Coconut oil has been thought of as a miracle treatment for hair for a long time. 

It is high in nutrients such as fatty acids and vitamins, which can nourish and strengthen the hair.

It is also effective in promoting hair growth.

Continue reading the article to learn more about the benefits of using coconut oil in your hair.

How is coconut oil good for your hair

Coconut oil contains many beneficial properties that are good for the hair.

Some of the benefits of coconut oil for hair include:

Moisturizes hair

Due to its low molecular weight, coconut oil can easily penetrate the hair shaft.

This can help in stopping hair from losing protein and make it stronger. 

Because coconut oil has hydrating properties, it may also help dry or damaged hair stay hydrated.

Anti-inflammatory properties

Coconut oil is anti-inflammatory because it contains lauric acid and other fatty acids.

It has been shown to stop the growth of certain fungi and bacteria, including those that cause scalp problems like dandruff. 

Also, the anti-inflammatory qualities of coconut oil may help those with irritated or inflamed scalps.

Damage protection

Using coconut oil
Using coconut oil

Coconut oil has been said to protect hair from damage caused by the surroundings and how it is styled. 

It creates a shield around the hair to guard against damage from UV rays, heat styling, and chemical treatments. 

But the extent of this protection may differ for each person and situation.

A study suggests that hair treatments containing vegetable oils, particularly coconut oil, can repair damaged hair from UV radiation by surface coating and entering the hair, thereby filling the gaps left by oxidative damage.

Prevents Frizz

Hair gets frizzy when water gets into the hair shaft and causes it to swell and look uneven. 

Coconut oil stops the hair from absorbing water, which is especially helpful in humid areas. This can help control frizz.

Damaged hair tends to look frizzy even when the weather is dry. 

Since coconut oil can get into the hair shaft, it can also help smooth out rough, damaged hair.

Prevents hair loss

Many people believe that coconut oil can aid in treating hair loss and the growth of new hair. 

According to a 2015 study on rats, it was found that formulas that contain coconut oil promoted hair growth and increased the thickness of hair.

Another 2015 study looked at hair loss caused by pollution and environmental degradation. 

It was found in the study that coconut oil could protect the hair from harm while also reversing or curing hair loss.

Cons of coconut oil for hair

Coconut and coconut oil
Coconut and coconut oil

Coconut oil is generally considered to be generally safe for hair.

But it can have some cons like:

Weigh hair down

Coconut oil can make hair look greasy and weigh it down. 

This can be a problem for people who has thin hair.

Using coconut oil once or twice a week is recommended for the best results.

Allergic reactions

Coconut oil allergy is rare.

But it can still happen.

Some of its symptoms can be a skin rash, swelling, vomiting, and a rapid heart rate.

Warning:
Stop applying coconut oil to your hair and see a doctor if you have a coconut allergy.

Not suitable for all the hair types

Coconut oil may not suit all hair types. 

It may weigh down low-porosity hair, which has trouble absorbing moisture. 

Fact:
Hair porosity is the ability of hair to absorb and retain moisture.

Lead to product build up

Excessive use of coconut oil in the hair or not washing the hair thoroughly after applying oil might lead to product buildup in the hair and skin. 

This can make the hair look dull and greasy and even cause the hair shafts to get clogged.

Takeaway

Coconut oil is popular for its hair growth and repair qualities.

It has many benefits for hair, like moisturizing, preventing dandruff and frizz, promoting hair growth, and decreasing hair loss.

However, it can also have some cons, like weighing hair down, leading to buildup, and it might also cause allergic reactions.

As a result, it is recommended not to overdo coconut oil in your hair.

Patience and consistent use are required to get the maximum benefits that coconut oil has for hair.

Recommended Article:
To know more about other natural remedies for hair loss, read, How to Prevent Hair Loss Naturally: A Step-by-Step Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does coconut oil help hair growth?

Yes, coconut oil can help with hair growth. The high fatty acid content of coconut oil, as well as the possible anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities of this oil, may aid in the development of new hair. 

What happens if you don’t wash coconut oil out of your hair properly?

If you do not wash coconut oil from your hair properly, there might be a buildup. If buildup occurs, the hair might become dull and greasy, and the hair shaft might get clogged.

Does coconut oil help thinning hair?

There may be some benefits from coconut oil for thinning hair. It aids in hydrating and moisturizing the hair and scalp, which can enhance the overall condition and look of the hair. 

Can I use coconut oil on my hair every day?

Using coconut oil every day may only be suitable for some. Excessive coconut use can lead to buildup, making the hair look greasy and dull. It can be used once or twice a week to get the results.

Citations:
WowRx uses only high-quality sources while writing our articles. Please read our content information policy to know more about how we keep our content reliable and trustworthy.