The Best Oils for Hair

The Best Oils for Hair

It seems like every day there’s a new hair oil that’s all the rage. Coconut, olive, mongongo, grapeseed, avocado, almond, argan, and macadamia oil—it’s hard to keep track! We’re breaking down all their unique benefits so you can decide which oil is best for you and your hair.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Argan Oil.

It seems like everyone is talking about argan oil—and for good reason! Argan oil has become a favorite cosmetic ingredient in both hair and skin products because it’s nourishing, hydrating, and is packed with vitamins A, C, and E. It’s also loaded with antioxidants, linoleic acid, and omega-6 fatty acids. Argan oil nourishes hair from root to tip, and its vitamin E component can help repair damaged ends and protect hair from future breakage.Where does argan oil come from? Argan oil is cold-pressed from the nut-like kernels from the fruit of the Moroccan argan tree. Fun fact—these kernels are so nutritious that goats climb the trees just to eat them! Traditionally, local women would find undigested kernels in goat dung, and smash the kernels with stones to grind and press the oil. Although some areas of Morocco still use this traditional method, most argan oil is now produced from more modern harvesting technologies—which means no dung required! Because argan oil is such a popular product and comes from an endangered tree, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) officially protected the trees in 1998. Conservation and cultivation efforts for the argan tree ensures that the trees will continue to thrive and jobs are sustained for local women.

Coconut Oil.

We can barely contain ourselves when we talk about coconut oil! Coconut oil is the industry’s most loved oil for adding luster, shine, and softness to hair. It also prevents hair breakage and split ends and contributes to hair growth. Thanks to its anti-fungal composition, coconut oil works well as an anti-dandruff remedy and is a great treatment for maintaining healthy hair and scalp when incorporated regularly into your hair care routine. Coconut oil is also 100% natural and free of silicone, alcohols, and other chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin and hair. It provides gentle, yet effective sulfate-free cleansing that hydrates hair and controls frizz.

A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science compared the effects of mineral oil, sunflower, and coconut oil on preventing hair damage. While sunflower and mineral oil are the two most used ois in the hair care industry, the study showed that coconut oil is one of the best oils to penetrate deep into the hair and reduce hair protein loss. When hair absorbs coconut oil, it also increases in diameter, adding extra volume to the hair.

Avocado Oil.

Avocado oil is another lightweight oil that makes it a great option for adding moisture and shine to thinner hair types without making it look flat or greasy. Avocado oil also works wonders for all hair types including thicker, higher-density strands, as it penetrates the hair and scalp as opposed to clogging or sitting on the surface. Avocado oil contains biotin, which can promote the growth of healthier, thicker, and longer hair. It also contains minerals that can help seal the cuticle—as well as moisturize, repair, and strengthen your hair to prevent future damage.

Macadamia Oil.

This not-so-well-known oil is derived from the seeds of the fruits of macadamia trees, found in mainland Africa, Madagascar, and Australia. Characterized by their longevity (some macadamia trees live up to 1,000 years), macadamia trees are considered incredibly nourishing, with cork-like bark that can be used to make rope and clothing, as well as large water stores that can be tapped in periods of drought. Once a year, the flowers on macadamia trees bloom and when pollinated, create seed-filled fruit. macadamia oil is then extracted by cold pressing the fruit seeds.

macadamia oil is super nourishing and moisturizing containing vitamins A, D, E, and F. These vitamins are not only moisturizing but can also help rejuvenate damaged skin cells. In addition, macadamia oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and is known to easily absorb into the skin and hair without leaving any greasy residue that is often expected with natural oils. On its own, macadamia oil is viscous and has a silky feel with a mild scent. It can be easily blended into cosmetic products or used on its own.

Also intensely hydrating, macadamia oil helps to protect hair from heat and environmental aggressors like pollution, sun, wind, and extreme temperature. We love macadamia oil so much we put it in our most popular styling product TAME. Tame is a powerful smoothing cream that can be used on wet hair before styling. Tame not only traps moisture into the hair shaft, but also protects from heat styling and environmental aggressors all through the day.