Many hair products have natural oils in their ingredient lists. From argan oil to olive oil, there are several oils in products, and they all serve different purposes. This article will break down some of the common types used in hair care products and what they offer.
Why Do We Use Oils in Hair?
Generally speaking, oils play a critical role in protecting your hair. Your scalp naturally produces oils to help maintain your hair. The oil can help reduce damage, lock in moisture, and protect your locks. Plant-based oils have their own benefits in addition to these properties. Each type of oil benefits your hair a little bit differently, so finding the right one for your hair type can be important.
Oils as a Cleanser in History
While bathing and washing practices have drastically improved over the millennia, oils have been a consistent part of human bathing and cleaning routines. Ancient Romans used olive oil and herbs to cleanse the hair and body. Ancient Egyptians used a variety of oils in bathing. Oil-based soap bars have been recorded as far back as Ancient Babylon in the 2800s BC.
Common Options In Hair Products
Olive Oil
This oil isn’t just for cooking. Much like almond oil, olive oil contains a high amount of natural emollients, which help soften and smooth out hair. This oil works well for fighting frizz and adds elasticity to hair. This means that it can be helpful for coarse, naturally wavy hair. While olive oil can be helpful in moisturizing the scalp, it can also sometimes cause dandruff if overused. But this can vary from person to person.
Almond Oil
Almond oil is a common ingredient in higher-end shampoos and conditioners. Almonds are very high in Vitamin E. Vitamin E is a natural antioxidant, which helps your hair look healthier and younger. Almond oil is very good at lubricating strands of hair, reducing breakage and split ends. Almond oil is a great moisturizer, too. It can be useful in reducing scalp flakiness. As a result, many dandruff shampoos also feature almond oil. It also has a lot of natural emollients in it, which are effective in softening the hair.
Avocado Oil
Avocado oil is a lightweight option that works especially well on thinner hair types. Where heavier oils can make thin hair look or feel greasy, avocado oil does not leave as much residue behind. It is also very effective for thicker hair. Avocado oil can seep through thick and frizzy roots to penetrate the skin and nourish the scalp. Minerals in this oil are also effective for hair cuticle repair.
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. Coconut-based products are often effective in maintaining a dandruff-free scalp because of the fruit’s antifungal qualities. It is a powerful agent for fighting frizziness and maintaining hydration. Lastly, coconut oil has a naturally sweet fragrance, which often adds to the appeal of the hair products.
Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed oil is another lightweight oil that can easily penetrate the scalp without weighing down hair. It is very high in linoleic acid, which can help 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 as we age. By introducing grapeseed oil, your hair can look more youthful.
Higher-End Oils
While these oils can be found in many hair products today, they are often found in higher-end or very trendy products. This is mentioned not to discourage you from considering them, but to offer insight into why they may fetch a higher price.
Argan Oil
Argan oil is a trendy ingredient in many self-care products today. It is found in many cosmetics for both hair and skin. This oil contains vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, C, and E; omega-6 fatty acids, linoleic acid, and antioxidants. It comes from the seeds of Argan fruit trees, which are native to Morocco. Argan trees are endangered, so cultivation efforts have been instrumental in restoring the tree population. Argan oil 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. The oil is 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. It also contains 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 this oil, it is also one of the most expensive options on the market.
Finding the Right Products for Your Hair
Everyone’s hair is different. We also have different desires when it comes to how we want our hair to look and feel. Because of this, there is no “best option” for haircare products. Trying out different oils, or products with oils in them, can help you find the right one for you.
Ooh La La specializes in a variety of hairstyle techniques to help you find the right look for you. Book a time with one of our professional hairstylists today. Contact us or call 718-727-2694 today.