For generations, coconut oil has been the beauty world’s ultimate overachiever. The all-purpose staple, often used in the kitchen to prep healthy recipes, also promises to nourish everything from dry skin to brittle strands. Lately, though, it’s been thrust into an even more ambitious role as the secret to longer, faster-growing hair. Scroll through TikTok or talk to any DIY beauty devotee, and you’ll find coconut oil hailed as a miracle treatment, capable of transforming limp lengths into glossy, healthier locks. But how much of that reputation is rooted in reality?
Coconut oil contains so many benefits for your whole body, inside and out. As far as hair is concerned, “Coconut oil adds nourishment, hydration, and shine to the hair. It can also take away some of the dry skin on the scalp during cleansing,” says
Edward Tricomi
, master hair stylist and co-founder of Warren Tricomi Salon.
While coconut oil is undeniably rich in fatty acids and deeply conditioning, the link between hydration and actual hair growth is a bit more complicated. To clear this up, ELLE editors consulted with four hairstylists to explain the benefits of coconut oil, how to use it, and whether or not hair texture matters. We also sourced expert recommendations and ELLE editors’ favorites.
Below, find answers to all your coconut oil Qs, and a definitive list of the eight best ones available for hair growth.
Best Overall
Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-exfoliating Scalp Shampoo
$42
Sephora
Also Consider
$42
Amazon
$42
Nordstrom
Pros
Formulated with charcoal for exfoliation
Cons
Not great for super sensitive skin
Looking for a hair care option that goes beyond basic coconut oil? Elevate your routine with Briogeo’s micro exfoliating shampoo. Infused with binchotan charcoal to detoxify and coconut oil to hydrate, it’s your ultimate solution for a revitalized scalp and healthy hair.
Size:
8 oz.
Our beauty expert says:
“This brand is founded by my dear friend Nancy Twine, but even if it wasn’t, I’d still use this product. It’s great for post-protective styles. You can feel the micro exfoliants, but they dissolve as you work the product into your scalp. This is great for those with thick or curly hair as the product won’t get caught in your hair.” —
Danielle James
, beauty expert
Best Organic
Kopari Organic Coconut Melt
Amazon
Also Consider
$32
Revolve
$21
Ulta Beauty
Pros
Multi-purpose
Cons
Often out of stock
Experience the goodness of 100 percent pure, organic coconut oil sourced from the Philippines with Kopari’s coconut melt. It can be used as a body lotion, makeup remover, dry shave oil, hair mask, and more. One product, endless possibilities.
Size:
5.1 oz.
Our expert says:
“Get the closest shave OF YOUR LIFE by swapping this organic coconut oil for your shaving cream. It leaves your limbs incredibly soft, but heed my warnings—move the razor slowly or else you’re likely to nick yourself. Oh, and just have sure-footing in the shower... I’ve wiped out one too many times to count when things got slippery.” —
Margaux Anbouba
, beauty expert
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Best Nourishing
SheaMoisture 100% Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
Now 13% Off
$16
$14
Amazon
Also Consider
$17
Nordstrom Rack
$20
The Vitamin Shoppe
Pros
Great for all-over application
Cons
Can make hair greasy
Whether you’re on a mission to quench your skin’s thirst or add a touch of softness to your strands, SheaMoisture’s 100 percent Virgin Coconut Oil is your go-to solution. Free from parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, and sulfates, this versatile product provides head-to-toe nourishment, leaving no greasy traces behind.
Size:
14.5 oz.
Our expert says:
“There’s something to say about one product ingredient that lets the star shine. This coconut oil by Shea Moisture is no fuss with all the benefits, and I use it for literally everything—a substitute for my body lotion, to nourish my scalp and hair, and even to remove stubborn eye makeup.”—DJ
Best Cold-Pressed
Nutiva Cold-Pressed, Unrefined Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
$10
Amazon
Also Consider
$16
The Vitamin Shoppe
Pros
Organic
Cons
Difficult to scoop out product
Nutiva Organics Coconut Oil is made from organic, cold-pressed virgin coconuts sourced from non-GMO, sustainably farmed coconuts. In other words, it’s really pure and can provide you with a great moisturizer or deep conditioning hair treatment.
Size:
15 oz.
An ELLE editor says:
“Although I also stand by budget coconut oils, sometimes it’s worth it to fork up a few extra dollars in exchange for higher standards. In a time when we all need to be doing anything and everything we can for the planet, I love that Nutiva is Climate Pledge Friendly on Amazon.”— Meg Donohue, associate fashion commerce editor
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Best Scented
Ligne St. Barth Coconut Oil
$52
Amazon
Pros
Smells amazing
Cons
Pricier than others on this list
If you’re looking for a coconut oil that not only feels great on your hair and skin but also smells g
Book Your Appointment
Ready to transform your skin? Visit Candy Beauty Skin Care at 32 Pell St, Chinatown, NYC.
Call (646) 691-8273 or book online at candybeauty.store.
Our expert estheticians are ready to create your personalized treatment plan.
Source: https://www.elle.com/beauty/hair/g71097257/best-coconut-oils-for-hair-growth/
