This common pantry ingredient delivers impressive benefits for hair health while saving money on expensive treatments, according to hair experts.
Amid numerous DIY beauty trends ranging from egg-white masks to apple cider vinegar treatments, olive oil stands out as one of the oldest and most reliable natural hair care options. Hair restoration surgeon Dr. Ross Kopelman confirms that many of his patients incorporate olive oil into their self-care routines with excellent results for appropriate hair types.
The benefits of olive oil for hair are numerous and scientifically supported. It effectively nourishes the scalp, helping to soften dry skin and reduce itching – critical factors for maintaining healthy hair. Dr. Kopelman notes that olive oil can significantly reduce flaking by addressing the underlying dryness that causes this common scalp issue.
Another significant advantage is olive oil’s protective qualities. By coating hair strands, it helps prevent breakage, which frequently occurs with dry or damaged hair. This protective layer acts as a moisture sealant, reducing split ends and strengthening hair overall. Additionally, olive oil effectively combats frizz by helping strands resist humidity.
A 2015 review in the International Journal of Trichology reinforces these benefits, explaining that oils like olive oil can penetrate hair strands to reduce water absorption, which aids in detangling and minimizing frizz while locking in essential moisture.
While olive oil isn’t proven to stimulate hair growth directly, Dr. Kopelman emphasizes that it supports a healthy scalp environment, which is fundamental for optimal hair growth conditions. However, he cautions that it may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with fine or thin hair, as improper removal can block follicles.
For best results, apply a small amount of olive oil to your hair before washing, massage from roots to tips (or just mid-lengths to ends for oily hair types), and leave on for 30-60 minutes before shampooing thoroughly. Dr. Kopelman recommends using pure extra virgin olive oil from the grocery store, though it can be mixed with lighter oils like jojoba or argan if preferred.
