If there is a product I cannot live without as someone with fine and wavy hair, it’s actually hair oil.
Wavy hair can be temperamental and random. We often assume that we have to stay away from natural carrier oils because our hair tends to get greasy and oily on its own anyway. But that’s not true at all–however, it is important to make a distinction between the oils that are effective for waves and oils that are best left for naturally thicker, coarser hair Types 3 and 4. Here are some of the best hair oils for waves and the best ways to use them.
1. Rose Oil | Best for: Scalp Oil
This luxurious oil can be used on its own or in a shampoo. It’s perfect for moisturizing the scalp, but also light enough to be used for wavy hair. The moisturizing properties of rose oil make it a great cure for brittle, dry hair and skin. Rose oil also reduces inflammation, so massage it into your scalp if you’re suffering from itchy, inflamed pores, dandruff, or psoriasis. Rose oil is commonly used in aromatherapy and is known for its calming effect. Add a few drops into your shampoo and breathe it in as you massage it into your scalp. The one drawback to using rose oil is that it can be pretty pricey. If you’re a DIY enthusiast, try making your own rose oil mixture.
- Try: Now Foods Rose Oil (1 mL, $11.50″> at most natural grocery stores
2. Coconut Oil | Best for: Pre-Poo
Coconut oil is beneficial for all types of hair, and is packed with vitamin E essential vitamins to help naturally dry hair keep moisture–a natural anti-humectant. Because of its naturally thick consistency, it’s not the best idea to use coconut oil as a styling agent. Instead, use it once a week as a deep conditioner or prior to shampooing your scalp as a “pre-poo” so your hair stays hydrated.
- Scoop 3 tablespoons of extra virgin coconut oil into a microwave safe bowl.
- Microwave on high for 30 seconds.
- Smooth the melted oil over the top of your head and ends (if you have an oily scalp, keep coconut oil away from the roots and focus instead on the ends”>.
- Comb through with a wide tooth comb and cover with a shower cap.
- Soak your hair in the oil for an hour (it will thicken as it cools”> then rinse.
3. Almond Oil | Best as: Sealant
Almonds are super foods that are not only beneficial for your body but your hair. Sweet almond oil has multiple uses–Because it is lightweight in nature it won’t weigh down wavy hair that’s already so prone to falling flat. It shouldn’t be used as your only moisturizer but as a sealant instead. After generously applying your leave-in, seal with a light layer of almond oil. Massaging a dab of almond oil into your scalp can also increase shine, reduce hair loss, promote healthy follicles and strengthen hair strands. As I said–it’s a superfood or in this case, a super oil.
- Try: Now Foods Sweet Almond Oil (4 oz., $3.58″> at most natural grocery stores
4. Argan Oil | Best as: Heat Protectant
Argan oil contains beneficial vitamins such as vitamin E and F and protects against UV rays. But perhaps my favorite thing about argan oil is its versatility. It works to fight frizz and increase shine in your daily regimen, but it can also smooth out your hair when it meets heat. Rub it on your ends before a blow out and watch your waves smooth out. If you don’t want to blow dry your hair, simply smooth it over your styled waves to prevent frizz.
- Try: Now Foods Argan Oil (4 oz., $12.22″> at most natural grocery stores
How do you use oils to nourish your wavy hair?
