Can Extra Virgin Oil Be Used in Hair?
Though many oil treatments specifically for hair care are sold in your drugstore or are recommended at your favorite salon, virgin oil products for home use are probably already in your kitchen cabinet. Does this Spark an idea?
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Virgin Oil Basics
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The term "virgin," when used in regard to oils, signifies that the plant (olive, coconut) has not been refined, processed or "pressed." "Pure" oil is a looser term that can mean a second pressing, or a skimmed pressing. "Light" oil is in reference to taste and not viscosity or calorie content.
Types of Oils
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The most commonly used natural virgin oils for at-home hair care are virgin olive oil and virgin coconut oil. Canola oil can also be used and is often a part of "light" olive oils. Argan oil, a main ingredient in Moroccan oil hair treatments, is available in nearly pure forms as well.
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Uses of Virgin Oil
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Virgin oil treatments can be applied to wet or dry hair and can be used as a leave-in conditioner or to seal ends. For a simple treatment, apply virgin oil to wet hair, cover with a plastic cap and blast with a hair dryer on high. The heat helps open the hair shaft to allow for better penetration of the oil. Rinse thoroughly or wash the oil away, and let hair air dry.
For Your Hair Type
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Dry, brittle and damaged hair benefits most from leave-in treatments and heat treatments. Curly or kinky hair that is dry can be "sealed" at the ends by dabbing oil onto the last inch of hair. Thicker oils such as coconut work best for thicker hair. Fine or thin hair can use the occasional treatment but should be rinsed thoroughly to avoid a stringy look.
Adding Essential Oils
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Essential oils are natural distillations from the plants after which they are named, such as lemongrass. Despite the name, essential oils aren't oils as much as watery, concentrated plant extracts. Many therapeutic effects are associated with the use of essential oils, and they make a wonderful addition to natural oil hair treatments.
Oils to Avoid
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Mineral oil and petroleum-based products are popular, but they're not the best for your hair. These products may create a shine, but they are also tacky and attract particles. These oil types suffocate the hair shaft and can cause matting and tangles.
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