Many hair products have natural oils as part of their list of ingredients. From argan to olive oil, there are a lot of different types used in products, and they all serve different purposes. This article will break down some of the most common types used in hair care products, and what they can do for you.
Why Do We Use Oils in Hair?
Generally speaking, oils play a critical role in protecting your hair. Regular application of oils can reduce damage, lock in moisture, and protect the scalp. Each kind benefits your hair a little bit differently, so finding the right one for your hair type can be important.
Different Types of Oils
Almond Oil
Almond oil has been involved in hair care for millennia. The Ancient Egyptians were well-known for using a variety of oils for their skin and hair, including this one. Almonds contain high vitamin E levels. Vitamin E is a natural antioxidant, meaning that it helps your hair look healthier and younger. Almond oil is very good at lubricating strands of hair, reducing breakage and split ends. Because almond oil is a great moisturizer, it can be useful in reducing scalp flakiness. Almonds have a lot of natural emollients in it, meaning that it is very effective in softening hair.
Argan Oil
Argan oil is a very trendy ingredient in many self-care products today, it is incredibly popular in cosmetics, for both hair and skin. It contains a number of important vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins A, C, and E; omega-6 fatty acids, linoleic acid, and antioxidants. Argan Oil comes from the seeds of Argan fruit trees, which are native to Morocco. Argan trees are endangered, so the cultivation effort helps ensure that they are starting to thrive again. Argan is an effective agent for moisturizing hair and the scalp. It is also very useful in creating shine in hair as it helps restore dull hair.
Baobab Oil
This oil comes from the seeds of the Baobab tree, found in Southern Africa and Australia. These trees can live for hundreds of years, and only produce seeds once a year. Its chock-full of nutrients and can protect your hair from pollution, sun damage, and extreme weather damage. Baobab oil contains vitamins A, C, E, and F; and high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. It also leaves hair feeling much less greasy than some other oils. However, because of the nature of its cultivation, it is also one of the more expensive options on the market.
Coconut Oil
Coconut is one of the most popular oils out there, and for good reason. It adds incredible shine to hair while softening strands. Coconut oil also works incredibly well in preventing breaks and split ends. This oil is also very effective in maintaining a dandruff-free scalp, because of its anti-fungal qualities. Additionally, coconut is very effective at controlling frizziness and maintaining hydration. Lastly, coconut oil is one of the better smelling oils on the market, lending its naturally sweet fragrance to your hair products.
Olive Oil
This oil isn’t just for cooking. Much like almonds, olive oil contains a high amount of natural emollients, which help soften smooth out hair. It works well on fighting frizz and adds elasticity to hair. This means that it can be helpful for coarse, naturally wavy hair. While it can be helpful in moisturizing the scalp, it can lead to dandruff production, but it varies from person to person. Overall, testing it on your hair will give you a better idea of if it works for your scalp.
Lightweight Oils
Avocado Oil
Avocado oil is a lightweight option that works especially well on thinner hair types. Where heavier oils can make thin hair seem greasy, avocado oil manages to avoid this issue. It can also work well for thicker hair as well. Avocados are good for the scalp and can seep through thick and frizzy roots to penetrate the skin. This is also chock full of minerals that are also effective in hair cuticle repair.
Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed oil is also lightweight, and can easily penetrate the scalp without feeling too heavy or thick. It is very high in linoleic acid, which can defend against hair loss, clogged pores, and dry skin. Linoleic acid can also mimic sebum, an oily substance naturally produced by our hair. Usually, sebum makes our hair shiny and vibrant, but we produce less of it with age. By introducing grapeseed, your hair can look more youthful.
Finding the Right Oils for Your Hair
Because everyone’s hair is different, it is hard to truly say what oil is best for you. Moreso, we each have different desires when it comes to how we want our hair to look and feel. Trying out different oils, or products with oils in them, can allow you to try out different kinds and find the ones that work best for you.
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