How To Get Lush, Shiny Hair With Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has many benefits but lush, shiny, healthy hair is one that can not be overlooked. You can replace most of your commercial hair products with coconut oil and you might see significant changes in hair growth and health.

Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids, lauric acids, and antimicrobial properties that strengthen hair, help it regrow, and even condition the scalp. Let’s look at the different benefits of using coconut oil in your hair.

UV Damage Protection

Coconut oil has an SPF value of 8. That makes it one of the most effective non-volatile oils to use on your scalp. Rub some on your scalp and into your hair before you go outside to help protect your hair from UV damage. The coconut oil will also aid in moisture which will help prevent protein loss while you are out in the sun. If you are planning to be outside all day, you can use coconut oil as a leave-in conditioner for all-day protection.

Boosts Shine and Enriches Hair Color

Because coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft it is a great base for natural hair colors. A 2020 study found that participants who used coconut oil had less hair damage when dying hair. It can also help boost shine and even give you richer natural hair color.

You can make a natural hair mask with coconut oil and other soothing ingredients and let it sit in your hair for 45 minutes to an hour. Leave the hair covered for the allotted time and then rinse it out well to add shine to your hair, tame unruly locks, and give your hair deep conditioning.

Lice Prevention and Treatment

A study from the European Journal of Pediatrics found that using coconut oil combined with anise spray is more effective at getting rid of lice than the most commonly prescribed treatment, permethrin. The study found that the coconut oil spray was 82% effective while the permethrin was only 42% effective. On top of that, 33 out of 50 participants reported having an irritated scalp after using permethrin. Because coconut oil penetrates the scalp and hair shaft it helps repel lice and keeps their eggs from hatching in the hair.

Helps With Dandruff

Dandruff is often caused by dry skin conditions from bacteria, viruses, and fungus that lead to an itchy and irritated scalp. Many commercial shampoos and conditioners can exacerbate this because of sensitivities to the chemicals used in these products. But coconut oil’s medium-chain fatty acids have strong antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties that fight against bacteria and viruses that may be lurking in the scalp which leads to dry skin.

A 2021 study done on 140 women to analyze the effects of coconut oil on dandruff found that using the oil for 12 weeks modulated the scalp microbiome. This then reduced the effects of dandruff-causing bacteria. The women also reported that the oil helped maintain a healthy scalp.

Hair Growth

If you have thinning hair coconut oil can help your hair grow longer and thicker. The essential nutrients found in the oil, including lauric acid, penetrate the hair shaft and help improve the overall health of your hair. You can also incorporate foods with high omega-3 fats into your diet. Foods like chia seeds, flax seeds, pumpkin seeds, and green tea help promote healthy hair from the inside out.

Conditions Hair & Is Good For Styling

Coconut oil helps hydrate all different types of hair because it is free of chemicals that are found in commercial products. Research has found that coconut oil is able to reduce protein loss which results in hair loss, breakage, and damage. You should use virgin coconut oil for naturally dry hair. Coconut oil is able to penetrate the hair shaft and provide your hair with vitamins, minerals, and medium-chain fatty acids that promote hydration and overall nourishment. Be sure to find the right amount that works for your hair. Start with a small amount and work your way up to more if you need it.

Coconut oil works as a good styling agent without all the chemicals of hair products. Coconut oil prevents thermal damage from hair dryers, curling irons, and hot rollers by maintaining your hair’s moisture while using these styling products. It can also be good for taming flyaways, controlling frizz, and adding texture to your hair. People with thick curly hair can also use it to combat climate changes like humidity that often cause frizz.

Coconut oil has so many benefits that promote healthy hair. However, too much of a good thing can also be bad. If you use too much coconut oil it can lead to greasiness and clogged hair follicles so make sure to find the amount that works best for you. When you find your sweet spot you will be left with hydrated, happy, and healthy hair.