Coconut oil is not just for cooking anymore! Believe it or not, applying this popular ingredient to your hair and scalp works wonders. In fact, coconut oil is one of the many hair crazes that keeps popping up on TikTok with videos surpassing 2 million views. But what, in fact, is coconut oil?
"Coconut oil is a natural oil extracted from the meat of mature coconuts," explains Sara Hallajian, a trichologist certified by the International Association of Trichologists and owner of Ame Salon in Los Angeles. "It’s rich in fatty acids, particularly lauric acid, which has a unique ability to penetrate the hair shaft," she says.
Along with Hallajian, we spoke with other trichologists as well as a board-certified dermatologist to learn more about the various benefits that coconut oil has for the hair.
Scroll down for expert-recommended coconut oils for hair to shop now — starting at only $9.
Best shampoo and conditioner$21.28$28.00
Is coconut oil good for hair?
Yes, as long as it's applied correctly (with hair and scalp health taken into consideration), coconut oil is good for use on hair.
The conditioning properties of coconut oil "can reduce breakage on the hair shaft and improve the overall health of the hair," states Hallajian.
Penny James, of Penny James Trichology Center, suggests the use of coconut oil to many of her trichology clients "due to its fantastic penetrating properties to reduce protein loss along the hair shaft along with moisturizing and helping the hair shaft to retain its elasticity.”
"By keeping hair well-moisturized and preventing protein loss, it helps create a healthy environment that supports hair growth by reducing hair breakage," she explains.
Hallajian adds that while using coconut oil on the scalp can be beneficial for some, it's not universally recommended for everyone.
"Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties and can help moisturize the scalp, which is helpful for those with dry or flaky skin," she suggests. "However, because it’s a heavier oil, it may not suit those with oily/flakey scalps, as it can sometimes exacerbate conditions like folliculitis and create even more inflammation," Hallajian advises.
Additionally, Hallajian loves coconut oil for DIY hair masks. She specifically recommends these for individuals with coarse or frizzy hair as it will add strength and shine to the hair texture as well.
The best coconut oils for hair, recommended by experts
Most budget-friendly option: Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil
- Smells nice
- Affordable
- Reviewers note plastic jar
Size: 16 oz. | Other key ingredients: N/A
"I like this one because it’s unrefined, ensuring it retains the beneficial nutrients without added chemicals or fragrances, making it a safe choice for scalp and hair health," shares Hallajian. This Amazon's Choice coconut oil is cold-pressed and has an impressive 87,000+ five-star ratings.
Affordable and fresh pressed: Dr. Bronner's Whole Kernel Virgin Coconut Oil
- Moisturizing
- Absorbs quickly
- Makes hair shiny
- Some noted packaging issues
Size: 14 oz. | Other key ingredients: N/A
Hallajian says this virgin coconut oil is a great choice for hair care. "This unrefined, fresh-pressed oil retains its natural nutrients, providing deep nourishment to the hair and scalp," she explains. "Additionally, Dr. Bronner’s commitment to fair trade and organic practices ensures a high-quality product that’s both ethical and effective," she states.
Nourishing and cost effective: Anjou Organic Coconut Oil
- Moisturizing
- Nourishes hair
- Not available many places
Size: 50 oz. | Other key ingredients: N/A
"This option is cold pressed and USDA-certified organic, ensuring purity. The cold-pressing method helps retain more antioxidants, which are beneficial for scalp health," suggests Hallajian. With its extra virgin quality, this coconut oil nourishes the hair and skin, according to the brand.
Coconut oil shampoo and conditioner: Kitsch Coconut Oil Shampoo & Conditioner Combo
- Lathers well
- Makes hair silky
- Very hydrating
- Mixed reviews on smell
Size: 5.9 oz. | Other key ingredients: Castor oil, shea butter
"The Kitsch Coconut Oil Shampoo & Conditioner Combo is designed to deeply cleanse and moisturize hair, particularly benefiting those with kinky, curly or coily textures," Hallajian explains. "Infused with nourishing coconut oil, these products aim to hydrate and soften dry, damaged strands, promoting a healthier-feeling, more balanced scalp for stronger, revitalized hair," she continues.
"They are free of parabens, phthalates, silicones, sulfates and artificial fragrances, making them suitable for color-treated hair. Additionally, the solid bar format reduces single-use plastic bottles, aligning with eco-friendly practices," suggests Hallajian.
Splurge option: Virtue Hydrating & Heat Protectant Healing Hair Oil
- Makes hair soft
- Repairs the hair
- Versatile
- Pricey
Size: 1.7 oz. | Other key ingredients: Keratin
Dr. Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS in New York City, recommends this healing air oil that contains coconut oil. "In addition to Alpha Keratin 60 Ku protein, this helps to repair while also bringing softness and shine to the hair. It leaves the hair looking healthier without looking or feeling greasy," she explains.
How we chose the best coconut oils for hair
The Shop TODAY team rounded up the best coconut oils for hair by enlisting the recommendations of three certified trichologists as well as a board-certified dermatologist. We prioritized products based on overall quality, affordability and effectiveness.
Meet the experts
- Sara Hallajian is a IAT certified trichologist and owner of Ame Salon in Los Angeles.
- Penny James is a board-certified trichologist who became a trichologist (due to her own hair loss). She has over 30 years of experience in the beauty business and runs her own trichology center in New York City called Penny James Trichology.
- Dr. Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS in New York City.
- William Gaunitz, FWTS is a certified trichologist and founder of Advanced Trichology in Tempe, Arizona.
