Because coconut oil can penetrate many layers of your hair, it's often used in detanglers and deep conditioning treatments. It's especially helpful for those with damaged or dry hair.
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.
Apply the coconut oil mask on dirty, dry hair. Not on hair that is already wet!
You can apply it if your hair is wet or dry, but your hair and scalp should be clean, otherwise, the oil will not get a chance to be absorbed. Applying them to dry hair is best for heavy oils such as coconut oil, as large molecules may not penetrate the wet shaft and may dry out the hair.
If your hair is thin or gets greasy easily, you can skip the scalp so the oil doesn't weigh your hair down. Allow the coconut oil to sit on your hair for 20 to 30 minutes after application. If your hair is very dry or porous, you can leave it on longer; some people like to use it as an overnight treatment.
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.
A buildup of coconut oil can lead to greasy hair, which can weigh down thinner hair types.
Some claim coconut oil offers benefits like healthier gums, plaque removal, and even whiter teeth. But before you make oil pulling part of your morning routine, it's important to ask, “Does coconut oil really whiten teeth?” It turns out that oil probably won't offer you significant oral benefits.
Over-oiling leads to a greasy buildup that may block hair follicles and affect scalp health adversely. This can breed a fungus and the onset of dandruff, which exacerbates hair loss. A moderate amount will work, applied sparingly, as a rule. Most people find that once a week or every fortnight is ample.
“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.
If you have low porosity hair, which has difficulty absorbing moisture, coconut oil might not be the best choice. Instead of being absorbed, it can sit on top of the hair, potentially leaving it greasy and lacking the hydration it needs.
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.
Use the right amount
“Applying excess oil can clog hair follicles, leading to hair fall and dandruff. Similarly, applying it to dirty hair can cause scalp infections,” shares Dr Smita Naram, co-founder Ayushakti.
Coconut oil repels moisture, which is essential for your hair. The more you use it, the drier and brittle your hair becomes, leading to more breakage. Coconut oil should never be used on dry, coarse, or brittle hair because these hair types are particularly vulnerable to breakage from coconut oil use.
Jojoba Oil
Not only does it deeply penetrate and moisturize each strand but it also effectively seals and locks in moisture keeping your hair hydrated for longer. It's perfect for an overnight treatment for dry or damaged hair and can also be used with a leave-in conditioner to keep moisture locked in.
It can moisturize your lashes and brows, protect them from bacterial and fungal infections, and make them stronger and healthier. Coconut oil offers tons of benefits for your lashes, however, making them grow any longer isn't one of them.
Brush off the stains with Baking Soda
It is an inexpensive and easy home remedy for teeth whitening. To use this home remedy: Add a few drops of water to baking soda until you form a paste. Apply the mixture to the toothbrush bristles and brush as usual for about two minutes.
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.
After showering or bathing, apply coconut oil to your body to help hydrate your skin (keeping in mind the cautions noted above). Rub the oil from your neck down and focus on areas that get drier like elbows, knees, hands and feet. You can also keep a bit of coconut oil with you during the day and apply as needed.
A reason behind hair fall after applying oil can be frequent oiling. This can also lead to product buildup on the scalp and hair, which can weigh down strands and make them more prone to breakage. Over time, this buildup can also attract dirt and pollutants, leading to scalp issues and hair loss.
“People with dry, coarse tightly curled hair can benefit from oiling, while others with fine, straight hair may find oiling weighs their hair down too much. Those who are prone to dandruff should avoid all types of oils.”