Coconut oil is a miracle worker. The oil is lighter than olive oil or castor oil. It can be used for a range of activities: from cooking to a skin moisturizer.

Coconut oil can also be used for the hair.

When the oil is cold, it appears as a solid. When it is warm (i.e. rubbing it in the palms of hands or rising temperature) it will appear as a liquid.

Due to the oil’s lightness, it can be used to moisturize the hair since it absorbs quickly.

It is recommended to apply oils at night so the oil can soak and condition your hair overnight.

Take a small amount of coconut oil (i.e. pea size ) and rub it in your hands. This should turn the coconut oil into a liquid and make it easier to evenly apply to the hair. Apply the oil to the last few inches of your hair, lightly applying the rest elsewhere. After application, style your hair your hair and prepare for bed. The next morning your hair should feel silky, soft, and touchable.

Avoid being heavy-handed with application. Otherwise, your hair will appear greasy and heavy. Your hair can only absorb so much oil.

You can also opt to use coconut oil as a “hot oil treatment” prior to shampooing and conditioning. In this case, you want to use a few tablespoons of oil depending on your texture and density. Apply the coconut oil closer to scalp ( may even want to apply some to the scalp). Massage the oil all over. When fully applied, either place your hair in a bun or twist your hair up. Wait a few hours, then proceed with shampoo and conditioner. Again, you should have soft, shiny, and moisturized hair.

Just remember to be careful if heating the oil. Using a microwave is not recommended as it may burn off nutrients in the oil and may cause burns when applying. The oil just needs to be room temperature not scolding.

What are some other ways coconut oil can be used for the hair? Let us know in the comments.

 

Photo credit: antpkr | FreeDigitalPhotos.net