THE BENEFITS OF COCONUT OIL FOR THE HAIR

September 3, 2013 by Maya Petrova (Health & Balance) 2 Comments

Coconut oil has been used for centuries and is the beauty secret of the gorgeous Cleopatra and Nefertiti. One of the oils main applications is for hair treatment. Research shows that the ancient oil is superior to all mineral oils for rebuilding hair proteins. Coconut oil has the power to soften the hair and smooth the cuticles which adds shine and a healthy look to even the most damaged hair. Moreover, you also get the added bonus of having an antimicrobial for your scalp as the oil controls the fungus responsible for dandruff. However, here is the tricky part – how can we can all the benefits of coconut oil? Can we trust the label with the big coconut picture and the model with the glowing hair from the advert? Do the hair products on the market contain enough oil to nourish the hair? Sadly, the answer is ‘No’. The best and safest way to get the full coconut hair power is to use the oil on its  own in its unrefined virgin organic version which guarantees the preservation of all vital nutrients. Today, I will give you a few examples of how to apply it to your hair.

Unrefined, organic coconut oil is thick and semi-solid at cool room temperatures and hence should be warmed to melt before application. You can do this by putting 1 tbs in a glass which you then place in a bowl of boiling water. Do not use the microwave.What’s in for the hair?

1. Thickening and Protection – the oil is completely absorbed by the hair, making it look thicker while also protecting it from the harsh environmental damage as it reduces the fiber swelling of the hair.

2. Fights hair loss and gives shine –  it helps the hair retain its proteins that are normally lost in damaged hair. It also locks in moisture, giving you a stronger, healthier and silkier-looking hair.

3. Removes dandruff – its antibacterial properties look after the scalp’s health, protecting it from infections that can cause itching and weak dry hair.

4. Total hair & scalp health – Vitamins E and K are found in coconut oil which help nourish the hair and boost its health and shine. Massaging it into the scalp enables the hair follicles to absorb these nutrients, whilst stimulating blood circulation which prevents the building-up of dry skin – another cause of dandruff.How to use it?

1. Hair conditioner

Use 1-2 tbs after you shampoo the hair instead of your commercial conditioner. Leave for a few minutes and then rinse well. Do not massage too much in the scalp to avoid greasy results.

2. Hair treatment

For damaged hair you can do a deep conditioning treatment. Mix 1tbs of honey, 1 egg and 3 tablespoons of coconut oil. Massage on the hair and leave for a few hours. Put a warm towel around and then rinse well. My favourite ‘quick and easy’ recipe is to mix 2 tbs coconut oil with 1 tbs shea butter and 2tbs argan oil. You can adjust the mix depending on your hair length. I apply it on dry hair (both roots and ends) and then sleep with the mask for deep conditioning. This makes shampooing very easy the next day and you may not even need a conditioner.

You can also take a 2-3 tbs of coconut oil and put it on your dry ends for a few hours. You will feel the moisture straight away.

If you have any left, just apply it to the skin. Coconut oil is a great overnight moisturizer for deep nourishing of the skin while you are sleeping. Remove it with rose water or your morning tonic the next day.

The best part…the smell! For all coconut lovers…you feel transported to paradise once you have it on. Give it a try:).

With health & balance,

Maya xxx