For centuries, it has been believed that regular long-term application of hair care oil from the lengths to the ends can prevent hair loss, add shine and prevent graying of the hair. This belief has been exploited by the cosmeceutical industry. Easily accessible and inexpensive, hair oils have flooded the cosmetic market due to their potential beneficial effects on hair. A wide variety of oils have therefore been used and new oils appear every day. But what is a hair oil?
What do we mean by “hair oil”?
Hair oil is a type of oil-based hair care product typically used for cosmetic purposes, i.e. to improve the overall condition and appearance of the hair. Alone or in combination, the different types of oils used are often claimed to add luster and shine to the hair, strengthen the hair shaft, reduce hygral fatigue (repeated In addition, they are also said to be a way to provide essential nutrients to the hair that are deprived of by frequent washing.
While mineral oils can be used, vegetable oils extracted from a variety of plants, flowers, or fruits are more commonly used. Additionally, mineral oils have not been shown to bind to hair proteins and are not able to diffuse into the hair shaft.
It is worth knowing that applying hair oil is an ancient practice from Ayurvedic medicinal traditions, used for thousands of years in India to strengthen and moisturize hair. Similarly, it has also been reported that the ancient Egyptians seemed to pay special attention to their hair due to the many images of hairdressers depicted in ancient relics.
What type of hair is hair oil for?
It is often thought that hair oils, due to their emollient power, are rather reserved for dry and damaged hair. Similarly, short and fine hair should not use them either. However, whether it is to reduce frizz, define curls, reduce the formation of split ends or prevent breakage, hair oil comes in several possibilities that can be used by all hair types.
Misconception : It is also commonly thought that hair oils can weigh down and make hair greasy. However, this is not entirely true, unless you apply large amounts of them daily. Furthermore, oils, no matter how natural, can produce different results for everyone. For example, fine and/or oily hair should be more careful.
How to choose your hair oil?
While everyone can benefit from the benefits of hair care oils, the type of hair oil you choose should depend on your hair type and hair needs , from the texture and thickness of your hair to the porosity and level of damage, as they don’t affect all hair types in the same way. Below is a list of commonly used hair oils.