The Benefits of Jojoba Oil for Hair

Jojoba oil is a popular natural remedy that has been used for centuries to nourish and moisturize the hair and scalp. It is extracted from the seeds of the jojoba plant, which grows in desert regions such as Arizona, southern California, and Mexico. In recent times, jojoba oil has gained significant attention for its numerous benefits for hair health.

One of the major advantages of jojoba oil is its nourishing properties. According to hairstylist and scalp specialist Mayara Macedo, jojoba oil closely resembles the sebum produced by our skin and scalp, making it highly compatible with our bodies. This oil works as a balancing treatment for both oily and dry scalps.

In addition to its effects on scalp health, jojoba oil can also strengthen and moisturize the hair. It helps restore moisture and restores balance to the scalp, resulting in healthier and more manageable hair. Furthermore, jojoba oil adds shine to the hair, enhancing its appearance.

Jojoba oil is also known for its ability to combat dandruff. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, conditioning, and emollient properties make it effective in addressing dry and irritating dandruff. Additionally, jojoba oil has been traditionally used in Mexican Indian culture for treating sores and has shown potential in improving skin conditions like acne and psoriasis.

By moisturizing the hair follicles, jojoba oil helps prevent breakage and strengthen the hair strands. It creates a protective barrier that locks in moisture and reduces the risk of hair loss and dandruff caused by dryness. Additionally, jojoba oil can be beneficial for those with oily scalps. It helps signal to the scalp that it has sufficient moisture, thereby slowing down excess oil production.

When using jojoba oil for hair, it is best to focus on the scalp rather than the length and tips of the hair. However, other oils like argan oil may work better for nourishing the hair strands. Here’s a recommended method by Macedo:

1. Massage a few drops of jojoba oil directly onto the scalp to balance oil production and moisturize.
2. Leave the oil in for at least 30 minutes before rinsing. For a more intensive treatment, leave it overnight.
3. For a booster hair mask, combine jojoba oil with rosemary oil.
4. Alternatively, look for shampoos or conditioners that already contain jojoba oil.

For application, jojoba oil can be used on wet or dry hair, depending on the desired outcome. Applying it to damp hair helps lock in moisture and add shine, while applying it to dry hair reduces frizz and adds a light shine to styled hair.

It’s important to pay attention to the amount of oil used to avoid a greasy appearance, particularly for those with fine hair. Additionally, it is recommended to wash the scalp after using oils, as they may reduce hair volume for some individuals.

Ultimately, jojoba oil is a natural moisturizing ingredient that improves scalp health, adds shine, and strengthens the hair. However, it is not a treatment for hair loss. Before using jojoba oil, it’s advisable to conduct a patch test to check for any allergies or sensitivities. We have professional tips for using jojoba oil for different hair types.

Jojoba oil is an essential ingredient in moisturizing shampoos and skincare products. It is extracted from the seeds of the jojoba plant, which is commonly found in desert areas of Arizona, southern California, and Mexico. Though it has been used for centuries as a natural remedy, jojoba oil is currently gaining popularity in the hair care industry. Read on to discover how to incorporate it into your hair care routine for strong, shiny hair and a healthy scalp.

Benefits of Jojoba Oil for Hair

According to Mayara Macedo, a hairstylist and scalp specialist in NYC, jojoba oil is extremely nourishing. She explains that it closely resembles the sebum produced by our skin and scalp, making it highly compatible with our bodies. Whether you have an oily or dry scalp, jojoba oil works effectively as a balancing treatment. While it primarily helps with scalp health, it can also moisturize and strengthen hair. However, it is not the go-to remedy for hair loss (that’s usually minoxidil).

Moisturizes, Adds Shine, and Balances

If you experience dryness, jojoba oil is ideal for adding moisture to your scalp. According to Macedo, its natural hydrating properties help restore balance, resulting in healthier and more manageable hair. Additionally, it adds a significant amount of shine to your locks.

Helps with Dandruff

Kseniya Kobets, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and Director of Cosmetics Dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care, explains that jojoba oil possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as conditioning and emollient properties. These qualities make it effective in combating dry and irritating dandruff. Its historical use in Mexican Indian culture as a treatment for sores also led researchers to investigate its potential for improving skin conditions like acne and psoriasis. However, it is essential to consult a dermatologist for proven treatment options.

Strengthens and Prevents Breakage

Although it is often claimed that jojoba oil promotes hair growth, this is likely due to its ability to moisturize hair follicles and prevent dryness. Dry environments can lead to breakage, hair loss, and dandruff. Furthermore, jojoba oil can aid in restoring overall hair health, including addressing split ends.

Beneficial for Oily Scalps

Macedo explains that if your scalp becomes oily quickly after washing, it may be overcompensating for moisture deficiency by overproducing oil. Adding jojoba oil can signal to the scalp that it has sufficient moisture, thereby reducing excess oil production.

How to Use Jojoba Oil for Hair

While jojoba oil can be applied to the length and tips of your hair, Macedo suggests using it primarily on the scalp. She believes other oils, such as argan oil, work better for the length of the hair. Here’s how Macedo recommends using jojoba oil:

1. Massage a few drops of jojoba oil directly onto the scalp to balance oil production and moisturize.
2. Leave it in for at least 30 minutes before rinsing. For a more intensive treatment, you can leave it overnight.
3. Combine jojoba oil with rosemary oil for a hair mask booster.
4. You can also choose to buy shampoos or conditioners that already contain jojoba oil.

FAQs

Is it better to apply jojoba oil to wet or dry hair?

According to Macedo, jojoba oil can be applied to wet or dry hair, depending on your goal. If you want to lock in moisture and add shine, apply it to damp hair. However, she advises against applying it to wet hair as it can easily be applied excessively or unevenly, leaving your hair feeling heavy and greasy. Applying it to dry hair helps reduce frizz and adds a light shine to styled hair.

How long can you leave jojoba oil in your hair?

Kobets suggests using oils overnight for prolonged exposure. However, she cautions that it can get messy, so you can apply them for a few hours and wash them off before bed. Macedo also advises being mindful of the amount you use, as using too much can make your hair appear greasy, especially if you have fine hair. For a lightweight finish, start with a small amount and focus on the ends of your hair. Additionally, she recommends using jojoba oil for the scalp and argan oil for the hair.

Should you wash your hair before or after applying jojoba oil?

Macedo explains that if you are using jojoba oil as a pre-wash treatment to balance scalp oil or as a deep conditioner, apply it before washing. If you are using it as a leave-in conditioner or frizz-tamer, you can apply it to freshly washed hair, being careful not to apply too much. Kobets suggests washing the scalp after using oils, as some patients may experience reduced hair volume.

Can you leave jojoba oil in your hair without washing it?

According to Kobets, individuals with dehydrated scalps and coarse hair may choose to leave the oil in to better hydrate the scalp. However, people with fine or oily scalps usually prefer to wash the oils out.

Takeaway

Jojoba oil is a natural moisturizer known for improving scalp health and adding shine to hair. It can also help strengthen your locks. However, it is not a solution for hair loss. Before incorporating jojoba oil into your routine, be sure to perform a patch test to check for allergies. Then, enjoy the benefits of this versatile oil for your hair.