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In the haircare industry, shea butter and coconut oil are well-known products that are used regularly in salons and sold in cosmetic stores. But which is better for your hair and why?
Ultimately both shea butter and coconut oil offer great moisturizing properties, making hair look shinier and healthier. Their differences come in texture and smell, which can impact personal preference but also which is better for an individual’s specific hair type. More on this later.
Keep reading to find out all of the similarities and differences between shea butter and coconut oil when used on hair and some answers to frequently asked questions on this interesting topic.
Similarities and Differences Between Shea Butter and Coconut Oil
Here are a few key similarities and differences between shea butter and coconut oil!
| Similarities | Differences |
| Moisturizing Properties | Coconut oil has a subtle scent, whereas shea butter tends to have a stronger scent |
| Improve Shine | Shea butter is heavier in texture, whereas Coconut oil is more lightweight |
| Commonly Used in Shampoos/Conditioners | Coconut oil is used more regularly in cosmetic products as it’s lightweight and more versatile than shea butter |
| Contain Vitamins/Acids | Vitamin content is higher in shea butter than coconut oil |
Similarities
Both shea butter and coconut oil are products that are regularly used in cosmetic products such as shampoos and conditioners, as they are highly moisturizing for the hair and promote growth/shine. They give the hair a healthier appearance and are great for nourishing hair.
They also contain a range of different vitamins and acids such as vitamins A and F in shea butter and Vitamin E in both shea butter and coconut oil. We have some great DIY hair mask recipes over on our blog using coconut oil and shea butter – check them out!
Differences
While these two popular hair products are similar, they also have a host of differences too.
Shea butter tends to have a strong scent, especially if it is unrefined (raw). This is an earthy smell that isn’t for everyone, so some consumers may prefer coconut oil as offers a lighter scent. Here’s more on the differences between refined and unrefined shea butter.
However, shea butter contains more vitamins than coconut oil, making it preferable if you’re looking to up your vitamin intake. It tends to be richer in texture, which can cause it to weigh down the hair – this may be preferable however if you have dry hair in need of hydration.
Coconut oil tends to be more regularly found in cosmetic products as it’s more versatile. This is due to the fact that it’s lighter in texture and isn’t so heavily scented.
Ideal Hair Types for Shea Butter and Coconut Oil
Depending on your hair type, you may find that shea butter and coconut oil work differently for you.
Coconut oil is generally recommended for fine to medium hair types as it should add shine and give the hair a little volume. If you have dry/coarse hair it’s not ideal as it won’t be nourishing enough for these hair types, and can cause the hair to be brittle.
If you have thick, coarse hair, you’ll love shea butter. It’s very nourishing and will help lock in moisture making hair look shinier and feel softer. It is very heavy in texture so isn’t recommended for those with fine, low-porosity hair.
How to get the best coconut oil and shea butter for your hair
Generally, we tend to think that the best products are homemade – and making coconut oil at home is surprisingly easy. (This is one of several reasons we generally tend to prefer coconut oil over shea butter – plus the fact that it travels much more gracefully.)
That said, there ARE some good storebought products out there – you want to make sure you get single-ingredient, all natural (ideally organic) coconut oil or shea butter as close to the source as possible. If you don’t feel like doing your own research, here’s a great shea butter to start. We also have an in-depth explainer on top coconut oil brands, or if you want to cut to our #1 pick, it’s Nutiva, which you can find right here.
FAQs
Is coconut oil or shea butter better for hair?
Neither coconut oil nor shea butter is ‘better’ for all hair types as they have different textures/properties. Coconut oil is generally better for fine/medium hair, whereas shea butter is preferred for those with thick curly hair types.
Can coconut oil and shea butter grow hair?
While there’s no product that can miraculously grow hair, coconut oil and shea butter both nourish hair and reduce the chance of split ends. This encourages healthier hair and ensures the hair is thick and less likely to break.
Does shea butter dry out hair?
Shea butter is unlikely to dry out your hair as it’s extremely moisturizing. It contains both Vitamins A and E which promote hydration, and it also contains fatty acids which nourish hair too.
Why you shouldn’t use coconut oil on your hair?
You shouldn’t use coconut oil on your hair if you have a coarse/dry hair type. This is because it’s unlikely that coconut oil will be moisturizing enough for your hair, and may make it more brittle and likely to break. Regardless of hair type, you shouldn’t over-use coconut oil as it can cause a build-up in the hair which can make your hair greasy and dull in appearance.
If you’re interested in detoxing your hair, there’s a useful help guide over on our blog!
How should you store coconut oil and shea butter?
Shea butter and coconut oil should be stored in dark, dry places, to prevent excess moisture and sunlight from reacting with these products.
Coconut oil can be stored in a cupboard as it isn’t particularly temperature sensitive. Shea butter on the other hand is better stored in a cool space, as it’s a raw product and will last longer if kept cold. Many people store their shea butter in their refrigerators for this reason – it also improves anti-inflammatory properties as it makes the butter super cold and refreshing!
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About Nicola Vaughan
Nicola Vaughan is an experienced writer from the UK, obtaining her Bachelors in English Literature from The University of Portsmouth in 2014. She has written for a range of industries including food/drink, nutrition, and health among others. In her spare time, she enjoys walking her dog, reading, and spending time with family.
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