Coconut oil makes me itch. What gives?

[midsummernight]

There is a note on my nutiva coconut oil that says it might contain some brown specks that are natural coconut fibers. Maybe that's what is causing the itchiness.

[Helix]

@Unicorn: Thanks for your response. The itching started within minutes of application to my scalp and then intensified several minutes after that so I can at least rule out length of time...[/QUOTE]

@spidermom: burning is the word. Like being bitten by fire ants or something. Ugh! The last time I used coconut milk in my hair was some months ago...wonder if I'd have the same reaction if I tried it now though I'm not ready to try it to find out.

@HappyHair87: Wish I had a benadryl. Up until now I thought I wasn't allergic/sensitive to anything. In hindsight it would be a good idea to keep it handy.

If there is anyone I didn't reply to directly, thank you and thank you again.

The good news is my scalp feels cooler with conditioner on it. Still slightly itchy and tender though...here's hoping I still have hair on my head after this.

[constancev18]

Glad you identified the problem quickly, Helix. Every time dh would break out along his back I would slather on more coconut oil..it took me 5 mos to discover the coconut oil was problem. Agh!

[turtlelover]

Any kind of oil overload makes my head itch. I think it has something to do w/ clogged pores/follicles. A good wash w/ a tea tree oil shampoo usually helps.

[Helix]

Just poppin in to say my scalp feels a lot better after clarifying. Thank you all for the suggestions!

@constancev18: I've made the same mistake in the past thinking CO would be okay to use since it has antibacterial properties but for some reason it breaks me out. That should have been the my first clue that it didn't agree with me...

@turtlelover: Maybe I did overdo it with the oiling. After this experience, I don't think I will be oiling my scalp for a looong time.

[Barnet Girl]

I found the same - I can use it on my lengths but if I get it near my scalp it itches like crazy. I think this would be the case for sensitive scalps - for me it's not an allergy as I can eat it and use it on my skin. Just the scalp hates it! At least you can still get the benefit on your lengths!