Haircare 101: Using Hair Oils

Hi Loveys,

Since moving to St. Lucia I have been searching for a hairdresser who takes haircare as seriously as my hairdresser Victoria in Trinidad does (Victoria, if you are reading this, I miss you desperately). I found a great hairdresser  who is excellent at styling and flat ironing my hair ( I will keep going to her for that), but sadly, when I asked for a protein treatment, I was told I could either get "a steam, or a keratin treatment". Presented with  only two options (and being advised by Victoria that my hair needs protein, as well as hair repairing masks etc), I realized that I will have to go it alone, until I can find someone here in St. Lucia who specializes in hair care.

And so, with haircare firmly on my mind, today I decided to share with you the importance of using oil on your hair.

Why Should You Use Oil on Your Hair

People have been using hair oils for centuries as oil has an innate ability to soften and condition, and provides a hydrating effect when used on one's hair. Takeaway: if you suffer from dry hair, introduce oil. 

According to Jacqueline Flam Stokes, vice president of retail marketing and sales for Klorane, “Oils mimic the natural action of sebum production by protecting and also maintaining hydration to avoid water loss....when choosing an oil, look for something that’s very concentrated with triglycerides (present in vegetable and fruit oils and have a similar action to the sebum in the hair) and use it sparingly. Stay away from mineral and paraffin oils which can make the hair greasy,”

So Loveys, whether your hair craves an oil daily (if it’s dehydrated) or you just like to use one as needed (for shine and moisture), hair products with oil can make a world of difference. Just be sure to find one that doesn’t leave your hair looking greasy. You can either use this oils in their pure form, or you can use hair products containing these oils, depending on the needs of your hair:

Argan Oil: For smooth and shiny hair. Argan oil protects the hair and makes it smoother, softer and less frizzy.

Olive Oil: To revive dry hair. Olive Oil is good for dry hair, olive oil helps restore elasticity and shine but may be too heavy for those with thin or fine hair.

Sweet Almond Oil: To improve hair health.The blend of vitamins A, B and E in this type of oil helps add shine and body to thicker hair types.

Coconut Oil: To reinforce hair. A long-standing oil that’s been used to improve hair, coconut oil penetrates deep into the hair shaft to strengthen weak spots.

Avocado Oil: To fight breakage. Rich in amino acids, vitamins and fatty acids, this vegetable-derived oil improves strength and makes hair shiny and more resistant to breakage.

Thanks for stopping by Loveys, if you've a know a great hairdresser please feel free to make a recommendation.  Be sure to add me to you Google+ circle if you're on Google, and please follow me on instagram @fromstluciawithlove so we can keep in touch via that platform.

Have a fantastic week.

XX

Malika