Coconut oil has gained immense popularity in recent years. This versatile, natural ingredient is packed with essential nutrients that nourish and protect your locks. In addition, Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid, capric acid, and vitamin E. This can help to strengthen hair, prevent protein loss, and reduce inflammation. It also contains medium-chain fatty acids that easily penetrate the hair shaft. In this article, we’ll explore the 12 benefits of coconut oil for hair, and how to use it effectively.
What is Coconut Oil?
Coconut oil is extracted from the meat of mature coconuts. It is a solid at room temperature but melts into a liquid when heated. There are several types of coconut oil available, each with its unique properties:
- Virgin coconut oil: This is the least processed type of coconut oil. It is extracted from fresh coconut meat and has a mild coconut aroma and flavor. This type retains most of the natural nutrients and is often preferred for hair care.
- Refined coconut oil: This type of coconut oil is made from dried coconut meat (copra) and has a more neutral scent and flavor. It is often used for cooking and in cosmetic products. While it is still beneficial, it may lack some of the nutrients found in virgin coconut oil.
- Fractionated coconut oil: This is a type of refined coconut oil that has been further processed to remove the long-chain fatty acids. It remains liquid at room temperature and is commonly used in skincare and hair care products due to its lightweight texture.
16 Benefits of Coconut Oil for Hair
1. Moisturizes and Hydrates Hair
One of the primary benefits of coconut oil is its ability to moisturize and hydrate hair. The lauric acid present in coconut oil has a unique molecular structure that allows it to penetrate the hair shaft effectively. This deep penetration helps to lock in moisture, making your hair softer and more manageable.
Coconut oil is particularly beneficial for those with dry, brittle hair, as it can help restore moisture and prevent breakage. It works by coating the hair strands, creating a protective barrier against environmental factors.
2. Reduces Protein Loss
Coconut oil is known to reduce protein loss in hair, which is crucial for maintaining strength and preventing damage. Studies have shown that using coconut oil before or after washing your hair can significantly minimize protein loss, leading to healthier hair overall.
Protein is an essential component of hair structure, and when it’s lost due to factors like washing, styling, or chemical treatments, hair becomes weak and prone to breakage. By reducing protein loss, coconut oil helps maintain the integrity of your hair, keeping it strong and resilient.
3. Promotes Hair Growth
While there is no definitive proof that coconut oil can make your hair grow faster, it does create an optimal environment for hair growth. By keeping the scalp healthy and free from infections, coconut oil can promote stronger hair growth over time.
Coconut oil’s antimicrobial properties help fight off fungal infections and bacteria that can hinder hair growth. It also helps improve blood circulation to the scalp. This is essential for delivering nutrients to hair follicles and stimulating growth.
A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science found that coconut oil was able to penetrate the hair shaft more effectively than mineral oil and sunflower oil (source).
4. Fights Dandruff
Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties that can help combat dandruff and other scalp conditions. It can soothe an itchy scalp and reduce flakiness, making it a natural remedy for those suffering from dandruff.
Dandruff is often caused by a fungal infection or an overproduction of oil on the scalp. Coconut oil’s antifungal and antibacterial properties can help restore balance to the scalp, reducing inflammation and preventing the buildup of dead skin cells that lead to dandruff.
The study participants who applied coconut oil to their scalp experienced a significant reduction in dandruff and scalp itching compared to those who used a placebo (source).
5. Protects Against Damage
Coconut oil provides a protective barrier for your hair, shielding it from environmental damage, heat styling, and chemical treatments. This protection helps to prevent breakage and split ends, keeping your hair healthy and intact.
The fatty acids in coconut oil form a protective layer around each hair strand, preventing moisture loss and protecting against external aggressors like UV rays, pollution, and harsh chemicals. This barrier helps maintain the hair’s structural integrity, reducing the risk of damage and breakage.
6. Adds Shine and Luster
If you’re looking for shiny, lustrous hair, coconut oil is your go-to solution. Its ability to smooth the hair cuticle results in a reflective surface that enhances shine.
When the hair cuticle is smooth and flat, light can reflect off the surface, creating a glossy, mirror-like shine. Coconut oil helps seal the cuticle, smoothing down any rough or uneven areas and allowing light to bounce off the hair more effectively.
7. Reduces Frizz
Humidity can wreak havoc on your hair, leading to frizz and flyaways. Coconut oil can help tame frizz by smoothing the hair cuticle and providing moisture.
Frizz occurs when the hair cuticle is raised or damaged, allowing moisture from the air to penetrate the hair shaft. Coconut oil helps seal the cuticle, preventing moisture from entering and causing frizz. It also provides a light, non-greasy coating that helps smooth down flyaways and tame frizz.
8. Heals Split Ends
Regular use of coconut oil can help prevent and heal split ends. By nourishing and strengthening the hair, coconut oil can reduce the occurrence of split ends, allowing you to maintain longer hair without frequent trims.
Split ends occur when the hair shaft splits or frays at the ends. This can lead to further damage and breakage if left untreated. Coconut oil helps strengthen the hair, preventing split ends from forming in the first place. It also helps seal and smooth the ends of the hair. This makes it appear healthier and less prone to splitting.
9. Soothes Scalp Irritation
If you suffer from a sensitive or irritated scalp, coconut oil can provide relief. Its anti-inflammatory properties help calm irritation and reduce redness, making it an excellent choice for those with scalp conditions.
Scalp irritation can be caused by a variety of factors, including dry skin, eczema, or even harsh hair products. Coconut oil’s soothing properties can help reduce inflammation and provide relief for an itchy, irritated scalp. It also has a light, non-greasy texture that won’t weigh down the hair or leave a heavy residue on the scalp.
10. Prevents Lice Infestation
Coconut oil is effective in preventing lice infestations. When combined with other natural ingredients, it can serve as a natural remedy for lice treatment.
Lice are small insects that feed on human blood and lay their eggs (nits) on the hair shaft. Coconut oil’s thick, viscous texture can help suffocate lice and make it difficult for them to breathe. When combined with other natural ingredients like anise oil or tea tree oil, coconut oil becomes even more effective in preventing and treating lice infestations.
11. Provides UV Protection
Coconut oil has a natural SPF of about 8, which can help protect your hair from harmful UV rays. While it’s not a substitute for sunscreen, using coconut oil on your hair can provide an extra layer of protection during sunny days.
Prolonged exposure to UV rays can damage the hair cuticle, leading to dryness, brittleness, and discoloration. Coconut oil’s natural SPF properties help shield the hair from these harmful effects, keeping it healthy and vibrant.
12. Enhances Overall Hair Health
Incorporating coconut oil into your hair care routine can lead to overall improved hair health. Its nourishing properties help strengthen hair, reduce breakage, and promote a healthy scalp, resulting in beautiful, vibrant hair.
When used regularly, coconut oil can help improve the overall condition of your hair. This makes it stronger, more manageable, and less prone to damage.
It also helps maintain a healthy scalp environment. This is essential for promoting hair growth and preventing issues like dandruff or itchiness.
How to Use Coconut Oil for Hair?
Coconut oil can be used in various ways to improve the health and appearance of your hair. Here are some of the most effective methods:
1. Pre-Poo Treatment
A pre-poo treatment involves applying oil to your hair before shampooing. This helps to protect your hair from the drying effects of shampoo and ensures that your hair remains moisturized.
- Warm a small amount of coconut oil in your hands until it melts.
- Apply the oil to your dry hair, focusing on the ends and any dry or damaged areas.
- Cover your hair with a shower cap or towel and let the oil sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for a more intensive treatment).
- Shampoo and condition your hair as usual.
2. Hair Mask
Using coconut oil as a hair mask can provide deep conditioning and nourishment for your hair. Here’s how to make and apply a coconut oil hair mask:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup honey (optional)
- 1/4 cup yogurt or avocado (optional)
Instructions:
- Melt the coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave.
- Mix in the honey and yogurt or avocado (if using).
- Apply the mask to your hair, focusing on the ends and any dry or damaged areas.
- Cover your hair with a shower cap or towel and let the mask sit for 30 minutes to an hour.
- Rinse the mask out thoroughly with lukewarm water, then shampoo and condition your hair as usual.
3. Hot Oil Treatment
A hot oil treatment involves applying warm oil to your hair and scalp to deeply condition and nourish your locks. Here’s how to do a hot oil treatment with coconut oil:
- Warm a small amount of coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave until it’s warm to the touch but not hot.
- Apply the warm oil to your scalp and hair, focusing on the ends and any dry or damaged areas.
- Cover your hair with a shower cap or towel and let the oil sit for 30 minutes to an hour.
- Rinse the oil out thoroughly with lukewarm water, then shampoo and condition your hair as usual.
4. Leave-In Treatment
Using coconut oil as a leave-in treatment can help to moisturize and protect your hair throughout the day. Here’s how to use coconut oil as a leave-in treatment:
- Melt a small amount of coconut oil in your hands until it’s liquid.
- Apply the oil to your damp hair, focusing on the ends and any dry or damaged areas.
- Style your hair as usual.
Coconut Oil for Different Hair Types
While coconut oil can benefit all hair types, the way you use it may vary depending on your hair type. Here’s a breakdown of how to use coconut oil for different hair types:
1. Straight Hair
Straight hair tends to be on the finer side and can benefit from the moisturizing and strengthening properties of coconut oil. Use coconut oil as a pre-poo treatment or hair mask once a week to keep your hair healthy and shiny.
- Use a small amount to avoid weighing down your hair.
- Focus on the mid-lengths to ends, as the roots may become oily.
2. Wavy Hair
Wavy hair is often prone to frizz and dryness. Coconut oil can help to tame frizz and add moisture to your hair. Use it as a leave-in treatment or hot oil treatment once a week to keep your waves looking their best.
- Apply coconut oil to damp hair to help lock in moisture.
- Scrunch your hair after applying it to enhance waves.
3. Curly Hair
Curly hair is often dry and prone to breakage. Coconut oil can help to strengthen and moisturize your hair, reducing breakage and promoting healthy growth. Use it as a pre-poo treatment or hair mask once a week, focusing on the ends and any dry or damaged areas.
- Use a larger amount to ensure your curls are well-coated.
- Consider mixing coconut oil with shea butter for added moisture.
4. Coily Hair
Coily hair is the driest hair type and can benefit greatly from the moisturizing properties of coconut oil. Use it as a pre-poo treatment or hot oil treatment once a week, focusing on the scalp and ends. You can also use it as a leave-in treatment to keep your coils moisturized throughout the day.
- Apply coconut oil to your scalp to promote healthy growth.
- Use it in combination with other oils for a richer treatment.
FAQs
1. How much coconut oil should I use for my hair type and length?
- For short hair, start with a pea-sized amount and adjust as needed.
- For medium-length hair, use a dime-sized amount.
- For long hair, use a quarter-sized amount or more, depending on the thickness of your hair.
2. Can coconut oil be used on all hair types?
Yes, coconut oil can be used on all hair types, but those with fine or thin hair should use it sparingly to avoid weighing down their hair.
3. What type of coconut oil is best for hair care?
Unrefined, virgin coconut oil is the best choice for hair care, as it retains more of its natural nutrients and benefits compared to refined coconut oil.
4. How often should I use coconut oil on my hair?
The frequency of use depends on your hair type and the specific treatment you’re using. For most treatments, 1-2 times per week is sufficient. However, if you have particularly dry or damaged hair, you may benefit from using coconut oil more frequently.
5. How long does coconut oil last on hair?
Coconut oil can last on your hair for several days, depending on the amount used and your hair type. If you find that your hair feels greasy or weighed down after using coconut oil, you may want to use less or shampoo more frequently.
