Coconut oil for curly hair - Garnier Coconut oil for curly hair - Garnier

Understanding Coconut Oil for Curly Hair

In many tropical regions of the world, the oil extracted from the flesh of coconuts has been a beauty care staple for millennia. It’s easy to understand why this clear oil with a heavenly scent has stood the test of time: the benefits and uses are endless! In this article, we’re just going to focus on the best ways to use coconut oil for curly hair, how to make it part of your hair care routine, and why it’s such an amazing all-around product.

Is Coconut Oil Good for Curly Hair?

A resounding yes! As the saying goes, coconut oil and curly hair go together like birds of a feather. This incredibly versatile oil contains many different types of fatty acids, roughly half of which are medium-chain lauric fats. Coconut oil is a penetrating oil (as opposed to a sealing oil), which means it has the power to go deeper into the hair shaft all the way to the cortex.

Benefits of Coconut Oil for Curly Hair

You may be surprised to learn all the superpowers this sweet-smelling oil has. Let’s explore the top three benefits of coconut oil for curly hair.

01
Moisturizes and Nourishes Curls
As mentioned above, coconut oil does more than just stay on the surface of each hair shaft. It actually deeply penetrates to the inner matrix where it delivers more complete hydration than other oils.
02
Helps Reduce Frizz and Tames Flyaways
Once coconut oil gets to the inner cortex of the hair shaft, it moisturizes from the inside out. That means it can smooth down the outer cuticles and act as a protective barrier against humidity.
03
Strengthens Hair and Minimizes Breakage
Lauric fatty acid has the amazing ability to prevent protein loss within the shaft. This serves to greatly strengthen the curl structure because it protects and maintains the building blocks of hair. Added bonus: coconut oil also helps eliminate split ends!

How to Use Coconut Oil for Curly Hair

Coconut oil melts at around 76°F (24°C), so it doesn’t take much heat to make it liquid and easier to use. No need to use the stove: just rub it between your hands to melt.

01
Pre-Shampoo Treatment
To apply as a pre-shower treatment, warm up a small amount and apply it to dry hair before cleansing. For best results, leave it on for 20-30 minutes before shampooing.
02
Styling or Finishing Product
You can also tame frizz, add shine, and seal in moisture after styling by using the same warming technique.

Curly Hair Products with Coconut Oil

There are lots of curly hair products with coconut oil, so you don’t have to look far to find the perfect one for your curl type. Even better, you can include it at every step of your hair care routine.

01
Shampoo
Look for a cleanser like Curl Nourish shampoo that reaps the coconut oil benefits for curly hair. It’s also sulfate-free, which is highly recommended for curly hair because it won’t strip your natural oils.
02
Conditioner
Choose a curl-friendly cream conditioner that contains coconut oil for penetrating moisture and manageable curls. Curl Nourish conditioner is a sure bet that also smells great.
03
Leave-In Treatment
For added slip and softness, you can layer your coconut oil treatment with a lightweight leave-in conditioner after your shower. Curl Nourish Leave-In Treatment is a superstar curly hair product with coconut oil.
04
Curl Refresher
Between washes, you can use a curl refresher for extra bounce, moisture, and definition. Try a diluted coconut oil mist like Curl Nourish Curl Refresher or a lightweight cream to revive next-day curls.

Coconut Oil for Curly Hair FAQ

  • Should I use coconut oil on hair every day?
  • How often should I use coconut oil in my hair?
  • Will my hair be greasy if I put coconut oil in it?

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