Coconut Oil For Hair + Easy DIY Coconut Oil Hair Mask

This coconut oil hair mask recipe will work to repair your hair and leave it feeling smooth and shiny! This hair mask is made with coconut oil, raw honey, and apple cider vinegar and only takes 20 minutes to treat your damaged hair!

Your hair really takes a beating. Between the chlorine and sea salt from your summer vacations, the constant straightening, blow-drying or curling, and just the general wear and tear of everyday life, your hair deserves a little TLC. If you struggle with frizzy, stressed out, dry hair, coconut oil could be the solution you’ve been searching for. Here are just a few of the amazing hair-hydrating benefits of coconut oil and great mask recipes to help you soak in all that tropical goodness.

Coconut oil is such a versatile product that it would almost be easier to list what it can’t do than what it can. It is a source of healthy fat and antioxidants that is excellent for any kind of cooking, but it is also a popular ingredient in various cosmetics such as lotion, makeup, and soap. Plus, it is an all-star hair product as it is rich in lauric acid and medium-chain fatty acids that are easily absorbed into the hair shaft and help strengthen your locks, condition your dry scalp, and help hair grow faster. It is always a good idea to have a jar of unrefined, organic coconut oil in your beauty cabinet. You never know when you’ll use it next!

Benefits of Coconut Oil for Hair

PREVENTS PROTEIN LOSS

Coconut oil can help protect the hair from protein loss that comes from washing too frequently. It is particularly beneficial for those with fine to medium shiny hair since they are more prone to protein deficiency. Apply a thin layer about an hour before you shower and follow with normal shampoo and conditioning routine. You can also use it as a protection from damaging water by applying it before you hit the pool.

ENCOURAGES HAIR GROWTH

Getting shorter hair is easy, a simple trip to the salon and a pair of scissors will suffice. Getting your hair to grow longer, on the other hand, is a bit more complicated. Along with a healthy diet, (remember, all change starts from the inside out) daily application of a small amount of coconut oil can help prevent damage that stunts hair growth. Anything can prevent your hair from growing including pollutants, styling, and even brushing or combing. This tropical treasure can keep your healthy hair moisturized to prevent breakage and protect it from environmental factors so that you’ll soon notice your hair is healthier and longer.

NATURAL DETANGLER

Detangling can be a brutal process that is incredibly damaging. Especially if you just grab a fistful of damp hair and a brush and go to town. Since coconut oil does help soothe strands, it can eradicate tangles and keep locks from falling out due to vigorous detangling efforts. Simply rub a little into your hands and work through hair, focusing on the ends and the tangled areas. Gently comb from the bottom up, but not too roughly to help prevent split ends.

TREATS DANDRUFF

Because of its antimicrobial properties, coconut oil could treat dandruff caused by fungus or yeast on the scalp. It may help prevent head skin from becoming flaky and itchy. Keep in mind, you should never apply coconut oil directly to the scalp as it can clog pores and prevent hair from reabsorbing grease. Stick to a hair mask applied to the middle and roots of your locks and your scalp will still receive the benefits.

LICE TREATMENT

If you’ve ever experienced lice, you know how difficult it is to get rid of them. Melted coconut oil (make sure it’s not too hot!) when combined with anise oil in a spray bottle can help eradicate your unwanted guests. Spray liberally all over detangled hair, making sure to massage it into the scalp. Cover with a shower cap for two hours, and comb and rinse. You may have to repeat the process to kill all the lice.

READY TO GIVE IT A TRY?

If coconut oil is good for your hair by itself, imagine the benefits when combined with other hair-healthy ingredients. My diy hair mask will soon be apart of your hair care routine. I always keep a jar of coconut oil in my bathroom for many reasons, and this hair mask is one of them! For this recipe, you’ll need a two tablespoons of coconut oil, a tablespoon of honey (raw is best), one tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and a few drops of essential oils if you like. Peppermint essential oil is my favorite and works to stimulate the hair follicles. Once you’re done treating your hair, rinse the mask off and follow up with a natural shampoo and conditioner.

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Too much of a good thing…

As they say with everything, moderation is key! Though coconut oil is generally considered safe to use, too much could lead to an oil buildup on your hair. If you already struggle with oily hair, coconut oil probably isn’t a good option. Start with a very small amount of oil to see how your hair reacts before slathering it all over your head. Be sure to rinse it out with a clarifying shampoo to keep your hair from becoming dull and greasy. Remember, it’s not for every hair type! If your hair responds poorly, try a different type of hair oil such as argan or castor. 

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• 8 Genius Ways To Use Coconut Oil For Skin Care

This article was originally published on January 7th, 2020 and was updated with new images on September 16th, 2021.

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