Natural oils to promote healthy hair
The use of natural oils in beauty regimens is definitely one of the oldest beauty secrets passed down. Natural oils are not just used for cooking. I personally apply oils on my face, skin, but more importantly hair.
Man Listen, if you are not using natural or essential oils on your little one's hair, let me put you on. Below is a short list of common oils used for the hair as well as their benefits. I've even included links for you to purchase or at least see the reviews for yourself. As with everything, do your due diligence and research for yourself. While tips are provided for guidance and inspiration, always remember to choose what resonates with you and your situation.
1. ARGAN OIL
What is Argan Oil? I know, I had no clue the first time I heard of it either. Apparently, there's an Argan Tree found on the coast of Morocco, North Africa, but on to how this oil can benefit you.
Argan oil is packed with antioxidants including Vitamin E which is great for creating a healthy scalp - essential for a strong base for hair growth. A healthy scalp is the key to maintaining healthy hair. In addition, it helps to prevent water loss and protects the hair follicles from damage.
2. CASTOR OIL
One of my personal favorites, Castor Oil - more specific Jamaican Black Castor Oil, has been in my family's hair care rotation for years. Aside from my Mom giving us Castor Oil Tablets as a kid, this thick fatty oil is great for strengthening the hair, promoting hair growth, and nourishing dry scalp. I love to use castor oil to seal in moisture after applying water to the hair. This combination alone is a great way to lock in hair moisture.
3. COCONUT OIL
I promise I won't say this for every oil listed, but coconut oil is another one of my favorite oils. This is the first oil I started using after cutting off my relaxed tresses in 2002, and I still use it almost every day continuously. I cook with it and even apply it on my skin as well as my children's skin.
Coconut oil is a natural anti-inflammatory so it helps in combating dandruff and works great as a base for creating your own deep conditioner. You can also use coconut oil as a pre-poo to apply to your child's hair prior to shampooing. This adds extra moisture and aids in the detangling process.
Here's an extra tip: Try coconut oil to remove your make-up... a game-changer. Thank me later.
4. JOJOBA OIL
Rich in skin-nourishing antioxidants, Jojoba oil is the ultimate oil for scalp health. With a variety of healing properties, it's great for combating conditions such as eczema, dry flaky scalp, and removes scalp build-up. This makes Jojoba oil extremely versatile and can be used as a cleanser, moisturizer, and conditioner.
5. OLIVE OIL
I added olive oil to our hair care routine within the past 3 years. It has definitely provided a natural sheen, and great as a moisture sealant. Olive oil is rich in Omega 3 fatty oils as well as Vitamin E which is great for moisturizing and nourishing the hair.
Because of the richness in vitamins, olive oil is great to use as a scalp massaging oil to promote healthy hair by giving the scalp the attention and nutrients it needs to thrive.
The variety and use of oils do not stop with this list. There are so many essential and natural oils that work wonders when used alone on your child's hair but are like liquid gold when combined in one bottle. This is the exact method I use on not just my hair, but my kiddos also. I combine several oils in a narrow tip applicator bottle like the one available on Amazon here.
If you would like to get a list of oils that work great together, leave me a comment below.
Side note...how adorable is this graphic from my book ABC My Hair and Me of character, Jordan, applying all the oils to his hair. It's one of my favorite illustrations from the book.
