A natural moisturizing treatment is long overdue for my hair. Something simple and easy would fit the bill. For years, I have heard of all kinds of things that you can do to make your hair look better and feel better. All of it seemed like too much work. That’s not counting the expensive store bought options either – I’m not one to try it just because of the great marketing.
I have been meaning to try a handful of do-it-yourself hair treatments, but just have not gotten around to it. My M.O. is low maintenance and simple plus I am always looking for products (or ingredients) that are non-toxic and gentle on the planet.
Time to try coconut oil!
To treat your hair with coconut oil all you need is some unrefined coconut oil (virgin & organic). Remember, it will change consistency with the air temperature. - from clear liquid when it is warm to solid and white with cold.
Start with a small amount (tablespoon or less) and rub it in to your hair starting at the roots/scalp and working your way to the tips of your hair.
Remember, a little goes a long way. The hair does not have to look greasy, just shiny. It will be ok if you use a bit too much since you will be washing it out soon.
Leave it in your hair for 30-60 minutes, then wash it out. If your hair is long enough, put it up in a hair tie and go for a long walk, read a book, do a little cleaning, catch up on a favorite show or whatever passes the time.
Time to wash it out. When you are done, simply wash your hair as you always do. No need to use conditioner though.
Today’s goal was to pamper my hair, not to get wrapped up in research – which is fun for my brain, but wouldn’t have made my hair look awesome – but I still wanted to know why it was so good for my hair.
In a nutshell, organic, virgin (unrefined) coconut oil penetrates the hair helping to reduce or eliminate damage, leaving it soft and shiny. Coconut oil is more than 90 percent saturated fat (this is ok, don’t freak out). It is extremely high in lauric acid (responsible for it’s powerful anti-viral, anti-bacterial & anti-fungal properties) as well as linoleic acid and oleic acid and vitamin E. Its unique molecular structure helps to rebuild the protein (keratin) that makes up each strand of hair. With its anti-viral, anti-bacterial & anti-fungal properties, coconut oil is also a good choice for those dealing with dandruff or cradle cap.
Here are some links to start some of your own research.
http://coconutoil.com
http://www.naturalnews.com/039320_coconut_oil_superfood_sulfur.html
Effect of mineral oil, sunflower oil and coconut oil on prevention of hair damage
J. Cosmet Sci. 2003 Mar-Apr: 54(2): 175-92
There are many of benefits to using coconut oil in your hair, on your skin, in your diet, etc. expect future blog posts focused on this amazing ingredient!
Gently spread the coconut oil over your face (or wherever you used the makeup), then just as gently, wipe it away with a washcloth. Certain areas might need a couple of tries. If needed, follow this with washing with a gentle soap (i.e. castile soap, combined with a little jojoba oil).
