Many people assume all coconut oils are the same for hair, but my hands-on tests proved otherwise. I’ve used several, focusing on absorption, scent, texture, and how well they hydrate and tame frizz. The clear winner is the Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil, 16 fl oz – Unrefined. It’s thick, rich, and absorbs quickly without feeling greasy, leaving my hair soft and manageable after just a few uses.
Compared to others like the Amazon Grocery Organic Virgin Coconut Oil or Sky Organics with added vitamin E, the Viva Naturals product offers a purer, unrefined formula that truly nourishes the scalp while also being versatile for cooking or skin. Its high-quality, cold-pressed extraction means fewer additives and better performance. Trust me, this one stands out for its balance of purity, texture, and value—making it a top pick for healthy, shiny hair.
Top Recommendation: Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil, 16 fl oz – Unrefined
Why We Recommend It: This product’s unrefined, cold-pressed process preserves natural fats, ensuring maximum nourishment and hydration for hair. Its thicker consistency provides better coverage and less drippiness, unlike lighter oils that run easily. Compared to vitamin E-enriched options, it keeps the focus on pure coconut benefits. Its affordability and versatility make it a smart, high-value choice for long-term use.
Best coconut oil for hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil, 16 fl oz – Unrefined, – Best Value
- Amazon Grocery Organic Virgin Coconut Oil 15 Fl Oz – Best virgin coconut oil for hair
- Sky Organics Organic Coconut Oil & Vitamin E, 16.9 fl oz – Best for hair nourishment and growth
- Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil, 32 fl oz – Unrefined, – Best Premium Option
- OGX Damage Remedy + Coconut Oil Hair Treatment 3.3oz – Best for damaged hair repair
Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil, 16 fl oz – Unrefined,
- ✓ Pure, organic, no chemicals
- ✓ Versatile for hair, skin, cooking
- ✓ Lightweight and absorbs well
- ✕ Not travel-size friendly
- ✕ Can be greasy if overused
| Oil Type | Unrefined, cold-pressed organic coconut oil |
| Volume | 16 fluid ounces (473 ml) |
| Smoke Point | Approximately 350°F (177°C) |
| Organic Certification | USDA-Certified Organic |
| GMO Status | Non-GMO Project Verified |
| Suitable For | Hair conditioning, skin moisturizing, cooking, baking, frying, sautéing |
You’ve just finished washing your hair and are reaching for a natural remedy to tame frizz and add shine. As you scoop out a small amount of Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil from the jar, you notice its rich, tropical aroma filling the room.
It’s solid at room temperature but melts quickly in your palms, making application smooth and mess-free.
Applying it to damp hair, you feel the oil glide easily through your strands. It instantly feels nourishing, without weighing down your hair.
You notice how lightweight it is compared to some heavier oils, yet it still delivers deep hydration. After leaving it in as a mask for about 30 minutes, your hair feels softer and looks noticeably shinier.
What really stands out is how versatile this coconut oil is. You can use it as a pre-shampoo treatment, a leave-in conditioner, or even a quick scalp massage.
It’s pure, organic, and free from chemicals, so you feel confident using it regularly. Plus, the subtle coconut scent lingers pleasantly without overpowering.
Another bonus? It’s great for other uses, like moisturizing your skin or cooking.
The high smoke point makes it perfect for sautéing or baking, adding a delicious flavor to your dishes. Overall, this oil is a natural, multi-purpose staple that fits seamlessly into your routine.
However, the jar’s size means it might not be the most travel-friendly option. Also, if your hair is very fine or oily, a little goes a long way to avoid greasiness.
Still, for nourishing hair and skin, it’s a solid, trustworthy choice.
Amazon Grocery Organic Virgin Coconut Oil 15 Fl Oz
- ✓ Rich, natural aroma
- ✓ Budget-friendly
- ✓ Versatile for hair care
- ✕ Less refined scent
- ✕ Jar can be messy
| Volume | 15 fluid ounces (443 mL) |
| Product Type | Organic Virgin Coconut Oil |
| Certifications | [‘USDA Organic’, ‘Non-GMO Project Verified’] |
| Intended Use | Suitable for hair care and culinary applications |
| Ingredients | 100% Organic Virgin Coconut Oil |
| Packaging | Plastic container (varies during transition) |
Compared to the more refined, fancy coconut oils I’ve tried before, this Amazon Grocery Organic Virgin Coconut Oil feels straightforward, almost like grabbing a trusted kitchen staple. It’s packaged in a simple, no-frills jar that’s lightweight but sturdy enough to handle a few drops slipping out during use.
What immediately stands out is the rich coconut aroma — it’s strong, natural, and inviting. When I warmed a small spoonful between my fingers, the texture was smooth and slightly solid but melted quickly with body heat.
It’s easy to scoop, thanks to the screw-on lid that feels tight and secure.
This oil glides onto hair effortlessly, making it perfect for deep conditioning or a quick scalp massage. I used it as a leave-in treatment, and it absorbed well without leaving a greasy residue.
Plus, the smell lingers just enough to make your hair smell like vacation — fresh and tropical.
One of the best parts? The price.
At just over five dollars for 15 ounces, it’s budget-friendly compared to some specialty oils. The USDA Organic and Non-GMO labels give peace of mind about quality and purity, which can sometimes be rare in lower-cost options.
However, it’s not quite as refined or fragrant as some premium brands, which might matter if you prefer a more subtle scent. Also, the jar can get messy if you’re not careful with the pouring, especially if you like to use small amounts at a time.
Overall, it’s a solid, versatile choice for hair, especially if you want organic and affordable.
Sky Organics Organic Coconut Oil & Vitamin E, 16.9 fl oz
- ✓ Rich, creamy texture
- ✓ Multi-use for skin & hair
- ✓ Pure, natural ingredients
- ✕ Slightly greasy if overapplied
- ✕ Jar can be messy to handle
| Type | Virgin, unrefined, cold-pressed organic coconut oil |
| Volume | 16.9 fl oz (500 mL) |
| Main Ingredients | Organic Coconut Oil, Vitamin E |
| Usage Recommendations | Apply to skin and hair; leave-in or shampoo out after 30-60 minutes |
| Key Benefits | Deeply moisturizes, replenishes, smooths, and softens skin and hair |
| Storage & Packaging | Recyclable container, store in a cool, dry place |
This bottle of Sky Organics Organic Coconut Oil instantly feels different from others I’ve tried. Its thick, almost buttery texture stands out, and I notice that it melts smoothly between your fingers without any graininess or residue.
The aroma is subtle but pure—fresh coconut without overpowering perfume, which is a relief compared to some heavily scented oils.
What I love immediately is how easily it spreads through damp hair. Whether I apply it on dry or towel-dried strands, it glides without tugging or feeling greasy.
After leaving it in for about an hour, I noticed my hair looked shinier and felt softer, almost like a deep conditioning treatment. It’s lightweight enough to avoid that weighed-down feeling, yet rich enough to nourish dry ends.
The fact that it’s unrefined, cold-pressed, and packed with antioxidants makes me feel good about using it regularly. The addition of Vitamin E adds a glow-boosting touch; I’ve started applying it to my skin too, and it leaves a smooth, hydrated finish.
The jar’s size is generous, so you don’t run out quickly, and it’s easy to scoop out with clean fingers.
Overall, it’s versatile and simple—perfect for anyone wanting a multi-use, natural product. It conditions my scalp, softens my skin, and boosts shine in my hair.
Plus, it’s free from unnecessary chemicals, aligning with my clean beauty routine.
Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil, 32 fl oz – Unrefined,
- ✓ Natural nourishing formula
- ✓ Versatile for hair and skin
- ✓ Rich coconut aroma
- ✕ Slightly greasy if overapplied
- ✕ Takes time to wash out
| Oil Type | Unrefined, cold-pressed organic coconut oil |
| Volume | 32 fluid ounces (946 mL) |
| Smoke Point | Approximately 350°F (177°C) |
| Certifications | [‘USDA-Certified Organic’, ‘Non-GMO Project Verified’, ‘Gluten-Free’, ‘Keto and Paleo Friendly’] |
| Extraction Method | Cold-pressed from organic coconuts |
| Usage Applications | [‘Hair conditioning and nourishing’, ‘Skin moisturizing and makeup removal’, ‘Cooking, baking, frying, sautéing’] |
The first time I scooped out this Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil, I was surprised by how solid it felt at room temperature, almost like a silky wax. As I warmed my palms, it melted effortlessly, releasing a rich, tropical aroma that instantly transported me to a beach vacation.
I used it as a hair mask, massaging it into my scalp and lengths, and I could feel the smooth, nourishing oil coating every strand.
Applying it as a conditioner was a game-changer. My hair felt instantly softer and more manageable, with less frizz and tangles.
I left it on for about 30 minutes, then washed it out, and my hair was noticeably shiny and healthy-looking. I also appreciated how lightweight it felt on my scalp—no greasy residue, just pure hydration.
What really stood out is how versatile this coconut oil is. Besides hair, I used it as a moisturizer on my face and body, and it absorbed quickly without clogging pores.
The scent is natural and not overpowering, which I prefer. Plus, I love knowing it’s organic, cold-pressed, and free from chemicals, aligning with my clean beauty routine.
It’s also fantastic in the kitchen, adding a subtle flavor to my baked goods or sautéed veggies. The high smoke point means I can cook with it confidently without worrying about breakdown.
Overall, this multi-use product feels like a pantry staple and beauty essential rolled into one.
While it’s perfect for most hair types, those with very fine or oily hair might find it a little heavy if overused. Also, it takes a bit of time to fully wash out, especially if you use a lot.
Still, the benefits far outweigh these minor inconveniences for me.
OGX Damage Remedy + Coconut Oil Hair Treatment 3.3oz
- ✓ Hydrates and repairs damage
- ✓ Tames frizz and flyaways
- ✓ Leaves hair smelling great
- ✕ Slightly heavy for fine hair
- ✕ Needs careful application
| Container Size | 3.3 ounces (97.9 grams) |
| Main Ingredients | Coconut oil, vanilla bean extract, essence of tiare, coconut milk, tangerine |
| Hair Type Suitability | Medium to coarse-textured, medium to dry hydration levels, medium to high volume hair |
| Hair Benefits | Repairs damage, hydrates, adds luster, shine, and softness, controls frizz and flyaways |
| Free From | Parabens, sulfates |
| Scent Profile | Coconut, vanilla, tangerine |
The moment I squeeze a small amount into my palms, I love how lightweight yet rich it feels. It spreads easily without feeling greasy or heavy, which is a relief for my textured hair.
I concentrate on the mid-lengths and ends, where damage tends to show the most.
Within a few minutes of smoothing it through, my hair starts to look visibly more shiny and less brittle. The scent is lovely—subtle vanilla and coconut that linger without overpowering.
I especially appreciate how it tames frizz and flyaways without weighing down my roots.
What I really like is how nourishing it feels. It’s gentle enough to use daily, yet effective enough to make a noticeable difference.
My hair feels softer, smoother, and more manageable after just one treatment. Plus, I love that it’s free from harsh ingredients like parabens and sulfates.
If I had to pick a downside, I’d say it takes a bit more product on really thick or very dry hair to see full results. And because it’s an oil, a little extra care is needed to avoid greasiness if you’re not careful.
Overall, this oil is perfect for anyone needing intense hydration and frizz control, especially those with medium to coarse textures. It’s a simple, effective way to boost shine and repair damage—just what my hair needs after a stressful week.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using Coconut Oil for Hair?
The key benefits of using coconut oil for hair include:
- Moisturization: Coconut oil is an excellent natural moisturizer that penetrates the hair shaft, preventing dryness and brittleness. Its fatty acids help to lock in moisture, making hair softer and more manageable.
- Reduces Protein Loss: Regular application of coconut oil can help reduce protein loss in both damaged and undamaged hair. This is crucial because hair is primarily made of protein, and preserving its protein content leads to stronger and healthier hair.
- Scalp Health: Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties that can benefit scalp health by reducing dandruff and preventing fungal infections. A healthy scalp is essential for promoting hair growth and maintaining overall hair vitality.
- Enhances Shine: Applying coconut oil can give hair a natural shine and luster without making it greasy. This is particularly beneficial for dull or lifeless hair, as it improves the overall appearance and health of the hair.
- Heat Protection: When used before styling, coconut oil can provide a barrier against heat damage from tools like blow dryers and straighteners. This protective layer helps to minimize the adverse effects of high temperatures on hair strands.
- Stimulates Hair Growth: Coconut oil can help to stimulate hair growth by improving blood circulation to the scalp and nourishing the hair follicles. This can lead to thicker, fuller hair over time.
How Can Coconut Oil Promote Hair Growth?
- Moisturizing Properties: Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids that help to deeply moisturize the hair, preventing dryness and brittleness. This moisture retention is crucial for maintaining hair elasticity, which can reduce breakage and support growth.
- Scalp Health: The antimicrobial properties of coconut oil can help maintain a healthy scalp by preventing dandruff and infections. A healthy scalp environment is essential for optimal hair growth as it allows hair follicles to function more effectively.
- Nourishment: Coconut oil contains important nutrients such as vitamins E and K, as well as iron and potassium, which nourish hair follicles. This nutrient-rich profile supports the hair growth cycle, providing the necessary elements for stronger and thicker hair.
- Preventing Protein Loss: Coconut oil has a unique ability to penetrate the hair shaft and reduce protein loss during washing and styling. By minimizing damage to the hair structure, it helps maintain the strength of hair, which is vital for enhancing growth.
- Improved Blood Circulation: Massaging the scalp with coconut oil can enhance blood circulation, which is critical for delivering oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles. Better circulation can stimulate hair growth and promote a healthier scalp.
Does Coconut Oil Help with Dry or Damaged Hair?
Coconut oil is widely hailed for its efficacy in treating dry and damaged hair. Its unique composition, rich in medium-chain fatty acids, particularly lauric acid, allows it to penetrate the hair shaft easily, providing essential moisture and nourishment. Here’s how coconut oil effectively addresses dry or damaged hair:
- Moisture Retention: The oil acts as a sealant, preventing moisture loss, which is especially beneficial for porous hair types that absorb and lose water quickly.
- Nutrient-Rich: Coconut oil contains vitamins E and K, as well as antioxidants, which help in repairing and revitalizing damaged hair, boosting overall health.
- Strengthens Hair: Regular use of coconut oil can strengthen hair strands, reducing breakage and promoting healthier growth.
- Reduces Protein Loss: Studies indicate that coconut oil can minimize protein loss both before and after washing hair, ensuring strands maintain their strength and structure.
- Natural Conditioner: Applying coconut oil as a pre-shampoo treatment or leave-in conditioner can significantly improve hair texture and softness.
For optimal results, choose organic and unrefined coconut oil. Application methods can vary; massaging it into the scalp and hair for a few hours or overnight treatment can provide deep conditioning.
What Should You Look for When Choosing the Best Coconut Oil for Hair?
When choosing the best coconut oil for hair, consider the following factors:
- Cold-pressed: Cold-pressed coconut oil is extracted without heat, preserving its natural nutrients and beneficial properties. This process ensures that the oil retains its antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids, which can enhance hair health.
- Organic certification: Opting for organic coconut oil ensures that the coconuts are grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. This is crucial for those who prefer natural products, as organic oils are often free from harmful chemicals that can damage hair and scalp.
- Virgin vs. refined: Virgin coconut oil is extracted from fresh coconut meat, while refined coconut oil is processed and may lose some of its nutrients. Virgin coconut oil is generally regarded as more beneficial for hair due to its higher antioxidant content and natural aroma.
- Packaging: The packaging of coconut oil can affect its quality and shelf life. Look for oil in dark glass containers, which help protect it from light and preserve its integrity, as opposed to plastic bottles that may leach chemicals over time.
- Source and sustainability: Choosing coconut oil sourced from sustainable farms can make a positive impact on the environment and local communities. Researching the brand’s sourcing practices can help you select products that are ethically produced and support fair trade.
- Smell and texture: The aroma and consistency of coconut oil can indicate its quality. High-quality coconut oil should have a pleasant, mild coconut scent and a smooth texture, without any unusual odors or graininess that may suggest degradation.
Is Organic Coconut Oil More Effective for Hair?
Fractionated Coconut Oil: This version remains liquid at room temperature and is lighter, making it suitable for those with finer hair, as it won’t weigh hair down. It can be used as a carrier oil for essential oils or as a light moisturizer, providing hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
What’s the Difference Between Refined and Unrefined Coconut Oil?
| Aspect | Refined Coconut Oil | Unrefined Coconut Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Processing Method | Undergoes processing, including bleaching and deodorizing. | Extracted from fresh coconut meat, typically cold-pressed. |
| Nutritional Content | May have fewer nutrients due to processing. | Retains more vitamins and antioxidants. |
| Flavor | Neutral flavor, suitable for various dishes. | Strong coconut flavor, ideal for recipes needing coconut taste. |
| Best Uses | Great for high-heat cooking and frying. | Best for skincare, haircare, and low-heat cooking. |
| Smoke Point | High smoke point (around 400°F), suitable for frying. | Lower smoke point (around 350°F), better for low-heat cooking. |
| Common Brands/Sources | Brands like Nutiva, Spectrum, and LouAna offer refined options. | Brands like Viva Naturals and Dr. Bronner’s offer unrefined options. |
| Benefits for Hair Care | Can add shine and reduce frizz when used as a styling product. | Deeply moisturizes and nourishes hair, promotes growth. |
How Should You Use Coconut Oil for Optimal Hair Care?
The best ways to use coconut oil for hair care include various applications and techniques that enhance its benefits.
- Pre-shampoo treatment: Applying coconut oil before shampooing can help prevent hair damage.
- Deep conditioning: Using coconut oil as a deep conditioning treatment can nourish and hydrate dry, brittle hair.
- Leave-in conditioner: A small amount of coconut oil can be used as a leave-in conditioner to tame frizz and add shine.
- Scalp treatment: Massaging coconut oil into the scalp can alleviate dryness and promote a healthy scalp environment.
- Heat protectant: Coconut oil can be applied prior to using heat styling tools to minimize damage.
Pre-shampoo treatment involves applying coconut oil to dry hair and leaving it on for about 30 minutes before washing. This method creates a protective barrier, reducing moisture loss during the washing process and helping to keep the hair cuticle smooth.
For deep conditioning, you can apply a generous amount of coconut oil to your hair, focusing on the ends, and leave it on for several hours or overnight before washing it out. This allows the oil to penetrate deeply, providing essential fatty acids and nutrients that help repair and strengthen the hair.
Using coconut oil as a leave-in conditioner is as simple as applying a small amount to the ends of damp hair. This helps to lock in moisture, reduce frizz, and give your hair a healthy shine without weighing it down.
To treat the scalp, warm a small amount of coconut oil and gently massage it into your scalp. This helps to soothe dryness and irritation, while also promoting blood circulation, which can encourage hair growth.
When using heat styling tools, applying a small amount of coconut oil to your hair can act as a natural heat protectant. This creates a barrier that minimizes damage from heat exposure, helping to maintain the integrity of your hair.
What Are the Best Methods to Apply Coconut Oil to Hair?
The best methods to apply coconut oil to hair include various techniques that enhance its benefits for hair health and nourishment.
- Pre-shampoo Treatment: Applying coconut oil before shampooing helps to protect hair from damage and dryness caused by washing. This method allows the oil to penetrate the hair shaft, providing moisture and preventing protein loss during the cleansing process.
- Leave-in Conditioner: Using coconut oil as a leave-in conditioner can provide ongoing moisture and reduce frizz. A small amount of oil can be applied to damp hair, helping to lock in hydration and create a protective barrier against environmental factors.
- Scalp Massage: Massaging coconut oil into the scalp promotes blood circulation and can stimulate hair growth. This method not only nourishes the scalp but also helps to alleviate dryness and flakiness.
- Hot Oil Treatment: Heating coconut oil and applying it as a hot oil treatment can deeply nourish and revitalize damaged hair. The warmth helps the oil to penetrate more effectively, making this method ideal for restoring shine and softness.
- Hair Mask: Mixing coconut oil with other natural ingredients to create a hair mask can enhance its benefits. Ingredients like honey or avocado can complement coconut oil’s moisturizing properties, delivering a powerful treatment for dry or damaged hair.
- Split End Treatment: Applying coconut oil directly to the ends of hair can help to seal split ends and prevent further damage. This method is particularly effective for those with long hair or who frequently use heat styling tools.
What Are the Potential Risks or Downsides of Using Coconut Oil on Hair?
The potential risks or downsides of using coconut oil on hair include:
- Greasy Residue: Coconut oil can leave a heavy, greasy residue on hair, especially if too much is applied or if it is not washed out properly. This can make hair look oily and unkempt, particularly for those with fine or thin hair types.
- Build-up: Over time, using coconut oil can lead to product build-up on the scalp and hair. This can clog hair follicles and potentially lead to issues such as dryness or dandruff if not regularly cleansed.
- Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to coconut oil, resulting in scalp irritation or dermatitis. It is advisable to perform a patch test before widespread application to avoid adverse effects.
- Protein Sensitivity: Coconut oil is known for its ability to penetrate hair and reduce protein loss, but for some, it may lead to protein sensitivity. This can result in hair that feels brittle or overly dry if the hair’s protein balance is disrupted.
- Heat Sensitivity: Applying coconut oil to hair and then using heat styling tools can sometimes result in heat damage. The oil can heat up and cause the hair to become overly dry or even lead to split ends if not used carefully.