Coconut oil for hair: how to use it and what benefits does it have?

The coconut oil, also known as extra virgin coconut oil or as coconut butter, it is a substance extracted from coconut (dry coconut or fresh coconut); specifically, it is extracted from the pulp or meat of the coconut using pressing techniques.

It is used especially to hydrate and revitalize the hair, although it also has other uses. In this article we will know what coconut oil is, how it is used to treat hair and 11 benefits it has for it.

Coconut oil - what is it?

Coconut oil is a vegetable oil that can be used for different purposes or uses: as a food, as a cosmetic, for hair, skin, etc. It is a natural product, without additives or chemicals, which contains a large amount of saturated acids and various nutrients.

In addition, it has many health benefits (especially for skin and hair) (coconut oil for hair). This is because, by not going through refining processes, it does not lose nutrients.

The fact that it contains such high levels of saturated fatty acids (saturated fat), causes it to oxidize slowly and it can resist rancidity. This implies that the coconut oil lasts up to 6 months without deteriorating (yes, it has to be at an ambient temperature of approximately 24ºC).

However, its use or consumption should not be taken lightly, since excessive amounts of coconut oil can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

How to use it?

How to use coconut oil for hair? Through some simple tips you will be able to hydrate and nourish your hair so that it acquires a healthier appearance. Let's see them:

Ideally, you should apply coconut hair oil to your hair at night. Afterwards, rinse your hair the next morning. If in addition to wanting to revitalize your hair, you want to eliminate dandruff, you can try mixing coconut oil with sesame oil; Let the mixture work for approximately 30 minutes, and finally rinse your hair with warm water.

If, on the other hand, you want to close the split ends, you also have other options: mix coconut oil with almond oil, another product that is also very beneficial for hair.

If you also want to prepare a homemade mask based on coconut oil, You can try mixing the coconut oil with hot milk, apply the mixture and let it rest for 20 or 30 minutes. You can also add other ingredients / products as mentioned (for example almond oil).

Steps

After this brief introduction, we are going to propose a series of steps to use coconut oil on your hair. First apply the product in your usual wash (you can use it daily or every 2 days, for example).

You can apply it with a spoon (for example a couple of tablespoons). Rub the product on the scalp and hair; You can also extend it from the roots to the ends. One tip is to use a shower cap, covering your hair (previously collected) with it.

This will increase the effectiveness of the product. Let the product act (between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on the time you have) and rinse it with plenty of water. Here you can use your usual products (shampoo, conditioner ...).

Which has benefits?

Coconut oil can be used for hair (to soften it, give it shine, keep it healthy and nourished, etc.). In fact, it has been used for this purpose since ancient times, when in India it was used for hair care.

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Let's see the 11 main benefits (and advantages) of coconut oil for hair.

1. Protects

Coconut oil is ideal for protecting your hair from external agents (sun rays, pollution, dry or humid environments, etc.). You can use it by applying a thin layer of it to your hair, from root to tip.

2. Fight dandruff

Coconut oil can go very well to combat hair dandruff. Dandruff is caused by different factors: hormonal, stressors, seasonal changes, etc. In addition, it implies excessive fat throughout the hair.

With coconut oil we can fight against the irritation caused by dandruff, as well as against flaking and the burning sensation. We achieve this thanks to the antimicrobial and antifungal properties of coconut oil.

3. Revitalize

Due to its nutrients, coconut hair oil also revitalizes your hair, making it look healthy and shiny.

4. Nourishes

Another benefit of coconut oil is that it deeply nourishes the hair, providing it with the necessary nutrients to make it look healthy.

5. Hydrates

Coconut oil hydrates, in addition to hair, skin (that is why it can also be used for dry skin). Its moisturizing effect can be great in summer, where hair has been easily damaged by the sun's rays, the beach, etc.

6. Eliminate frizz

Another benefit of coconut oil is that it prevents or eliminates frizz after showering or swimming, when it rains, etc. This is due to dry hair and lack of hydration. In these cases we can use a teaspoon of coconut oil; spread the substance through the hair with your hands and do not rinse.

7. Avoid protein loss

Coconut oil, when used for hair, helps reduce protein loss naturally. A study carried out in India revealed this fact.

8. Does not use chemicals

Another advantage of coconut oil for hair is that it does not use chemicals, but is all natural. That is, it does not contain alcohols or silicones, or products that can damage your hair. These products are usually contained in most hairdressing products.

9. You can prepare it at home

The next advantage is that you can prepare a homemade coconut oil hair mask yourself. You can use it as a conditioner.

10. Variety of products

In addition, you also have the option of buying products that contain coconut oil for hair (although they may be less natural), such as shampoos. The market is very broad in this regard.

11. Stimulates growth

Coconut oil stimulates hair growth. This is achieved thanks to its high content of proteins, essential fatty acids and antioxidant substances. In addition, these compounds help prevent hair loss and repair damaged hair fibers.

Lauric acid is another of its compounds, which enhances hair growth. If we also consume enough water during the day and follow a balanced diet, the effects multiply.

Bibliographic references

• German Insurance Association. (2014). Coconut oil. Berlin: Transport Information Service.
• World Health Organization. (2015). Avoiding Heart Attacks and Strokes.
• Rele, A., Mohile, R. (2003). Effect of mineral oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil on prevention of hair damage. Journal of cosmetic science, 54 (2): 175-92.