The Coconut Oil Trick That Will Save Your Scalp
Liz Ritter
Summer may be the season to sport beachy waves and pulled-back braids, but it's also the time of year when your scalp takes a beating.
"Sun exposure is one of the big reasons behind a dry scalp," says Tiffanie Richards, colorist at Nunzio Saviano Salon in New York, and adds that factors like using too drying of a shampoo, not giving your hairenough moisture (i.e., she's a big proponent of using conditioner on your scalp!), dry shampoo, water's pH and the changes in the seasons can all contribute to the dreaded dryness, itchiness and flakiness.
Her easy at-home trick: **Coconut oil.**
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"I personally use it and recommend it for the hair and scalp. Many of my clients have been coming in and stressing concern for a dry scalp, and while a dry scalp has many causes, coconut oil will most likely be a quick remedy for all."
Her suggestion for use is simple: "Scoop a dime to quarter size amount—depending on how thick and long your hair is—and massage it everywhere. I personally like to start on my ends and work my way up to my scalp. Massage the oil well into your scalp, comb through your hair, tie your hair in a top bun and go to bed."
Richards also says that since coconut oil is not a heavy oil, it easily shampoos out of hair, leaving it super soft and strong. "It absorbs right into the hair and I have never had a problem with sleeping in it or it transferring onto my pillow cases/sheets. Rubbing this into your scalp will relieve any dryness or itchy sensations you may currently be experiencing. The more you do it, the more results you will see. I suggest doing this treatment at least once a week if possible or two-to-three times per week if you have a severely dry scalp. When you wake up in the morning, just shampoo and condition as usual."