From the page: Your hair is born in the kitchen
Idea 6
Coconut oil as a pre-wash
Women from India and the Asian coast have applied oil to their hair for centuries before bathing, a practice called oiling. The science is simple: coconut oil is rich in lauric acid, whose small molecule can penetrate the hair fiber and reduce protein loss during washing — something larger oils, like sunflower, don't do as well.
What you need
- 1 to 2 tablespoons of coconut oil (the kitchen kind, virgin or extra virgin)
- Comb or fingers
- Old towel or old shirt to protect your clothes
- Shampoo for washing afterwards
How to make it
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1
Separate dry or slightly damp hair into sections, because applying in sections distributes the oil far more evenly than applying it on top.
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2
Rub a little oil between your palms to soften it — in cold weather it solidifies, and the warmth of your hands solves it.
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3
Apply from the ends to the middle of the length, avoiding the roots: the roots already have natural oils and don't need a boost.
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4
Massage each section and comb through so the oil reaches all the strands.
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5
Let it sit for at least 30 minutes; to boost it, wrap a warm, damp towel around your head — the heat gently opens the cuticle and helps absorption.
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6
Wash with shampoo; if needed, emulsify with a little water in your hands before applying, and rinse thoroughly until the strands no longer feel heavy.
Finishing touches
Once a week already brings visible shine and softness; very porous hair can repeat twice. If some solidified oil remains in the jar, it returns to its normal state at room temperature — it's perfect to use. And, as always, test on your inner arm before the first application.
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