The benefits of coconut oil
What is coconut oil?
It is directly extracted from the flesh (or albumen) of the coconut. Once separated from the shell, the albumen is dried and then pressed to extract a vegetable oil: coconut oil. It is distinguished by its whitish color and characteristic exotic smell.
Like macadamia or neem oil, it also has a solid texture. Indeed, it naturally solidifies when the temperature is below 25°C.
Simply place the bottle under hot water to liquefy and use it. This is due to its richness in saturated fatty acids that solidify at room temperature.
In cooking, it is used for cooking or seasoning dishes. But it is also an excellent cosmetic oil. Beneficial for skin care, it is also recognized for its benefits on hair.
Read also | What are the best dietary supplements for hair?
The virtues of coconut oil on hair
It is composed of about 90% saturated fats. These fats, like lauric acid, nourish, strengthen, and deeply repair the hair fiber. They contribute to the structure of the hair and the formation of the protective barrier.
Thus, they help maintain a good level of hydration in the hair and protect against external aggressions.
The oil contains other active ingredients such as vitamin A and vitamin E. Both have antioxidant properties and maintain the health of the hair.
Coconut oil also makes detangling easier. Indeed, it coats and smooths the hair fiber. Hair is softer, silkier, and easier to style. It is a valuable ally for curly, frizzy, or kinky hair, and will tame frizz and unruly strands.
This vegetable oil is ideal for dry, brittle, or damaged hair. It also helps prevent and/or repair split ends.
Finally, as shown in this study, coconut oil reduces protein loss involved in hair loss.
How to use coconut oil for hair?
Choosing the right coconut oil
It is generally available in bottles or capsules. To fully benefit from its hair advantages, prioritize external use. It is easily found online, in organic stores, and pharmacies. Some criteria should be considered when purchasing:
- Choose a virgin and 100% pure coconut oil. It should not be mixed with another vegetable oil nor contain preservatives or fragrances;
- Prefer a certified organic oil, unrefined, unbleached, and un-deodorized;
- Ensure it is cold-pressed or from a first cold pressing. This process guarantees good preservation of the active ingredients and nutrients contained in the coconut.
Coconut oil for external hair use
Gentle and safe, it is applied directly to the hair. It is well-suited for normal to dry hair. Oily hair should avoid applying it to the roots and focus on the lengths and ends instead.
This oil is included in the formulation of many hair care products available on the market: shampoos, conditioners, masks… You can also create your own homemade hair care recipes using coconut oil.
Coconut oil hair care ideas
Nourishing oil bath
This is an ideal recipe for nourishing dry hair and deeply repairing it. Coconut oil can be used alone or mixed with another vegetable oil: castor, argan, wheat germ…
On dry hair, apply the oil in a thin layer, focusing on the lengths and ends. Wrap your head in a shower cap and leave it on for 30 minutes to overnight.
The longer you leave the oil bath on your hair, the more effective it will be! Then proceed with your usual shampoo. Two shampoos may be necessary to remove all oil residues.
Repairing mask for split ends
This treatment is perfect for damaged hair. It combines coconut oil with restorative honey and rosemary essential oil. The latter improves the condition of weakened hair and strengthens it.
To make this recipe, you will need:
- 5 tablespoons of coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 2 drops of rosemary essential oil
Mix these ingredients in a bowl. Apply to the ends and leave for 30 to 40 minutes. Rinse and do your regular shampoo.
Repeat the application once a week for a month.
Special Hair Growth Treatment
This treatment helps to accelerate hair growth or limit hair loss. Castor oil would promote hair growth.
To make this recipe, you will need:
- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons of castor oil
Mix the vegetable oils in a bowl. Apply to all of the hair, focusing on the roots. Wrap your head in a towel or a cap and leave it on for at least 2 hours. Rinse and do your regular shampoo.
Repeat the application once a week.
