What science says about Coconut Oil For Hair Care

Most medical experts believe that coconut oil for hair can be beneficial. They argue that coconut oil is an effective moisturizer and helps maintain the scalp’s moisture barrier, preventing hair loss.

It also has anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties and can protect hair from fungal, viral, and bacterial infections such as dandruff. It also contains vitamins and minerals that help maintain hair health, keeping it shiny and smooth.

While experts may not have strong objections to the use of coconut oil for hair care, they point out that coconut oil might not be beneficial for people of all hair types, especially those whose hair is less porous.

Experts argue that coconut oil is ranked 4 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale, which means that it can clog pores and cause scalp irritations or inflammation in some people with sensitive scalps.

Opinion in favor of using coconut oil for haircare:

Experts who support the use of coconut oil for haircare claim that the regular application of coconut oil can protect, maintain, and strengthen the hair, keeping it shiny and healthy.

Several studies demonstrate that coconut oil benefits hair. One study, “Effect of mineral oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil on prevention of hair damage” compared mineral, sunflower, and coconut oil’s effect on the hair. Researchers found that coconut oil was more effective in preventing hair protein loss than the other oils. Thus, one way coconut oil protects hair is by preventing protein loss.

Francesca Fusco, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, claims that "the real benefit [of using coconut oil], with which I have the most experience, is with scalp and hair application." She recommends products containing coconut oil because they result in smoother and shinier hair.

Opinion against using coconut oil for haircare:

Some experts oppose the idea of applying coconut oil to hair. They argue that coconut oil isn’t suitable for all hair types and might strip the hair of its moisture. They also point out that some people’s scalps might be sensitive to coconut oil, so adding coconut oil may cause irritation or inflammation.

Other experts claim that there is not enough research to support the claim that coconut oil can protect and strengthen the hair. However, they are not against the application of coconut oil for healthier hair. Instead, experts call for more research into the benefits of coconut oil for hair care.

Ross Charles, the owner of Ross Charles Hairdressing, claims that coconut oil is only a “quick fix” for hair dryness and hair loss. He argues that coconut oil may prevent moisture from penetrating your hair, making it dry and brittle.