THESE ARE 10 BEST OILS FOR CURLING HAIR: THE SECRET FOR LONG-LASTING LOOKS

For anyone with curls, you know the struggle of keeping them defined, bouncy, and frizz-free all day long. The good news is, there’s a secret weapon in your beauty arsenal: hair oil! These amazing elixirs can be the key to unlocking your hair’s full curling potential. Dive into the world of hair oils and discover the 10 best for luscious, long-lasting curls!

OUR TOP PICKS

BRIOGEO DON’T DESPAIR, REPAIR! STRENGTHENING TREATMENT OIL

Briogeo’s Don’t Despair, Repair! Strengthening Treatment Oil is a great option for those seeking to tame frizz and boost curl definition. This silicone-free formula is packed with repairing ceramides that target split ends and reinforce the hair cuticle. It also boasts intense moisture for a healthy shine, without weighing down your curls. A few drops applied to damp or dry hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends, can transform your curls into a smooth, bouncy, and long-lasting style.

MIZANI 25 MIRACLE NOURISHING HAIR OIL

Mizani’s 25 Miracle Nourishing Hair Oil lives up to its name by offering a multitude of benefits in one product. This lightweight, multi-tasking oil is perfect for all hair types, including curly hair. Formulated with a blend of coconut, sunflower seed, and jojoba oils, it deeply moisturizes and softens hair, leaving it manageable and frizz-free. The key here is its lightweight nature. Unlike some heavier oils that can weigh down curls, 25 Miracle Nourishing Hair Oil absorbs quickly, adding shine and definition without sacrificing bounce.

PURA D’OR ORGANIC SWEET ALMOND OIL

Pura D’Or’s Organic Sweet Almond Oil is a versatile and gentle choice for curly hair. This all-natural oil, free from harsh chemicals and additives, is a great option for those with sensitive scalps. Rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, it provides lightweight moisture that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Sweet almond oil can be used as a pre-styling treatment to tame frizz and boost shine, or as a post-styling refresher to revive curls and add definition. Its gentle nature also makes it perfect for use on dry cuticles and brittle ends, promoting overall hair health and curl manageability.

LIVING PROOF CURL MOISTURIZING SHINE OIL

Living Proof’s Curl Moisturizing Shine Oil stands out for its unique biomimetic approach. This silicone-free formula mimics the natural lipids found in healthy hair.  These natural oils work in harmony with your curls, smoothing and hydrating them for a boost of shine and frizz control.  The versatility of this oil is another plus. You can apply it before shampooing as a deep treatment, during styling to enhance definition, or even after styling to add a touch of shine and tame flyaways.  Living Proof’s Curl Moisturizing Shine Oil caters specifically to wavy, curly, and coily hair textures, making it a great choice for those seeking a curl-enhancing oil that integrates seamlessly with their hair’s natural chemistry.

OGX RENEWING + ARGAN OIL OF MOROCCO

If you’re looking for an affordable and luxurious option for your curls, OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco is a fantastic choice. This popular hair oil is enriched with nourishing Moroccan argan oil, a source of vitamin E and antioxidants. These ingredients work together to strengthen hair, improve elasticity, and combat frizz. OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco absorbs quickly, leaving your curls soft, shiny, and defined without feeling weighed down. Whether you apply it to damp hair before styling to enhance curl formation or use it on dry hair for a touch of frizz control and shine, this oil is a versatile option that can help you achieve your best curls.

PATTERN JOJOBA HAIR & SCALP OIL BLEND

Designed specifically for curly hair textures, PATTERN’s Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil Blend is a lightweight, residue-free dream. This unique formula, created by actress Tracee Ellis Ross, blends jojoba oil with safflower, rosehip, and olive oil for a cocktail of nourishing goodness. The star ingredient, jojoba oil, mimics the scalp’s natural sebum, making it readily absorbed without clogging pores. This translates to deep moisture for your hair and scalp, promoting a healthy environment for curls to thrive. PATTERN’s Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil Blend boasts additional benefits like reducing breakage and itchiness, perfect for those with low-porosity hair or a dry scalp. A few drops massaged into the scalp or smoothed through damp or dry hair can unlock your hair’s full curl potential, leaving it defined, bouncy, and beautifully hydrated.

SHEAMOISTURE 100% PURE ARGAN OIL

SheaMoisture’s 100% Pure Argan Oil offers a simple yet powerful solution for curly hair. This multi-tasking oil, derived from the Moroccan argan tree, is packed with essential fatty acids and vitamin E. These powerhouse ingredients work together to deeply nourish and soften dry, brittle curls. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, avoiding the greasy residue that can weigh down your curls. SheaMoisture’s 100% Pure Argan Oil is a versatile product that can be used on both hair and skin. Apply a few drops to damp hair to enhance curl definition and add shine, or smooth it over dry hair to tame frizz and flyaways. You can even use it on your skin for a boost of hydration and a youthful glow.

AUSSIE MIRACLE CURLS CURL-DEFINING OIL

Aussie Miracle Curls Curl-Defining Oil is a budget-friendly option that packs a punch. Infused with coconut and Australian jojoba oil, this paraben-free formula promises to quench your curls’ thirst for moisture. The key ingredients work in tandem: coconut oil provides deep conditioning and shine, while jojoba oil mimics the scalp’s natural sebum, ensuring lightweight absorption that won’t weigh down your curls. Aussie Miracle Curls Curl-Defining Oil claims to instantly absorb and seal the hair cuticle, locking in hydration to combat frizz and promote long-lasting definition. Apply a few drops to damp or dry hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends, to transform your curls into a smooth, bouncy, and manageable style.

KÉRASTASE ELIXIR ULTIME HYDRATING HAIR OIL SERUM

Kérastase’s Elixir Ultime Hydrating Hair Oil Serum is a luxurious option for those seeking a multi-benefit curl treatment. This blend of precious oils, including argan, camellia, and marula, nourishes and hydrates all hair types, with a special focus on taming frizz and boosting shine. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, avoiding greasy buildup that can weigh down curls. Kérastase’s Elixir Ultime Hydrating Hair Oil Serum offers versatility in application. You can use it on damp hair before styling to enhance curl formation and manageability, or apply it to dry hair to smooth frizz and add a touch of luminous shine. This oil prioritizes hair health alongside curl definition, making it a great choice for those seeking a product that nourishes while promoting beautiful, long-lasting curls.

OUIDAD MONGONGO CURL TREATMENT OIL

Ouidad’s Mongongo Curl Treatment Oil is a curl-loving formula designed to address multiple concerns. This fast-absorbing oil, derived from the Mongongo nut native to Africa, is rich in essential fatty acids that provide deep nourishment and strengthen hair strands. It forms a protective barrier on the hair’s surface, locking in moisture to prevent frizz and damage from heat styling or UV rays. The result? Soft, shiny, and defined curls with long-lasting bounce. Whether you apply it to damp hair before styling to enhance curl formation or use it on dry hair for a touch of frizz control, Ouidad’s Mongongo Curl Treatment Oil can be a valuable tool in your quest for healthy, beautiful curls.

HOW HAIR OILS WORK

While all oils soften and nourish hair (they’re emollients!), they don’t directly add moisture. Think of them as sealing agents. They lock in moisture provided by conditioners, leave-in products, and creams that contain water and humectants. These hydrating products are key! Oils then create a protective barrier on the hair shaft, preventing that moisture from evaporating and keeping your curls frizz-free and defined for longer.

Here’s the takeaway: for the best results, use a conditioner or leave-in with hydrating ingredients first, then follow up with a hair oil to lock it all in. This combo will give your curls the moisture they crave and the definition you desire.

3 TYPES OF HAIR OIL

PENETRATING OILS

Penetrating oils are designed to sleep deeply into the hair shaft, nourishing it from the inside out. These oils typically have smaller molecular structures that allow them to pass through the hair’s cuticle layer. Examples include coconut oil, sunflower oil, and babassu oil. These oils are particularly effective for providing deep hydration, strengthening the hair, and preventing protein loss. They are ideal for use in pre-wash treatments and deep conditioning routines.

PENETRATING AND SEALING OILS

Some oils have the dual capability of both penetrating the hair shaft and sealing the cuticle. These versatile oils include castor oil, olive oil, avocado oil, grapeseed oil, sweet almond oil, argan oil, apricot kernel oil, and macadamia oil. They offer the best of both worlds: deep hydration and a protective barrier. These oils can enhance shine, improve elasticity, and lock in moisture, making them suitable for a variety of hair care applications, from leave-in conditioners to styling products.

SEALING OILS

Sealing oils are primarily used to coat the hair’s surface, creating a barrier that locks in moisture and protects the hair from environmental damage. These oils usually have larger molecular structures that prevent them from being absorbed deeply into the hair shaft. Examples include rice bran oil and jojoba oil. Sealing oils are excellent for smoothing the hair, reducing frizz, and adding a glossy finish. They are particularly beneficial when applied to the ends of the hair to prevent split ends and breakage.

WHICH OIL IS BEST FOR YOUR HAIR TYPE?

Choosing the best oil for your hair type depends on your specific needs and hair characteristics. Here’s a guide to help you select the right one:

FINE OR OILY HAIR

For fine or oily hair types, lightweight oils are best to avoid weighing down the hair or making it look greasy. Grapeseed oil and sweet almond oil are excellent choices as they are light and easily absorbed, providing moisture and shine without excess heaviness. These oils can help balance oil production and add a subtle sheen to your locks.

DRY OR DAMAGED HAIR

Dry or damaged hair benefits from heavier, more nourishing oils that can provide intense hydration and repair. Coconut oil, olive oil, and avocado oil are rich in fatty acids and vitamins that help to strengthen and moisturize the hair. These oils penetrate deeply, making them perfect for deep conditioning treatments to restore moisture and elasticity to brittle hair.

CURLY OR COARSE HAIR

Curly or coarse hair types often require thicker oils to maintain moisture and manageability. Castor oil and argan oil are ideal for these hair types as they offer deep hydration and help to define curls while reducing frizz. These oils also provide a protective barrier that locks in moisture, keeping your curls soft and bouncy.

COLOR-TREATED OR CHEMICALLY PROCESSED HAIR

For hair that has been color-treated or chemically processed, it’s essential to use oils that can help repair damage and maintain color vibrancy. Argan oil and apricot kernel oil are excellent options as they are rich in antioxidants and vitamins that help to strengthen and protect hair. These oils nourish the hair while helping to prolong the life of your color and adding a healthy shine.

NORMAL HAIR

If you have normal hair that doesn’t fall into any specific category, versatile oils like jojoba oil and macadamia oil are great all-rounders. Jojoba oil closely mimics the natural oils produced by your scalp, making it excellent for maintaining balanced moisture levels. Macadamia oil is also lightweight and nourishing, providing a nice balance of hydration and shine without being overly heavy.

CONCLUSION

Taming frizz, defining those gorgeous spirals, and achieving long-lasting hold – that’s the dream for anyone with curls. The good news is, hair oils are your secret weapon! With the right oil for your hair’s unique needs, you can unlock your hair’s full curling potential. From budget-friendly options to luxurious blends, there’s an oil out there waiting to transform your curls into a masterpiece of definition, shine, and bounce. So, ditch the frizz and embrace your curls with the power of hair oil!

HOME BEDROOM REFRESH: 16 GREAT IDEAS FOR A BEDROOM REFRESH

Is your bedroom feeling a bit stale? Craving a sleep sanctuary that inspires relaxation and rejuvenation? You’re not alone! The good news is you don’t need a complete overhaul to breathe new life into your bedroom. This guide offers 16 fantastic ideas for a bedroom refresh, from quick and easy updates to more involved projects. So, get ready to transform your bedroom into a haven of comfort and style!

MIRRORS, ART & WALL DECOR

Mirrors, art, and wall décor are the magic trifecta for personalizing your bedroom and injecting a fresh dose of style. Strategically placed mirrors can make the space feel larger and brighter, while art adds a touch of personality that reflects your interests. Don’t forget the power of wall décor! Woven tapestries, framed photographs, macrame wall hangings, or even a gallery wall showcasing your favorite artwork can create a cohesive look and tell your unique story. So, unleash your creativity and explore the endless possibilities for transforming your bedroom walls!

A COZY READING NOOK

Carve out a dedicated escape within your bedroom with a cozy reading nook. Whether it’s a tucked-away alcove or a strategically placed armchair, this little haven should be an invitation to curl up with a good book. Consider a plush armchair, a pile of plush throws and pillows, and a side table for your current read and a cup of tea. Don’t forget a dedicated reading lamp for optimal light, and personalize the space with artwork or framed quotes that inspire your literary adventures. This little refuge will become your personal oasis for quiet contemplation and getting lost in the pages of a captivating story.

INVEST IN YOUR BEDDING

Treat yourself to a bedroom refresh that’s good for you too! New bedding can make a big difference. Soft, breathable sheets made from natural fabrics like cotton will keep you comfy all night. Look for higher thread counts for extra softness and longer wear. Pick a cozy duvet or comforter that’s not too heavy or light for the season. Add some fluffy throws and pillows for extra warmth and a touch of style. Investing in good bedding isn’t just about looks, it’s about getting a better night’s sleep and feeling great!

TEXTURE & PATTERN

Liven up your bedroom with a touch of texture and pattern! Layering different textures is like adding spices to a dish – it makes things more interesting. Mix and match soft and fluffy throws with smooth cushions, or add a chunky knit blanket to a crisp linen duvet. Don’t be afraid of patterns either! Stripes, polka dots, or even florals can add personality, but keep things balanced by using similar colors or choosing one statement piece. Play with textured rugs, curtains, or even artwork to create a cozy and visually pleasing retreat. With a little texture and pattern, your bedroom will feel more inviting and put-together!

UPDATE YOUR WINDOW 

Give your windows a refresh and brighten up your bedroom! New curtains or blinds can make a big difference. Light and airy sheers will let in sunshine, while thicker curtains can block light for better sleep. Think about color too! Bold curtains can add a pop, while neutral tones create a calm feel. For blinds, choose wood or faux wood for a classic look, or sleek metal for a modern vibe. Don’t forget to consider cleaning your existing window treatments – sometimes a good wash can breathe new life into them too! Updating your windows is a simple way to add style and function to your bedroom refresh.

UPDATE YOUR STORAGE

Tame the clutter and create a calm space with a storage refresh! Sort through your belongings and donate or toss anything you don’t use or love. Invest in some new storage solutions that fit your style and needs. Baskets or decorative boxes are great for hiding away odds and ends. Look for nightstands with drawers or ottomans with hidden storage to maximize space. Open shelves can display pretty things, while closed cabinets keep things hidden. By getting creative with storage, you can free up floor space and make your bedroom feel more organized and peaceful.

STYLE UP NEW PILLOWS

Fresh pillows are like the finishing touch on your bedroom refresh! Play with color and texture to create a cozy and inviting bed. Stack a couple of standard size pillows against your headboard for back support. Add some fun with smaller square pillows in different colors or patterns. Mix and match soft and fluffy textures with smooth cushions for extra comfort. Don’t overdo it though – too many pillows can make your bed look messy. Aim for a balanced look that’s both comfy and stylish!

USE THE LIGHTING RIGHT

Light the way to a relaxing retreat! Layering your lighting is key for a bedroom refresh. Overhead lights are good for general brightness, but you’ll also want softer options. Table lamps on your nightstands are perfect for reading or winding down before bed. String lights or fairy lights can add a touch of magic. Dimmer switches on your lights let you control the mood – bright for getting dressed, soft for cozy nights. Don’t forget natural light! Sheer curtains will let the sunshine in during the day, while blackout curtains help you sleep soundly at night. With the right lighting, your bedroom can transform from bright and energetic to calm and inviting.

CREATE A GALLERY WALL

Spruce up your walls and tell your story with a gallery wall! Gather your favorite things – photos, artwork, postcards, or anything that speaks to you. Arrange them on the floor first to play with the layout. Mix up sizes and shapes for a more interesting look. Try hanging some frames straight on, while tilting others for a casual vibe. Use a level to keep things straight, or embrace a more playful, scattered look. Gallery walls are a great way to add color, personality, and a touch of you to your bedroom refresh!

BAN TECHNOLOGY

Ditch the tech for a more relaxing bedroom! For a better night’s sleep and a calmer space, consider creating a tech-free zone in your bedroom. This means leaving your phone, laptop, and TV outside the door. Invest in an alarm clock instead of using your phone, and curl up with a book before bed instead of scrolling through social media. Banning technology might sound hard at first, but you’ll be surprised by how much more peaceful your sleep sanctuary becomes!

ADD A SOFT HEADBOARD

Cuddle up in comfort with a soft headboard! This is a great way to add a touch of luxury and style to your bedroom refresh. You can buy one already made, or even DIY your own with some fabric and foam. A soft headboard adds padding behind your head for comfy reading or relaxing in bed. Plus, it comes in all sorts of colors and textures to match your style, from plush velvet to linen or quilted. So ditch the plain wall and add a soft headboard for a cozy and inviting bedroom!

INSTALL A PATTERNED RUG

Spruce up your floor and tie the room together with a patterned rug! This is an easy way to add a pop of color, design, and comfort to your bedroom refresh. Choose a pattern that complements your bedding or wall colors. Think stripes for a classic look, or go bold with a floral or geometric design. For size, a rug that goes under the front third of your bed is a good starting point, though you can go bigger if you have the space. A patterned rug can add warmth underfoot and instantly transform the look of your bedroom!

RESET YOUR NIGHTSTANDS

Breathe new life into your nightstands for a bedroom refresh! Here are some easy ideas: Swap out the hardware – new knobs or pulls can add a touch of style for just a few bucks. Paint your nightstands – a fresh coat in a bold color or calming neutral can completely transform them. Add baskets or trays – corral clutter and keep things organized with woven baskets or decorative trays. Style the tops – display a pretty lamp, a framed photo, or a stack of your favorite books. By revamping your nightstands, you can create stylish storage and add personality to your bedroom refresh!

INCORPORATE PERSONAL TOUCHES

Make your bed a true reflection of you with some personal touches! Don’t just stop at store-bought bedding. Add a quilt or throw with sentimental value, maybe from a favorite trip or handmade by a loved one. Layer in decorative pillows with unique patterns or colors that reflect your hobbies or interests. Frame a special photo or quote and prop it on your nightstand. By incorporating these little pieces of you, your bedroom refresh won’t just look good, it will feel like a true haven that tells your story.

ADD FRESH GREENERY

Liven up your bedroom and breathe easy with some fresh greenery! Plants aren’t just pretty to look at, they can clean the air and make you feel more relaxed. Stick to low-maintenance options like snake plants or spider plants that thrive in most bedrooms. Place a pot on your nightstand, hang a planter near the window, or even put a small shelf on the wall for a little herb garden. A touch of nature brings life, color, and a calming vibe to your bedroom refresh.

PAINT YOUR WALLS

Give your bedroom a whole new look with a fresh coat of paint! It’s a bigger project, but it can completely transform your space. Choose a color that relaxes you – soft blues, calming greens, or light neutrals are all popular choices for bedrooms. If you’re feeling bold, try an accent wall in a darker or brighter shade. Don’t forget to prime the walls first for a smooth finish. Painting your walls is a great way to personalize your bedroom refresh and create a sleep sanctuary that reflects your style.

FAQ

1. Do I need to spend a lot of money on a bedroom refresh? No! Many ideas on this list are budget-friendly, like switching out your bedding, adding some plants, or creating gallery walls with thrifted finds.

2. What’s the best way to update my bedding? 

Invest in high-quality, breathable sheets and a duvet or comforter that suits your climate preferences. Play with color and texture with throws and pillows for a personal touch.

3. How can I make my bedroom feel bigger? 

Strategic use of mirrors can create the illusion of more space. Light and airy curtains also help to brighten the room.

4. What kind of art should I hang in my bedroom? 

Choose art that reflects your style and interests! Family photos, inspirational quotes, or calming landscapes are all great options.

5. I don’t have a lot of time, what can I do for a quick refresh? 

Swap out your throw pillows and blankets for a seasonal update. Fresh flowers or a new scented candle can add a touch of personality.

CONCLUSION

Your bedroom should be a haven of comfort and peace, a place to unwind and recharge after a long day. With a little creativity and these 16 refresh ideas, you can transform your sleep sanctuary into a space that reflects your style and promotes restful sleep. So go ahead, add a pop of color, swap out your bedding, or create a cozy reading nook. The possibilities are endless! With a refreshed bedroom, you’ll be looking forward to climbing into bed each night.