If you’re like a lot of people, the first thing you think of when someone tells you about a great product for thinning or damaged hair is: how much is this going to cost me? You aren’t wrong to think that way, either —a number of serums, shampoos, and conditioners on the market can cost upwards of $100 and don’t last very long.
But when you have thinning hair and see it shedding by the day, you’ll do anything to change its condition, even if it means spending way more than you have to spend. That’s why this bit of news is fantastic: one of the best natural products for thinning, damaged hair is one you can buy at nearly any grocery store — or for a lot less at a place like Costco.
If you’ve heard about how coconut oil can help your hair, but have never actually tried it, here’s what medical experts have to say about its unique benefits for your hair and scalp.
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Coconut Oil Hair Benefits
No need to check if coconut oil will work for you — it’s ideal for all hair types. There is research and evidence that show coconut oil’s lauric acid can protect your hair against protein loss, and because it absorbs well, strands grasp onto it and this can prevent the loss of moisture, while strengthening hair.
In one 2022 study, coconut-based hair oils were tested on hair that had been damaged by routine washing. Researchers concluded that these hair oils had a “mechanistic (physical process) impact in reducing that damage.” A 2024 study tested coconut oil, alongside other vegetable oils, and found that coconut oil “is composed of triglycerides capable of penetrating and interacting with the hair cortex.” In order words: it possesses what is needed to truly moisturize hair and help repair damage.
Less research exists that shows a connection between coconut oil and hair regrowth. Research shows that coconut oil is a great anti-inflammatory ingredient that can control dandruff and scalp yeast infections, which can help hair grow more healthfully.
How to Use Coconut Oil
There are a few different ways you can use coconut oil in your hair. Apply it prior to shampoo and leave it on your scalp and hair for 15 to 30 minutes to control dryness and damage, or use it instead of a conditioner. It also makes a great overnight hair mask and can be applied before spending time outdoors so that it helps protect your hair from damaging UV rays. The possibilities are endless — and the product itself is not as expensive as many other hair products.
