bassu oil for hair

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!

10 BEST HAIR MASKS FOR CURLY HAIR: PICKS TO SMOOTHEN AND CONDITION

Taming those beautiful curls can be a constant battle between definition and frizz. But fear not, curly-haired friends! A deep conditioning hair mask can be your secret weapon for soft, manageable, and oh-so-defined curls. In this guide, we’ll unveil the best hair masks for curly hair, helping you find the perfect pick to smooth, condition, and enhance your natural bounce.

BEST HAIR MASKS FOR CURLY HAIR

CURL UP INTENSE HYDRATING HAIR MASK

Are you tired of battling dry, unruly curls? Meet your potential hair care savior: the Curl Up Intense Hydrating Hair Mask. Designed specifically for those with dry, frizzy curls, this mask boasts the ability to transform your locks into beautifully defined tresses. Let’s delve into what sets this product apart:

Firstly, its key ingredients – avocado, mango, and shea butter – are moisture marvels renowned for their hydrating prowess. They work synergistically to quench the thirst of your curls while imparting a healthy sheen.

Moreover, this mask prides itself on its creamy goodness. Free from harsh chemicals such as sulfates, parabens, and silicones, it offers a gentle yet luxurious experience during application, suitable for a wide range of hair types.

But the benefits don’t stop there. Beyond mere hydration, the Curl Up mask also doubles as a curl enhancer. By defining and amplifying your natural curl pattern, it bids farewell to frizz and welcomes smoother, more buoyant curls.

AVEDA BE CURLY INTENSIVE DETANGLING MASQUE

Tailored specifically for curly textures, this masque promises to unravel even the most stubborn knots with ease. At its core are certified organic babassu oil and shea butter, renowned for their detangling and moisturizing properties, offering a deep dive into hair hydration.

But the benefits of this masque extend beyond mere detangling. It also steps up to the plate in the fight against frizz and aims to elevate the overall appearance of your curls. By infusing moisture and definition, it sets the stage for your natural curl pattern to take center stage, enhancing its beauty.

Moreover, embracing the ethos of natural power, the Aveda Be Curly masque is formulated with up to 98% naturally derived ingredients. This characteristic not only aligns with the preferences of those seeking a more natural hair care routine but also underscores Aveda’s commitment to environmental consciousness. 

BARE ANATOMY CURL ENHANCING HAIR MASK

Enriched with a blend of nourishing elements including coconut oil, hyaluronic acid, and castor oil, Bare Anatomy’s Curl Enhancing Hair Mask offers a rejuvenating experience for your curls. These potent ingredients work in harmony to deeply nourish your scalp, delivering profound hydration and resulting in effortlessly defined curls. Coconut oil contributes its detangling and curl-defining properties, while hyaluronic acid steps in to moisturize and combat frizz effectively.

One of the standout features of this hair mask is its commitment to clean beauty. By excluding sulfates, parabens, and other harmful chemicals from its formulation, Bare Anatomy ensures that your hair receives only the best care without any compromise on safety or quality. For individuals inclined towards a natural approach to hair care, this product offers a promising solution worth exploring.

KÉRASTASE NUTRITIVE HAIR MASK FOR DRY THICK HAIR

Kérastase offers two options in their Nutritive Masquintense line, catering to different hair textures and needs. The Nutritive Masquintense for Dry Hair is designed for very dry, fine to medium-thick hair. It contains plant-based proteins and niacinamide to provide intense nourishment and strengthen hair. However, it may not be the best fit for very thick hair as it could potentially weigh down the strands.

On the other hand, the Nutritive Masquintense Riche variant is tailored specifically for dry, thick hair. Its formula is enriched with anti-dryness polymers aimed at maintaining hair volume and manageability, addressing a key concern for thick hair types. Similar to its counterpart, it also boasts plant-based proteins and niacinamide for deep nourishment without compromising on lightness. Additionally, it promises to enhance shine, suppleness, and manageability, leaving hair feeling luxurious.

Keep in mind that both Kérastase masks are intended for deep conditioning and should ideally be used once or twice a week. As with many high-end brands, Kérastase products do come with a premium price tag, reflecting the quality and efficacy of the formulations.

PLUM AVOCADO HAIR MASK FOR DRY AND FRIZZY HAIR

Plum’s Avocado Hair Mask is infused with a blend of nourishing elements, including argan oil and avocado oil, to combat dryness and frizz effectively, resulting in smooth and well-moisturized curls. Designed for both women and men, this hair mask offers deep conditioning to replenish moisture levels and minimize hair breakage. Its formula not only softens and adds shine to curls but also works to prevent excessive dryness. With the added benefits of shea butter, it seals in moisture and guards against split ends, enhancing the overall health and appearance of your hair.

INNERSENSE HYDRATING HAIR MASK

For people with dry, rough, or damaged curls, the Innersense Hydrating Hair Mask is a natural solution that deeply hydrates and repairs. It’s made to bring life back to thirsty curls by using a mix of nourishing oils like flaxseed, shea butter, coconut, monoi, and tamanu. These oils work together to give intense moisture and revive dry, brittle curls. But this mask does more than just hydrate. It also has quinoa protein, which strengthens hair and enhances natural curl shape. So, it doesn’t just soften curls; it makes them look lively, bouncy, and defined.

Innersense cares about using clean, natural ingredients. They don’t include sulfates, parabens, silicones, or artificial fragrances in their mask. This makes it a good choice for people with sensitive scalps or those who prefer natural hair care products. Though there aren’t many online reviews, the Innersense mask suits different hair types, including dry, thick, and curly hair. While it’s great for adding moisture and nourishment to curls, it might not fix curls that are damaged as well as some other options.

FIX MY CURLS PROTEIN POWERED DEEP CONDITIONING MASK

Containing enriching elements such as avocado oil, amla, and cocoa butter, this hair mask is specially formulated to suit the distinct requirements of curly, wavy, dry, and colored hair types. Combining hydration and protein, it effectively tackles the common issues encountered by curly hair. Besides ensuring optimal hydration for your curls, this mask also works to minimize hair fall and fortify your strands. Additionally, it imparts bounce and shine to your curls, enhancing their volume without causing heaviness. Moreover, it possesses the ability to manage scalp infections.

CLEVER CURL CURL TREATMENT

The Clever Curl Curl Treatment is great for curly hair because it can do two jobs in one. You can use it as a deep conditioner or leave-in conditioner, depending on what you need. It’s made specifically for curls, so it doesn’t have harsh stuff like sulfates or silicones that can dry out your hair. Instead, it has natural ingredients that keep your curls healthy and hydrated. But there’s not a lot of info online about what exactly is in it, so it might be helpful to check out user reviews to see if it works well for different kinds of curls. Overall, if you want something that’s good for your curls and can be used in different ways, the Clever Curl Curl Treatment could be a good choice for your hair care routine.

PILGRIM KOREAN ARGAN OIL HAIR MASK

The Pilgrim Korean Argan Oil Hair Mask is designed to combat dryness and frizz, specifically targeting dry and frizzy hair types.  It contains argan oil, a natural source of moisture, to intensely hydrate and soften hair.  Fortified with white lotus and camellia flower extracts, this mask aims to repair and strengthen damaged strands. Pilgrim emphasizes a clean approach, formulating the mask free of parabens, sulfates, and mineral oils.

WELLA NUTRICURLS DEEP TREATMENT FOR WAVES & CURLS

Wella NUTRICURLS Deep Treatment for Waves & Curls is a hair mask designed to address the specific needs of wavy and curly hair.  This deep conditioner aims to deliver intense nourishment, helping to tame frizz and boost manageability.  Fortified with the brand’s Nourish-In Complex containing wheat bran extract and jojoba oil, it aims to define and soften curls while leaving them feeling touchably soft. This Wella mask caters to those seeking a professional salon-quality treatment at home for their wavy or curly locks.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD SOMEONE USE A HAIR MASK?

Determining the frequency of hair mask usage depends on several factors, including hair type and specific concerns. As a general guideline, starting with once a week application is suitable for most hair types. However, for those with dry, damaged, or thick hair experiencing excessive dryness or straw-like texture, increasing usage to 2-3 times a week may offer added benefits.

Conversely, fine or oily hair types may find that less frequent application, such as once every two weeks, is sufficient to prevent hair from feeling weighed down. It’s crucial to consider the severity of your hair concerns when determining the frequency of mask application. For instance, if your hair is severely damaged or exceptionally dry, more frequent use may be necessary until improvements are noticeable.

Additionally, the type of hair mask being used plays a role in determining its frequency. Some masks are formulated for regular use, while others are intended for occasional deep conditioning treatments. Adhering to the instructions provided on the product label ensures optimal results and prevents overuse, which can lead to greasiness or heaviness in the hair.

Ultimately, paying attention to how your hair responds to the mask is essential. If it feels greasy or weighed down after use, it may indicate that the mask is being applied too frequently. Adjusting the frequency based on your hair’s individual needs ensures that you achieve the desired results without compromising hair health.

WHAT INGREDIENTS TO LOOK FOR IN A HAIR MASK

FOR DRY OR DAMAGED HAIR

For those dealing with dry or damaged hair, opting for hydrating oils such as argan oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, avocado oil, and shea butter can provide deep nourishment and moisture. Additionally, humectants like glycerin, honey, and aloe vera help attract and retain moisture in the hair shaft, combating dryness. Strengthening proteins like keratin and wheat bran extract aid in repairing and fortifying damaged strands.

FOR FRIZZY OR UNMANAGEABLE HAIR

Frizzy or unmanageable hair benefits from emollients such as shea butter and mango butter, which smooth the hair cuticle and reduce frizz. Optional conditioning silicones can temporarily reduce frizz and enhance shine, but caution is advised regarding buildup with frequent use. Humectants continue to play a crucial role in maintaining hydration and manageability.

FOR CURLY HAIR

Curly hair, prone to dryness, requires moisturizing ingredients for optimal curl definition and manageability. Alongside hydrating oils and humectants, balancing protein levels with ingredients like hydrolyzed wheat protein or quinoa protein strengthens curls without causing brittleness. Butters such as shea butter and mango butter provide deep conditioning and definition without weighing down the curls.

FOR ADDITIONAL BENEFITS

For additional benefits, individuals with sensitive scalps can benefit from masks containing soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile. For color-treated hair, choosing masks specifically formulated to be color-safe is essential to preserve hair color, while avoiding harsh ingredients that may strip color. By understanding the role of these beneficial ingredients, individuals can select the most suitable hair mask to address their specific needs effectively.

CONCLUSION

Keep in mind that finding the perfect hair mask depends on your unique curl type and hair concerns. By familiarizing yourself with beneficial ingredients and taking into account the factors discussed above, you can start your quest to find the ideal mask for achieving your healthiest, most vibrant curls. Furthermore, don’t overlook the option of homemade hair masks for addressing damaged hair. With the right care, you can confidently flaunt your beautiful curls!