Olive oil has long been considered liquid gold. It is good for the body when you add it to food, and is a first-class moisturizing and softening ingredient for the skin. But what about beauty? For example, what are the benefits of olive oil for hair? People have been using it for their hair for literally several centuries.
ContentWhat are the benefits of olive oil for hairHow to use olive oil for hairHow to remove olive oil from hair
You may have heard that this remedy improves its condition and health. WomanEL offers to understand everything below.
What are the benefits of olive oil for hair
Olive oil is a great ingredient for your hair when used sparingly and with care. It is an emollient, meaning it helps soften your strands, hydrating them and creating a protective layer that locks in moisture.
“The fatty acids and antioxidants in olive oil are very beneficial and nourishing for your strands,” says master colorist Tiffany Richards. “It’s one of my favorite oils to use to moisturize my scalp and ends when I’m feeling particularly dry.”
The only case where you shouldn't use olive oil on your hair is if you have very fine hair, as it can weigh down your strands and make them look greasy. You can potentially still use this ingredient on your strands. But use it sparingly and be sure to rinse thoroughly.
Are you sure you're washing your hair often enough? Here are the signs that you need to do it much more often.
How to Use Olive Oil for Hair
Olive oil is a versatile ingredient that can be used in hair care, from taming unruly hair to traditional oiling. Here are a few ways you can try.
- Lubrication of hair with oil. Hair oil is applied directly to the hair and scalp to retain moisture. Heat the oil in the microwave for a few seconds (it should be warm, not hot), then part your hair and apply it from the scalp to the ends. You can massage the scalp to stimulate blood flow. Cover your hair with a cap and leave it on overnight, and wash your hair with shampoo in the morning.
- A deep conditioning routine works similarly. But you won’t be wearing the oil for as long or applying it to your scalp. Instead, apply a slightly warmed oil from the mid-lengths of your hair to the ends and leave it in for 10 to 20 minutes before shampooing, Richards advises. “You can also mix this oil with conditioners or thinner oils for easier application,” she says. “You’ll still get all the benefits of the oil by mixing it with other ingredients.”
- Hair tamer. Place a few drops in your palms and rub them back and forth. This will help you avoid using too much oil, which can lead to a greasy look. Smooth the top of your hair with your palms, then use a boar bristle brush to smooth and distribute the oil further through your hair.
- Treat split ends. Instead of applying the oil to your roots, warm a few drops in your hand, rub between your palms, and smooth the ends.
How to remove olive oil from hair
Olive oil is quite thick. Therefore, removing it often requires considerable effort. Richards says she usually uses a double-shampoo technique.
“The first wash will loosen the oil and start to remove it. The second wash will create more lather and clean the hair,” she says. “I usually don’t recommend shampooing your ends—they don’t get oily unless you put products on them—but when using oil, you want to make sure you’re not just shampooing your scalp, but also your ends.”
Don’t like the smell of olive oil? Use lightly scented styling products or choose a shampoo with a scent that you like.
Some people add vitamin C to their hair care regimen. But how do you do this and why do you need it?