Is Coconut Oil good for your hair?
Coconut oil has been hailed as a miracle ingredient in hair care routines for centuries. Known for its unique properties, it’s often recommended for addressing hair breakage and promoting overall hair health. This article delves into the scientific basis of using coconut oil for hair breakage, backed by robust academic references, and how it can be incorporated into a comprehensive hair care routine involving PRP, other oils, anti-dandruff shampoo, and a derma-roller. Contact us for more information about our bespoke hair growth packages.
The Science Behind Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is rich in medium-chain fatty acids, particularly lauric acid, which accounts for its high affinity for hair proteins. This composition allows coconut oil to penetrate the hair shaft more effectively than other oils, providing deep nourishment and protection (Rele & Mohile, 2003).
Evidence of Effectiveness
1. Protein Loss Prevention
A seminal study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science demonstrated that coconut oil is superior to both mineral oil and sunflower oil in preventing hair protein loss. This study highlighted that coconut oil, due to its low molecular weight and straight linear chain, can penetrate the hair shaft, reducing protein loss (Rele & Mohile, 2003).
2. Moisturising Effects
Research published in the International Journal of Trichology supports the use of coconut oil in maintaining hair moisture and reducing breakage. The study found that coconut oil users experienced significantly less hair breakage and split ends compared to those using other oils (Evangelista et al., 2014).
3. Antimicrobial Action
The antimicrobial properties of lauric acid, a major component of coconut oil, were confirmed in a study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, which demonstrated its effectiveness against various pathogens, contributing to a healthier scalp (Ogbolu et al., 2007).
Our recommended Coconut oil to use: https://amzn.to/3VL294s
How to Use Coconut Oil to stop Hair Breakage
Pre-Wash Treatment- Our favourite way to use coconut oil. Apply coconut oil to your hair and scalp at least 30 minutes before washing (ideally with an anti-dandruff shampoo!). This pre-wash treatment helps reduce protein loss during washing and protects the hair shaft.
Post-Wash Conditioner- After washing your hair, apply a small amount of coconut oil to the ends of your hair to lock in moisture and reduce breakage.
Overnight Treatment- For deeper conditioning, apply coconut oil to your hair and leave it overnight. Wash it out in the morning with a gentle shampoo.
Our recommended Coconut oil to use: https://amzn.to/3VL294s
Integrating Coconut Oil into a Comprehensive Hair Care Routine
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
PRP therapy involves injecting concentrated platelets into the scalp, which release growth factors that stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth. Combining PRP with coconut oil can enhance scalp health and maximise hair regrowth efforts. Studies have shown PRP's efficacy in improving hair density and thickness (Gkini et al., 2014). Get in touch with us using the ‘contact us’ page to organise your Hair PRP session.
Other Oils
Incorporate other beneficial oils like rosemary and castor oil. Rosemary oil has been shown to perform similarly to minoxidil in promoting hair growth, while castor oil, rich in ricinoleic acid, improves scalp circulation and hair strength (Panahi et al., 2015).
Castor Oil https://amzn.to/3KX05BD
Rosemary Oil https://amzn.to/3XGDeSu
Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Using a ketoconazole-based anti-dandruff shampoo helps maintain a healthy scalp by reducing fungal infections and inflammation, crucial for preventing hair breakage and promoting growth (Pierard-Franchimont et al., 1998).
Shampoo https://amzn.to/3LldZxH
Dermaroller
Microneedling with a dermaroller (1-1.5mm) can enhance the absorption of topical treatments, stimulate collagen production, and improve blood flow to the scalp, supporting overall hair health and reducing breakage (Dhurt et al., 2013).
Dermaroller https://amzn.to/4eEFi3e
Conclusion
Coconut oil offers a scientifically supported solution to hair breakage, thanks to its unique composition and properties. By integrating coconut oil into a comprehensive hair care routine that includes PRP, other beneficial oils, anti-dandruff shampoo, and microneedling, individuals can achieve healthier, stronger hair. For personalized advice and advanced treatments, consulting with a hair care specialist is recommended.
References
Rele, A. S., & Mohile, R. B. (2003). Effect of mineral oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil on prevention of hair damage. Journal of Cosmetic Science, 54(2), 175-192.
Evangelista, M. T. P., Abad-Casintahan, F., & Lopez-Villafuerte, L. (2014). The effect of virgin coconut oil on skin barrier function in children with atopic dermatitis: A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial. International Journal of Dermatology, 53(1), 100-108.
Ogbolu, D. O., Oni, A. A., Daini, O. A., & Oloko, A. P. (2007). In vitro antimicrobial properties of coconut oil on Candida species in Ibadan, Nigeria. Journal of Medicinal Food, 10(2), 384-387.
Gkini, M. A., Kouskoukis, A. E., Tripsianis, G., Rigopoulos, D., & Kouskoukis, K. (2014). Study of platelet-rich plasma injections in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia through an one-year period. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 7(4), 213-219.
Panahi, Y., Taghizadeh, M., Marzony, E. T., & Sahebkar, A. (2015). Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: A randomized comparative trial. Skinmed, 13(1), 15-21.
Pierard-Franchimont, C., De Doncker, P., Cauwenbergh, G., & Pierard, G. E. (1998). Ketoconazole shampoo: effect of long-term use in androgenic alopecia. Dermatology, 196(4), 474-477.
Dhurat, R., & Sukesh, M. (2013). Principles and methods of preparation of platelet-rich plasma: A review and author's perspective. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 6(4), 189-197.
