Coconut oil has many benefits for hair. It is used to relieve dandruff, restore luster to dry and damaged hair, tame frizz, and protect hair against styling damage. It is safe to use on most hair types. Show
Coconut oil is packed with fatty acids that can improve hair health. It is found in many shampoos, conditioners, styling gels, and other haircare products. You can also use coconut oil straight from the jar in the kitchen as a prewash treatment or conditioning mask. This article discusses the benefits of coconut oil for hair. It also explains how coconut oil can repair everyday damage, improve texture, and restore hair health. Asha Sathees Photography / Getty ImagesBenefits of Coconut Oil for Your HairThere’s some evidence that lauric acid—a type of saturated fat abundant in coconut oil—may benefit your hair by protecting against protein loss. Hair is made of protein, particularly keratin. Dyes, bleach, shampoos, and styling products can damage this protein and leave hair dull and fragile. Damaged HairIn a 2015 report, researchers reviewed several studies testing the effects of plant-based oils on human hair. The authors noted that coconut oil is similar to natural hair proteins and that it has a unique ability to penetrate the hair shaft (the part of the hair that shows above the scalp). By penetrating the hair, coconut oil can reduce the amount of water absorbed into your hair. This helps limit everyday hair damage. In addition, one of the reviewed studies determined that coconut oil was the only oil capable of reducing protein loss. This was true for undamaged and damaged hair when participants used the oil as a prewash and post-wash grooming product. This study also sized up the effects of mineral oil and sunflower oil on hair. Neither helped reduce protein loss. The Structure and Growth Cycle of Hair Follicles Dry Scalp, DandruffThere is evidence that you can use coconut oil to help manage a dry, itchy scalp and accompanying dandruff. A 2021 study of 140 people in India—70 with dandruff and 70 without—found that topical applications of coconut oil to the scalp had antifungal benefits. It also promoted the growth of beneficial bacteria and reduced scalp flaking. Other research shows that coconut oil may help repair the skin barrier, which is the top layer of your skin. This would make it a good treatment for both dandruff and dry skin. Coconut oil has also been found to combat scalp yeast infections. Evidence from one study suggests that coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties, and study participants also had increased production of collagen, the chief structural protein in skin and other tissues. While there isn’t any scientific research on the link between collagen and hair, personal testimonies and theories claim that collagen treatments are beneficial. And there’s no evidence that collagen supplements are specifically helpful—eating a healthy diet is the best way to get collagen. Ways to Incorporate It Into Your RoutineCoconut oil is one of the most versatile hair care oils around, and it can work wonders as a pre-shampoo treatment, conditioner, styling aid, or mask. Here’s a look at four simple ways to revitalize your haircare routine with coconut oil:
For best results, some haircare experts suggest using coconut oil about two to three times a week. 9 Best Natural Oils for Better Hair Health Tips for Using Coconut Oil in Hair CareCoconut oil may benefit all hair types. It is especially good for dry, damaged, or color-treated hair. However, there’s some concern that repeated use of coconut oil may lead to hair stiffness for those with coarse hair textures. To make the most out of using coconut oil in your hair care regimen:
What Causes Scalp Tenderness? Choosing Coconut OilWhen shopping for the best coconut oil for hair, select the unrefined variety (a.k.a., virgin or extra-virgin oil). If possible, opt for organic, sustainably harvested products. Unrefined Coconut Oil
Refined Coconut Oil
Cold-pressed products are a good choice because these oils do not use heat or chemicals for extraction. Look for products such as The Garden of Life Raw Extra Virgin Coconut Oil or Dr. Bronner’s Organic Virgin Coconut Oil. These carry symbols on their labels guaranteeing high-quality oil (e.g., Fair Trade Certified or non-GMO verified seal). SummaryCoconut oil may help moisturize and repair damaged hair. It has also been shown to prevent dandruff. You can use it as a prewash treatment, conditioner, hair mask, or styling aid. Use a small amount at first to see how your skin reacts. If you like the results and you don’t develop any problems, apply the oil about two to three times weekly. Remember, a little goes a long way, so use just a teaspoon, focusing on your hair’s midsection to the ends. Choose unrefined coconut oil for the best results. Frequently Asked Questions
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