A lesser known fact is that all oils are not created equally when it comes to using them on the hair. Their properties are what can help your hair flourish or create a heavy mess. Did you know they are separated by type when it comes to usage — a.k.a. Moisturizers vs. Sealants? Keep reading to get some clarification on which you should probably be using or why you’re not getting the results you’re seeking when using hair oils.
Moisturizing (or penetrating) oils are just that — They add to the overall moisture of your hair and compliment others you may be using. These oils treat dry skin and scalp and prevent those in the future, because they penetrate the hair shaft at a deeper level. Some examples of these include coconut, palm kernel and sunflower oils.
On the contrary, sealant oils serve the specific purpose of sealing in the moisture that’s already present, and therefore should not be used alone. Jojoba and rice bran oils are some examples of sealants. This is due to the fact that their makeup includes bigger molecules, making them highly unlikely to penetrate the hair shaft. They do however demonstrate great enhancements for shine and lubrication for combing and detangling.
Some oils, like olive, avocado and argan can serve as both, which may speak to why these are some of the most popular oils to look for in natural hair products. They have the ability to penetrate the hair slightly beyond the outer cuticle layer, but are still better used as oils to coat the hair to lock in moisture and increase shine and softness.
Our Shining Star Hair and Scalp Elixir contains a lot of these and more, and works great for hot oil treatments, adding everyday moisture and sealing in the moisture you’ve worked so hard to achieve. Our Glossy Finishing Hair Polish, which contains several helpful oils as well, works as a moisturizer but even more amazingly as a sealant for your style. It also works great as a frizz fighter against atmospheric moisture and humidity.
Not quite sure which to use for your hair? Do a strand test! By knowing your hair’s porosity, you can determine which oils will compliment it and provide the best results. Low porosity hair (or hydrophobic) is resistant to water/moisture, so it’s recommended that penetrating oils be used especially, and steaming (or performing a hot oil treatment) can really help your curls along. Using oils that work as sealants can be detrimental to your regimen, resulting in probable dryness and thirsty hair.
Got a better handle on which oils to use for your hair? Comment below with some of your faves!
