hair.
Can coconut oil damage your hair?
When used correctly and in moderation, coconut oil is generally safe and beneficial for your hair.
However, using excessive amounts of coconut oil or applying it too frequently can lead to greasy, weighed-down hair or even cause buildup on the scalp.
Always use the appropriate amount for your hair type and length, and ensure you thoroughly wash it out to prevent any issues.
Does coconut oil need to be refrigerated?
No, coconut oil does not need to be refrigerated. It can be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Coconut oil has a long shelf life and remains stable for up to two years or more when stored properly.
Is coconut oil good for dandruff?
Yes, coconut oil can be helpful in treating dandruff. Its natural antifungal and antimicrobial properties can combat the fungal infections that often cause dandruff.
Additionally, coconut oil has moisturizing properties that can soothe a dry, itchy scalp, which can also contribute to dandruff.
Can I leave coconut oil in my hair overnight?
Yes, you can leave coconut oil in your hair overnight as a deep conditioning treatment. Apply the oil to your hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends, and cover your hair with a shower cap or a towel to prevent staining your pillow. Wash your hair thoroughly the next morning with a gentle shampoo to remove the oil.
Will coconut oil make your hair straightening?
Coconut oil will not chemically straighten your hair. However, it can help tame frizz and make your hair more manageable, which may give the appearance of smoother, straighter hair.
Apply a small amount of coconut oil to your hair after washing and conditioning, focusing on the ends, to help reduce frizz and enhance shine.
References:
(1) Rele, A.S., & Mohile, R.B. (2003). Effect of mineral oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil on prevention of hair damage. Journal of Cosmetic Science, 54(2), 175-192. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12715094
(2) Ruetsch, S.B., Kamath, Y.K., & Rele, A.S. (2001). Secondary ion mass spectrometric investigation of penetration of coconut and mineral oils into human hair fibers: Relevance to hair damage. Journal of Cosmetic Science, 52(3), 169-184. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11413497
(3) Nevin, K.G., & Rajamohan, T. (2010). Effect of topical application of virgin coconut oil on skin components and antioxidant status during dermal wound healing in young rats. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 23(6), 290-297. doi: 10.1159/000313516
(4) Verallo-Rowell, V.M., Dillague, K.M., & Syah-Tjundawan, B.S. (2008). Novel antibacterial and emollient effects of coconut and virgin olive oils in adult atopic dermatitis. Dermatitis, 19(6), 308-315. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19134433
(5) Gavazzoni Dias, M.F. (2015). Hair cosmetics: An overview. International Journal of Trichology, 7(1), 2-15. doi: 10.4103/0974-7753.153450
(6) Burgess, I.F., Brunton, E.R., & Burgess, N.A. (2010). Clinical trial showing superiority of a coconut and anise spray over permethrin 0.43% lotion for head louse infestation, ISRCTN96469780. European Journal of Pediatrics, 169(1), 55-62. doi: 10.1007/s00431-009-0978-0
