A few years ago we all caught the coconut oil fever; everyone, everywhere, was suddenly crazy for coconut, scooping up bottles of the grocery aisle emollient, hailing it as the cure for all ailments known to man. Or at least that’s how eager marketers began presenting this beloved “miracle oil” to the masses: as a cure for everything from high cholesterol and diabetes to being branded nature’s best moisturizer. Need to strengthen your immune system, hydrate dry skin and help heal a damaged liver while you’re at it? Grab a bottle of VCO. Our fave way to indulge (aside from enjoying a coco-flavored cocktail beachside, of course): Coconut shampoo! There’s something about those ultra-emollient properties, coupled with that inviting tropical scent, that just seems super irresistible, especially during these isolating times. Dry, beach-ravaged locks craving some extra TLC? Here’s some coconut shampoo to the rescue
Coconut Oil Shampoo: The Facts
Don’t get us wrong; we’re as big believers in the benefits of coconut oil and coconut shampoo as can be. But in the interest of separating the truth from all the #fakenews, it behooves us to let you know what we can all really expect from this beloved ingredient, and whether or not it’s the best kind of moisturizer for your particular hair type.
The incredible edible
Coconut oil is an edible oil extracted from mature coconuts and is high in saturated fat. This gives it a remarkable shelf life and amazing moisturizing and hydrating capabilities. It also contains high levels of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that help promote hair growth and prevent protein loss. Considered an antioxidant and anti-fungal, it’s also been said to alleviate and prevent symptoms of dandruff, as well as provide softness and damage repair with a lightweight consistency—benefits of particular significance to those with curly and natural-textured hair—which, all in all, make it a heavy-hitter in the world of hair care.
Oil infusions to save the day
But what if you’re not exactly of the Pinterest persuasion? Truth be told, not everyone can be bothered to D.I.Y. their own at-home cleansers using actual store-bought coconut oil. And thankfully, these days, they don’t have to, as a myriad of hair care products and stylers have now stepped forward to fill this gap by offering coconut oil infusions in their lines. We can now all reap the frizz-fighting, deep-conditioning, damage-repairing benefits of coconut oil in handy bottles of coconut shampoo and conditioner, without the hassle. Formulas like those in Suave Professionals Coconut + Vanilla Repairing Shampoo, which, with the Coconut + Vanilla Repairing Conditioner, nourishes as it cleans dry and damaged hair, are a great option for those who want lightweight conditioning feel to their regular shampoo. Another great everyday option is SheaMoisture 100% Virgin Coconut Oil Daily Hydration Shampoo, which, when used with the matching Daily Hydration Conditioner, ups the ante with a nourishing blend of 100% VCO (!) and Shea oils, together with coconut milk, for a triple threat of hydration, manageability, and shine. Also, a great option to consider for those with damaged hair is Love Beauty and Planet Hope and Repair Coconut Oil & Ylang Ylang Sulfate-Free Shampoo, which, when used with the duo’s Coconut Oil & Ylang Ylang Conditioner, boasts of visibly repairing damage and preventing split ends. This duo delivers a coconut sulfate free shampoo and coconut hair conditioner in one punch. The results are luscious, healthy-looking locks without a heavy feel, making these picks ideal for straight-haired and curly girls and those conscious of maintaining volume to their hair as well. If you’re still on the fence, just think about it: What other moisturizers do you know has been this effective for thousands of years? That’s what we call staying power. Here’s to going loco for coco!
