Coconut Oil: Friend or Foe?

Includes Behind the Scene Video

Hey Boostie,

We’ve all heard it—“Coconut oil is a miracle for hair!” But if you’ve ever used it and noticed your curls feeling stiff or even breaking, you’re not alone. Coconut oil works for some, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Let’s break it down so you can finally decide: is it a friend or foe for your hair?

Why Coconut Oil Has a Reputation for Being “The Best”

Coconut oil is known for its ability to reduce protein loss in hair, which is why many swear by it for strength. It can also lock in moisture—but here’s the catch: if your hair doesn’t need that extra protein or if it’s on the low-porosity side, coconut oil can sit on top of your strands, causing stiffness and even breakage over time.

Real Question from a Subscriber

Q: “I’ve been using coconut oil for months, but my hair feels drier. Why?”

A: Coconut oil can sometimes block moisture if your hair is low-porosity. Try switching to a lighter oil or using products designed to hydrate and seal without stiffness—like our Moisturizing Kit.

Behind the Scenes: Where Your Ingredients Come From

Ever wonder where our ingredients come from? We keep it real—no mystery oils here!

Watch us on a Costco run stocking up on the same coconut oil that goes into your favorite products.

The Porosity Factor

Your hair’s porosity plays a huge role in whether coconut oil is a friend or foe:

Low Porosity: Coconut oil often sits on top of the hair, making it feel greasy or stiff.
Medium Porosity: Coconut oil may work occasionally but should be balanced with lighter oils.
High Porosity: Coconut oil can help seal in moisture, but pairing it with other hydrating ingredients is key.

If you’re not sure about your porosity, check out our [Wash Day Guide]—it’s the blueprint over 5,000+ Boosties follow to keep their curls thriving.

Expert Tip:

If you love coconut oil but it seems too heavy, mix a tiny amount with your leave-in conditioner or apply it only to your ends. This way, you get the benefits without the stiffness.

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Signs Coconut Oil Is Hurting Your Hair

If you’ve noticed any of these, it may be time to put the jar down:

Your hair feels dry and brittle after using it
Your curls feel stiff and lack bounce
You see more breakage or split ends
Your scalp feels greasy but your strands still feel dry

Friend or Foe? The Verdict

Coconut oil isn’t the enemy—but it’s not for every head of curls either. The secret is knowing your porosity and listening to your strands.

If it’s not working for you, swap it for oils that are lighter and more nourishing for our hair, like avocado oil or jojoba oil

(both found in our Hair Boost and Leave-In Conditioner: Nourish).

Customer Testimonial

— Tanya R., Boostie since 2022

"I always thought coconut oil was the holy grail, but it made my hair so stiff! I switched to the Moisturizing Kit and Hair Boost after learning about porosity, and my curls are softer, bouncier, and finally hold moisture. Coconut oil isn’t for me—but this routine is!"

Boost Your Routine

The truth is, coconut oil is just one tool in the toolbox. The right routine matters even more. That’s why our Wash Day Routine alternates between clarifying and moisturizing weeks—keeping your curls balanced, hydrated, and strong.

Grab the Wash Day Routine for Free →

Our FREE Wash Day Guide is your step-by-step plan for healthy, thriving hair—no guesswork, just results

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