How to Incorporate Coconut Oil into Your Hair and Skin Care Routine—and Why It’s a Must-Have

There are plenty of plant-based hair oils available, but none seem to capture attention quite like coconut oil. Known for its versatility, it’s praised as a remedy for everything from dry skin to scalp concerns, and is a key ingredient in countless over-the-counter beauty products. We spoke with skincare professionals about how to make the most of coconut oil for both hair and skin, why they stand by it, and the best ways to incorporate it into your beauty regimen.

What Exactly Is Coconut Oil?

Coconut oil is extracted by pressing the meat of coconuts (the edible white flesh). It’s a plant-based product that’s safe for consumption and can also be used as a versatile beauty item. At room temperature, it remains solid, but once heated, it transforms into a liquid.

There are two primary types of coconut oil: refined and virgin. Refined coconut oil comes from dried coconut meat, while virgin coconut oil is made from fresh coconut meat. Virgin coconut oil, in particular, is high in lauric, myristic, and palmitic acids (we’ll dive into the effects of these acids shortly) and primarily contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), as explained by cosmetic chemist Krupa Koestline.

Benefits of Coconut Oil for Hair and Skin

Each plant-based oil in the beauty world offers a unique blend of omega fatty acids and other components, creating distinct benefits and sensory properties. This distinct composition is what makes coconut oil so beneficial for both hair and skin. Let’s start by exploring how coconut oil works wonders for your hair.

Repairs Split Ends and Reduces Frizz

If you have long hair, it’s not unusual to notice split ends or breakage. The lauric acid in coconut oil helps to both prevent split ends and repair the ones that have already formed.

The same moisturizing qualities of coconut oil that prevent split ends also help tame frizz. Applying a bit to your hair (especially in humid conditions) can help control flyaways and keep your hair looking sleek.

Promotes Shine and Reduces Inflammation

Once again, lauric acid comes to the rescue. This fatty acid, along with the vitamins in coconut oil, enhances your hair’s natural shine. Coconut oil also fortifies your hair, and healthier hair naturally shines more.

The lauric acid in coconut oil gives it natural antimicrobial properties, which help fight bacteria and fungi. This reduces inflammation and aids in wound healing, says Mikaliov. These qualities make it particularly beneficial for people with eczema, Mikaliov notes.

Reduces Dandruff

Research shows that coconut oil is effective in addressing a dry scalp and dandruff. Its anti-fungal properties help maintain a healthy scalp when applied topically.

Moreover, the antioxidant properties of coconut oil can alleviate inflammation, a primary cause of dandruff. "It helps restore moisture to dry, inflamed skin, improving scalp health," explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Anar Mikaliov.

Mikaliov mentions a study that showed coconut oil improved the microbiome balance on the scalp of dandruff sufferers: "It increased 'good' bacteria and boosted the production of biotin and other B-vitamins from these bacteria, which in turn reduce inflammation, enhance the skin barrier, improve scalp health, and potentially aid hair growth."

Moisturizes Hair

Thanks to its moisturizing properties, applying coconut oil to your hair helps lock in moisture and retain hydration. It quickly absorbs into the hair and deeply penetrates the hair shaft, according to Koestline.

This is attributed to its high lauric acid content, which is highly compatible with hair proteins, as well as the oil’s small molecular size, explains Koestline. Once inside, it’s perfect for moisturizing, conditioning, and detangling, adds Rodney.

Protects Against Styling and Environmental Damage

Because coconut oil is absorbed rapidly by the hair, it helps prevent protein loss, which can cause hair to become weak, brittle, and lifeless. Additionally, it reduces the amount of water your hair absorbs, which is important because hair is more vulnerable to damage when wet. This makes coconut oil a great protector against everyday styling damage and environmental stressors.

Because coconut oil penetrates both the hair and scalp, it strengthens the hair’s cuticle and forms a protective barrier. This stronger cuticle and protective shield help guard against sun exposure and airborne toxins.

Smooths and Softens the Skin

Like many oils, coconut oil acts as a natural emollient, meaning it helps to hydrate and soften the skin. The myristic and palmitic acids are responsible for these skin-smoothing properties.

Virgin coconut oil is also abundant in polyphenols, which give it powerful antioxidant properties, as Koestline points out. These antioxidants contribute to reducing skin inflammation.

Prevents Acne (for Some Individuals)

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, coconut oil can be beneficial in treating acne. Lauric acid, in particular, has been shown to kill the bacteria responsible for acne.

Full disclosure: Experts are divided on whether coconut oil helps with acne. Both dermatologists agree that while it’s an excellent option for those with dry or eczema-prone skin (especially on the body), it may not be ideal for acne sufferers. Mikaliov suggests that those with acne may find it too thick, while Rodney highlights its comedogenic nature, explaining: "It can clog pores, leading to more breakouts."

However, Koestline disagrees, arguing that coconut oil’s reputation as a pore-clogger is exaggerated. Other factors such as hormonal fluctuations, diet, stress, and other skincare routines also contribute to clogged pores, not just the oil itself, Koestline explains.

How to Use Coconut Oil for Hair

Coconut oil is great for both your hair and scalp, but it should always be thoroughly washed out afterward. Keep in mind that a little coconut oil goes a long way—using too much can weigh your hair down or lead to buildup. Start with a teaspoon and add more if necessary when trying any of the following tips.

Nourishing Hair Mask

For a moisturizing hair treatment and added protection against damage, massage 1 to 2 teaspoons of coconut oil—adjusting for your hair's thickness and length—into the mid-lengths and ends. Let it sit for a few hours or overnight before washing it out thoroughly, recommends Rodney.

To get the most out of a coconut oil hair mask, it should remain on your hair for several hours. For the best absorption, apply the oil before bedtime and let it work overnight.

For added moisture, try mixing coconut oil with other nourishing ingredients. Combining it with yogurt or avocado can enhance the mask’s hydrating benefits.

Scalp Treatment

For a scalp treatment, apply a small amount of coconut oil to your scalp and leave it on for 10 to 20 minutes before washing your hair, suggests Mikaliov.

Because coconut oil is solid at room temperature, it’s best to warm it up before applying. Heat some water and place a cup or bowl containing the oil in the hot water to melt it. Alternatively, rub it between your hands until it becomes liquid. Do not microwave coconut oil.

Pre-wash Treatment

To protect your hair from water damage, apply coconut oil to the hair, especially the middle and ends. Leave it on for 15 to 30 minutes before washing your hair as usual.

Conditioner

Instead of your usual hair conditioner, try using coconut oil after washing. Alternatively, you can mix it with your regular conditioner by adding a few drops to the bottle. Coconut oil is especially beneficial for curly, natural hair or dry, dehydrated strands. However, finer, oily hair types may find it too heavy. Dry, textured hair can generally handle coconut oil for longer periods as it tends to have higher porosity than finer hair.

Styling Product

Coconut oil can be used on dry hair to smooth flyaways, but it works best when applied to damp hair. Wet hair absorbs products better, making coconut oil more effective as a conditioning treatment. If using on dry hair as a styling product, apply only a tiny amount by rubbing it between your fingers and lightly smoothing it over your strands.

How to Use Coconut Oil for Skin

Before applying coconut oil to your skin, it's important to test a small area first to ensure there's no adverse reaction. If everything looks good, here are several ways you can incorporate coconut oil into your skincare routine.

Makeup Remover

Coconut oil can be used by almost anyone to effectively remove makeup, even those with sensitive skin. The key is to follow up with a good cleanser afterward, says Rodney. Simply take a small amount of coconut oil on your fingers and gently massage it into your skin to remove makeup, just like you would with a traditional makeup remover. No cotton rounds or wipes needed.

Nails and Cuticle Oil

Coconut oil is perfect for nourishing brittle nails and softening cuticles. Apply a small amount of coconut oil to your cuticles and the base of each nail, gently massaging it in with your fingers for conditioning benefits.

Skin Moisturizer

To use coconut oil as a moisturizer, the ideal time is right after a shower, as this helps lock in moisture and leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth, according to Rodney. It's best to use coconut oil alone, rather than mixing it with other moisturizers. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, it's wise to be cautious and see how your skin reacts.

Lip Balm

For dry, chapped lips, coconut oil is a fantastic natural lip balm. It's also edible, so you don’t need to worry about accidentally licking it off. Apply throughout the day, and especially at night, using a clean finger to combat dryness.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How often should I apply coconut oil to my hair?

  There's no harm in applying coconut oil to your hair daily, but doing so might cause an oil buildup on both your hair and scalp. This could result in greasy hair, which may weigh down finer hair types. It's best to start with a few applications per week to gauge how your hair responds. From there, you can adjust usage based on your hair's needs.

• Can coconut oil aid in preventing hair loss?

  Coconut oil can support hair health by moisturizing and strengthening the hair shaft, which may help promote hair growth. It prevents protein loss, which contributes to weak or broken strands. However, coconut oil is not a treatment for medical conditions that cause hair loss, such as alopecia or stress-related thinning.

• Can I mix coconut oil with other oils?

  Yes, coconut oil can be mixed with other oils in equal proportions. Popular choices include almond oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, and castor oil. Coconut oil also serves as an excellent carrier oil for essential oils like lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus, and peppermint. The type of essential oil you blend with coconut oil depends on your intended use. For instance, lavender oil has calming effects, while peppermint is known for soothing inflammation.