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In recent years coconut oil has gained attention for its anti-inflammatory properties and active compounds to treat and prevent certain health conditions. Yet many of us strip out beneficial oils from over-shampooing, leading the body to increase natural oil production to compensate. People who want to avoid silicones and similar ingredients may choose to replace silicone-rich shine serums with coconut oil.
Health Benefits of Coconut Oil for Your Hair
According to a 2015 review, saturated fats such as coconut oil diffuse into the hair much better than polyunsaturated oils, reducing the amount of water the hair absorbs. These people may benefit more from other types of oil like marula oil or argan oil. Not surprisingly, different types of hair respond to oils differently.
Fights Dry, Itchy, Dandruff
This could require several washings, so maybe don't do a coconut oil treatment right before a big event. However, she notes that while it won't have the same effects as Minoxidil (which is more colloquially known as Rogaine), coconut oil can help to strengthen hair and nourish the scalp. "By reducing hair breakage, the hair is less brittle and can appear healthier," she says. This may indirectly expedite the lengthening of your hair, as less breakage might result in longer strands over time. However, there aren’t any specific studies on whether one type of coconut oil is better for your hair than another.
Best coconut oils for hair: 5 picks for strong and shiny tresses - Health shots
Best coconut oils for hair: 5 picks for strong and shiny tresses.
Posted: Tue, 06 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]
Can you leave coconut oil in your hair overnight?
And one of the best ways to nourish your hair with coconut oil is by using a hair mask. Cynthia Alvarez is a hairstylist and groomer from New York City whose expertise includes styling, cutting, braiding, and applying creative color to all hair types. She has also advanced wig training and extension methods, and has worked with the likes of Shakira, Becky G, Maye Musk, Dascha Polanco, and Anika Noni Rose. Another great option for people with curly hair, this mask is, by many accounts, effective in defining curls and keeping them soft and moisturized. One reviewer even raves that, when it comes to hair masks, they "will never buy another brand."
There are no specific number of days you should be oiling your hair, says Dr. Spann, but for most people, once a week is sufficient. “For individuals with severely dry or brittle hair, it may be beneficial to oil two to three times per week,” adds Dr. Spann. Research published in Pharmacognosy Research suggests that coconut oil has an SPF value of 8, making it one of the most effective nonvolatile oils in this regard.
Hair loss and hair thinning may be caused by low levels of some vitamins and minerals. One study found that 38 percent of women with hair loss had low levels of the vitamin biotin. This natural oil is traditionally used as a food, for cooking, and as a hair and beauty treatment. Coconut oil doesn’t have a high concentration of vitamins or minerals. It has a 100% fat content, with 80% to 90% of that content being saturated fat.
I always noticed, though, that after using something with it, my hair would feel extremely dry and lack definition over time. Naturally, I was super frustrated by this since I'd recently decided to curate a silicone-free haircare routine. Silicones were often the culprit when my hair was feeling extra dry, but then, I realized something else must be causing it too. Finally, I realized there was a common thread among my products, and it was always the addition of coconut oil. As someone with super-dry, curly hair, I have to be careful about what I put on my strands. I've tried a lot of different products over the years—and I mean a lot.
It uses basil leaf and baobab oils to help break down oils and gunk on my scalp, as well as balance my scalp microbiome. However, more research is needed into the wider, long-term effects of coconut oil on the hair, as there is some evidence of negative side effects. If you experience any irritation from topical use of coconut oil, such as itchiness, redness or dryness, stop using it. Mix all ingredients in a bowl with a hand mixer until well-combined.
Does coconut oil help hair growth?
Satisfied customers say this product is just the ticket, with one writing it's "great for dry ends" and that it "lasts forever." A number of reviews comment on experiencing noticeably reduced frizz and dryness after using this product regularly. A top review states, "within a couple uses, it just feels softer." Allow hair experts to walk you through how coconut oil can transform your hair.
Also, since coconut oil absorbs into the hair and scalp, it strengthens the hair's cuticle and creates a protective barrier. This barrier and stronger cuticle help protect hair from sun damage and toxins in the air. “Coconut oil is a rich, fatty oil extracted from the meat of coconuts,” says Cooper. “It has a very distinctive sweet, nutty fragrance.” In addition to being a superfood, Cooper points out that it’s an antiviral ingredient found in a variety of beauty products—namely, haircare. While coconut oil is safe for hair and skin, there’s always the possibility of an allergic reaction.
But before you just grab a dollop and deploy, here's how to actually use coconut oil as a treatment on your hair so your mane doesn't turn into a greasy mess. If you are going to use coconut oil as a moisturizer, your best bet is to apply it when you're fresh out of the shower, as it will help lock in hydration and keep your skin soft and smooth, Rodney says. Coconut oil should be used on its own and not with another moisturizer. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may want to proceed with caution just to be safe. It's best to purchase cold-pressed virgin or extra virgin coconut oil, advises board-certified dermatologist Ife J. Rodney. These pure forms contain more nutrients than versions that have been processed.
We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we love. As we age, hormone health plays a significant part in the health of hair as well. This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by our trained editorial staff.
One rejoices, "Finally, found a shampoo that works well with my curly hair...My hair fails and looks soft, smooth, and shiny." Mix 2 tbsp of melted coconut oil with 1 tbsp of apple cider vinegar and apply as above. Shannen Zitz is an Assistant Editor at Prevention, where she covers all things lifestyle, wellness, beauty, and relationships. Previously the Editorial Assistant at Prevention, she graduated from the State University of New York at Cortland with a bachelor's degree in English.
Similarly, coconut oil may also protect the hair from the damaging effects of air pollution. Try applying a drop or two to dry hair, especially before going out in humid or wet weather. Most oils sit on the surface of the hair, but research shows that coconut oil penetrates more deeply into the hair shaft, which may lead the hair to feel softer and smoother. Below, find a few expert-approved ways to add coconut oil, or products containing coconut oil, into your routine. More than 17,000 reviewers stand by this organic and unrefined extra-virgin coconut oil. It seems like everyone is crazy for coconut oil—and for good reason.
Finish by rinsing out the hair mask with water and your favorite shampoo. Additional ingredients such as honey or avocado can increase the beneficial effects depending on hair type. Styling methods such as straightening or using anti-dandruff shampoos can worsen the condition of this type of hair and make it more challenging to manage.
One person’s high-shine hack may be another’s hyper-greasy hair day, so be sure to start with diminutive amounts, and allot time for potential restyling. It usually doesn’t cause hair loss, but it can cause previously detached hair to fall away from your scalp more easily. Coconut oil could be helpful to get rid of lice, protect your hair from the sun and reduce dandruff, but more studies are needed. Daily grooming practices like washing, brushing, and styling can cause damage to your hair and leave it looking frizzy, broken, and dry.
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