Your natural hair loves coconut oil as a sealant during the spring, summer, and fall but does a complete 180 come winter. If this sounds like your tresses, check out these suggestions for improving the effectiveness of coconut oil this season.
1. Let it penetrate into your hair overnight
Coconut oil takes time to penetrate the hair shaft. Because of this reality, it is better to apply it hours rather than a few minutes prior to leaving the house, especially during the cold winter. Try making it a part of your nighttime routine. After you wash your face, brush your teeth, and/or whatever else you do before bed, rub some coconut oil into the last few inches of your hair then apply your scarf or bonnet. If you are worried about transferring excess oil to your pillow, lay down a blanket or towel prior to resting your head.
2. Cut it with other oils (e.g., grapeseed, apricot)
Cutting coconut oil with other oils can help some naturals resolve the “stiff strands” complex they may experience come winter. This is because the addition of other oils can increase the temperature at which the overall mixture solidifies. What are some good oils to mix with coconut oil? Well, you can start by picking one to two of your favorites and seeing how that combination works for you. Some other ideas include adding oils with extra benefits that you are seeking. Check out this earlier post for ideas: 25 Popular Oils, Butters and Natural Ingredients and How To Use Them on Natural Hair.
3. Mix it with shea butter or cocoa butter
An alternative to tip #2 is to mix coconut oil with a butter. I like mixing mine with shea butter but you can certainly use cupuacu butter, mango butter, cocoa butter, or others. You can also mix the butter(s) and one or more oils with the coconut oil for a super-sealing whipped mixture. Then apply it after a fresh wash and condition to help lock in moisture. For my homemade whipped mixture, I like to use shea butter, coconut oil, grapeseed oil, avocado oil, olive oil and castor oil.
4. Most importantly, don’t be heavy-handed
When it comes to sealing, a little bit of coconut oil goes a long way. There is no need to drench your hair in it until you become a grease ball. Doing this will merely exasperate the “stiff strands” complex you may experience with coconut oil use during the winter.
How do you increase the effectiveness of your coconut oil use in the winter?