Coconut Oil for Hair: Benefits, Side Effects & Who Should Skip It
Have you seen someone put coconut oil in their hair and wondered if you should try it too? It is a popular hair care tip, but it does not work the same way for everyone. Here is what coconut oil may do, when it may cause trouble, and how to try it with care.
What can coconut oil do for hair?
Coconut oil may help protect the hair you already have. In one study, hair treated with coconut oil lost less protein during washing and grooming. That may help some hair feel less dry or prone to breakage. Coconut oil has not been shown to regrow hair lost from the scalp.
You may like it if your hair feels dry, especially near the ends. But if your hair is fine, even a small amount may feel heavy or look greasy.
What are the possible downsides?
Watch for these signs after you use an oil:
Greasy or flat hair:Â You may have used more than your hair needs.
Bumps near your hairline:Â Oil in hair products can cause breakouts on the forehead and around the hairline.
Itching or irritation:Â Stop using a product if it makes your scalp uncomfortable.
More flakes with no relief:Â Flakes have different causes. Coconut oil is not a fix for every itchy scalp.
Who may want to skip it?
Skip coconut oil on your scalp if it has caused itching or a rash before. If you often get hairline acne, keep oils away from your skin and see if that helps. If you have flakes that will not go away, ask a dermatologist what is causing them before trying more scalp treatments.
Wear a wig or custom hair system? Ask your hair specialist before using coconut oil on it. Care needs can differ by hair type, base, and attachment method. Keep oil away from an adhesive bond unless your specialist says it is safe.
How can you try coconut oil?
If your scalp and hair tolerate it, start small:
Rub a tiny amount between your hands.
Smooth it onto the ends of your hair, away from your scalp.
See how your hair feels before using more.
Wash it out if your hair feels too oily or your skin feels irritated.
There is no need to coat your whole head. A little may be enough.
Coconut oil can be useful for some people, but your hair and scalp get the final say. If you are seeing more shedding or thinning, finding the cause matters more than adding a new oil.
At New Look Institute, we are experts on hair and scalp care and custom hair systems in San Jose, California. We can help you understand your hair care options and find a routine that fits your needs. Contact us to schedule a complimentary consultation.
