Coconut oil has garnered a solid following over the years and is often used on dry, cracked skin.
The natural cupboard staple can also help to improve the health and condition of your hair, according to some experts.
Coconut oil is often used on hair as it reduces protein loss and keeps hair looking healthy.
The reason coconut oil is so beneficial for our hair is its chemical structure.
Coconut oil is made up of a medium-chain fatty acid called lauric acid which is more easily absorbed by the hair shaft than other oils.
The lauric acid in coconut oil can help moisturise hair strands and “reduce breakage”, according to Dr Peter Young, a dermatologist and medical director for Facet. This is especially helpful for those who have dry or damaged hair.
Some experts claim coconut oil can support healthy hair growth. Master hairstylist and colourist at IGK salon Stephanie Brown told Marie Claire said coconut oil will help hair grow “healthier, thicker, and longer”.
She added: “The vitamins and fatty acids in coconut oil help nourish your scalp and penetrate the cuticle of the hair.
“A treatment mask about once every week or two weeks for five to 10 minutes will do the trick.”
Hairstylist Cynthia Alvarez agreed and also said coconut oil can help to remove sebum build-up from hair follicles which can “speed up growth”.
She also said coconut oil is a natural SPF and will protect both hair and skin from the sun.
It can also help protect hair from bleach damage when you’re getting your hair coloured.
Ms Alvarez suggested putting a small amount of coconut oil in the hair before getting highlights or going platinum blonde.
Coconut oil can be used as either a hair mask, an overnight treatment or as a tool to style hair.
When using it as a hair mask, smooth it onto hair and comb it through. Leave it on for between five and 30 minutes to let it absorb before washing it with shampoo.
The same method can be used for an overnight treatment but rather than rinsing it out, wrap hair tightly in a shower cap, scarf or towel before bed.
The next morning, shampoo your hair twice before finishing with conditioner.
Coconut oil can be bought online, from supermarkets and health food stores. Cm La Vie 100% Natural Organic Coconut Oil is £2.12 from Ocado, KTC Coconut Oil is £2.15 from Asda and Superdrug Coconut Oil For Hair & Skin costs £2.49.
