What are the benefits of coconut oil for hair?

The natural ingredient that’s a hydration powerhouse for so many different hair types

Looking for a natural, planet-friendly way to support and boost your hair? Allow us to introduce you to coconut oil (although we imagine you’ve already met!).

But before we get into why coconut oil is so good for your hair and all of its amazing benefits, the first thing to know about dry hair is that some hair types are naturally more prone to a lack of moisture than others. If you’ve been blessed with a head of curls or coils, you’ll know that your gift also comes with a side of dryness, and its sidekick – frizz.

This is due to your hair’s cuticle: the fuzzy effect of frizz comes from a roughed-up cuticle, which is made worse by dehydration. If your hair finds it harder to hold moisture, it’s more likely that the cuticle in your hair will be more raised. That’s why, if you’re trying to smooth your hair, it’s important to find ways to inject moisture into the cuticle. And that’s where coconut oil comes in.

Fun fact: although straighter hair can be prone to dryness too, it’s more likely to have a smoother cuticle and therefore less frizz. This is why hair stylists always recommend blow-drying hair in a downwards motion, as it flattens the cuticle back down for a smooth effect.

How coconut oil helps with hair hydration

Coconut oil is something you’ve probably used when cooking, or even to remove your make-up, but if you have dry hair, it’s an ideal companion. This natural ingredient is incredibly effective at boosting hydration thanks to a fatty acid called lauric acid. 

Lauric acid coats the strands of hair, sealing in hydration. This is particularly beneficial if you live in a humid climate, as it prevents your hair from trying to absorb moisture from the atmosphere (which is what leads to even more frizz).

If you want to reap these moisture-retaining benefits, you can either use coconut oil by itself (always look for extra virgin), or simply incorporate hair care products formulated with coconut oil into your routine.

Love Beauty and Planet is passionate about natural ingredients, which is why coconut oil is in many of our products, including the Coconut Water & Mimosa Flower Volume & Bounty Shampoo and Conditioner.

Formulated without silicones (which can build up in the hair), dyes or parabens, the vegan shampoo and conditioner lock in that much-needed moisture – without weighing your hair down – thanks to their coconut oil-infused formula. To double up that hydration, they also harness the power of sustainably sourced coconut water for even more lightweight hydration.

We’ve also included coconut oil in the Argan Oil & Lavender Smooth & Serene Shampoo and Conditioner. Packed with natural ingredients and plant-based cleansers, we’ve, again, upped the hydration power thanks to a pure argan oil and 100% organic coconut oil formula. Hair is left stronger, more hydrated and therefore less prone to frizz.

Curly and coily hair especially will benefit from the Love Beauty and Planet’s Coconut Milk & White Jasmine range. This nourishing line of shampoo, conditioner and hair sprays offers deep and creamy hydration thanks to (surprise, surprise) coconut oil as well as coconut milk, plus it all comes with a delicious floral fragrance in the form of dreamy white jasmine. 

When using Love Beauty and Planet’s Coconut Milk & White Jasmine Conditioner, apply liberally on to wet hair from roots to ends before combing through with a wide- toothed comb. This will inject moisture and protect the hair from breakage. Remember, your hair is most delicate when it’s wet, and even more so if it’s frizzy. We also recommend investing in a microfiber towel and pat-drying your hair, rather than rubbing or wrapping it, to keep that cuticle smooth.

So no matter your hair type or goals, coconut oil really can help boost hydration levels and leave hair happy.