Is Olive Oil Effective For Dry Hair?

Oiling the hair feels therapeutic. It is the best way to keep the hair moisturized, while the scalp massage stimulates the hair follicles and feels relaxing. You can massage your scalp and hair with any oil. However, if you have dry hair, olive oil is the best for you. Want to know the reasons? Keep reading to learn more about how olive oil may keep dry hair healthy and how to use it.

Is Olive Oil Good For Your Hair?

Yes. Olive oil leaves a thin film on the hair strands to reduce friction (1). It also controls frizz and improves the shine and health of your hair. Olive oil is traditionally used for topical application and is highly preferred for its emollient properties. In the next section, we have discussed olive oil benefits and how it works on your hair.

Benefits Of Olive Oil For Hair: Understanding How It Works

1. Hydrates Dry Hair

Olive oil is an excellent hair conditioner and has emollient properties (2). It can keep the hair hydrated, minimize frizz, and improve its softness and smoothness.

2. Promotes Hair Growth

Olive oil contains oleuropein. Animal studies have found that topical application of oleuropein regulates the anagen (growth) phase of hair and can promote hair growth (3).

3. Prevents Hair Damage

Dry and damaged hair is brittle and prone to breakage and split ends. The emollient properties of olive oil can minimize all these issues and help retain the hair length.

4. Prevents Oxidative Damage

Oleuropein and other phenolic compounds in olive oil are free radical scavengers (4). The reactive oxygen species are responsible for oxidative stress and cause premature graying (5). Olive oil may minimize oxidative stress and prevent premature graying. However, this aspect needs further research.

5. Helps With Sensitive Scalp And Skin

Olive oil has a soothing effect on the skin. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can stabilize the skin membranes (6). Olive oil can soothe the sensitive scalp and keep it healthy.

To incorporate olive oil into your hair care regimen, follow the DIY formulations in the next section.

How To Use Olive Oil For Healthy Hair And Scalp

1. Calming Olive Oil, Sesame Oil, And Honey Mask

Topical sesame oil can promote hair growth and be an alternative therapy for alopecia areata (7). Honey is an excellent emollient and humectant and soothes the skin (8).

What You Need

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon of honey

Method

1. Mix the oils and honey in a bowl.
2. Apply the mixture gently to your scalp and strands.
3. Leave it on for 15-30 minutes.
4. Rinse off.

2. Olive Oil And Avocado Mask For Frizz-Free Hair

Avocado is an excellent base for any traditional homemade mask, and together with olive oil, it can help keep the hair soft, smooth, and moisturized.

What You Need

• 1 ripe avocado (mashed)
• ¼ cup of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of lemon juice (optional)

Method

1. Blend the avocado and olive oil into a creamy paste.
2. Add the lemon juice and mix (if using).
3. Apply the paste to your strands and leave it on for 20 minutes.
4. Rinse off.

3. Olive Oil And Shea Butter Hair Mask For Detangling

Shea butter is abundant in antioxidants and widely used in skin and hair care products for its anti-inflammatory properties (9). Apple cider vinegar is often used to add shine to the hair and cleanse the scalp.

What You Need

• 1 ripe avocado (mashed)
• ¼ cup of olive oil
• ½ cup of unrefined shea butter
• 2-3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar

Method

1. Blend all ingredients into a smooth paste.
2. Apply the mixture to the scalp and hair.
3. Keep it on for 45 minutes.
4. Rinse off.

You need to be careful while buying olive oil. Check the label and ensure that you choose the right type of olive oil.

What Type Of Olive Oil To Use For Hair

Always use extra virgin olive oil for topical application. Compared to refined and virgin olive oils, extra virgin olive oil contains high levels of nutrients.

If you do not find extra virgin olive oil, use virgin olive oil. However, avoid refined olive oils as they lack all the beneficial properties of olive oil. Before buying, ensure that the product is:

• Certified organic
• Non-GMO
• Unrefined
• Cold-pressed

You can also use extra virgin olive oil when using the inversion method for hair growth.

Does The Inversion Method Work With Olive Oil?

The inversion method rests on the logic that hanging the head upside down improves blood flow to the hair follicles and promotes hair growth. While there is no scientific proof to support the inversion method, many people follow it. You may use extra virgin olive oil while following this method. To do it:

• Massage the scalp and hair with olive oil for a few minutes.
• Sit on a chair, bend forward, and hang your head below the knee level.
• Hold the position for 5 minutes. Discontinue if you feel dizzy and nauseous.
• Rinse your hair.
• Follow the routine daily for a month.

Olive oil is extremely beneficial for your skin and hair, but it may have some adverse effects if not used mindfully.

The Side Effects Of Using Olive Oil For Hair

Unrefined and pure olive oil may cause:

• Allergic Reactions: A patch test is recommended before use.
• Clogged Skin: Olive oil is heavy, and it may rub off on your forehead, block the pores, and cause breakouts.

Closing Thoughts

Olive oil is beneficial for dry hair in so many ways. You can use this versatile oil as it is or blend it with other oils or ingredients for easy application. A small amount of this oil provides dry strands with their daily boost of hydration and nourishment. However, avoid using too much of it as it may weigh the hair down.