Does coconut oil cause hair breakage?

Author: Marlon Mosciski  |  Last update: Monday, December 15, 2025

It often causes fine hair to become brittle and break.” These undesirable results occur when coconut oil is unable to penetrate the hair, whether due to natural texture or too much of a good thing. “Be careful not to use it in excess,” cautions Fitzsimons.

Can coconut oil make hair break?

If you have damaged hair then overusing coconut oil can have disastrous effects. This is because the oils molecule weight is so small it can penetrate your hair. It also contains lauric acid which if used regularly can lead you to a build up which can make hair extremely brittle resulting in breakage.

What are the side effects of coconut oil on hair?

It will sit on top of your hair, make it look greasy. And if you use the coconut oil on your scalp, it can clog your hair follicles, clog the pores on your head, stunt your hair growth, and lead to inflammation and irritation. That's because coconut oil is comedogenic. It is considered a pore clogging oil.

Why do hairdressers hate coconut oil?

It doesn't penetrate the hair.

Coconut oil sits on top of the hair and doesn't penetrate the hair at all, no matter how long you leave it on. This is because the molecules are simply too big.

Why do hair break after oiling?

Oiling leads to accumulation of dust and oil on the scalp which blocks your hair follicles, hence increasing the fall. It is also recommended that you don't leave any oil on for more than one day as it can attract dirt and pollution to your scalp.

Can coconut oil cause hair loss?

Can oiling cause split ends?

Less split ends: Hair oil is ultra-hydrating and nourishing, and this can heal split ends and hydrate the dry parts of your hair. While oil may not reverse the damage, it can prevent further damage. Improved hair texture: The extra dose of hydration will help enhance your hair's natural luster and texture.

What causes extreme hair fall?

It can be the result of heredity, hormonal changes, medical conditions or a normal part of aging. Anyone can lose hair on their head, but it's more common in men. Baldness typically refers to excessive hair loss from your scalp. Hereditary hair loss with age is the most common cause of baldness.

What hair types should not use coconut oil?

Low porosity hair: If you have low porosity hair, meaning your hair cuticles have a hard time absorbing moisture, coconut oil may not be the best choice.

Why does my hair feel like straw after coconut oil?

“For less porous types, coconut oil can prevent moisture and make hair feel a bit more like straw.” If you have very fine hair, opt for an oil that stays liquid at room temperature, like argan or jojoba.

What is the controversy about coconut oil?

Myth: Coconut oil is a heart-healthy cooking alternative.

The reality: Coconut oil has been shown to raise cholesterol levels — the good and the bad kinds — more than other plant-based oils like olive or canola. And in truth, medium-chain triglycerides make up only a small amount of the fatty acids in coconut oil.

Is it better to put coconut oil in wet or dry hair?

We recommend that you use the hair oil in wet hair as a finishing, nourishing treatment after washing your hair with shampoo and conditioner. By applying the coconut oil to wet hair, the hair gets an extra moisture boost and is left soft and shiny all day.

What are the disadvantages of coconut oil?

Coconut oil contains over 80% saturated fat. Some experts have linked saturated fats with cardiovascular and other diseases. The 2015–2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend limiting consumption of saturated fats to less than 10% of a day's calories.

What happens if you leave coconut oil in your hair for too long?

Coconut oil hair masks can clog hair follicles, make your hair greasy, and reduce growth. You can leave coconut oil in your hair for up to 30 minutes.

Are there any negative side effects of coconut oil on hair?

Disadvantages of Coconut Oil for Hair

Coconut oil can weigh hair down: It can make fine hair appear limp, flat, and greasy. Overuse can make coarse hair stiff: It's essential to avoid buildup and rotate use with other oils. Clogged pores: Do a skin test before use to see how your skin will react.

What oil is best for your hair?

  • Jojoba Oil: Best for Thinning Hair. ...
  • Avocado Oil: Best for Smoother, Shinier Hair. ...
  • Sweet Almond Oil: Best for UV Protection. ...
  • Grapeseed Oil: Best for Frizz and Split Ends. ...
  • Macadamia Nut Oil: Best for Manageability. ...
  • Baobab Oil: Best for Curly Hair. ...
  • Rosemary Oil: Best of Hair Regrowth. ...
  • Tea Tree Oil: Best for Treating Dandruff.

Is coconut oil good for gray hair?

Coconut oil massage not only improves the blood circulation of the scalp but also gradually restores hair color & prevents further greying of hair, and thus, delays the greying process and strengthens the hair and promotes growth.

Does coconut oil make hair brittle?

“Coconut oil is a great ingredient to implement into your hair routine because it has nourishing fatty acids, which help moisturize the hair, prevent breakage, and strengthen the hair,” says Fitzsimons. According to research, coconut oil actually reduces protein loss in both damaged and undamaged hair.

How do you fix damaged hair that feels like straw?

What are the best treatments for hair that feels like straw?
  1. Use essential oils to keep your hair moisturised. ...
  2. Choose the right cosmetic products for your hair type. ...
  3. Wash your hair frequently (with gentle products) ...
  4. Avoid heat styling your hair. ...
  5. Use harsh styling products sparingly. ...
  6. Make sure you stay well-hydrated.

Can white people use coconut oil in hair?

Yes!

It's a fantastic natural treatment for many different types of hair. We've gone over some of the scientific evidence which supports its use for hairstyling. Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids, nutrients, and health properties.

What are the disadvantages of oiling your hair?

While leaving oil on your hair may seem beneficial, prolonged exposure can have adverse effects. If hair growth oil is left on for extended periods, it can attract dirt, clog pores, and lead to dandruff and itching. Over-saturation may also weaken hair strands, making them prone to breakage.

Is coconut oil good for thinning hair?

Is coconut oil suitable for all hair types? Coconut oil used on its own tends to work well for people with curly or straight thick, coarse, or very dry hair. If you have medium-thickness or fine hair, using pure coconut oil may be too heavy for your hair.

What is the number 1 reason for hair loss?

Causes of hair loss
  • Hereditary hair loss. Both men and women develop this type of hair loss, which is the most common cause of hair loss worldwide. ...
  • Age. ...
  • Alopecia areata. ...
  • Childbirth, illness, or other stressors. ...
  • Hair care. ...
  • Hairstyle pulls on your scalp. ...
  • Hormonal imbalance. ...
  • Scalp infection.

When I run my fingers through my hair it falls out?

It's perfectly normal to lose a few stray strands when running your fingers, or a comb, through your hair. But if you notice increased hair being pulled out when you are being gentle, this can be a cause of concern that you should get checked over.

What does thyroid hair loss look like?

Severe and prolonged hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause loss of hair. The loss is diffuse and involves the entire scalp rather than discrete areas. The hair appears uniformly sparse.

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