Coconut oil is, hands down, one of the most effective hair treatments for a very wide variety of hair issues. Many claim that coconut oil actually works better than any man-made treatments on the market, and because it’s 100% natural it’s free of silicone, alcohols, and other chemicals that can aggravate sensitive skin and hair.
It works incredibly well for repairing damaged hair that has been over-processed heat damaged, or is just naturally dry. Coconut oil is also anti-fungal in nature, making it a perfect natural anti-dandruff treatment, or as a preventative treatment for dandruff. It’s a great regular hair treatment for maintaining very healthy hair and scalp when used as a part of your regular haircare routine (1-4 times per month).
Measure 3 to 5 tablespoons of coconut oil into a microwave-safe bowl. The amount of coconut oil you’ll need depends on the length and thickness of your hair. If you have long, thick hair, use 5; if your hair is shorter and thinner, you only need 3 or 4.
Use unrefined, rather than refined, coconut oil. Refined coconut oil has additives and is put through processes that remove some of the natural compounds that make it so healthy for your hair and skin. Unrefined coconut oil is complete in its natural, healthy goodness.
It’s okay if you accidentally use more coconut oil than your hair really needs. It’s all going to be washed out, anyway!
Photo: ultisky.com
Heat up the coconut oil in the microwave. Put the bowl in the microwave and cook it for about 30 seconds on high. Give it a stir and cook it for another 30 seconds, until it has completely melted. You want the oil just warm enough to melt so it becomes easier to apply to your hair.
You can melt coconut oil with your hands if you don’t have a microwave. Melt one tablespoon at a time by holding it between your palms and gently pushing them together. Coconut oil melts with very little heat.You can also heat up coconut oil on the stove. Scoop it into a small saucepan and heat it up over low heat.
You can also heat up coconut oil by running the jar under hot water in a sink until it melts which will only take a few seconds.
Rub the coconut oil into your hair. Let it cool down for a few moments so it’s not piping hot, then pour the coconut oil around the top of your head, evenly distributing it around your scalp. Use your fingers to massage it in and smooth it down your hair shaft all the way to the tips. Continue massaging it into your hair until your hair is completely drenched in coconut oil.
You can use a comb to help you distribute the oil evenly. Pull it down from your roots to your tips.
You may just want to condition the ends of your hair, rather than the roots. If that’s the case, apply the coconut oil to the ends of your hair instead of pouring it over your scalp. Massage it in with your hands.
Pile your hair on your head and wrap it up in your covering. Place your shower cap, plastic wrap, or old t-shirt over your head and wrap it up so that your hair is completely covered.You can secure your hair with a loose hair band to help it all stay wrapped up on top of your head.
Use a towel to wipe away drips that might have gotten on your face during the wrapping process.
Photo: vibe.com
Wait at least 2 hours or overnight for the oil to soak in. The longer you keep it in your hair, the more conditioned your hair will be. Wait as long as you can manage for best effect.
More Coconut benefits
- Coconut oil makes the hair healthier and can help it grow faster when you apply it more.
- If you color your hair at home, coconut oil can be used to help reduce the damage from the chemicals by adding moisture. Apply a couple drops in your dye bottle and mix it well before using.
- Do not leave the oil for more than a day without washing it. It will make your hair smell bad and become greasy.
- Add with Alma/Indian Gooseberry powder to keep melanin in the hair follicles. This is said to prevent gray hair.
- Coconut oil is great to use as a lotion/moisturizer on sensitive skin, because it’s 100% natural and shouldn’t cause breakouts (unless you’re allergic).
- A small amount of this oil goes a long way. Be careful not to use too much.
- You may not wish to microwave coconut oil; it might leach out the nutrients that help with conditioning. Place under a stream of hot water instead.
- Coconut oil can also be mixed with sugar to create a natural scrub for normal to dry skin.
- Apply sparingly onto legs after shaving for a moisturized shine/glow. [Read more here. via Fashionstylemag]
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