Widely used for centuries in its native Southeast Asia and Africa as a standalone hair tonic, and these days found in shampoos, conditioners and hair oils the world over, coconut oil has many haircare benefits. We certainly love it and use it widely in Odylique haircare. But we’re often asked: is coconut oil any good for hair growth?
Understanding Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids, such as lauric acid. These have a special ability to penetrate the hair shaft and deliver nourishment from within.
But not all coconut oil is the same. Virgin coconut oil – from the fresh fruit of the coconut – is considered the best quality. Refined coconut oil – from the milk and dried fruit – is often bleached and deodorised which results in lower nutritional value. Organic virgin coconut oil usually offers the best nutrient profile – organic crops are largely the most vitamin-rich.
Are there any scientific studies supporting the use of coconut oil for hair growth?
Yes and no. Research shows that the impact of coconut oil on hair growth is positive, but via a secondary effect: Coconut oil fosters the right conditions for hair growth but doesn’t boost growth directly. Let’s explain…
Coconut oil helps maintain a healthy scalp microbiome
Our skin’s microbiome is a fascinating subject area. Home to a myriad of microorganisms (the microbiome), to be healthy, our skin needs the ‘good’ and ‘bad’ bacteria in the microbiome to be in balance. Both through the nutrients it delivers to the skin (scalp) and its equilibrating effect on the skin’s bacteria (microbiome), coconut oil helps keep the scalp healthy, creating a conducive environment for hair growth.
Coconut oil may slow down hair loss
Similarly, coconut oil has shown potential to slow down hair loss. The vitamins and minerals present in coconut oil improve follicle strength, making the hair more resilient and less likely to fall out prematurely.
Coconut oil protects against breakage and damage
A couple of research studies found that hair treated with coconut oil once or twice a week was more protected against damage than untreated hair. This is because coconut oil can help reduce both protein loss and moisture loss in the hair.
Moisture Retention and Hair Growth
Proper moisture balance is crucial for hair growth, and coconut oil acts as a natural conditioner, helping to improve moisture retention in the hair shaft. Moisturised hair is softer, and more manageable and less prone to breakage.
Stimulating Hair Follicles
Massaging coconut oil-rich products into the scalp can help improve blood circulation, which in turn may stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth.
So while there is not the same scientific evidence for coconut oil and hair growth as there is for say rosemary, studies have shown that coconut oil does help us have a healthy head of hair.
How to use coconut oil for hair growth and healthy hair?
DIY coconut hair oil
Coconut oil is widely available in supermarkets, health food stores and online, so it’s easy to make your own hair oil. Simply apply warm, pure coconut oil to the scalp and massage it in. This can help improve blood circulation and nourish the hair follicles. Leave the oil on for at least 30 minutes before washing it out with a gentle shampoo.
Odylique Conditioners with Coconut Oil
Odylique conditioners all use virgin coconut oil to promote healthy-looking hair.
In addition, the Rosemary Conditioner contains 2 concentrated rosemary extracts and rice water – all renowned for their hair growth boosting properties.
Odylique Shampoo with Coconut Oil
Coconut is the main oil in several Odylique shampoos. We recommend leaving our natural shampoos on for a few minutes to get the full benefit of their coconut oil and nourishing herbal extracts:
If you need any natural haircare advice, please get in touch! Our experts are on hand at customercare[AT]odylique.co.uk or 01638 491022 (9.30am - 2.30pm Monday to Friday).