Coconut oil's fatty acids can help hydrate dry hair, but it
may not be the best option for everyone. Continue reading to find out how to
use coconut oil for hair care.
Is Coconut Oil Good for Your Hair?
According to some studies, applying coconut oil to your hair
improves its health by protecting it from protein loss when compared to
sunflower or mineral oil. Keratin is a protein found in your hair, and a lack
of it can cause damage to your hair follicles, resulting in dryness and
frizziness. Unlike other oils, coconut oil contains lauric acid, which
penetrates the hair shaft to protect it from frizz, split ends, and breakage
caused by brushing, styling, and other factors.
5 Benefits of Coconut Oil for Hair
Regular coconut oil treatments may provide more advantages
than just soft, healthy hair. Coconut oil is beneficial in the following ways:
1. Dandruff and dry scalp treatment: According to a recent
study, coconut oil can help with scalp skincare if you have dandruff or eczema.
Its antifungal properties aid in the treatment of dry skin, the growth of
beneficial bacteria, and the prevention of flaking.
2. Lice treatment: According to one study, combining coconut
oil and anise into a spray was effective in treating permethrin-resistant hair
lice infestations. Permethrin is an insecticide that is used to treat chiggers,
lice, and scabies.
3. Hair loss prevention: Damage to the hair shaft
caused by over-styling can result in hair loss in extreme cases. Coconut oil
hair treatments protect your hair from damage by preserving protein and
preventing hair loss.
4. Hair damage prevention: Because coconut oil is similar to
natural hair proteins, it can penetrate the hair. Once inside the hair shaft,
the oil reduces the amount of water absorbed by the cuticle, which swells when
exposed to moisture and thus protects the hair from damage.
5. Sun damage prevention: According to some studies, coconut
oil has a sun protection factor (SPF) of eight, which provides additional
protection against the sun's harmful UV rays. However, higher-SPF products for
scalp and hair protection are available.
Coconut Oil for Hair Growth: Research and Efficacy
Though coconut oil does not directly promote hair growth, it
can help to strengthen, nourish, and reduce breakage, resulting in healthier
hair and a better chance of growth. Consult your dermatologist if you are
experiencing hair loss to discuss possible treatments and underlying causes.
Considerations for Using Coconut Oil on Hair
Before you reach for the coconut oil, keep in mind that it
can clog your pores and cause a buildup on your scalp in some cases. Coconut
oil works best on certain hair types, such as dry or curly hair, while fine
hair may experience oiliness and limpness. To use on your hair, choose an
unrefined, cold-pressed extra-virgin coconut oil.
How to Use Coconut Oil for Hair
Coconut oil can be used on your hair up to three times per
week. You can use coconut oil in any of the following ways as part of a healthy
hair-care regimen:
1. Coconut oil for lice treatment: Massage coconut oil into
your scalp and down to the ends of your hair to use as a lice treatment. Cover
your hair for at least fifteen minutes with a disposable shower cap or plastic
wrap. The most important step is to remove the lice and nits (eggs) with a
fine-tooth comb; you may need assistance from a friend.
2. Conditioner: You can replace your regular
conditioner with a small amount of coconut oil, or add a few drops to your
conditioner for added smoothness.
3. Frizz tamer: Apply a small amount of coconut oil to dry
or wet hair to help with styling and to calm frizziness. If your coconut oil is
solid, liquefy it by rubbing a small amount between your palms first.
4. Coconut oil hair mask: Apply a small amount of coconut
oil to your hair and cover it with a shower cap to use as a hair mask. Before
washing, you can leave coconut oil in your hair for a few minutes, a few hours,
or overnight. If you have clogged pores, avoid rubbing it directly on your
scalp.
5. Prewash protector: Apply coconut oil to your hair 15
to 20 minutes before showering to protect it from the damage and dryness caused
by water absorption and shampooing. Concentrate on your hair's middle and ends.
6. Post-shower detangler: After showering, rub a small
amount of coconut oil through wet hair to add moisture and help detangle your
hair after towel-drying.
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