babassu oil vs coconut oil

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!

15 BEST SHAMPOOS AND CONDITIONERS THAT WORK FOR ALL HAIR TYPES

Every healthy head of hair starts with a decent shampoo and conditioner set. There is no one-size-fits-all formula for hair wash routines, which is why it’s critical to discover one that works for your hair type and concerns. So how can you determine which combination of shampoo and conditioner is best for you? If you haven’t figured this out, let us help you decide with these 15 best shampoos and conditioner combos.

BRIOGEO SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

This product is appealing since it combines the functions of a shampoo and a hair mask, saving you one extra step in your shower regimen. The revolutionary mixture is made to thoroughly clean and condition hair without causing color fading or weighing down individual strands. This shampoo, which contains rose oil, panthenol, biotin, and algal extract, is supposed to be ideal for people with dry or damaged hair. Fighting dry hair is essential, especially in the winter, and you’ll be amazed at how hydrated your hair feels after using Briogeo’s products. 

R+CO TELEVISION PERFECT HAIR SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

This shampoo and conditioner set, designed to work with all hair types and textures, adds shine and helps to strengthen and smooth hair. Panthenol, glycerin, and babassu-seed oil provide moisture to the hair, while juniper-berry extract helps regulate oil production on the scalp. Furthermore, the extract from marigold flowers hydrates the scalp, helping to get rid of dandruff. 

REDKEN SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

If your hair is severely damaged and dry, you’re definitely searching for a drastic fix. Redken’s Extreme Strength Restore Shampoo and Conditioner are specifically formulated to strengthen and restore hair that has sustained ongoing damage. As it cleans, the shampoo reconstructs the entire hair, from roots to ends, using a unique RCT Protein Complex. Redken’s Strength Complex, which is composed of arginine and other amino acids to leave your hair stronger and help prevent future damage, fortifies and protects the hair in the conditioner. Redken’s Extreme Strength Repair method will make your hair look and feel smoother, shiny, and fully restored.

RAHUA HYDRATION SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Your hair may feel dry for a variety of causes, such as overusing heated hair tools or being outside in the sun while UV rays are present. However, this hydrating pair is working to undo that damage. Rahua nut oil is added to the creamy-textured, sulfate-free Rahua Hydration Shampoo, which has a mango and passionfruit scent and fortifies hair. In order to provide an additional moisture boost, the omega-9-rich material is also injected into the Hydration Conditioner. Try Réduit’s One Gold Spa Skincare and Haircare Treatment Device if you need a pick-me-up. You may put conditioning capsules into the ultrasonic device, and it will distribute the product evenly throughout your hair in portions for optimal strand coverage.

KERASTASE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Thanks to Kérastase’s Curl Manifesto Bain Hydration Douceur Conditioner, your naturally occurring coils will adore you. The four-year development process resulted in a proprietary ceramide that strengthens and locks in moisture while also increasing elasticity for defined and bouncy curls. Additionally, it assists in giving hair more elasticity and strength for defined, bouncy curls. Manuka honey also keeps hair from becoming brittle by keeping moisture in your hair’s cuticles for softness and shine. A tip for styling hair? Use a microfiber towel to remove any remaining moisture; this will assist your curls in maintaining their structure and avoid frizz during the drying process.

SHU UEMURA SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

If you’re hoping for large, voluminous waves, try using a lightweight shampoo that won’t make your hair appear greasy. What is everyone’s favorite combination? Shu Uemura Muroto Volume Shampoo and Conditioner: An Art of Hair Art. Shu Uemura, a Tokyo native who became the first Japanese makeup artist in Hollywood, is recognized for his formulae fit for the red carpet. He held the opinion that your hair is a blank canvas that can be fashioned into an endless variety of exquisite looks. To give your hair body and structure, this Volume Shampoo contains Himalayan crystal minerals. The saltwater will boost your hair when paired with the seawater-infused hair mask.

AVEDA ROSEMARY MINT SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Sebum is beneficial to hair, but too much of it can make your hair look oily and slippery. Look for peppermint-infused shampoos and conditioners, as the herb helps balance your scalp’s pH to control oil production. An additional scalp saver? vinegar in white. It de-tangles hair cuticles and takes out oil with gentleness. Both are combined in Aveda’s Rosemary Mint Purifying Shampoo, which will thoroughly clean your hair without removing the vital essential oils that give it a natural sheen and smoothness. The accompanying conditioner is incredibly delicate and contains both spearmint and peppermint to gently untangle strands.

DRY BAR ON THE ROCKS SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Use of clarifying shampoo: why? Product accumulation, however, can dry out and weigh down hair. In addition to any residue, a clarifying shampoo is used to get rid of any leftover chlorinated water that could weaken hair. Drybar’s elucidating On the Rocks Vegetable proteins are added to charcoal shampoo to strengthen hair, and activated charcoal can absorb up to 200 times the weight of your hair in pollutants before being washed away. The Drybar On the Rocks Lightweight Conditioner, which smells of ginger, mint, and sandalwood, is also included in our list of the top 11 shampoos and conditioners because macadamia oil rapidly hydrates and detangles hair, while coriander seals the hair cuticle to increase shine. 

CHRISTOPHE ROBIN COLOUR SHIELD SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Utilize this hair care set by Christophe Robin to keep colored hair looking bright and fresh. In order to prevent color fading caused by frequent hair washing and hard water, this hair hero is carefully made with phytosterols from crambe oil to establish a protective layer over hair shafts and preserve vibrancy. Use the creamy-textured Christophe Robin Colour Shield Mask after shampooing if your hair has been colored, bleached, or highlighted. Vitamin C and antioxidants boost collagen levels in your scalp, strengthening your hair.

BIOLAGE HYDRASOURCE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

The HydraSource Shampoo and Conditioning Balm from Biolage can help your hair get balanced hydration, less frizz, and smooth out split ends. The main ingredient in both products, aloe, has anti-inflammatory properties and offers natural hydration, so it will nurture and calm the scalp while assisting in deep hair moisture. By reducing static in the hair, the HydraSource Conditioning Balm is designed to eliminate frizz and flyaways. Your hair’s capacity to retain an ideal moisture balance will rise by a factor of 15 when you use both of these products in your regimen. If you want to make your hair softer, healthier, and simpler to manage, this combination from a reputable brand is a good option.

OGX SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

OGX, which is well-known for producing hair products made of coconut and without sulfates, adopted a new strategy with its Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco Shampoo and Conditioner. The nourishing argan oil in the shampoo works in tandem with its coconut-based cleansers to eliminate grime and pollutants without depleting the hair’s natural moisture content. The conditioner also includes a nourishing blend of avocado oil, cacao seed oil, coconut oil, and aloe leaf juice in addition to argan oil. This strong but mild blend will shield your hair from damage and leave it silky. Hydrolyzed keratin fortifies your hair and brings out its inherent beauty by adding an additional layer of strength.

VEGAMOUR HYDR-8 SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Try Vegamour’s HYDR-8 Shampoo and Conditioner if you want stronger, sleeker hair as quickly as possible (or if, like us, you just adore the rose-gold package). Using a unique vegan silk substitute called Karmatin instead of keratin and silicone, this potent combination claims to increase the moisture content of your hair eight times in just one application. Karmatin forms a link with the hair strands to fortify and restore any damage that may be causing your locks to appear lifeless and parched. Additionally, Vegamour offers a money-back guarantee and claims that this mixture will keep your hair nourished for 72 hours after application.

OLAPLEX SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Olaplex has created a combination that is meant to repair damaged, dry hair. No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo, one of their best-selling products, uses their bond-building technology to reconstruct broken hair links at the molecular level. This shampoo is a good option if heat damage, frizz, or overall hair health are your main concerns. No. 5: Upkeep of Bonds In order to coat the hair and form a durable seal for the newly formed hair links, conditioner applies a thin but effective layer of moisture. As your hair starts to recover, you’ll notice a noticeable difference very soon, leaving it silky, smooth, and free of tangles.

AVEENO OAT MILK BLEND SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Aveeno began utilizing the inherent moisturizing properties of oats in their hair and skin care products long before oat milk lattes became fashionable. With a nourishing blend of sweet almond seed extract, colloidal oatmeal extract, and other calming components, the shampoo gives just the right amount of moisture to your hair without making it feel greasy. Both products are free of dyes, parabens, and sulfates, so your hair will retain its delicious oat-almond hydration blend. The conditioner is mild enough for regular use. A few times a week, try using the Oat Milk Blend Leave-in Milk in place of the conditioner for an even stronger hydration boost.

JVN SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

The Nurture Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner from JVN were designed to hydrate damaged hair and prevent frizz. The main component, hemisqualane 101, naturally protects against breakage and damage while maintaining the color of your hair and has better protective properties than silicones. The conditioner’s pillowy texture adheres to hair just enough to provide it with a thick, nurturing layer of hydration, but it rinses clean with no residue left behind. With notes of lemon and blackcurrant blended with musky white orchid, sandalwood, and vanilla, the fragrance is reminiscent of a summer garden.

You may be the kind of person who always tries something different when it comes to shampoo and conditioner, or you may have been using the same two bottles for years. In any case, you should consider whether you’re wearing the proper pair for your hair. We’ve compiled the best shampoos and conditioners for color-treated, frizz-fighting, and anti-aging hair—yes, it’s a thing—so wash, rinse, and repeat for the healthiest possible hair.