Coconut oil, in the past few years, has come out as an all-rounder. It can be used for various purposes ranging from coconut oil for cooking to reducing weight to using it for skin care etc. The oil contains an appropriate amount of moisture which makes it appealing for dry conditions.
Dryness in your scalp can lead to various conditions like dandruff.
What Is Dandruff?
Dandruff is a scalp condition that is associated with skin flakes that peel from the scalp. The cause of dandruff is generally a fungus called Malassezia Globosa. This fungus feeds on the oil in the scalp and leaves behind oleic acid which irritates the skin. All this leads to dry skin and dandruff flakes.
Another reason for dandruff is too oily skin. This is a medical condition called seborrheic dermatitis. In this, the dandruff flakes are oilier and yellowish.
Other factors like pollution, humidity levels, stress, genetics, and eating habits also play a role in the development of this condition.
Having a dry scalp is not the same as having dandruff. Although both of them show signs of skin shedding in the form of flakes. Dandruff is associated more with red scales and oily yellow-white flakes. A dry scalp can also trigger oil production in the scalp which can make your dandruff worse. In this condition, coconut oil becomes a viable option.
What Are Some Benefits Of Applying Coconut Oil?
Coconut oil has various benefits in conditions like this –
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Antimicrobial Properties
Coconut oil contains lauric and capric acid and other MCTs which contain antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. This helps in preventing skin infections and heals wounded or irritated skin. It is a good way to prevent dandruff.
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Anti-inflammatory Powers
Virgin and organic coconut oil have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
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Moisturizing Skin
Many pieces of research have shown that coconut oil helps in moisturizing and prevents moisture loss from your scalp. Proper moisturization prevents damage and infection. One of the studies conducted on atopic dermatitis patients showed that coconut oil in particular has a great effect on moisturizing the scalp.
Coconut oil helps in hydrating their scalp by preventing water loss. Through the process of water loss, the barrier of the skin is weakened and moisture content in it is lost. Coconut oil is more effective than any other kind of oil as it strengthens this skin barrier and reduces moisture loss.
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Strengthens Hair
It contains proteins and Vitamin E which strengthens your hair follicles and adds shine to your hair. Coconut oil also contains medium-chain triglycerides which penetrate the hair shaft. This helps in the thickening of your hair and prevents any loss of protein.
How To Use Coconut Oil For Solving Your Dandruff Issue?
The best way to apply coconut oil is to create a hair mask and apply it all over your hair. Do take all the precautions as all these experiments are more anecdotal than scientific. You can apply the coconut oil by creating a mixture and applying it over your hair.
Allow it to settle down for 20-30 minutes. Cover your hair if you feel the need and then wash your hair with a gentle shampoo. Use a shampoo and the combination according to your scalp and hair type.
The most common combination used by people is coconut oil and lemon juice. This mixture helps in balancing the pH balance of the skin on the scalp while adding the goodness of antioxidants and Vitamin C to your hair.
Another thing that you can do is apply the virgin coconut oil directly to your scalp and hair. Massage your head for better blood circulation and comb your hair. Combing hair will allow even distribution of oil over the head. Hot coconut oil reduces itching on the scalp.
You can also add essential oils like lemongrass oil, jojoba oil or tea tree oil, etc as they carry nutrients from the oil to your hair.
The addition of egg white to oil can help you in getting rid of dandruff along with the greasiness and dirt on your scalp.
Coconut oil mixed with honey and olive oil soothe the itchiness on the scalp and reduce inflammation.
Aloe vera and coconut oil are the best partners to reduce dandruff. The enzymes and the vitamins in both these products work together to reduce itching, boosting hair growth and soothing your scalp.
Another way through which you can add coconut oil to your hair care routine is to use it in place of your shampoo and conditioner. Apply it on your scalp, comb it and after a few minutes, when it has penetrated your hair and skin, rinse it off. If you want more of a lathering consistency, then add warm water to the oil before use.
What Are The Side Effects That You Can Expect By Using Coconut Oil?
Coconut oil is an organic and natural product, so it is assumed that it will be safe for use. But overuse of anything can be destructive and damaging.
After seeing the positive effects of coconut oil, you may be tempted to coat your hair and locks in pure coconut oil. Coconut oil is popular for solving issues like dry skin, damaged hair, and infection.
Overusing coconut oil may not solve your problems and make the symptoms worse. Excess coconut oil can clog your pores and lead to hair loss. It is true especially when you have irritated or sensitive skin. Breaking hair from scratching the scalp after rubbing coconut oil directly on the skin is one of the things that can happen if you do not pay attention.
Without a doubt, coconut oil offers innumerable benefits but only when it is used properly.
Wrapping Up
All sources and researches become silent when it comes to the use of coconut oil for dandruff. It will work best for your skin when you have dry skin with dandruff. To find any underlying cause or solve the problem from the root, a dermatologist should be contacted.
