What’s the 411 on Carrier and Essential Oils?

With so many choices available to us, you may wonder what is all the hype about natural hair oils and what exactly should you be using for your hair type or condition? (just though I would add alittle humor to this post!)

There are two types of hair oils:

Carrier Oils can be used alone and they are made from vegetable, seeds or nuts.

Essential Oils should be diluted with carrier oils due to their highly concentrated scents. They also contain therapeutic properties and have been extracted from plants.

Carrier oils are the foundation or base oil. They are used to moisturize, strengthen and nourish the hair shaft and scalp. 

There is two methods used within the processing the oils:  Cold pressing and maceration.

Here is the definition of the two methods:

Cold pressing is the process of adding heat to the olives which allows producers to extract more oil from the olives. The temperature not to exceed 80.6°F, and has nothing to do with an actually "cold temperature."

Maceration is the method of softening or breaking particles into pieces using a liquid but it is not related to marinating. 

Here is a brief overview of some of the popular carrier oils and what they do:

Jojoba Oil loosens the harden sebum that clogs the scalp & hair follicles that causes scaling. This oil is great for all hair types. It quickly absorbs into the skin or scalp and eliminates scalp problems related to oily scalp conditions as well as excessively dry hair and provides proper moisture.

Olive Oil reduces hair loss by preventing the production of DTH hormone which causes the hair thinning. It also strengthens and smooths the cuticle. The best olive oil to use is “Extra virgin” which emphasizes that it has been cold pressed. It should be a dark green color which is known to be a higher quality than the typical golden-yellow one.

Coconut Oil is a multi-purpose conditioner due to its high level of saturated fats consisting of Vitamin E and K, minerals and iron. It also provides essential proteins. It helps repair and aids in the regrowth of damaged hair.

Castor Oil is used to treat fungal infections. It is considered a vegetable oil derived from the castor bean. It helps to seal in moisture and nourishes the hair. The best benefit is how this oil visibly thickens each hair strand. It also prevents dry scalp.  The only issue is that it has an extremely thick consistency and tends to be very sticky and greasy. You may also want to try Jamaican castor oil. If you have thin hair, it may be best to mix with your favorite conditioner or you can use as an overnight conditioner prior to shampooing, however it should not be left on the hair which will make thin hair limp and lifeless.

Vitamin E contains rich antioxidants that keep the immune system working effectively. It rejuvenates and improves circulation in all areas of the body including the scalp. A unique quality of this oil is that it aids in the shelf life of DIY hair products.

Avocado Oil is great for adding to other carrier oils for noticeable improvements. It is rich in Vitamin A, E, D and potassium. Not bad to cook with either!

Grapeseed oil reduces dandruff and dermatitis (which is the inflammation of the skin). It is a clear, light non-greasy oil that is similar to jojoba oil. It is rich in vitamin E and linoleic acid which strengthens the hair follicles. It’s another great oil to add to your DIY creations! For more info on my Emu oil product review, click here.

Here is a brief overview of some of the popular essential oils and what they do:

Tea Tree Oil is a well-known scalp treatment used to stimulate the follicles and is a natural cleanser for the scalp. It is also used as an antibacterial for minor cuts and scrapes.

Peppermint Oil has an invigorating scent that freshens the scalp and opens the pores. It stimulates hair growth and makes the scalp feel extremely clean.

Eucalyptus Oil has a relaxing scent but smells slightly medicinal. It helps in stimulating hair growth. It is also great for calming sore muscles or aches or pains related to arthritis. It can also be used in a steam facial to relieve nasal congestion. Just boil hot water and pour into a bowl and add a few drops of oil and place your face close to the bowl to allow steam to penetrate. Now, take deep breaths and mediate. For more ways to use eucalyptus oil, click here.

Lavender Oil is used to heal scalp problems. It is known for relieving stress with its calming scent. It can be mixed with other essential oils to create your own fusion of aromas. Great for deodorizing pillows before bedtime or soaking in a bubble bath after a long, tedious day!

Sweet Almond Oil works great as a sealant to lock in moisture. It provides incredible shine, improves manageability, softens hair dramatically and smoothes texture. It is a light oil and great for all hair types.

Argan Oil is great for manageability and strengthens the hair shaft. It also can be used on hair, skin and nails.

Ayurveda Oils are fairly new to consumers. 

There are four types that are quickly becoming the all the rave:

•         Amla Oil is known for conditioning the hair
•         Neem Oil eliminates dandruff and itchy scalp
•         Brahmi stimulates hair growth
•         Bhringari aids in slowing down shedding and breakage

You can also use essential oils as aromatheraphy such as lavender, citrus, lemongrass, and sandalwood to name a few. After a long, hard day, you may want to use an oil diffuser to distribute a calming fragrance into your space. A great one to try is the ultrasonic essential oils diffuser. Use Code Welcome for a 10% discount 

Tips to Remember: A Word of Advice on Heat Protectants

Overall, hair oils should not be used as a heat protectant because they do not protect the hair and will burn or singe the hair shaft and damage the hair due to its high smoke point.

You can find the majority of these natural oils at your local health food store or pharmacy. It’s best to use your judgment when ordering online. There are many manufacturers that claim that their products are 100% organic but may contain artificial ingredients or chemicals so always do your research.