Coconut oil for hair: 5 genius ways to use it to get luscious locks

It’s the beauty industry’s favorite natural ingredient of the moment, but what can coconut oil do for your hair? From hydrating dry locks to improving texture and adding shine, we’ve cooked up five genius uses of coconut oil for hair, with a little help from some industry experts.

But first, why are we obsessed with coconut oil for hair? 'Coconut oil is fast becoming the 'it' oil of our times. It's a versatile product, but beautifully nourishing,' Because it’s an all-natural product, it can be left on hair overnight to see maximum benefits.

A moisture-boosting hair mask
'Being natural, there are no chemicals that can aggravate the scalp. I recommend to my clients to do a treatment using coconut oil once a month,” says Gareth. “Apply onto shampooed hair, leave for as long as possible to reap the benefits. Rinse and shampoo the hair again to leave the hair in great texture that isn't going to feel heavy or weighed down.'

'Left on for an hour or overnight, hair will feel softer. I'd recommend you shampoo with a gentle cleansing shampoo such as Redken or Pureology to continue your healthy hair maintenance.'

Coconut oil for hair growth
It’s true – using super-moisturizing coconut oil on your locks might make them grow longer by promoting healthy hair and scalp, or at least reduce breakage. 'Coconut oil, known for its all-round use is said to aid in the promotion of hair growth. It is rich in vitamins and essential fatty acids which will moisturise the hair and scalp,'

A daily detangler
Because 100% natural, organic virgin coconut oil won’t leave any residue in your locks, it makes a great smoothing detangling product. Melt your coconut oil over hot water and rub into any tricky tangles or through the ends of damp locks before combing through. Your hair will not only be tangle-free, it will smell great, too.

Dry itchy scalp or dandruff? No more…
'Coconut is an excellent hair moisturiser but can be a little difficult to wash out in its raw form. Liquid coconut is easier to work with and better as a deep scalp moisturiser than a hair moisturiser.' -

Protect your tresses from the sun

Coconut oil makes for a great natural sunscreen, so protect your hair from the summer sun by rubbing a little melted coconut oil through your hair before hitting the beach. Don’t skip your sun cream step for your skin and scalp – but applying coconut oil all over before you add SPF will improve your skin condition as well as keeping hair safe from the sun’s powerful rays. Argan oil is also great for your hair – find out why it’s nicknamed ‘liquid gold’.

Right, we're off to make a homemade coconut oil hair mask.