The Best Natural Oils For Skin and Hair
Natural oils have been employed for centuries to hydrate, nourish and protect the skin, hair and nails. They help to maintain the natural defences of the epidermis and promote healthy regrowth of skin cells and new hair. For instance, apricot kernel oil is rich in antioxidants and Vitamin E that are particularly effective in healing scars and rejuvenating the skin. They’re almost all great moisturisers for indeed the whole body. Additionally, they are effective, gentle and hydrating makeup removers or can be added to your shampoo and conditioner for a silky smooth new mane.
FOR HAIR
OLIVE OIL
This common kitchen staple can do wonders for damaged and dry hair. It’s packed with Vitamins A, B, E, D and K, all of which are exceptionally beneficial for your hair and skin. Olive oil applied to the scalp impededs the production of the DHT hormone: DHT shrinks the hair follicle shaft which is what causes hair loss from the scalp.
A healthy scalp means healthy hair. Olive oil moisturises the scalp deep down to produce strong and healthy hair from the roots. It’s antibacterial and antifungal properties also maintain scalp health by keeping away dandruff and head lice which are common causes for the poor health of skin and hair.
CASTOR OIL
Castor oil has always been revered for maintaining good digestive health but has always been less known for its age old beautifying properties. Castor oil has been known by several indigenous cultures for expediting hair growth once applied on the scalp. Omega-6 and 9 fatty acids enable castor oil to grow more hair and to thicken existing hair follicles. You can use it to repair dry and damaged and also to maintain healthy hair. It is also antifungal and antibacterial and helps maintain a healthy, nourished scalp.
ALMOND OIL
The poster child for Vitamin E, almond oil concurrently is also packed with the entire Vitamin B complex which contributes to the growth and maintenance of healthy hair. Its high mineral content comprised of magnesium and iron coupled with essential fatty acids promote hair growth and strengthen existing hair follicles. Because it is lightweight, it can be added to your shampoo or conditioner before rinsing or can be used as a protective serum before styling or stepping out in strong sunlight.
COCONUT OIL
Coconut oil is commonly known to do wonders for all hair types. Its lauric acids and proteins deeply penetrate and nourish the hair follicle. Medium chain fatty acids make it easily absorbed by the shaft and scalp, reinforcing hair from the roots and protecting the hair from sun and heat damage.
ARGAN OIL
Argan oil is magical for hair. It’s loaded with omega fatty acids and natural antioxidants which bring to life dull hair. Argan oil repairs damage to the hair shaft, repairing split ends and wispies. It’s lightweight and hence versatile, meaning you can freely use it as a protective hair serum before styling or just in for express hydration on the go for your lovely locks.
FOR SKIN
ALMOND OIL
It’s commonly known that almond oil is vitamin E rich, making it excellent for healing and repairing damaged skin but it is even less commonly known that almond oil is anti-inflammatory, meaning it’s ideal for use by those with sensitive skin and allergies. It’s got a silky delectable feel and is easily absorbed into the skin without leaving greasy residue. Use it consistently to treat scars and wounds which won’t then leave permanent marks. It has lightening properties which have been shown to reduce dark circles and is a highly recommended under eye moisturiser and makeup remover owing to its gentle nature.
COCONUT OIL
Commonly found in body butters and moisturising soaps and lotions, coconut oil is intensely hydrating and encourages the repair of flaky dry skin. It can strengthen the skin’s tissue and outer defenses whilst simultaneously being quickly absorbed into the skin since it doesn’t contain water like many off-the-shelf moisturisers. Vitamin E antioxidant powers possessed by coconut oil are beneficial in warding off the signs of aging and a host of other skin ailments.
ARGAN OIL
Argan oil helps to regulate the skin’s sebum production, making it a worthy topical oil for those with acne or those who get breakouts. The prevalent sterolins in the oil help the skin to retain moisture. Argan oil is loaded with omega fatty acids and vitamin E, making it great for deeply hydrating the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and sun damage. The unique set of fatty acids found within this Moroccan oil can improve collagen production and keep the skin elastic and supple. It’s lightweight and easy on the skin making it ideal for removing makeup and cleansing from impurities.
ROSEHIP OIL
Found on the rose bushes of the Andes Mountains, rosehip oil is so hip nowadays and has been receiving much deserved attention from gushing celebrities. It’s Vitamin A and essential fatty acid content help to repair the skin cells. Find skincare products that include rosehip oil for deep hydration and intensive repair. Its anti-aging properties are widely employed in anti-aging serums and wrinkle fighting creams alongside healing retinol. Vitamin C is the most abundant of the powerful antioxidant blend found in rosehip oil. It’s excellent for turning back sun damage and protecting the skin from the elements.
JOJOBA OIL
Closely resembling the skin’s natural oils, Jojoba oil acts similarly and is easily and quickly absorbed. It doesn’t leave greasy residue that eventually leads to clogged pores. It’s an incredibly effective moisturiser, able to minimise fine lines and tone the skin, making it soft and supple. It is because of its intensive hydrating capabilities that Jojoba oil is commonly found in anti-aging creams and serums.
GRAPESEED OIL
Grapeseed oil is packed with antioxidant anti-ageing flavonoids that can reverse signs of sun damage and fine lines and wrinkles. It is extracted from the seeds of a grape and is lightweight and does not leave grease when applied topically onto the skin. It’s antioxidant complexes are known to aid collagen production and it’s anti-inflammatory properties make it perfect for sensitive skin types prone to swelling and redness and acne.
AVOCADO OIL
With medium chain unsaturated and omega 3 fatty acids, Avocado oil is an excellent deep moisturiser with a non greasy feel. It’s rich in antioxidants and can reverse sun damage and aging signs like spots and fine lines. Vitamins A and D heal skin cells and promote renewal, making the skin suppler and softer. Avocado oil contains high quantities of potassium that can ease muscles and skin tissue, helping to retain elasticity in the skin.
