Coconut oil is a product of vegetable origin used to manufacture shampoos, creams, soaps, and other cosmetics for the skin and hair. It consists almost entirely of medium-chain fatty acids and also of antioxidant substances. Today we discuss its benefits and how to use coconut oil for healthy hair.
Buying natural coconut oil is easy, and its price is usually very affordable. Although you can always appeal to commercial products that use it as an ingredient, we invite you to its natural use in this space. Before I teach you some of its uses, let’s see what scientists say about its properties.
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Coconut oil benefits for hair
Coconut oil is a naturally processed oil obtained from fresh, ripe coconuts. Antimicrobial, analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory properties are attributed to it. That is why, traditionally, coconut oil has been used to moisturize and treat skin infections. A work published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that coconut oil effectively prevents hair damage. It is a lauric acid triglyceride and has a high affinity for hair proteins. Thus, it can penetrate its stem to repair it from the inside out. On the other hand, a study published in Scientific Reports in 2021 suggested that coconut oil can modulate microbial growth on the scalp. In addition, it is known that its regular use can prevent an increase in hair porosity. All these scientific works are useful for understanding that the benefits of coconut oil for hair are well-proven. Its properties are not just anecdotal, and, in general, its use is safe. In any case, you should stay alert if you experience scalp irritation after applying it.Seven Uses of coconut oil for your hair
Using coconut oil for hair is very easy. You can apply it like the commercial products you use for your hair. We leave you with seven ways to take advantage of it and some considerations.1. Coconut Oil as a Hair Conditioner
Due to its texture, aroma, and properties, coconut oil is a great alternative to replace commercial conditioners. Contains no harsh chemicals and is packed with root-strengthening vitamins, minerals, and proteins.
Ingredients
- Two tablespoons of coconut oil (30 g)
How to use it?
The application can be made during the usual hair washing or as a deep dry treatment.- Take a couple of tablespoons of coconut oil and rub it all over your hair and scalp.
- Cover it with a bathing cap and leave it on for an hour.
- Wash with plenty of water and proceed to comb immediately.
2. Treatment to stimulate growth
This natural ingredient is one of the best allies to promote healthy hair growth . Its composition of proteins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids repairs damaged fibers and prevents hair loss. In addition, its lauric acid penetrates deep into the scalp and helps hair grow easily. However, to achieve good results, it is recommended to complement its use with healthy food and water consumption.Ingredients
- One tablespoon of coconut oil (15 g)
- Six drops of vitamin E
How to use it?
- Combine the vitamin E drops with the coconut oil, heat it slightly, and rub it with gentle circular massages all over the scalp.
- Also, moisten the damaged ends and cover them with a hat.
- Let it act all night and rinse.
- Use it three times a week.
3. Treatment against dandruff
The antimicrobial and antifungal properties of coconut oil have been used as a solution against excessive dandruff and its symptoms. Its application soothes irritation, reduces flaking, and relieves the uncomfortable itching sensation. Its composition of fatty acids also stops fungal infection.Ingredients
- Two tablespoons of coconut oil (30 g)
- Five drops of tea tree essential oil
How to use it?
- Combine the essential oils until you get a homogeneous product.
- Apply all over the scalp and hair with gentle circular massages.
- Cover it with a hat and let it act for 20 or 30 minutes.
- Rinse and repeat your application every three days.
4. Frizz control
You can achieve a perfect hairstyle by using a little coconut oil before frizz ruins everything. This product protects the hair from the attacks of heat and UV rays, avoiding mistreatment and weakening. As a result, you will get shiny hair free of that electrical effect that damages your hairstyles.Ingredients
- One teaspoon of coconut oil (5 g)
How to use it?
- Take the teaspoon of coconut oil with the palms of your hands and gently massage it all over the hair.
- You don’t need to rinse it unless you feel greasy.
5. Treatment against lice
Its antimicrobial properties work against insects and alter the environment they need to live in. Applying this product to the hair is also effective against the invasion of lice and nits. In addition, the oil facilitates the removal of eggs thanks to its oily texture.
Ingredients
- One tablespoon of coconut oil (15 g)
- Six drops of tea tree essential oil
- Six drops of anise essential oil
How to use it?
- Combine all the oils in a container and apply them with gentle circular massages over the scalp.
- Cover it with a cap and let it act for an hour.
- After this time, apply heat with the dryer or put yourself in the sun for 20 more minutes.
- Use a fine bristle comb and rinse with plenty of warm water.
- Repeat the treatment three times a week.
6. To detangle hair
Matt’s hair is a problem that affects millions of women, especially those with curly or frizzy hair. Coconut oil could be a safe way to detangle hair when it gets tangled. This way, you avoid pulling it or compromising its integrity.Ingredients
- One tablespoon of coconut oil (15 g)
How to use it?
- Take the tablespoon of coconut oil and spread it on the affected area and another part on your hands.
- Distribute the oil gently so that it penetrates inside the tangle.
- Use a flat or wide toothbrush and start detangling (never use a fine toothbrush).
- Always brush from the end of the tangle, not where it starts.
- Stop brushing to do gentle massages and, in case you consider it so, use more oil.
7. To apply scalp massages
A work published in ePlasty found that scalp massage promotes the thickening of new strands. You can do a dry massage, but given the properties that we have indicated, it is best that you take advantage of coconut oil.Ingredients
- One tablespoon of coconut oil (15 g)
How to use it?
- Spread your fingers with the coconut oil and gently massage your scalp.
- Do it in circular motions, and don’t forget about the flanks and back of your head.
- After finishing, let the oil act for 10 minutes before removing it.