Coconut oil has many effects on beard hair, such as preventing flaking skin and irritation, strengthening the hair, improving its appearance and luster, and moisturizing the skin. As one of the most popular new trends in the health market, coconut oil is being used for everything, from skin care and anti-aging strategies to weight loss and reduced inflammation. It is also a very common ingredient in cosmetic and hair products, and with very good reason. The oil is rich in lauric acid and other medium-chain fatty acids that are beneficial to the body, unlike unsaturated fats. When it comes to heart health, kidney infections, oxidative stress, chronic disease, energy levels, immune system function, and the appearance of the skin, the antioxidants and nutrients of coconut oil cannot be beat. [1]
When it is mixed in with shampoo, it can help give your hair a natural moisturizing boost and improve the appearance and luster of your locks. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that many people have begun using coconut oil for the health of their beard as well. [2]
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How to Use Coconut Oil for Your Beard?
Look for raw, cold-pressed virgin coconut oil, which may be more expensive, but it will be worth the extra dollars. Use a small amount of this oil and spread it on your fingers, where it will change from a white solid color to a clear liquid. You can then gently apply the oil to your beard, ensuring that it reaches the bottom level of your beard, specifically the skin beneath the beard. Coconut oil also works as a great carrier oil, so you can add other essential oils to the mix for a pleasant smell, like a natural cologne for your beard. Now, the real question is, what are the actual benefits of using coconut oil on your beard?
Coconut oil has Vitamins E and K that help to improve beard growth. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Benefits of Coconut Oil for Beard Hair
Coconut oil contains vitamins, minerals, and other antioxidant properties that help improve the skin and hair. The benefits of coconut oil for your beard include its ability to help moisturize the skin, improve brittleness, lessen irritation and stimulate growth when used properly. It can be used in shampoos, facial scrubs, or as a pre-shaving and post-shaving balm on the face.
Hair Care
One of the major problems with beards is how easily the hair can break or fall out. This brittleness is very common, but coconut oil can increase the flexibility and make it less likely to break or fall out, giving your beard a thicker, richer appearance.
Reduces Skin Irritation
To reduce irritation on the skin from shaving, particularly if you have sensitive skin, you can apply coconut oil to the skin before and after shaving; this can increase healing in the event of a cut or nick, and will also make for a smooth shave, without leaving behind redness or discomfort.
Prevents Skin Flaking
The health of the skin beneath your beard will have a major impact on the quality and look of your beard. If you have flaking or irritated skin, or an actual condition like psoriasis, the hair will not grow out evenly and will be much more prone to fall out. According to the USDA, coconut oil contains vitamin E and K. These vitamins help in keeping your beard look great from top to bottom. [10] [11]
Moisturizes Skin
Moisturizing the skin and hair near your beard is important. Particularly after shaving or using a razor to tidy up your edges, applying some coconut oil can prevent inflammation or redness, while also promoting healing and preventing any infections. The skin and hair near to remain hydrated to look their best.
Boosts Hair Growth
Topically applying coconut oil doesn’t have an effect on the growth rate of the beard, but consuming the oil can help! By adding coconut oil to your diet, you are also introducing a number of hormones and hormone-stimulating substances. This oil has been linked to increased levels of testosterone and ketones, which can stimulate the thyroid gland and boost metabolic function, all of which leads to more rapid growth of facial hair. [12]
As you can see, coconut oil is more versatile than you thought, and if you’re sporting a beard this season, this popular oil can help you make it look great!
