What you need to know about using coconut oil for hair care

What you need to know about using coconut oil for hair care

If you are looking for soft and shiny hair, you can try reaching for a can of coconut oil. This natural oil is suitable for almost all types of hair and is rich in fatty acids that are beneficial to the skin and hair.

This article explains why coconut oil can help repair daily damage, improve texture, and restore hair health and shine. It also describes how to use it and how to choose a good oil.

benefit
Healthy hair depends on protein.

However, dyes, bleaches, shampoos, and styling products can damage proteins and make hair dull and brittle.

Damaged hair
In a 2015 report, researchers reviewed several studies that tested the effects of vegetable oils on human hair. 2 The author pointed out that coconut oil is similar to natural hair protein and has a unique ability to penetrate the hair shaft (the part of the hair located above the scalp).

By penetrating the hair, coconut oil can reduce the moisture absorbed by the hair. This helps limit daily hair damage.

In addition, a reviewed study determined that coconut oil is the only oil capable of reducing protein loss. When participants used this oil as a beauty product before and after washing, so did the undamaged and damaged hair.

The study also evaluated the effects of mineral oil and sunflower oil on hair.

Neither helped reduce protein loss.

Dry scalp, dandruff
There is evidence that you can use coconut oil to treat dry, itchy scalp and accompanying dandruff.

In 2021, a study of 140 people in India (70 had dandruff and 70 had no dandruff) found that topically applying coconut oil on the scalp has antibacterial and antifungal effects. It also prevents scalp peeling.

Other research suggests that coconut oil may help repair the skin barrier, the top layer of the skin. 4 This will make it a good treatment for dandruff and dry skin.

Evidence also shows that coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties.

This stimulates the production of collagen, which is the main structural protein in the skin and other tissues. In turn, collagen may help promote keratin, which is an important part of healthy hair.

Although there is no scientific research on the link between collagen and hair, personal testimony and theories claim that collagen treatment is beneficial. Until there is evidence that collagen supplementation helps, a healthy diet is the best way to obtain collagen.

Instructions
As one of the most versatile hair oils, coconut oil can play a magical role as a pre-shampoo, conditioner, styling aid or facial mask.

Here are four simple ways to use coconut oil to invigorate your hair care routine:

Pre-wash protector: Using coconut oil before shampooing can prevent the hair from absorbing too much moisture, thereby avoiding hair damage and dryness. 8Try applying coconut oil 15 to 30 minutes before washing your hair, focusing on the middle and ends of the hair.

Conditioner: Like any good conditioner, coconut oil can help strengthen the hair shaft and prevent breakage. 2 You can use coconut oil as a substitute for standard conditioner. Or add a few drops of oil to your usual conditioner to enhance its smoothing ability.

Styling aid: In terms of tame frizz, only a small amount of coconut oil can be of great help. For easier absorption and styling, make sure to apply the oil to damp hair.

Hair mask: For super nourishing hair care, massage one or two teaspoons of oil on your hair. Wash it off after a few hours, or if your hair is particularly dry or damaged, let it overnight.

Tips for using coconut oil in hair care
Coconut oil may benefit all types of hair. It is especially suitable for dry, damaged or dyed hair.

However, there are concerns that repeated use of coconut oil may cause stiffness in people with rough hair.

To make the most of coconut oil in your hair care regimen:

Heat the oil first. If coconut oil is heated before applying it to the hair, coconut oil may be easier to use. Put a teaspoon of oil in a bowl, then put it in a container partially filled with hot water. Coconut oil will become liquid in a few minutes. You can also simply put the solidified oil in your palm and rub it with your hands to melt it. Avoid heating the oil in a microwave to prevent it from overheating.

mix. Add a few drops of essential oils such as lavender or peppermint to coconut oil for additional aromatherapy effects. You can also mix coconut oil with natural ingredients that nourish your hair, such as yogurt, honey or avocado.

Use at night. It takes time for the hair to absorb coconut oil, so if you use coconut oil in the morning, your hair will look greasy. Instead, use it at night and then wash your hair in the morning.

Apply gently. Although coconut oil is relatively light, it can also make hair heavier if used too much. To avoid buildup, start with a small amount—no more than a teaspoon—and then gently massage the hair, starting from the middle and all the way to the ends. If you have thick hair, you can use a little more, no problem.

Don’t clog your scalp. Some people find that applying coconut oil directly on the scalp can relieve dryness. On the other hand, others struggle with irritation and clogged pores. If you have never used coconut oil on your scalp, use a small amount first until you understand how your skin reacts.

Shampoo twice. When you need to remove coconut oil from your hair, remember that you may need to use a second shampoo to remove the oily feeling.

Choose coconut oil
When buying the best coconut oil for your hair, choose unrefined coconut oil (aka virgin or extra virgin oil). If possible, choose organic, sustainably harvested products.

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