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Coconut Oil for Hair

Writer's picture: Crystal AguhCrystal Aguh

Coconut oil has been used for centuries in hair and its unique chemical structure makes it especially beneficial for it to penetrate deeply into the hair shaft. As a result, coconut oil has the ability to minimize the swelling that occurs when washing the hair (hygral fatigue).




Post-Wash Routine

Coconut oil can also help with your post-wash routine. Washing the hair can lead to breakage and weaken the hair shaft. But coconut oil has actually been shown to minimize post-wash hair protein loss and improve moisture retention, thus leading to stronger hair.


I should mention that feel that their hair does not react well when exposed to coconut oil, and if that is the case for you, that is okay. Unfortunately, while many oils may help with moisture retention, most have a molecular size that is too large to penetrate the hair shaft as coconut oil does.


Coconut oil as a Deep Conditioner

  1. Apply softened coconut oil to dry hair and cover with a shower cap or warm towel for 10-15 minutes.

  2. Shampoo and condition the hair as normal.

  3. Apply coconut oil immediately after washing. Alternatively, you can apply a water based (for straight, wavy or thin hair) or cream based (thick, curly hair) based leave in conditioner to the hair if your hair is dry before applying coconut oil.

Last note

There are many different types of coconut oil available: virgin, refined, processed, unprocessed and a combination of these four. I generally recommend organic, virgin coconut oil whether or not is has been processed or not. You can play around with different varieties and figure out what works best for you.

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Johns Hopkins Department of Dermatology,

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