Olive oil, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, has been praised for its health benefits for centuries. But beyond the kitchen, this golden elixir has found a revered place in the world of beauty, particularly for haircare.
From ancient civilizations to modern-day beauty enthusiasts, the use of olive oil as a treatment for hair has persisted. Its rich composition of vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats offers a multitude of benefits, promising to transform dull, brittle hair into a strong, shiny crowning glory.
Let's delve deeper into why olive oil might be the secret ingredient your haircare routine has been missing.
1. Deep conditioning
One of the primary benefits of olive oil for hair is its deep conditioning properties. Packed with monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants, olive oil penetrates the hair shaft, moisturizing from within, as per Khadi Organique. This helps to repair damage, reduce split ends, and add a lustrous shine.
2. Scalp health
A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair, and olive oil can play a significant role in maintaining scalp health. According to Head & Shoulders, a mixture of apple cider vinegar, lemon, and olive oil can help eliminate dandruff-causing germs due to its anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties.
The moisturizing effect also helps to soothe irritation and flakiness, keeping your scalp nourished and balanced.
3. Hair growth
Massaging olive oil into the scalp can also improve blood circulation, promoting hair growth and reducing hair fall, as noted by haircare brand Centred.
4. Added shine
As olive oil is rich in antioxidants, including vitamins A and E, it can help protect your hair's natural keratin and enhance its shine, according to Fekkai. Applying a small amount of olive oil as a pre-conditioner to boost your hair's shine without leaving it greasy.
5. Natural detangler
Tangled hair can be a nightmare to manage, often leading to breakage and frustration. Oils act as conditioning agents, reducing friction on hair, detangling it, and minimizing frizz. Olive oil is recognized as one of these beneficial oils, as reported by Medical News Today.