If you are looking for a step-by-step guide on how to use coconut oil as a leave in conditioner then you are at the right place. Below you are going to discover how this amazing natural hair care solution can leave your hair soft, shiny and beautiful.
Since time immemorial, Coconut oil has been a staple in various skin and hair conditions. In fact, It is a popular ingredient in many hair products as it can easily penetrate the shaft of the hair, nourish and strengthen the hair, and also prevent damage. Plus it smells really good too!
Read: Discover how co-washing can revive your lifeless hair in just 4 weeks.
Why You Should Be Using A Leave In Conditioner
Using a leave-in conditioner as opposed to a ‘rinse-out’ conditioner can provide many benefits for your hair, especially if you have dry, damaged, or frizzy hair. Here are some reasons why you should consider incorporating a leave-in conditioner into your hair care routine:
Provides Ongoing Hydration:
Traditional rinse-out conditioners are designed to provide a quick boost of hydration and nourishment to your hair, but once you rinse them out, the benefits are gone. Leave-in conditioners, on the other hand, are designed to provide ongoing hydration and protection throughout the day.
Makes Your Hair More Manageable:
Leave-in conditioners can help to detangle your hair and make it easier to comb or brush. This can be especially helpful if you have curly or textured hair that is prone to tangles and knots.
Protects Your Hair from Damage:
Unlike ‘rinse-out’ conditioners, Leave-in conditioners remains in your hair and provide ungoing protection from damage caused by heat styling tools, UV rays, and environmental factors. Many leave-in conditioners contain ingredients like UV filters or heat protectants that can help to prevent damage and keep your hair healthy.
Adds Shine and Softness:
Leave-in conditioners can help to add shine and softness to your hair, making it look and feel healthier. They can also help to reduce frizz and static, which can be especially helpful if you have dry or damaged hair.
Nourishes and Strengthens Hair:
Many leave-in conditioners contain ingredients like vitamins, minerals and proteins, that strengthens and nourishes your hair. This can help to repair damage and prevent further breakage, making your hair stronger and more resilient over time.
Overall, using a leave-in conditioner can be a great way to keep your hair hydrated, healthy, and looking its best.
Benefits Of Coconut Oil As A Leave In Conditioner
1. Provides Added Moisture To Your Hair
Coconut oil is an excellent natural moisturizer that can penetrate the hair shaft and provide deep hydration. This helps to prevent dryness and brittleness, which can lead to breakage and split ends. When you use coconut oil as a leave-in conditioner, it can keep your hair hydrated all day long.
2. Also Nourishes and Strengthens Hair:
Coconut oil is rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that nourish and strengthen hair. These nutrients can help to repair damaged hair and prevent further damage, making your hair stronger and more resilient.
3. Helps Fight Frizz
Coconut oil is an excellent natural ingredient that can help to fight frizz and keep your hair looking smooth and sleek. By providing ongoing moisture, smoothing the hair cuticle, reducing static, protecting against heat damage, and taming flyaways, coconut oil is a versatile and effective tool for anyone looking to combat frizz and improve the overall health and appearance of their hair.
4. Added Protection From Heat Damage
Coconut oil has a high smoke point. This simply means that due the to its chemical structure, it can withstand high temperature without burning. This makes it an excellent natural heat protectant for your hair. When applied as a leave-in conditioner, coconut oil acts a buffer for your hair against damage caused by heat styling tools.
5. Coconut Oil Helps To Prevent Dandruff
There is some evidence to suggest that coconut oil may help to prevent dandruff. Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids, such as lauric acid, which have antimicrobial properties. Dandruff is the result of overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia on the scalp, and the antimicrobial properties of coconut oil may help to combat this.
How to Use Coconut Oil As A Leave In Conditioner
Step #1 – Choose the Right Type of Coconut Oil:
There are several different forms of coconut oil available, including refined, unrefined, virgin, and extra-virgin. For use as a leave-in conditioner, it is best to choose an unrefined or virgin coconut oil, as these types retain more of the natural nutrients and are less processed.
Step #2 – Start with Clean, Damp Hair:
Before applying coconut oil as a leave in conditioner, you should first ensure that your hair is clean and a little damp. You can either wash your hair or wet it with water before applying the coconut oil.
Step #3 – Apply the Coconut Oil:
Scoop a small amount of coconut oil into your your hands and then rub your hands together to warm the oil. Apply the oil to your hair, starting at the ends and working your way up to the roots. Make sure to distribute the oil evenly throughout your hair, using a comb or your fingers to detangle any knots or tangles.
Step #4 – Style Your Hair:
Once you have applied the coconut oil, you can style your hair as desired. Coconut oil can help to add shine and definition to curls, or it can be used as a natural heat protectant when blow-drying or flat ironing your hair.
Step #5 – Leave the Coconut Oil in Your Hair:
Unlike traditional conditioners, coconut oil is not meant to be rinsed out of your hair. Instead, it should be left in your hair to provide ongoing hydration and protection. You can apply coconut oil as a leave-in conditioner as often as needed, depending on your hair type and needs.
Tips for Using Coconut Oil as a Leave In Conditioner
Start with a Small Amount: Coconut oil can be heavy and greasy, especially if you have fine or thin hair. To avoid weighing down your hair, start with a small amount of coconut oil and gradually increase the amount as needed.
Focus on the Ends: When applying coconut oil as a leave-in conditioner, focus on the ends of your hair as these are the oldest and most damaged parts of your hair.
Conclusion
If you are looking to improve the quality of your hair, you should be incorporating coconut oil as a leave in conditioner to your hair care routine. As you would have seen above, Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that can penetrate the hair shaft to nourish and hydrate the hair. It can also help to protect the hair from damage caused by styling tools, UV rays, and other environmental factors.
Please note that while coconut oil is a great leave-in conditioner, it may not be suitable for every hair type. Additionally, using too much coconut oil can cause buildup on the scalp and hair, so it’s important to use it in moderation. So if you experience any adverse reactions or your hair becomes greasy or weighed down, discontinue use and consult with a hair care professional.