4 Virgin Coconut Oil Benefits for Hair That Needs Rescuing

Virgin coconut oil is a popular ingredient in beauty and wellness products for its many benefits. Extracted from fresh coconut milk, virgin coconut oil is unrefined and chock-full of antioxidants, making it a prized natural oil. Read on to learn more about virgin coconut oil benefits for hair and why it’s worth adding to your haircare routine.

Massaging virgin coconut oil on your hair and scalp can have multiple benefits. Massaging motions alone can help improve blood circulation, triggering the growth of healthier skin cells, stronger hair follicles, and consequently healthier hair. Apart from this, topically applying virgin coconut oil can help reduce dryness in the scalp, especially during the Ber months when there is less humidity in the air.

When your scalp starts to feel itchy with the weather shift, massage it with virgin coconut oil before shampooing. It should moisturize the scalp and hair and prevent issues such as dandruff and other forms of irritation. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), virgin coconut oil is high in antioxidants and has antimicrobial properties that help eliminate bacteria and fungi.

According to a study on the prevention of hair damage published by the NIH, coconut oil is the best oil for reducing protein loss in hair. When hair lacks protein and moisture, it loses elasticity, making it prone to breakage. You can lose from frequent heat-styling, showering with hot water, or getting chemical treatments such as hair coloring and straightening.

The long and straight structure of coconut oil allows it to easily bind with hair. When absorbed in the hair shaft, it protects hair in two ways. First, since it fills in the gaps between the cuticles, it keeps the hair from absorbing too much water. Second, smoothens the cuticle itself, flattening the scale-like surface to prevent further damage, like split ends.

By helping prevent damage and improving scalp health, virgin coconut oil indirectly contributes to hair growth. With regular application, your hair is protected from damage that can lead to breakage, or worse, hair fall. It allows healthier hair to grow out and gives you no reason to keep cutting your hair because of split ends and damage. Try applying it as a hair mask, scalp treatment, or a pre-wash hair protector to get its full range of benefits.

Fight damage even further with Sunsilk Damage Reconstruction Shampoo. It cleanses the hair and scalp while moisturizing hair — minus the weight. Follow it up with Cream Silk Organic Powerfusion Rich Moisture Ultra Conditioner, which is enriched with shea butter and coconut oil that deeply nourish the hair. This leaves your hair smooth, shiny, and bouncy.

Among the most popular virgin coconut oil benefits for hair are smoothness and shine. You can use virgin coconut oil as a detangling serum to get rid of frizz and add shine to your hair. If your hair is wavy or curly, it could benefit from virgin coconut oil’s smoothening properties and even help define your curls. Apply a small amount starting from the midsection of your hair down to the ends. Avoid getting any oil on your scalp to prevent flat roots and limp strands.

Getting smooth and shiny hair is achievable with items that may already be in your pantry. Reap the benefits of virgin coconut oil benefits for hair by using it as a scalp treatment, detangler, conditioner, and hair mask.