The 5 Best Oils For Your Hair

Argan oil, coconut oil, this oil, that oil... Have you ever wondered what the fuss is about all these different oils? Which oil is actually good for my hair?

If you want to learn more about oils and how they can make your hair more beautiful and healthy, this blog post is for you. Today we will share 5 of our favorite oils and how to use them!

1. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is pretty much like the holy grail. It acts as a heat protectant, repairs hair damage and breakage, helps to prevent hair loss, as well as aids hair growth. Because of its properties, coconut oil stays inside the hair and retains moisture instead of evaporating, making it one of the most effective hair treatments there is. It helps to keep the hair nourished, soft, and less prone to breakage - and who doesn't want that?!

How to use: If your scalp usually gets oily, apply coconut oil to your hair excludingthe roots. If your scalp is dry, apply on the scalp as well. It will be easier to apply if it is slightly melted. Leave it in your hair any time from 30 minutes to an hour (or even longer) and rinse with a natural shampoo. Repeat 1-4 times a month for best results. You can also try this amazing DIY Coconut Oil hair mask!

2. Argan Oil

What in the world is 'argan'? It's a tree! It bears fruits with nuts, and that little nut is where argan oil is extracted from. If that didn't impress you...maybe the fact that goats climb argan trees will:

That entertaining fact aside, argan oil is also known as Moroccan oil, which will do wonders for your hair. Just a few drops or argan oil will protect your hair from heat, nourish and moisturize it, which will reduce dry and brittle hair, and also reduce the frizziness, leaving your hair soft and manageable. No wonder they call this oil "liquid gold"! This oil is not as greasy as coconut oil, so it's perfect for more frequent use.

How to use: Apply a few drops to your palm, rub your hands together and distribute evenly on your damp or dry hair, avoiding the roots. Our absolute favourite one is this Argan oil Hair Serum by Josie Maran.

3. Castor Oil

Castor oil comes from castor beans and really helps your hair grow, because it has all the vital qualities such as vitamin E, minerals, and proteins. If you get this oil, we recommend getting cold-pressed (meaning there was no heat involved during the extraction process) processed 100% pure virgin castor oil. It offers other great benefits such as controlling hair loss, fighting scalp infections and dandruff (due to its anti-fungal properties), conditioning and moisturizing the hair, as well as preventing split ends.

How to use: Castor oil is very thick in consistency, so it's always best to mix just a few drops with a carrier oil (aka another such as olive or coconut oil, for a more even and easier application. Use this mixture as a scalp treatment, put on a shower cap and leave it on overnight, if possible. Wash and rinse as usual the next morning. Repeat weekly or as needed. It can also be used as a hot oil treatment.

4. Jojoba Oil

Before anything else, let's establish how to pronounce this: ho-ho-ba! This oil is extracted from the jojoba plant and is wonderful because its chemical structure resembles the oil that is produced naturally by our scalps (that's called sebum). This means that most likely your scalp will readily accept it without showing any side effects. Jojoba oil, similarly to coconut oil, hydrates the hair deep within, moisturizing and treating the hair follicles from the inside. It also treats dandruff and dry scalp problems, as well as adds shine and softness. Our recommendation is this Jojoba & Tea Tree Scalp Oil by Earth's Nectar.

How to use: You can use jojoba as a leave-in treatment. Apply to the scalp before washing your hair and leave in for 30 minutes or even overnight. For a nice scent, you can add a drop of your favorite essential oil (like a lavender or eucalyptus).

Alternatively, you can add a few drops of jojoba oil to your conditioner or simply apply a little bit to your ends after washing.

5. Olive Oil

We hear about this one all the time, not only when cooking, but also when it comes to natural beauty products. Olive oil does indeed have very rich and moisturizing properties that are so good for your hair. It coats the shaft of your hair and acts as a heat protectant, as well as conceals the damaged hair strands, giving a sleeker look. Olive oil will help your hair look stronger, healthier, and shinier. Thanks, olives!

How to use: Once week, apply 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil to dry or damp hair, distributing it evenly and thoroughly. Wrap in a towel or shower cap and leave on for about half an hour. Be super careful washing it out in the shower, as it can drip and make the floor slippery! Rinse with cold water and feel free to skip the conditioner.

There are so many oils, which one do I buy?

We know it can be overwhelming to pick the right oil for your hair, as there are so many different choices! So, here are some of our personal tips on selecting the perfect oil for your hair type:

1. Always read the ingredients list. Some labels can be deceiving, so it's important to make sure there are no chemicals and all ingredients are natural (and preferably organic). That is what is best for your hair. Click here to find out why.
2. Know what's in it. Some oils come already pre-mixed with something else, such as essential oils. Make sure to read the label and know exactly what's included.
3. Listen to your hair! We are all different, and what works for one person may not necessarily work for another. Just because it's heavily recommended or advertised, doesn't mean that it's the right product for your hair type. Be sure to try an oil out and if you feel it's not working for you, don't be afraid to move on to something else.

Lastly, do keep in mind that oils are greasy. Don't use too much, otherwise you risk leaving your hair greasy even after washing. Always thoroughly wash your hair with a natural, non-chemical shampoo after treatments. And of course, keep in mind that changes like this don't happen overnight - only consistent, long-term use will result in gorgeous, healthy, shiny long hair! ;)

Let us know which oils you've tried, which ones are your faves, and what tips you have for us! We love sharing with you and hearing your feedback.