All about HAIR OILS!

Hair oils are not a new concept to beauty, in fact oils have a rich history in the beauty front, especially in and around hair care. But what exactly makes it so special? Let's take a further look into hair oils and how they benefit the hair, including our active ingredients featured in our hair oils to fuse nature and science to really boost our customers experience with oils.

A Historical Glimpse

The use of hair oils dates back thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians, renowned for their beauty practices, used castor and almond oils to promote hair growth and shine. Cleopatra herself was known to indulge in luxurious hair treatments. In India, the tradition of oiling hair has deep roots in Ayurvedic medicine. Oils like coconut, sesame, and amla were massaged into the scalp to nourish hair from within and foster overall wellness.

In ancient Greece and Rome, olive oil was a staple in hair care routines, used to maintain soft and manageable tresses. Indigenous cultures across the world, from Native American tribes to African communities, have their unique hair oiling practices, each utilizing locally sourced ingredients to strengthen and beautify hair.

The Science Behind Retaining Length

One of the primary reasons for the enduring popularity of hair oils is their ability to aid in retaining hair length. Here’s how:

Moisture Retention: Oils create a barrier on the hair shaft, locking in moisture and preventing dryness, which is a common cause of breakage.
Nutrient Supply: Rich in vitamins and fatty acids, hair oils nourish the scalp and hair, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth.
Reduced Breakage: By providing lubrication, oils reduce friction during combing and styling, leading to less breakage and split ends.
Scalp Health: Massaging oils into the scalp can improve blood circulation, which stimulates hair follicles and encourages growth.
Protection: Oils can protect hair from environmental damage, such as UV rays, pollution, and harsh weather conditions.

Hair Oils in the Modern Era

Despite the advent of numerous synthetic hair care products, hair oils have maintained their relevance and are even more popular today. The rise of the natural beauty movement has propelled many to seek out time-tested, natural solutions for their hair care needs.

How to use hair oils:

Hair oils are more potent that silicone based serums, so information about your hair including its porosity, if you colour or heat style your hair, will determine how you will use your oil.

Pre-wash Treatment: Applying oil before shampooing protects hair from the harsh effects of cleansing and keeps it hydrated.
Leave-in Conditioner: A few drops of oil can be used on damp hair to detangle and add shine. Mermaid Magic is amazing for this!
Scalp Massage: Regular oil massages can enhance scalp health and relax the mind, reducing stress-related hair issues.
Styling Aid: Oils can tame frizz and flyaways, making hair more manageable and styled.
Pre-swim Treatment: Apply oil to hair before going for a swim especially in chlorine water, to keep hair soft and nourished.

Can I use hair oils as a heat protectant?

We don't recommend using hair oils as heat protectant, including those with a high smoke points. Even with the hate around silicones, they have their place in the beauty industry, and they are one of the best heat protectants on the market that will dramatically benefit from high heat tools. In my personal experience I have found that cream-based heat protectants act as the best heat defence compared to oils. Oils have their own magical purposes however using them as a heat protectant is something I would not recommend.

Combining Oils for Maximum Benefit

For a truly customised hair care experience, consider using these in our YHI or Mermaid Magic hair oils to deeply nourish your hair. Our oils are intended to be potent yet gentle with their formulations, and you will only need a small amount to see the magic unfold.

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS

Crambisol

Plantasens® Crambisol is an innovative ingredient increasingly popular in the hair care industry due to its exceptional moisturising and protective properties. Derived from crambe abyssinica seed oil, Crambisol is rich in omega-9 fatty acids, which are known for their ability to deeply penetrate hair strands and provide long-lasting hydration. This makes it particularly effective for combating dryness, frizz, and split ends, leaving hair smoother and more manageable. Additionally, its lightweight texture ensures that it doesn't weigh down hair, making it suitable for all hair types, including fine hair. By incorporating Crambisol into YHI we can offer our customers a natural and effective solution for maintaining healthy, vibrant hair.

Genadvance® Hydra

Genadvance® Hydra is a sophisticated ingredient designed to enhance the efficacy of hair oil products. Known for its deep moisturizing properties, it targets dry and damaged hair by providing intense hydration and improving hair's overall health and manageability. This innovative compound works by penetrating the hair shaft, replenishing moisture from within, and creating a protective barrier that locks in hydration. As a result, hair treated with Genadvance® Hydra becomes softer, shinier, and more resilient to environmental stressors. Its inclusion in hair oils makes these products particularly effective for those seeking to restore and maintain the natural beauty and vitality of their hair.

IN CONCLUSION

We love oils and are always looking at ways to improve them in our store and for our customers, so whether you’re looking to retain length, enhance shine, or improve overall hair health, the right oil can transform your hair care routine into a luxurious, beneficial ritual.