Coconut oil, also known as extra virgin coconut oil or as coconut butter, is a substance extracted from the coconut (dried coconut or fresh coconut); specifically, it is extracted from the flesh or meat of the coconut by pressing techniques.
It is used especially to moisturize and revitalize the hair, although it also has other uses.but it also has other uses. In this article we will learn what coconut oil is, how it is used to treat hair and 11 benefits it has for hair.
Coconut oil: what is it?
Coconut oil is a vegetable oil that can be used for different purposes or usesAs 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, as it does not undergo refining processes, it does not lose nutrients.
The fact that it contains such high levels of saturated fatty acids (saturated fat) means that it oxidizes slowly and can resist rancidity. This means that coconut oil lasts up to 6 months without deteriorating (although it must be at an ambient temperature of approximately 24ºC).
However, its use or consumption should not be taken lightly, as excessive amounts of coconut oil may increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
How to use it?
How to use coconut oil for hair? Through a few simple tips you will manage to moisturize and nourish your hair for a healthier look. Let’s take a look at them:
Ideally, you should apply coconut oil for hair to your hair at night. Then rinse your hair the next morning. If in addition to revitalizing your hair, you want to eliminate dandruff, you can try mixing coconut oil with sesame oil; let the mixture act for about 30 minutes, and finally rinse your hair with lukewarm water.
If, on the other hand, you want to close split ends, you also have other options: mix coconut oil with almond oil, another product also very beneficial for the hair.
If you also want to prepare a homemade mask based on coconut oil, you can try mixing coconut oil with warm milk, apply the mixture and let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes.. You can also add other ingredients/products as mentioned above (for example almond oil).
Steps
After this brief introduction, we are going to propose you a series of steps to use coconut oil on your hair. First apply the product in your regular 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 into your scalp and hair; you can also spread it from the roots to the ends. A tip is to use a shower cap, covering your hair (previously gathered) with it.
This will increase the effectiveness of the product. Leave the product to act (between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on the time you have available) and rinse with plenty of water. You can then use your usual products (shampoo, conditioner…).
What are the 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 it was used in India for hair care.
- Recommended: “How to straighten your hair (naturally and at home)”.
Let’s take a look at the 11 main benefits (and advantages) of coconut oil for the 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 roots to ends.
2. Fights dandruff
Coconut oil can go a long way in combating dandruff in your hair. Dandruff is caused by different factors: hormonal, stressors, seasonal changes, etc. In addition, it involves excessive oiliness all over the hair.
With coconut oil we can fight against the irritation caused by dandruff, as well as flaking and burning sensation. We achieve this thanks to the antimicrobial and antifungal properties of coconut oil.
3. Revitalizes
Due to its nutrients, coconut oil for hair also revitalizes your hair, giving it a healthy and shiny look.
4. Nourishes
Another benefit of coconut oil is that it deeply nourishes your hair, giving it the nutrients it needs to look healthy.
5. Moisturizes
Coconut oil moisturizes not only the hair but also the skin (which is why it can also be used for dry skin). Its moisturizing effect can be great in summer, when hair is easily damaged by the sun’s rays, the beach, etc.
6. Eliminates frizz
Another benefit of coconut oil is that it prevents or eliminates frizz from after a shower or pool, 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. Prevents protein loss
Coconut oil, when used on the hair, helps to reduce the loss of proteins that the hair naturally has. A study conducted in India revealed this fact.
8. Does not use chemicals
Another advantage of coconut oil for hair is that it does not use chemicals, it is all natural. That is, it does not contain alcohols or silicones, or products that can damage your hair. These products are usually found 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 containing coconut oil for hair (although perhaps less natural), such as shampoos. The market is very wide in this regard.
11. Stimulates growth
Coconut oil stimulates hair growth. This is due 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 are multiplied.