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Top 8 Best Coconut Oils for Hair

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Written by Andrew Le, MD.
Medically reviewed by
Clinical Physician Assistant, Summit Health
Last updated June 14, 2024

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Coconut oil has been used in various products today due to the many benefits it has on one's health, especially for hair. Coconut oil is a natural and cheap product that can help those who want to improve the state of their hair. It contains fatty acids, which get inside the hair shaft plug the gap, and help in the reduction of proteins that cause hair breakage and Brittleness.

We spent considerable amount of time to ensure we found the best coconut oils to use on hair. In this article, we will present our research and suggest how to choose the best coconut oils for hair.

Top 3 Best Coconut Oils for Hair

  1. Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil
  2. Handcraft Fractionated Coconut Oil
  3. Viva Naturals Organic Fractionated Coconut Oil

Everyone is aware that coconut oil is really beneficial for the hair. It can benefit our hair by providing nutrition and hydration and enhancing the hair shaft’s structures. There are numerous coconut oil products in the market and therefore, it becomes really hard to settle for a specific type depending on the hair. For this reason, we have looked into different coconut oil products and tried them out in order to recommend the best coconut oil for hair. In this article, we list some of the best coconut oils for hair that can help you have healthy, shiny, and soft hair.

Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil

The Editor's Choice

Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil stands out for its top-notch quality and diverse uses. It's a fantastic natural hair conditioner and skin moisturizer, leaving no greasy residue. Though not the cheapest, its organic, non-GMO features make it a worthwhile investment.

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For anyone seeking a multiple-use and top-notch coconut oil, we highly endorse Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil.

Pros

  • Naturally nourishing for hair and skin
  • Perfect for cooking and baking with its high smoke point
  • Certified organic and non-GMO

Cons

  • May not be suitable for those with nut allergies
  • Some users may not prefer the coconut scent
  • Can be expensive compared to other brands

We have tried Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil and can confidently say it can be used in cooking and for our body needs and it works best. Coconut oil has the natural fats which work effectively in conditioning, detangling and as a mask to the hair making it soft and glossy. It is also used with great effectiveness in moisturizing the skin to a Naturt kube without leaving the skin feeling oily or sticky.

When it comes to the kitchen, Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil is ideal for cooking that requires high heat, such as baking, frying, and sautéing due to its high smoke point of 350°F. It is cold-pressed, unrefined, and organic, making it healthier when used in place of butter or other oils. It is also certified organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free, which can benefit consumers with certain dietary preferences.

Even though Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil is not the cheapest option that is however reasonably priced and with organic certification, use and versatility, it is one of the best investments you can make for your kitchen. In a nutshell, we encourage anyone searching for a premium quality and multi-purpose coconut oil to give this product a try.

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If you are searching for a multi-purpose coconut oil that can be used by hair, skin and for the purpose of aromatherapy, then Handcraft Fractionated Coconut Oil is one that is recommended.

Pros

  • It's 100% pure and natural, with no added fragrances, preservatives, or chemicals.
  • It's a lightweight oil that absorbs quickly into the skin and hair, leaving no greasy residue.
  • It's a great carrier oil for essential oils, allowing them to be easily diluted and applied to the skin.

Cons

  • Some users may prefer a coconut oil with a natural scent, as this one is fragrance-free.
  • The pump dispenser may be difficult to use for some users, as it can be hard to control the amount of oil dispensed.
  • The large bottle may be too bulky for travel or on-the-go use.

For the skin and hair, Handcraft Fractionated Coconut Oil is a wonderful choice of oil because it is light and hydrating. It penetrates the skin fast and does not leave the skin oily, thus suitable for application for make up base or hair tonic. We also used it in diluting essential oils and applying them on the skin and it was quite efficient in that aspect.

If you need a multipurpose and organic coconut oil, then Handcraft Fractionated Coconut Oil is the ideal one to go for. It is made in USA and does not contain parabens, sulfates, alcohol and is cruelty-free.

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Viva Naturals Organic Fractionated Coconut Oil is one of the most user-friendly, all-natural coconut oil that is available in the market.

Pros

  • Ultra-hydrating for silky smooth skin.
  • Ideal carrier oil for essential oils.
  • Suitable for all skin types.

Cons

  • May leak during shipping.
  • Some people find the scent unpleasant.
  • May cause breakouts for some individuals.

We have been using Viva Naturals Organic Fractionated Coconut Oil for some time now, and it is one of the best in terms of nourishing hair. It penetrates the skin quickly and has no oil-slick feeling, so it can be used as a lotion after showering or as a massage oil. We also like using it as a hair conditioner by diluting a few drops in our shampoo or as a leave-in conditioner.

It is 100% pure coconut oil, free from hexane, certified organic by USDA, non-GMO, and also cruelty-free. This makes us feel good about using it every day and integrating it into our homemade beauty care remedies.

That being said, it’s also important to point out that some of you wouldn’t like the smell, and actually, the product may cause some pimples on the skin. It is also important to be very cautious when handling the bottle since the oil might spill during shipping.

In conclusion, we endorse Viva Naturals Organic Fractionated Coconut Oil for anybody with interest in including a moisturizing product to his or her skin as well as hair care regimen.

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For hair and skin, it is wise to use OKAY Pure Coconut Oil to help improve their conditions.

Pros

  • Deep moisturizing oil for all hair textures and skin types
  • Powerful anti-aging and skin healing properties
  • Formulated with 100% pure coconut oil

Cons

  • May melt in warm temperatures
  • May be too heavy for fine hair
  • Strong coconut scent may not be appealing to everyone

OKAY Pure Coconut Oil is one product that can be used on hair as conditioner, treatment and post washing conditioner if you want to eliminate dandruff. It is also good for dry, itchy scalp, dermatitis, dandruff skin allergies rashes, thinning hair, hair loss, frizz, chapped lips, nails, and many others.

We have personally used OKAY Pure Coconut Oil and can confirm that it moisturizes hair and conditions the scalp making hair shiny, soft to the touch. It is also a deep cleanser, which washes away dirt, oils, makeup and other related products on the skin for healthier skin complexion.

The oil contains fatty acids and antioxidant that will assist in preventing aging and damage of our skin and hair. It promotes collagen synthesis and prevents skin damage due to sun exposure, while hydrating the hair and shielding it form protein damage due to combing.

OKAY Pure Coconut Oil is free of paraben, silicone, sulfate, and cruelty, therefore, suitable for everyone in the family. It is available in a 6 oz jar and the product is manufactured in the United States of America.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a hair and skin moisturizer that is natural, we suggest you use the OKAY Pure Coconut Oil.

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When it comes to choosing coconut oil that is 100% natural and organic you should consider Parachute.

Pros

  • Made with fresh coconuts, ensuring a long-lasting aroma with every use.
  • Goes through 27 quality tests to ensure 100% purity.
  • Non-refined, so it doesn't contain any chemicals or preservatives.

Cons

  • The bottle is thick, making it difficult to get the oil out.
  • Some people have reported that the oil is too thick to use as a hair treatment.
  • The packaging could be improved.

For the last several months, we’ve been using Parachute coconut oil and we have found that it is quite good. The oil is derived from fresh coconuts hence has a long lasting fragrance suitable for hair masks. We also understand that it undergoes 27 checks to ensure the product is perfectly pure.

A drawback of this product is that the bottle is quite thick, thus making it slightly hard to dispense the oil. Some people have also complained that the oil is too thick for use as a hair mask which we have not experienced. We also believe that the design of the pack should be enhanced, for example introducing a pump or a different kind of cap.

All in all, we can conclude that Parachute 100% Pure and Natural Unrefined Coconut Oil is a perfect fit for every person who is searching for a genuine coconut oil. It is pure, natural, and undergoes rigorous testing to prove the quality of the product. All things considered, if you are in the market for a good coconut oil then we would highly recommend giving this one a go.

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For those who are looking for products that can treat hair that is dry or damaged, we highly recommend Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Moisture Boost Pro Length Hair & Scalp Treatment. This product is suitable for all curl patterns and hair texture.

Pros

  • The creamy strengthening balm promotes healthy hair growth and manageability, and protects from styling damage, friction, tension, and heat to help your hair grow to optimal length.
  • The Moisture Boost System restores hair experiencing dryness or damage with natural reparatives that lock in moisture from root to tip, visibly improving your hair’s condition after each use.
  • The product contains no Parabens, Phthalates, Mineral Oil, Gluten, or Dyes.

Cons

  • The fragrance may be too strong for some users.
  • It may not work well for those with extremely oily hair.
  • The product may leave a greasy residue if too much is applied.

This product is a good option for people with dry or damaged hair. It also offers the strengthening balm that has green coffee extract, ceramides, and castor oil that shield hair from an array of harm that comes with styling, friction, tension, and heat. It is also instrumental in the healthy growth and management of hair hence suitable for all hair types and densities.

Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Moisture Boost Pro Length Hair & Scalp Treatment is convenient since it can be used on both wet and dry hair. For this purpose, you just have to apply it on your hair and the scalp and then gently massage it. It is recommended that it should be left on the hair for about 3-5 minutes before washing it out.

The Moisture Boost System reinvents dry or damaged hair with natural remedies that help retrieve the hair’s healthy look, penetrating deep from the roots to the tips. It does not have Parabens, Phthalates, Mineral Oil, Gluten or Dyes in its list of ingredients hence suitable for sensitive skin.

Overall, Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Moisture Boost Pro Length Hair & Scalp Treatment is perfect for individuals seeking a product that can help with hair improvement. It is very simple to use, it is safe, and it works making it a must-have for everyone who is in the market for good hair treatment products.

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For those of you who need an incredible hair conditioner that will make your hair smooth, shiny and healthy, you should invest in Parachute Advansed Jasmine Enriched Coconut Hair Oil.

Pros

  • Non-sticky and lightweight formula
  • Suitable for all hair types
  • Provides hydration and adds shine to hair and scalp

Cons

  • May not be suitable for those with sensitive scalp
  • Strong jasmine scent may not be appealing to everyone
  • May require multiple washes to completely remove from hair

Parachute Advansed Jasmine Enriched Coconut Hair Oil is a good product for people who wish to have silky hair. Its non-sticky, lightweight texture allows it to be used on all hair types even the dry and damaged hair. It assists with nourishing the hair and closes hair cuticles enabling it to moisturize the hair and impart shine to the hair and scalp. Furthermore, coconut oil moisturizes the scalp and seeps into the hair shafts to make the hair shiny without using chemicals.

In addition, people with sensitive scalp may develop some skin irritation problems due to the intensity of the jasmine scent. Also, the smell is not easily appreciated by some people and may, in fact, be a put-off. The oil may also need to be washed out several times to get the hair entirely free of the product, which may not be ideal in some cases.

All in all, Parachute Advansed Jasmine Enriched Coconut Hair Oil is a valuable product for those wishing to have beautiful, silk-like hair. This is because it is a lightweight product and it condition’s the hair so it can moisturise all hair types.

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The Garden of Life Coconut Oil has been recommended because it is USDA organic, raw, and unrefined coconut oil.

Pros

  • This coconut oil is organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free, making it a healthy choice for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Garden of Life Coconut Oil is cold-pressed, which means it retains all of its natural nutrients and flavor.
  • This coconut oil can be used for cooking, and baking, and as a natural hair and skin moisturizer.

Cons

  • The price of this coconut oil may be higher than other options on the market.
  • Some users may find the coconut flavor to be too strong for their liking.
  • The texture of this coconut oil may be too thick for some uses.

On balance, Garden of Life Coconut Oil seems to be a very good product that does not disappoint one’s expectations. We also like that it is organic and thus has not undergone any sort of processing to remove natural goodness from it. It is primarily used in cooking and baking and gives meals a good coconut flavor. We have also used it as a hair and skin conditioner; it makes the skin smooth and conditions the hair naturally.

All in all, if you are in need of a good quality coconut oil which can be used in different ways and is beneficial for your health, you should give the Garden of Life Coconut Oil a try.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best coconut oil for oil pulling, there are a few factors to consider. Here are some important features to look for:

Types of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil for hair comes in two main types: relative to refined and unrefined. Refined coconut oil has been processed to remove any traces of unpleasant smell, while unrefined coconut oil has been processed mildly and retains the natural coconut smell. Most people prefer using unrefined coconut oil for hair treatment because of its natural qualities.

Quality

When buying the oil, it is recommended to get the best quality possible in the market. If possible, it is recommended that you use coconut oil that is organic, cold-pressed, and unrefined. This makes sure that the oil has no negative compounds added to it and that it keeps the natural valuable components.

Packaging

Coconut oil is vulnerable to oxidation, which means that it can easily deteriorate once exposed to light and/or air. Coconut oil must be sourced in a jar that has a dark glass or in a closed container to cover it from light and exposure to air.

Price

Coconut oil prices can vary widely depending on the brand and quality. While it's tempting to opt for the cheapest option, it's important to remember that quality should be the top priority. Investing in high-quality coconut oil can pay off in the long run by providing better results for your hair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of coconut oil is best for hair?

The best coconut oil for hair is unrefined virgin coconut oil. This kind of coconut oil is produced using the cold-pressing process that retains some nutrients such as antioxidants in the product. Virgin coconut oil is also free from chemicals and other substances that can harm your hair in the process of its production.

Is refined or unrefined coconut oil better for hair?

Organic coconut oil for hair is better than normal coconut oil for hair. The refined coconut oil is made using heat and chemicals which removes most of the nutrients and antioxidants found in coconut oil. Whereas unprocessed coconut oil is extracted by cold pressing process it retains the natural properties of the oil.

What is the best coconut oil for dry scalp?

The best coconut oil for dry scalp is extra-virgin coconut oil. This type of coconut oil is unrefined and contains more nutrients and antioxidants than other types of coconut oil. It also has a higher concentration of lauric acid, which has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help to soothe and heal a dry scalp.

Is extra virgin coconut oil good for hair?

Yes, extra virgin coconut oil is good for hair. It is rich in natural nutrients and antioxidants that can nourish and strengthen your hair. It also has a high concentration of lauric acid, which can help to prevent hair breakage and split ends.

What are the benefits of using coconut oil on hair?

Coconut oil has many benefits for hair, including:

  • Nourishing and moisturizing the hair
  • Strengthening the hair and preventing breakage
  • Reducing frizz and improving hair texture
  • Promoting hair growth
  • Soothing a dry and itchy scalp
  • Preventing dandruff and other scalp conditions

Can coconut oil help with hair growth?

Yes, coconut oil can help with hair growth. It contains natural nutrients and antioxidants that can nourish and strengthen the hair follicles, promoting healthy hair growth. It also has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help to prevent scalp infections and other conditions that can inhibit hair growth.

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Clinical Physician Assistant, Summit Health
Jeff brings to Buoy 20 years of clinical experience as a physician assistant in urgent care and internal medicine. He also has extensive experience in healthcare administration, most recently as developer and director of an urgent care center. While completing his doctorate in Health Sciences at A.T. Still University, Jeff studied population health, healthcare systems, and evidence-based medicine....
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