Is coconut oil harmful for scalp health? Fact check

Our fact-checking team received a screenshot from a video claiming that excessive oiling could damage the scalp. Time and again, we have also heard from many sources that coconut oil, at best, is a conditioner, and unlike in the past, using it on your head every day is not good either for the skin or hair. If you are among those who turn to coconut oil for any skin or hair-related issues, even though the oil is extremely costly now, these claims can leave you confused. Here's what we found in our investigation. 

Investigation
The basic details in the viral screenshot proved that it was shared on an Instagram page called ‘getsetfit’. The keyword search revealed that the page belonged to noted fitness coach and social media influencer Priyanka Mehta. Although we scanned her page, the video that was featured in the viral screenshot could not be found. It became clear that the video had been deleted from the page. 

In further investigation, we came across a study report stating that coconut oil preserves scalp skin and helps balance the microbiome. Meanwhile, another research report indicates that excessive use of coconut oil could disrupt the cellular membrane complex and the natural moisture of hair strands. It could also lead to hair breakage, curling or dry hair. The report recommends using coconut oil sparingly on your scalp to help prevent these damaging effects. 

What dermatologists say
For more clarity, we even spoke to a few dermatologists. The most amazing advantage of coconut oil is its conditioning properties, but it doesn’t add any nutrients to the scalp or hair. Unlike popular belief, coconut oil doesn’t nourish the hair with nutrients. Instead, it works like a conditioner. Oils like coconut oil condition the hair and help prevent hair strands from drying out. Coconut oil can also act as a perfect scalp moisturiser when used correctly. Doctors have confirmed that using coconut oil is not harmful to the scalp.