The myriad benefits of coconut oil have been touted for some time now. Dry skin? Coconut oil. Need to whiten your teeth? Coconut oil. High cholesterol? Coconut oil. However, it is perhaps best known by naturalistas as the go-to oil for moisturizing our hair.

This nutritive oil is known to stimulate hair growth, improve scalp health, add shine, prevent breakage, and even slow down hair loss.

Clear Glass Container with Coconut Oil

Photo: Pexels

However despite its many benefits, there is a word of caution with this particular oil: although it may work for some, coconut oil is not actually best for all hair types. According to Wellness Mama, coconut oil is high in protein, thus it is best for those who are lacking protein in their hair. If you already have enough protein in your hair and apply coconut oil, you may suffer from what is known as a “protein overload,” which can lead to dryness, brittleness, breakage, and hair loss.

Before you begin your coconut oil journey, be sure to assess the levels of protein in your hair to make sure you’re not doing more harm than good!

If you decide coconut oil is a good match for your hair type, there are many different ways to integrate this amazing oil into your hair routine. As originally reported on Byrdie, read on to discover some of the best ways to get the most out of your coconut oil experience for your precious tresses!

Photo: Pinterest

1. Apply At Night

Nunzio Saviano, owner of Nunzio Saviano Salon in NYC, spoke to Byrdie and shared that the best time to apply coconut oil is in the evening, so it has time to be properly absorbed into the hair without appearing too greasy.

2. Warm The Oil

The next tip Saviano offers is to make sure the oil is warm before applying it to your hair, as the warmth helps to open the hair cuticle for maximum penetration.

3. Use a moderate amount

Particularly if you are new to integrating coconut oil into your routine, it’s best to start small to determine how much you actually need. A dollop is usually a good place to start, and work the oil from the middle of the hair shaft to the tip for the best results.

4. Mix it up!

Don’t be afraid to mix coconut oil with other ingredients such as honey, aloe vera, or essential oils such as lavender or rosemary for an added boost of nutrients and benefits.

So what do you think ladies? Will you be integrating more coconut oil into your regimens for 2019? Let us know!

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