Coconut oil is a fatty, edible oil derived from the coconut itself. It is a widely used ingredient in a wide variety of items, including cosmetics. Coconut oil is claimed to improve the appearance of hair serums, conditioners, shampoos, and moisturising treatments, among other things.
When used alone or as a component of other hair products, coconut oil is completely harmless. Because coconut oil may be used on its own, it is easier to control the amount of oil produced, minimising the likelihood of having oily hair.
Coconut oil can be used to treat a wide range of hair types, from fine and limp to coarse and thick, with a little trial and error.
A little bit of coconut oil goes a long way in the kitchen. It is preferable to start with a small amount, observe the outcomes, and then increase or decrease the amount as necessary. People with thick, coarse hair typically require more oil than those with fine hair.
The following are some of the ways in which people can use coconut oil for their hair:
Moisturising dry hair and scalp
Most oils remain on the top of the hair, but study has shown that coconut oil penetrates deeper into the hair shaft, which may result in hair that is softer and smoother in texture.
The oil helps to fill up the hair shaft, giving the appearance of healthier hair to dry and damaged hair. Being able to keep your hair moisturised may help you avoid the harm that some products, such as harsh shampoos and styling chemicals, can cause to your hair.
Using coconut oil before washing one’s hair or using a styling product that makes one’s hair appear dry are two options for those who want to experiment.
Those who suffer from a dry scalp or skin problems that induce dryness, such as eczema, may find that coconut oil’s hydrating properties are of particular assistance. Anyone with a significant skin issue, on the other hand, should consult with a doctor before using any new products.
In addition, coconut oil has a hydrophobic property, which means that it repels water when exposed to it. This impact may hinder the hair from absorbing water and, as a result, cause it to become dry over a period of time. As a result, although using coconut oil on an occasional basis will assist to hydrate the hair, it is not recommended as a long-term plan.
Preventing frizz from forming
It is when water seeps into the hair shaft that it becomes frizzy, causing it to swell and become uneven in appearance. Coconut oil prevents the absorption of water by the hair, which is particularly beneficial in humid conditions and can help prevent frizz.
Even in dry conditions, damaged hair has a tendency to seem frizzy. Because coconut oil has the ability to permeate the hair shaft, it can also be used to smooth damaged or uneven hair.
Apply a drop or two to dry hair before heading out in humid or rainy weather, especially before going out in humid or wet weather.
Increasing the rate of hair growth
Some people feel that coconut oil can aid in the treatment of hair loss as well as the promotion of hair growth. There are many products that blend coconut oil with other oils, such as Indian gooseberry oil or nut grass oil, to provide a more complete product formulation.
According to the findings of a 2015 study conducted on rats, hair growth regimens including coconut oil may help to boost hair growth and increase hair thickness.
Another study conducted in 2015 looked into hair loss caused by environmental harm and pollutants. The researchers came to the conclusion that coconut oil had the ability to preserve the hair from damage, as well as to reverse or treat hair loss.
Preventing chemical damage
Coconut oil enters and fills the hair shaft, which may aid in preventing other potentially hazardous chemicals from entering the hair and causing damage. As a result, hair damage may be prevented, especially in persons who strategically apply coconut oil to their hair.
In the case of someone wanting to swim in a chlorinated pool, using coconut oil to their hair before swimming will help to limit the amount of chlorine that gets into their hair.
In a similar vein, coconut oil has been shown to protect hair against the damaging effects of pollution in the air.
Adding shine
Coconut oil, like other oils, has the ability to make hair appear glossy and silky in appearance. When it comes to dry hair, some people use a few drops as a shine serum.
Customers seeking to avoid silicones and similar components may opt to replace silicone-rich shine serums with coconut oil instead of the alternative.
Refreshing the hair between washes
Many people with dry, coarse, or curly hair prefer to wait longer between hair washes in order to prevent their hair from becoming dry. It is possible that your hair will lose its style or texture after a few days. Spritzing water through the hair can sometimes be beneficial, but it can also promote frizz.
Coconut oil is a great hair freshener, and because it keeps water out, it can also help to prevent frizz and other problems. Scrunch or twist your hair after running a few drops through it.
Pretreating the hair
Many strong chemicals, such as those found in bleaches, dyes, and shampoos containing heavy detergents, can cause damage to the hair.
It is possible that using coconut oil to the hair before employing these chemicals can help prevent serious hair damage. People can use coconut oil as a pretreatment before using a clarifying shampoo or hair colour to improve the appearance of their hair.
Benefits
With so many different hair products available on the market, it might be tough to select the best one for you. Some of the advantages of utilising coconut oil are as follows:
- Being aware of the ingredients. The use of coconut oil alone or as a component of a homemade hair serum ensures that a person understands exactly what is in their hair product, despite the fact that coconut oil is found in many products. Individuals who suffer from allergies or chemical sensitivities may find this awareness particularly beneficial.
- Saving money. When compared to many high-end hair care products, coconut oil is a more economical alternative.
- Environmental consciousness. Coconut oil can help reduce environmental impact by reducing plastic waste and the amount of chemicals that are flushed down the toilet. It can also be used to make homemade products or replace one or two alternative hair products.
Conclusion
It is easy to find coconut oil at supermarkets, health food stores. As with any new hair care practise, it may take some time for the hair to become accustomed to the oil.
A consultation with a stylist or another hair specialist can assist a person in determining the most effective technique to include coconut oil into their hair care regimen.
People who suffer from eczema, psoriasis, or scalp disorders may want to contact with a specialist before using coconut oil on their skin. The majority of people, on the other hand, can safely use coconut oil on their hair.
