Coconut oil is without a doubt one of the most effective hair treatments for a wide range of hair issues, and it is the best oil for damaged hair. Coconut oil supporters claim it works better than any man-made treatment on the market. It’s free of silicone, alcohol, and other chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin and dry out hair because it’s all-natural.
It’s fantastic for repairing damaged hair that’s been overprocessed, heat-damaged, or is just naturally dry. Because coconut oil is also antifungal, it is an excellent natural anti-dandruff treatment and preventative.
To top it all off, coconut oil is significantly less expensive than commercial hair treatments, and it is widely available in grocery, drug, and department stores, as well as online stores
Why Coconut Oil Works Better
Because of its molecular structure, coconut oil is excellent for reconditioning dry and damaged hair. Unlike other oils and commercial moisturizers, coconut oil actually penetrates the hair shaft, passing through the cuticle. This assists in repairing your hair from the inside out and preventing further damage.
Lauric acid, capric acid, and vitamin E (all found in coconut oil) help to restructure hair and increase strength by preventing protein loss, resulting in significantly improved shine. People who use a coconut oil treatment on a regular basis report increased body, shine, and manageability, as well as less breakage and static, and fewer tangles and split ends. Many people claim that after using it on a regular basis, their hair sheds less and feels thicker.
How to Use Coconut Oil as a Deep-Conditioning Treatment
Set aside at least 30 minutes for intensive hair pampering. Grab a book, catch up on social media, or watch a TV show to unwind while the coconut oil treatment works its magic.
When cool, coconut oil is solid, so it may need to be gently warmed to become liquid. It melts quickly and easily, so simply place the container of coconut oil in a pan of warm water for a few minutes. For a faster method, place it in the microwave for a few seconds. However, a few precautions must be taken: First, remove the container’s cap and inspect it for metal.
When you remove the coconut oil from the oven, stir it; it will most likely heat unevenly, and you don’t want to burn your scalp or hands.
Apply a couple of tablespoons of coconut oil to your damp hair and scalp. (If your hair is thin or easily greasy, you can skip the scalp to keep the oil from weighing it down.) Apply the most coconut oil to the areas of your hair that are the driest and most damaged (typically the ends) and the least to the areas where your hair is the healthiest (mid-shaft and scalp area).
To ensure that every hair is coated, section your hair and apply the coconut oil in manageable sections. After applying the oil, leave it on your hair for 20-30 minutes. If your hair is extremely dry or porous, you can leave it on for a longer period of time; some people prefer to use it as an overnight treatment. To maximize the treatment’s effectiveness (and to avoid a mess if you’re leaving it on while sleeping! ), pile your hair on top of your head if it’s long, cover your head with a shower cap, and wrap it in a hot towel straight from the dryer or apply heat with a hairdryer for a few minutes.
After the treatment, you must thoroughly shampoo your hair to remove the oil. This may require a couple of wash-rinse cycles but don’t worry: coconut oil melts at just the right temperature, and warm water will wash away the excess.
For the best results, experiment with the amount of coconut oil to use on your specific hair, as well as the length of time you allow the oil to penetrate it. If the coconut oil makes your hair feel weighed down or greasy, use less of it or shampoo more thoroughly after your treatment.
How to Use Coconut Oil as a Daily Hair Moisturizer/Detangler
After showering, apply a small amount of coconut oil to the ends of your hair as a detangler and as a daily moisturizer for very dry hair. It also works wonders for dry skin. Keep a container of coconut oil in your shower so you can apply it to damp skin and hair to seal in moisture and give both a luxuriously soft feel.
How to Use Coconut Oil as a Dandruff Treatment
The procedure for treating dandruff is similar to that of conditioning: Allow a small amount of coconut oil to sit on your scalp for at least 10 minutes or overnight.
Bonus Tip: Whip It Good!
If you’re tired of digging coconut oil out of jars with your nails or a spoon, pull out your mixer. Empty a jar of coconut oil into a mixing bowl and whisk with a whisk until it emulsifies with air to form a light, puffy cream. Coconut oil will retain its creamy consistency as long as it is not exposed to high heat, making it easy to slather onto hair and skin. To enhance the pleasant coconut scent, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. The end result is a rich skin and hair treatment that rivals anything available in a high-end boutique.
