How often is coconut oil referred to as the end-all, fix-all to your problems? The natural oil is known for having numerous health benefits. Beyond revitalizing your skin and hair, it is a superfood with strong medicinal properties. Despite the benefits of coconut oil for curls, the magical oil has also proven to be damaging to others, depending on the texture and porosity of your hair. Some people wonder if coconut oil is good for curly hair. In other words, there are pros and cons to incorporating coconut oil into your regimen.
Pro: Coconut oil can encourage hair growth and thickness
Image Source: @ashlydanielaa
Coconut oil can hydrate, nourish, and clean the scalp by removing buildup. Applying a small amount after your wash day allows the oil to penetrate the hair shaft, seeping deeply into the follicles. This strengthens the hair as a whole, promoting growth, fullness, and density. Sounds great, right? If your hair type is on the drier, coarse side, it will do the exact opposite.
Con: Coconut oil can promote protein buildup
Although coconut oil cleanses the scalp, it can also cause a protein buildup by restricting moisture on dry or coarse hair. This will block the needed moisture and cause your strands to dry out. The end result? Split ends and hair breakage.
Pro: Coconut oil can tame your curls
Image Source: @angel_clark_
If you have frizzy hair, adding a little coconut oil will surely tame your curls. Applying a small amount before you unravel your twist-out will reduce unruly strands. Depending on your hair’s porosity, it can keep your curls under control.
Con: Too much Coconut oil can be bad for your hair
Image Source: @ysiqzada
Typically, naturals never follow the “dime size” instructions on the back of a conditioner bottle. The truth is, we use the old-fashioned guestimate—trial and error—regarding how much of a product will suffice for our hair. In the case of coconut oil, oversaturating your hair is counterproductive. Because it is a heavier oil, it will weigh down your curls if you use too much.
Before you succumb to the coconut oil craze, you must know your hair porosity.
Image Source: @yapahcurls
- Dry or coarse hair will reject coconut oil, possibly resulting in brittleness and/or breakage.
Image Source: @pattygaffxoxo
- Fine or medium hair will absorb it, increasing growth and density.
If you find the superfood doing more damage than good, use it for its other benefits like healthy skin, teeth, and diet. If you need a hair oil substitute, peppermint, jojoba, argan, and castor oil are great options. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite coconut oil products below so you can start shopping now.
- Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Moisture Gro Hairdress Hair Cream
- Coconut Baby Oil for Hair & Skin Care, Natural & Organic
- African Pride Moisture Miracle Coconut Oil & Baobab Oil Leave-In Hair Cream
What has your experience been with coconut oil? Has it restored or destroyed your hair?
