leave in conditioner vs 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!

THE 15 BEST-SMELLING SHAMPOOS AND CONDITIONERS  

Ahh… fragranced hair. There’s something about a delightful shampoo and conditioner that can instantly elevate your shower routine and leave you feeling refreshed and luxurious. Beyond the cleansing and conditioning properties, these products can transform your shower into a sensory experience. Whether you crave a light and floral scent or a more deep and mysterious aroma, there’s a perfect fragrant shampoo and conditioner out there for you. Here’s a curated list to tantalize your olfactory senses!

OUAI THICK HAIR SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER

Whether OUAI Thick Hair Shampoo and Conditioner has the absolute best scent depends on what you like. However, these products are known for having a pleasant and luxurious fragrance. They are scented with something called “Mercer Street” which is described as a rosey scent. Along with the rose, there are hints of citrus, jasmine, and white musk. So, if you enjoy floral scents with a bit of freshness and musk, then OUAI Thick Hair Shampoo and Conditioner might be the perfect smelling hair care for you.

SOL DE JANEIRO BRAZILIAN JOIA SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER SET

If you’re looking for a strengthening shampoo and conditioner that also smells amazing, then the SOL DE JANEIRO Brazilian Joia Shampoo and Conditioner Set might be a good fit for you. This set is known for its signature Cheirosa 62 fragrance. Imagine a tropical vacation on the beaches of Brazil! Cheirosa 62 is described as a warm and inviting scent with hints of pistachio, salted caramel, and vanilla. Besides smelling great, this shampoo and conditioner promises to cleanse your hair, add moisture without weighing it down, and even help mend split ends and prevent future damage.

AMIKA NORMCORE SIGNATURE SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER

Amika Normcore Signature Shampoo and Conditioner is a sulfate-free option that cleanses your hair without being harsh. It’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants, which are known to be good for your hair’s health. This shampoo and conditioner combo aims to leave your hair feeling soft, shiny, and bouncy.  While there isn’t a specific scent mentioned for this product line, it’s known for having a clean and refreshing fragrance, so it’s a good choice if you prefer a subtle scent in your hair products.

BRIOGEO BANANA + COCONUT NOURISHING SHAMPOO + CONDITIONER

Craving a scent that matches the moisture boost your dry hair needs? BRIOGEO Banana + Coconut Nourishing Shampoo and Conditioner might be your sweet escape! This combo is packed with banana and coconut oil to quench your hair’s thirst, and the best part? It smells exactly like it sounds – a tropical dream of sweet bananas and creamy coconut. For those with dry, slightly curly hair, don’t forget to check out Briogeo Curl Charisma, a top pick for best shampoo for wavy hair.

BUMBLE & BUMBLE THICKENING VOLUME SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER 

While Bumble and Bumble Thickening Volume Shampoo and Conditioner are known for adding volume to thin hair, the scent might not be the most distinctive. Many reviewers describe it as a clean, light fragrance that isn’t overpowering. This can be a good thing if you prefer a subtle scent in your hair products or have a sensitive nose. However, if you’re looking for a super strong fragrance, this might not be the best choice.

VERB HYDRATING SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER

Ditch dry hair and hello shine! This argan oil shampoo and conditioner combo is like a sip of magic for your tresses. It leaves your hair feeling soft, nourished, and looking healthy, regardless of hair type. Packed with argan oil and pro-vitamin B5, it’s a one-two punch for strong, beautiful hair. Plus, even though the brand doesn’t advertise a special scent, users can’t stop raving about how amazing it smells – that’s a bonus you won’t find on the label!

POMELO + CO. VANILLA DREAM SHAMPOO & VANILLA CREAM CONDITIONER

Craving a sweet treat for your hair? Look no further than POMELO + CO. Vanilla Dream Shampoo & Vanilla Cream Conditioner. This duo is designed to be a dream come true for both your hair and your senses. The shampoo promises to gently cleanse your hair, leaving it shiny and soft. The conditioner adds moisture to keep your hair manageable. But the real star of the show is the scent! As the names suggest, both the shampoo and conditioner are infused with a delicious vanilla fragrance. Imagine yourself surrounded by warm, comforting vanilla vibes every time you wash your hair!

PACIFICA BEAUTY PINEAPPLE CURLS CURL DEFINING SHAMPOO

If you’re rocking gorgeous curls and want to define them without sacrificing a delightful scent, then Pacifica Beauty’s Pineapple Curls Curl Defining Shampoo is a strong contender. This shampoo is a curl-loving formula that cleanses gently, so your hair won’t be weighed down – a big no-no for bouncy curls! Packed with goodies like pineapple extract, argan oil, and quinoa, it helps fight frizz and defines your natural curl pattern. The result? Bouncy, beautiful, perfectly shaped curls! And the best part? It smells like a delicious pineapple vacation, making every hair wash a tropical escape for your senses.

SALTAIR BEACH BLONDE PURPLE SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER

Ditch the brass and achieve the ultimate beach blonde look with this affordable shampoo and conditioner combo! Here’s the good stuff: the special ultraviolet pigments and orchid flower extract work together to neutralize those unwanted brassy tones, keeping your blonde hair cool and ashy, just like a beach vacation. The kukui nut oil adds another layer of brass-busting power. But that’s not all! This formula also includes shea butter to keep your blonde locks nourished and healthy. The cherry on top? An amazing light floral scent that combines orange flower, pink jasmine, and fresh plum for a delightful experience every time you wash your hair.

AVEDA BOTANICAL REPAIR STRENGTHENING SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER

Aveda Botanical Repair Strengthening Shampoo & Conditioner is a great choice if you’re looking to repair damaged hair and enjoy a pleasant scent during your hair washing routine. This combo is designed to be tough on damage, but gentle on your hair. It uses plant-derived ingredients to strengthen weak strands and mend split ends. While the exact scent isn’t described, Aveda products are known for their natural, aromatherapy-like fragrances. This shampoo and conditioner are likely to have a calming and pleasant scent, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle experience compared to strong perfumes.

COCO & EVE SUPER HYDRATING SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER SET

Craving seriously hydrated hair? Look no further than the COCO & EVE Super Hydrating Shampoo & Conditioner Set! This tropical duo is designed to quench your hair’s thirst, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and manageable. Packed with coconut and fig, these ingredients work together to deeply moisturize your hair without weighing it down. But that’s not all! This shampoo and conditioner are known for their incredible island-inspired scent. Imagine yourself relaxing on a beach vacation every time you wash your hair – the perfect way to beat those dry hair blues!

EDEN BODYWORKS PEPPERMINT TEA TREE SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER

Eden Bodyworks Peppermint Tea Tree Shampoo & Conditioner might not be the first choice if you’re seeking a super sweet or floral scented hair care routine. However, this clarifying combo packs a refreshing minty punch thanks to the peppermint and tea tree oil. This invigorating scent is perfect if you enjoy a clean, spa-like experience in the shower. Besides the scent, this shampoo and conditioner are known for their deep cleansing abilities. They work together to remove product buildup and clarify your scalp, leaving your hair feeling fresh and clean.

CLEAN LUXURY SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER DUO – UNIVERSELLE

Forget the labels! This luxurious shampoo and conditioner from Universelle is designed for all hair types, regardless of gender. The scent is where the magic happens – it’s described as “elevated” and something that will entice everyone to take a whiff (and maybe even ask for a second lather!). The cleanser itself is gentle enough for any hair type and protects your precious locks, whether they’re color-treated or bursting with natural keratin. The conditioner acts like a superhero for your hair, reviving tired and stressed strands. The best part? The scent unfolds like a beautiful story: it starts with sparkling top notes of mandarin orange and sea salt, then transitions to a romantic heart of rose petals, and finishes with a warm, musky dry down of amber. Sounds like a shower experience fit for royalty!

POTION STUDIO SATIN SILK SHAMPOO & CONFIDENT CROWN CONDITIONER

If you have textured hair and love a luxurious scent in your hair care routine, Potion Studio’s Satin Silk Shampoo and Confident Crown Conditioner might be your perfect match. This duo is designed to tame frizz and boost shine for all types of textured hair, leaving your mane looking healthy and manageable. But that’s not all! The real star of the show here might be the scent. While the exact fragrance isn’t described, the product names themselves give some clues: Satin Silk and Confident Crown. Imagine a scent that’s as smooth and luxurious as satin, and leaves you feeling confident and powerful – that’s the vibe you can expect from this shampoo and conditioner set.

DAILY SHAMPOO CALIFORNIA NATURALS

Sunshine and good hair days await with California Naturals Daily Shampoo! This shampoo and conditioner duo isn’t just about keeping your hair clean and healthy, it’s about transporting you straight to the California coast. Forget harsh chemicals, this shampoo uses a gentle Coconut Cleansing Complex™ to cleanse your hair, while the conditioner is packed with nourishing fruit butters to give you beach-worthy shine. And the best part? The scent! This shampoo and conditioner have a warm, inviting fragrance that combines woody notes, citrusy hints, and a touch of sweetness – the perfect way to bottle up the California dream in your shower routine. So cruise down memory lane (or create some new amazing hair memories) with every wash!

CONCLUSION

Choosing a shampoo and conditioner can feel overwhelming, but hopefully this exploration of fragrant options has helped narrow down your search! Remember, scent is a personal preference, so don’t be afraid to try a few different ones to find what makes your hair smell (and feel) amazing. Whether you crave a clean, refreshing scent, a luxurious floral fragrance, or a tropical escape, there’s a perfect shampoo and conditioner out there waiting for your hair! Happy washing!