A Beginner’s Guide to Hair Oils: Types, Benefits, and How to Use Them

Jess
Haircare and hair growth
3 min readJun 30, 2024

For centuries, hair oils have been celebrated for their ability to nourish, protect, and enhance hair health. No matter which hair type and conditions you have, including hair oils into your hair care routine can be game-changing. In this guide, we will explore various types of hair oils, their benefits, and how to utilise them effectively.

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Types of Hair Oils and Their Benefits

Argan Oil

Argan oil is a type of oil extracted from the kernels of argan trees that only grow in southwestern Morocco. As it is rich in several nourishing ingredients including fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin E, it can hydrate and soften your hair. In addition, it reduces frizz and increases your hair’s shininess, as well as protecting your hair from heat and UV damage.

Usage: To make good use of argan oil, you can apply a few drops to damp or dry hair, and focus the treatment on the mid-lengths and ends. You can also use argan oil as a pre-shampoo treatment, or an extra moisture boost by adding it to conditioners.

Coconut Oil

As a widely used hair oil, coconut oil is well known for its deep conditioning properties. Penetrating hair shaft, it can provide intensive hydration to and reduce protein loss in your hair. Since it can strongly moisturise and protect important nutrients from losing, it can strengthen your hair, reduce breakage, and enhance the shine of your hair. In addition, coconut oil is able to nourish your hair scalp and prevent dandruff.

Usage: You can apply coconut oil as a pre-wash treatment by massaging it into your scalp and hair, and leave it on for minimum 30 minutes before shampooing to ensure its absorption. Coconut Oil can be also used as a leave-in conditioner for dry ends.

Jojoba Oil

Similar in composition to the scalp’s natural sebum, Jojoba oil is effective in balancing oil production and providence of. lightweight moisture without leaving a greasy residue. It also promotes scalp health and helps control dandruff.

Usage: Similar to coconut oil, jojoba oil can be used to massage your scalp and hair. It can be also utilised as a daily scalp treatment if you have dry or flaky scalps.

Olive Oil

Rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, Olive oil is a powerful conditioning agent for dry and damaged hair. It can moisturise your hair deeply, improve its elasticity, and reduce breakage.

Usage: Using the warmth of your palm, slightly warm the oil and apply it to your scalp and hair. After this, you can cover your hair with a shower cap and leave it on for 30–60 minutes before shampooing. When using coconut oil, you can also mix it with honey and apply the mixture as an extra nourishing hair mask.

Conclusion

Including hair oils into your hair care can give plenty of benefits, varying from enhancing moisture and shine, to promoting growth and reducing damage. As long as you understand the unique properties and utilisations of different hair oils, you are able to pick the right and most suitable one for your hair type and needs.

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