Coconut Oil for Hair: Benefits, How to Use & Tips

Key Insights: Coconut oil is a cost-effective and natural option for treating hair and scalp issues compared to professional salons or chemical treatments, which can be harsh and expensive. Coconut oil contains saturated fats and lauric acid, which are beneficial for hair when applied externally but should be consumed in moderation due to potential health effects. It deeply moisturises and conditions hair, locking moisture within the shaft to prevent dryness, frizz, and split ends. It acts as a natural heat protectant against styling tools and provides UV protection with its natural SPF, shielding hair from environmental damage. In Ayurveda, coconut oil is considered a cooling oil that helps balance the body’s Pitta dosha, promoting a calming effect and supporting hair and skin health. Coconut oil best suits dry, curly, or natural hair types. It may weigh down or increase oiliness in thin or already oily hair. Coconut oil is nutrient-rich, containing medium-chain fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants that nourish hair at a cellular level and potentially prevent premature greying. Coconut oil can be used as a conditioner, prewash protector, hair mask, or styling agent, making it a versatile addition to hair care routines.

Do you have a dry and itchy scalp?

Is your hair damaged to the extent that you must treat it immediately?

While you may visit professional salons or hair clinics for professional treatment, it can always be costly. Moreover, treating hair and scalp issues using chemical treatments may not work for everybody and can even damage them more. So, coconut oil is your best bet if you seek a natural way to treat damaged hair or dry scalp. 

Since time has not been known, coconut oil has been a proven method of effectively treating various skin and hair issues. It can improve the condition and health of your hair, and you can reap its benefits by applying it to your hair before and after washing it. You can also read the exclusive benefits of herbal oil and see the difference. To know more about benefits of coconut oil on hair or coconut oil for hair benefits read on to:

Did You Know: Coconut oil is your best bet for a natural way to treat damaged hair or dry scalp. Coconut Oil Can Help with Hair Growth. Coconut oil may help to treat dandruff because of its hydrating and moisturising properties. Applying coconut oil to the scalp can make hair strong and shiny and prevent dryness or dandruff.

Nutritional Value of Coconut

Here's the nutritional information per 100 grams:

Nutrient	Amount per 100 grams	% Daily Value*
Calories	354	-
Total Fat	33 g	50%
Saturated Fat	30 g	150%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	20 mg	0%
Potassium	356 mg	10%
Total Carbohydrate	15 g	5%
Dietary Fiber	9 g	36%
Sugar	6 g	-
Protein	3.3 g	6%
Vitamin C	-	5%
Calcium	-	1%
Iron	-	13%
Vitamin D	-	0%
Vitamin B6	-	5%
Cobalamin (Vitamin B12)	-	0%
Magnesium	-	8%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

What are the Main Ingredients in Coconut Oil?

Coconut oil, as you already know, is extracted from coconuts. It contains many beneficial ingredients. It has a mild, sweet taste and various natural properties that can benefit your skin and hair in many ways. Most medical professionals recommend using coconut oil for hair or skin for its anti-ageing, anti-inflammatory, and moisturising effects.

The two main ingredients present in coconut oil are as follows:

• Fat content: Coconut oil does not have a high content of minerals and vitamins. This oil has a rich concentration of fat. Approximately 80-90% of this fat is saturated, which may not be good for your health, but it gives the oil firmness that helps moisturise your hair.

• Fatty acids: 47% of the fatty acids present in coconut oil are lauric acids. Lauric acid might raise levels of harmful cholesterol in your blood when consumed, but it has antibacterial effects when applied to the scalp or hair.

Benefits of Coconut Oil for Hair

Is coconut oil good for hair? Lauric acid, present abundantly in coconut oil, is a saturated fat that protects your hair against protein loss. Your hair is made up of a protein called keratin. Using too many hair styling products, such as heat, dyes, shampoo, bleach, etc., can damage your hair and rip off the keratin, leaving it dry, dull, and damaged.

Here are some ways by which you can have coconut hair oil benefits:

• It Has an Amazing Moisturising Effect
• Coconut Oil Can Help with Hair Growth
• It Can Be Used to Treat Dandruff
• It Makes Your Hair Look Amazing
• It Can Help Repair Split Ends
• It Offers UV-Ray Protection
• It Strengthens the Cuticle

1. It Has an Amazing Moisturising Effect

So, why do you think professionals recommend using coconut oil for hair loss on your hair? For starters, coconut oil is great for deeply conditioning your hair strands. It is among the best ways to add moisture to your hair and keep it hydrated. This is because coconut oil works as a barrier, helping your hair cuticle to hold onto moisture by preventing the previous hydrating treatments from escaping your hair shaft. The result is protected hair that is smoother and less frizzy.

2. Coconut Oil Can Help with Hair Growth 

By deeply infusing into the hair shaft and stopping protein loss, coconut oil has shown proven benefits in slowing down hair thinning or hair fall and reducing breakage for people with fine, weak, or thinning hair. It simultaneously hydrates and eliminates build-up from the area around your hair follicles when applied to your scalp to promote hair growth with coconut oil.

3. It Can Be Used to Treat Dandruff

Coconut oil may help to treat dandruff because of its hydrating and moisturising properties. The fatty acids in coconut oil, which lessens flakes and scalp itchiness, can be the best natural treatment for your dry scalp. But it's not a short-term solution. To ensure that your scalp is thoroughly moisturised 24*7, coconut oil aids in maintaining a healthy scalp microbiome.

4. It Makes Your Hair Look Amazing

Also, coconut oil on the ends of your hair can help prevent split ends, give shine and lustre, and even make your hair easier to handle while styling. It's loaded with minerals and antimicrobial qualities. It is a fantastic and healthier alternative to hair gel. You may also use it to achieve the latest hair fashion trend of the slicked-back bun. Even a small amount of coconut oil added to your hair care regimen may provide some amazing outcomes.

5. It Can Help Repair Split Ends

Split ends refer to your hair's propensity to separate and split at the ends when it becomes brittle and dry. The use of coconut oil for hair can aid in both the healing and prevention of split ends.

6. It Offers UV-Ray Protection

Coconut oil moisturises, repairs, and strengthens hair. Thanks to its natural SPF value of 8, it also protects against UV radiation exposure. As a result, coconut oil is an effective low-SPF natural UV barrier for hair.

It Strengthens the Cuticle

Since it hydrates, softens, and strengthens dry, brittle hair strands, coconut oil can be a fantastic remedy for overall hair health. It also strengthens the hair's cuticle, which protects it from environmental pollutants and keeps it feeling and looking healthier. Because a well-saturated cuticle is more resistant to all external influences, this lessens environmental and heat damage until you wash it off.

Clinical Studies on Coconut for Hair:

1. Coconut Oil vs. Sunflower and Mineral Oils for Hair Health: A clinical study evaluated the effects of coconut oil, sunflower oil, and mineral oil on hair health, focusing on protein loss. The findings clearly demonstrated that coconut oil significantly reduced protein loss in both undamaged and damaged hair, whether used as a pre-wash or post-wash grooming product. 

In contrast, sunflower and mineral oils showed no benefits in reducing protein loss. The effectiveness of coconut oil is attributed to its unique composition, primarily lauric acid, which deeply penetrates the hair shaft and binds to hair proteins, unlike the other oils that merely coat the hair surface without offering internal protection.

2. Coconut Oil for Dandruff and Scalp Health: A clinical study investigated the effects of regular coconut oil scalp massages on individuals with chronic dandruff and dry scalp. Participants applied coconut oil to their scalp thrice a week for four weeks. The study found that coconut oil significantly reduced dandruff and improved scalp moisture levels. Additionally, the oil’s antimicrobial properties helped keep the scalp free from lice and lice eggs. 

This makes coconut oil an effective, natural alternative for managing common scalp conditions, leading to its frequent use in dandruff relief creams and hair conditioners. The study confirms coconut oil’s value in maintaining scalp health.

Which Hair Type Is Best for Coconut Oil?

Anyone with dehydrated hair and scalp will benefit hugely from using coconut oil. However, remember that coconut oil, being oily as it should be, may not be suitable for those with naturally oily or thin hair. Using coconut oil on oily hair and scalp can weigh the hair down or make it even more oily, giving rise to other hair or scalp issues. Experts recommend that people with curly, extremely dry, or natural hair benefit most from using coconut oil.

How to Use Coconut Oil for Hair?

Here is the step-by-step guide on using coconut oil for hair:

• Step 1: Pick high-quality, unrefined organic coconut oil which retains the nourishing fatty acids and vitamins needed for hair care.
• Step 2: Pour 2-3 tbsp of coconut oil into a small microwave-safe bowl, depending on your hair length and thickness. To enhance the experience, you can also infuse herbs like amla, curry leaves, hibiscus, etc. into the oil.
• Step 3: Melt the coconut oil by placing the bowl in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Heat only until lukewarm, not very hot. You can also gently warm the bottle by placing it in a bowl of hot water.
• Step 4: Apply on clean, damp hair: Dip your fingers in the warm oil and apply from your roots to the tips. Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the oil evenly and smoothly coat every strand from roots to ends.
• Step 5: Massage gently for a few minutes to stimulate circulation. This allows better penetration. Focus extra on massage at sites of hair fall or damage.
• Step 6: Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave it on for 20-30 minutes or overnight. Wrap your head with a warm towel over the cap for added moisture.
• Step 7: Finally, shampoo thoroughly with a mild sulfate-free shampoo and condition as usual. Repeat application weekly.

Also, do check our 100% natural onion oil, specially formulated to reduce hair fall.

Tips for Using Coconut Oil in Hair Care

All hair types may benefit from coconut oil. It works particularly well on hair that is dry, damaged, or coloured. Frequent usage of coconut oil may cause hair stiffness for people with coarse hair types. To get the maximum benefit from using coconut oil for hair care, you may follow these tips:

• Warm the oil first: Using coconut oil when it's warm while applying it to your hair is easier. Take a teaspoon of coconut oil into a small bowl and keep it inside a big bowl partially filled with hot water. Allow the oil to get warm, then take some of it onto your palm and rub it together before applying it to your hair.
• Make a blend: For additional aromatherapy benefits, mix a few drops of essential oils, such as peppermint or lavender, with your coconut oil. Coconut oil may be used with natural hair-nourishing products like honey, yoghurt, or avocado.
• Use it at night: If you apply coconut oil to your hair in the morning, it could look greasy since it takes time to absorb. Use it at night instead, and then shampoo it in the morning.
• Apply lightly: Although light, coconut oil can weigh down your hair if you use too much. Start with a small quantity, no more than a teaspoon, and gently work it into your hair from the middle to the ends to prevent accumulation. You might be able to use a little bit more than that if you have thick hair.
• Don't clog your scalp: Some people may find that applying a virgin coconut oil hair mask to their scalp can reduce dryness. Others, however, have problems, including clogged pores and itchiness. If you've never applied coconut oil to your scalp, start with a small amount to see how your skin responds.
• Shampoo twice: When it's time to wash the coconut oil out of your hair, remember that you may need to shampoo twice to eliminate the slickness.

Why Choose Coconut Oil Before Other Oils?

Below are some of the best reasons to choose coconut oil before any other oil for hair:

1. Light yet Deeply Penetrating

Firstly, despite its solid form at room temperature, coconut oil is relatively light compared to many oils. This allows it to penetrate hair strands easily without clogging pores or making hair look oily post-washing. The penetrative ability helps it strengthen hair from within and prevent protein loss.

2. Rich in Nourishing Nutrients

Coconut oil is uniquely composed almost entirely of medium-chain fatty acids like lauric, caprylic and capric acid that have antimicrobial and deep conditioning effects. It also provides nutrients like vitamin K and iron. This abundance of beneficial nutrients promotes hair health.

3. Prevents Protein Loss

The lauric acid also binds well to the protein structure in hair, shielding it from damage and mineral loss that causes split ends and breakage. Using coconut oil reinforces the cuticle layer.

4. Ideal for Heat Styling

Coconut oil makes an excellent heat protectant for hair. It forms a protective coat around strands, preventing excessive water loss and damage when using hot styling tools. Just a coin-sized amount goes a long way in safeguarding locks.

5. Boosts Growth

Research shows that coconut oil clears blockages from hair follicles, allowing better growth. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compounds remove issues hindering healthy growth, like dandruff. Slow yet consistent growth is observable over 3-6 months.

6. Prevents Greying

Finally, antioxidant components like polyphenols in coconut oil help delay premature greying. These nourish hair at cellular levels and combat free radical damage. With regular usage, many observe darker, shinier hair.

Ayurvedic Perspective on Using Coconut Oils

Coconut oil has been used in Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, for thousands of years. Ayurveda considers coconut oil a “cooling” oil, which helps calm the body and mind. Its soothing effect can help reduce body heat, making it perfect for people who often feel hot or have skin problems like rashes.

In Ayurveda, coconut oil is known for its ability to nourish the skin and hair. It is rich in natural fats that keep the skin soft, smooth, and healthy. Applying it to the scalp can make hair strong and shiny and prevent dryness or dandruff. This oil also acts as a natural moisturiser, helping to keep the skin hydrated and glowing.

Moreover, coconut oil is said to help balance the “Pitta dosha,” one of the three energies or doshas in Ayurveda. When the Pitta dosha is out of balance, it can cause anger, irritation, and skin issues. Ayurveda suggests that coconut oil can help bring this dosha back into balance, making you feel calmer and more relaxed.

Overall, Ayurveda views coconut oil as a powerful, natural remedy for promoting overall health and well-being.

Ways to Incorporate Coconut Oil

One of the most adaptable hair care oils available is coconut oil, which may be used as a mask, conditioner, style tool, or pre-shampoo treatment.

Here are five easy ways to use coconut oil to breathe new life into your haircare regimen.

1. Conditioner

Try using coconut oil to strengthen the hair shaft and stop breakage. Coconut oil can be used in place of conventional conditioners. Add a few drops of the oil to your regular conditioner to increase the smoothing effect.

2. Prewash protector

When applied before shampooing, coconut oil helps prevent damage and dryness by preventing hair from absorbing excessive water. Try putting coconut oil on the middle and ends of your hair 15 to 30 minutes before washing it.

3. Hair mask

Use a teaspoon or two of the oil to massage through your hair for an incredibly nourishing hair treatment. If your hair is particularly dry or damaged, leave it on overnight and wash it in a few hours.

4. Sun protection

Besides its many uses in hair care, coconut oil could also help shield hair from UV light-induced sun damage (although further research is required).

Conclusion 

Coconut oil can hydrate and restore brittle hair. It has also been effective in treating dandruff. It is a conditioner, hair mask, prewash treatment, and styling product.

Start with a small quantity to know how your hair reacts. Use the oil around two to three times per week if you're happy with the outcomes and don't experience any further issues.

Use only a teaspoon and concentrate on your hair's middle to the ends, considering that a little goes a long way.

Always choose a good quality organic coconut oil for your hair for optimal results.

FAQs

1. What are the benefits of coconut oil for hair?

Coconut oil is great for hair in many ways. It's applied to treat dandruff, restore the shine to damaged and dry hair, control frizz, and shield hair from harmful styling. It is safe to use for most hair types. Lauric acid, in particular, is one of the several fatty acids found in coconut oil that can strengthen hair.

2. What happens if I put coconut oil in my hair every day?

Applying coconut oil to your skin and hair is typically regarded as harmless. On the other hand, overuse may result in an accumulation of oil on your scalp and hair. Your hair may get oily and lifeless, particularly if you have fine hair.

3. Can coconut oil regrow lost hair?

However, some people assert that coconut oil can assist in regrowing lost hair or can speed up hair growth, in addition to its ability to prevent baldness. Nevertheless, there isn't any scientific proof of this.

4. Should I sleep with coconut oil in my hair?

While it may seem appealing to apply coconut oil to your hair and sleep on it, you should refrain from doing so. Hair follicle blockages caused by coconut oil hair masks can cause greasy hair and stunt hair development. Coconut oil can be applied to your hair for up to half an hour.

5. How long can I leave coconut oil in my hair?

If your hair is thin or greasy, avoid applying oil to your scalp so it doesn't weigh it down. After applying, let the coconut oil remain in your hair for twenty to thirty minutes. You can leave it on longer if your hair is porous or dry; some like to use it as an overnight treatment.

References:

1. Coconut oil is your best bet for a natural way to treat damaged hair or dry scalp. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/)
2. Coconut Oil Can Help with Hair Growth. ((https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
3. Coconut oil may help to treat dandruff because of its hydrating and moisturising properties. (https://www.researchgate.net/)
4. Applying coconut oil to the scalp can make hair strong and shiny and prevent dryness or dandruff. (https://www.researchgate.net)