An Examination of the Potential Hair Damage Caused by Coconut Oil's Dark Side
September 2024
TLDR Coconut oil can damage hair by clogging pores, causing frizz, and disrupting moisture balance.
This paper reviews the potential negative effects of coconut oil on hair, highlighting issues such as pore blockage, protein accumulation, and moisture imbalance. It finds that the high protein content and greasy texture of coconut oil can cause clogged pores, inflammation, itching, and hair loss, as well as weighted-down hair, frizz, and breakage. Overuse can disrupt the hair's natural moisture balance, leading to frizz, brittleness, and dryness. The review stresses the importance of using coconut oil carefully and provides guidelines for safe usage to avoid these adverse effects.