Best 4 DIY Coconut Oil Hair Masks for Beautiful Hair

Coconut oil is renowned for its exceptional hair care properties. Its natural composition makes it a perfect ingredient for DIY hair masks.

According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, coconut oil is one of the few oils that can penetrate the hair shaft due to its low molecular weight and straight-chain structure of fatty acids. This penetration helps to reduce protein loss in both damaged and undamaged hair.

In this article, we’ll look at four amazing, easy-to-make DIY coconut oil hair masks that will leave your hair looking beautiful and healthy.

Top 4 DIY of Coconut Oil Hair Masks

Here are the 4 easy-to-make coconut oil hair masks you can try today for healthy and beautiful hair:

1. Coconut Oil and Banana Hair Mask for Damaged Hair

Damaged hair can benefit significantly from natural remedies, and a coconut oil and banana hair mask is one such solution. This mask combines the deep conditioning properties of coconut oil with the nourishing benefits of bananas to help restore hair health, shine, and manageability.

The banana is great for strengthening and adding moisture to dry, brittle hair thanks to its natural oils and vitamins like potassium, vitamin C, and B6, which help to soften and strengthen hair, reduce frizz, and improve manageability. The coconut oil helps further nourish and condition strands, while the honey acts as a humectant to lock in moisture. Use this mask 1-2 times per week for best results on damaged locks.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 2-3 tablespoons coconut oil (solid or melted)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mash the ripe banana really well with a fork until it forms a smooth puree.
2. Add the coconut oil and honey (if using) to the mashed banana and mix everything together thoroughly until well combined.
3. Apply the hair mask to clean, damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends where your hair tends to be most damaged.
4. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to distribute the mask evenly through your hair, coating each strand.
5. Cover your hair with a shower cap or towel and allow the mask to penetrate for 20–30 minutes.
6. Rinse the mask out thoroughly with cool water and shampoo hair as normal.
7. Style as usual. There is no need to use a conditioner after rinsing out this mask.

2. Coconut Oil and Aloe Vera Mask for Hair Growth

Coconut oil and aloe vera are both natural ingredients that are often touted for their potential benefits for hair growth and overall hair health. Here’s a breakdown of how each of these ingredients may help promote hair growth:

Coconut Oil

1. Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids, which can help nourish the scalp and hair follicles, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth.
2. Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties that can help fight scalp infections, which can impede hair growth.
3. Coconut oil can penetrate the hair shaft, reducing protein loss and strengthening hair strands, which can prevent breakage and promote longer hair.

Aloe Vera

1. Aloe vera contains proteolytic enzymes that help break down dead skin cells on the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth.
2. Aloe vera is a natural moisturizer that can hydrate the scalp and hair, preventing dryness and breakage.
3. Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe an irritated scalp, creating a healthy environment for hair growth.
4. Aloe vera is rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins A, C, and E, as well as folic acid and zinc, which are essential for healthy hair growth.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons aloe vera gel (freshly extracted from an aloe leaf or store-bought pure aloe gel)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the coconut oil and aloe vera gel until well combined.
2. If using fresh aloe gel, make sure to blend it or mash it well to get a smooth consistency.
3. Start with clean, damp hair. Towel dry it lightly, leaving it a little damp.
4. Using your fingers or a hair dye brush, apply the coconut oil and aloe vera mixture to your scalp. Gently massage it into the scalp using circular motions.
5. Once the scalp is covered, work the remaining mixture through the lengths of your hair, ensuring that it’s evenly distributed from roots to ends.
6. Cover your hair with a shower cap or a warm towel to help the ingredients penetrate better.
7. Leave the mask on for at least 30 minutes to an hour.
8. After the recommended time, rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove the mask.
9. Shampoo your hair as usual to remove any remaining residue.
10. You can follow up with a conditioner if desired.

3. Coconut Oil and Honey Mask for Hair Shine

Honey is a natural humectant that retains moisture. Combined with coconut oil, it creates a powerful hydrating mask.

Honey has been used for centuries in beauty treatments due to its impressive humectant properties. A humectant is a substance that draws moisture from the air into the skin or hair, keeping it hydrated. When you combine honey with coconut oil, the result is a deeply nourishing hair mask that can help address dryness and damage.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil (solid or liquid)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the coconut oil and honey. Mix well until fully incorporated.
2. If using, add in the apple cider vinegar or lemon juice and stir to combine.
3. Make sure your hair is clean and dry before applying the mask.
4. Using your fingers or a brush, apply the mask evenly, from the roots to the ends of your hair.
5. Cover your hair with a shower cap or wrap it in a hot towel. This helps the oils penetrate better.
6. Leave the mask on for 30 minutes to an hour.
7. Rinse out the mask thoroughly with cool water and shampoo as usual.

4. Coconut Oil and Ginger Mask for Dandruff

Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. When combined with coconut oil, it creates an effective mask to combat dandruff and soothe the scalp.

Benefits of Ginger for Hair

• Anti-Dandruff Properties: Ginger contains gingerol, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. This helps in reducing dandruff and preventing scalp infections.
• Scalp Stimulation: Ginger promotes blood circulation to the scalp, which can stimulate hair growth and improve hair health.
• Hydration: Coconut oil moisturizes the scalp, preventing dryness and flakiness that contribute to dandruff.
• Nutrient-rich: Both coconut oil and ginger are rich in essential nutrients that nourish the scalp and hair, promoting overall hair health.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger or 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• 2-3 drops tea tree essential oil (optional)

Instructions:

1. If using fresh ginger, grate it finely to extract the juice and pulp.
2. In a small bowl, mix the coconut oil, grated ginger (or ginger powder), and tea tree oil if using.
3. Massage the mixture into your scalp with your fingertips, using circular motions. Make sure to cover your entire scalp area.
4. Once your scalp is coated, use the remaining mask to cover the lengths of your hair if desired.
5. Cover your hair with a shower cap or towel and leave the mask on for 30–60 minutes to allow the ingredients to absorb.
6. Rinse the mask out thoroughly with warm water. You can use a gentle shampoo if needed to remove any remaining oil/residue.
7. Style as usual.

How It Works:

• Coconut oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat dandruff.
• Ginger has natural anti-fungal properties that fight the fungus that causes dandruff.
• Tea tree oil (optional) adds extra antimicrobial benefits.

Use this mask 1-2 times per week for best results in treating dandruff and an itchy, flaky scalp. The oils moisturize, while the ginger helps eliminate dandruff.

Note: While coconut oil and aloe vera are generally considered safe for topical use, it’s important to note that individual results may vary, and some people may experience allergic reactions or adverse effects. If you have any concerns or experience any adverse reactions, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist or a healthcare professional.

Read More: How to Get Beautiful Hair with an Overnight Coconut Oil Hair Mask

What are the Benefits of Coconut Oil for Hair?

Coconut oil offers several potential benefits for hair health and appearance. Here are some of the main benefits of using coconut oil for hair:

1. Coconut oil is an excellent natural moisturizer for hair. It is easily absorbed by the hair strands, helping to nourish and condition dry, damaged, or frizzy hair. The fatty acids in coconut oil can penetrate the hair shaft, providing deep moisturization.
2. Coconut oil may help reduce protein loss from hair, which can lead to stronger, healthier hair. The lauric acid in coconut oil has a high affinity for hair proteins, helping to prevent them from being washed away.
3. Some studies suggest that coconut oil may help promote hair growth by improving scalp health and nourishing the hair follicles. The antimicrobial and antifungal properties of coconut oil can help prevent scalp infections that may impede hair growth.
4. The antifungal and antibacterial properties of coconut oil can help fight dandruff, which is caused by fungal or bacterial overgrowth on the scalp.
5. Coconut oil can act as a natural detangler, making it easier to comb through knots and tangles without causing breakage.
6. Coconut oil may provide some protection against UV damage, which can cause hair to become dry, brittle, and discolored.
7. Coconut oil can help prevent hygral fatigue, which is the swelling and contracting of hair in response to changes in humidity, leading to damage and breakage.

Coconut Oil Hair Mask Usage Tips for Best Results

Here are some tips for using a coconut oil hair mask effectively for best results:

1. Start with dry hair: Applying the coconut oil mask to dry, unwashed hair helps the oil penetrate the hair better and rejuvenate it.
2. Use the right amount: For hair length that is shoulder-length, use about 2–4 tablespoons of coconut oil. Use more for longer hair, as too little won’t fully coat the strands.
3. Focus on ends: Concentrate the mask on the ends and mid-lengths of your hair, as these areas tend to be dryer. Apply less to the scalp area.
4. Cover with a cap: Cover your hair with a shower cap or towel after applying the mask to trap heat and allow deeper penetration.
5. Let it soak: Leave the mask on for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This is because the longer you leave it in, the better it will condition the hair.
6. Use heat (optional): Sitting under a hooded dryer or wrapping a hot towel around your head helps the hair cuticles to open, allowing the goodness of the mask to penetrate better into the hair.
7. Rinse thoroughly: When the time is up, rinse the mask out with warm water and shampoo and conditioner as usual to remove excess oil.
8. Condition after: Follow up with a leave-in conditioner and moisturizer to lock in moisture.
9. Do it weekly: Make coconut oil masks a weekly treatment for very dry, damaged, or coarse hair types.

Which Hair Types Should Use Coconut Oil?

1. Dry hair: Coconut oil is an excellent moisturizer and can help hydrate dry and brittle hair. Its fatty acids and proteins can penetrate the hair shaft, moisturizing, nourishing, and softening the strands.

2. Curly or frizzy hair: Coconut oil can help tame frizz and define curls. Its smoothing properties can help reduce frizz and enhance curl definition without weighing down the hair.

3. Damaged or chemically treated hair: Coconut oil can help repair and protect damaged hair by reducing protein loss and preventing further damage. It can be particularly beneficial for hair that has been colored, permed, or chemically straightened.

4. Afro-textured hair: Coconut oil is a popular choice for Afro-textured hair because it can help provide moisture, reduce breakage, and improve manageability.

5. Thick or coarse hair: The high moisture content of coconut oil can help detangle and manage thick, coarse hair, making it more manageable and easier to style.

Conclusion

These DIY coconut oil hair masks are simple yet effective. Regular use will transform your hair, making it healthier and more beautiful. Choose the mask that best suits your needs, and enjoy the benefits.

FAQ

1. Is it better to put coconut oil on wet or dry hair?

When it comes to applying coconut oil to your hair, it is generally recommended to put it on dry hair rather than wet hair. This is because coconut oil tends to penetrate better on dry hair due to the fact that water repels oil, making it more challenging for the oil to be absorbed into wet hair.

Dry hair is more likely to allow the oil to penetrate effectively, while wet hair may not absorb the oil as efficiently. Ultimately, the decision on whether to apply coconut oil on wet or dry hair depends on your hair type and preferences, but for optimal penetration, dry hair is typically the better choice.

2. How do I wash my hair after applying coconut oil?

Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water before shampooing to help remove any excess coconut oil and make it easier for the shampoo to work effectively. Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo, as sulfates can strip your hair of its natural oils. You may need to shampoo your hair twice, concentrating on the scalp area where most of the oil accumulates.

Occasionally, use a clarifying shampoo to remove any buildup or residue from frequent coconut oil use. Gently massage your scalp with your fingertips while shampooing to loosen any remaining oil and allow the shampoo to penetrate more effectively. Rinse your hair with cool water to remove all traces of shampoo and coconut oil. Follow up with a lightweight, nourishing conditioner to replenish moisture, as coconut oil can be drying. Be patient and consistent with your hair care routine, as it may take a few washes to remove the coconut oil from your hair completely.

3. Why does my hair fall out after using coconut oil?

Your hair may fall out after using coconut oil due to an allergic reaction. Some people can have an allergic response to coconut oil, which can cause irritation, inflammation, and hair loss. An allergy would likely cause other symptoms such as itching, redness, or a rash as well. Overuse of coconut oil or leaving it on for too long can also lead to hair shedding. Using too much coconut oil or leaving it on for extended periods can overload the hair and scalp, clogging pores and hair follicles, potentially suffocating them and causing shedding.

Additionally, lower-quality, refined coconut oils may contain additives or contaminants that don’t agree with your hair and scalp, leading to shedding. Suppose the hair shedding persists after trying pure, virgin coconut oil and using it sparingly. In that case, it is advisable to discontinue use and consult a dermatologist to identify if an allergy or condition is causing the reaction. A proper diagnosis can help determine a safe hair treatment.