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There are lots of great oils out there that can hydrate your skin and even help with scalp conditions like psoriasis. But one oil stands out as a multitasking dynamo, one so versatile you can even cook with it. I’m talking about coconut oil, of course, an oil with so many benefits it’s impossible to list them all in one or two sentences. In addition to moisturizing skin, removing makeup, fighting premature aging, and standing in for butter on your toast (and cooking spray in your pan), rich, thick coconut oil is a dream when used on virtually every part of the body — from your lips to your cuticles to the inside of your mouth (coconut oil pulling is a huge wellness trend that crossed over into mainstream).
But there’s one place where coconut oil isn’t always a star player. In fact, many beauty lovers swear this is the one place you should never put coconut oil, like ever.
Beware Of Coconut Oil In Your Hair
It's an honest mistake. Why wouldn't you assume coconut oil, which leaves skin hydrated for hours, wouldn't add moisture and shine to hair?
Depending on your hair type, and especially if you have very porous hair, it can bring on the moisture because it prevents water from getting into strands too fast. If you have the kind of hair that doesn't get soaking wet easily, it's likely less porous. When you add coconut oil to this type of hair it might happily absorb it right up, giving you silky strands in return.
Bottom line: don't be surprised if your hair doesn't respond to coconut oil in the same way as your best friend's hair. You personal reaction to this natural hydrator has everything to do with your hair's porosity.
How To Use Coconut Oil On Hair
Tropical Life Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil ($14.96)
If your hair responds well to coconut oil, by all means use it — you can even saturate your hair from roots to tips with the oil, pile your hair into a bun, and let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing it out and washing it with a gentle shampoo.
But if you prefer to mix a quality coconut oil with other ingredients that will ensure your hair is healthy and shiny, try mixing coconut oil with egg yolk and honey. Apply the mask to hair for 20 minutes, rinse, and follow with shampoo and conditioner.
