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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 SHAVING CREAMS FOR SENSITIVE SKIN: SAY GOODBYE TO RAZOR BURN

Do you dream of a smooth, irritation-free shave but wake up to red bumps and razor burn? If you have sensitive skin, shaving can be a battle. But fear not! This guide will unveil the 10 best shaving creams for sensitive skin, formulated to soothe and protect your skin while delivering a close, comfortable shave. Get ready to ditch the discomfort and embrace the confidence of a shave that pampers!

WHAT SHAVING CREAM IS SAFE FOR SENSITIVE SKIN?

When you’re checking the ingredients in shave products for sensitive skin, it’s good to look for certain things. Dr. Marisa Garshick, a skin doctor in New York City and New Jersey, suggests looking for glycerin because it pulls moisture into the skin, and shea butter because it keeps moisture in and makes your skin softer. Also, it’s helpful to find ingredients like oatmeal or aloe that calm your skin and ingredients like jojoba oil that moisturize it.

Another skin doctor, Dr. Joshua Zeichner, also likes ingredients such as avocado butter and vitamin E because they are very good for your skin. He recommends using creams or thick gels because they protect sensitive skin from rubbing.

Dr. Garshick says that creams are better for dry or sensitive skin, while gels and foams are better for oily skin. But it also depends on what feels best for you, as foams are lighter and easier to wash off.

WHAT SHAVING CREAM TO AVOID WITH SENSITIVE SKIN

If you have sensitive skin, there are a few ingredients you should steer clear of when choosing a shaving cream:

  • Sulfates (SLS or SLES): These create a lather but can be harsh, stripping away natural oils and causing dryness and irritation.
  • Fragrances: Artificial fragrances are common irritants and can trigger allergic reactions. Opt for fragrance-free shaving creams.
  • Alcohol: Alcohol can be drying and exacerbate sensitivity. Look for alcohol-free formulas.
  • Propylene Glycol: This ingredient can irritate some people, so it’s best to avoid it if you have sensitive skin.

BEST SHAVING CREAMS FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

AVEENO POSITIVELY SMOOTH SHAVE GEL

Aveeno Positively Smooth Shave Gel is a great option for those with sensitive skin seeking a comfortable shave. This fragrance-free formula skips harsh ingredients like sulfates and alcohol, making it gentle on irritated skin. It contains soothing aloe and vitamin E to help prevent nicks, cuts, and razor bumps, leaving your skin feeling smooth and hydrated. Users also report that the gel provides a good glide for a close shave. If you’re looking for a gentle yet effective shaving product, Aveeno Positively Smooth Shave Gel is definitely worth a try.

BLU ATLAS SHAVE CREAM

Blu Atlas Shave Cream caters specifically to those seeking a natural and potentially irritation-reducing shaving experience. Formulated with 96-100% naturally-derived ingredients, it boasts a calming and soothing effect thanks to hydrating glycerin and nourishing oat bran extract. This shave cream is designed to be used without a brush, resulting in a thinner, lightweight lather. While some users find this lather effective, it might take some adjustment compared to thicker traditional creams. However, the focus on natural ingredients and potential for reduced irritation makes Blu Atlas Shave Cream an intriguing option for those with sensitive skin, especially if they don’t mind a different lather texture. 

FLAMINGO FOAMING SHAVE GEL

Flamingo Foaming Shave Gel promises a comfortable shave for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It boasts a luxurious gel-to-foam formula that transforms into a thick, pillow-y lather. This rich layer helps create a smooth glide for your razor, minimizing friction and irritation. Flamingo’s formula also contains aloe vera, known for its soothing properties, which can help calm and hydrate your skin during the shave. Another plus is that the gel is designed to stay put on wet legs while rinsing clean from your razor blades, making for a mess-free experience. While some users might prefer a fragrance-free option, Flamingo Foaming Shave Gel could be a good choice for those with sensitive skin who prioritize a comfortable shave and a luxurious feel.

GILLETTE SATIN CARE ULTRA SENSITIVE SHAVE GEL

Gillette Satin Care Ultra Sensitive Shave Gel is a fragrance-free and dye-free option designed specifically for those with sensitive skin. This dermatologist-tested formula prioritizes minimizing irritation by omitting common triggers. The gel offers a lubricating layer to enhance razor glide, promoting a closer shave with less friction. Gillette Satin Care also aims to leave your skin feeling smooth and hydrated, potentially reducing the appearance of razor bumps. If you’re familiar and comfortable with Gillette products and prioritize a fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested shave gel, then Gillette Satin Care Ultra Sensitive Shave Gel could be a strong contender for your shaving routine.

VANICREAM SHAVE CREAM

Vanicream Shave Cream is a solid choice for those with sensitive skin seeking a fragrance-free and no-nonsense approach. It boasts a thick, moisturizing formula that spreads easily and creates a good barrier for your shave. This can be particularly helpful in reducing razor burn and irritation. Users report feeling a noticeable difference in post-shave dryness, with some even suggesting it feels like they’ve already applied lotion. While some reviewers find a faint, slightly off-putting odor, the lack of added fragrance makes it a good option for those with fragrance sensitivities. Keep in mind that the thick formula might require a bit more rinsing to ensure it doesn’t clog your razor blades. 

OUI THE PEOPLE MOISTURIZING SHAVE GEL-TO-MILK

Oui The People’s Sugarcoat Moisturizing Shave Gel-to-Milk offers a unique and potentially luxurious experience for those with sensitive skin seeking a close, comfortable shave. Unlike traditional creams, it starts as a gel and transforms into a milk during application. This innovative formula boasts a blend of nourishing oils, including argan, grapeseed, marula, and sunflower. These oils aim to provide deep hydration while allowing your razor to glide effortlessly, minimizing friction and irritation. The inclusion of Vitamin C adds a brightening boost, potentially leaving your skin looking radiant after the shave.  With its focus on natural ingredients and unique texture, Oui The People’s Sugarcoat Shave Gel-to-Milk might come at a higher price point compared to some drugstore options. However, it’s a good choice for those willing to invest in a potentially more luxurious and effective shaving experience for their sensitive skin.

THE ART OF SHAVING UNSCENTED SHAVING CREAM

If you have sensitive skin and crave a classic shaving routine, The Art of Shaving Unscented Shaving Cream is a worthy contender. This fragrance-free formula caters to those who might be irritated by artificial scents. It delivers a rich, foamy lather that helps soften beard hair for a close, comfortable shave. The Art of Shaving prioritizes protecting your skin from irritation and razor burn, making it a good choice for those prone to shaving bumps. While some users might find it pricier than drugstore options, The Art of Shaving Unscented Shaving Cream offers a potentially high-quality shaving experience formulated specifically for sensitive skin.

HARRY’S SHAVE CREAM 

Forget about cuts, bumps, or hair you don’t want; just smooth, clear skin without any hairy hair. We really like saying “hairy hair,” especially when we’re talking about Harry’s products.

Harry’s shaving cream uses natural stuff like cucumber and aloe to make your skin feel good while you shave. It makes lots of foam and feels really soft on your skin. It’s like spreading a fluffy cloud on your face that’s full of aloe to keep your skin happy. It also has oils to help with dryness after you shave. You’re supposed to use Harry’s Shave Cream on your face, but you can use it anywhere on your body to avoid cuts and bumps. Some people might find it irritating because it has things like eucalyptus and marula oil in it. But don’t worry, it doesn’t have any bad stuff like sulfates or parabens in it.

TRULY COCO CLOUD AFTER SHAVE MOISTURIZER

If you shave a lot, your skin might lose moisture. That’s why it’s good to use a moisturizing shave lotion like Truly Coco cloud. It smells really good, and we found that after just two times using the razor, our skin was smooth. The lotion feels thick when you first put it on, so it’s better to rub it between your hands before spreading it on your skin. It turns white and foamy, making it easy to see where you’ve put it. If you put too much on, you might need to shave over it again. But after shaving, your skin feels smooth and smells nice. This lotion is great if you shave every day because it keeps your skin really hydrated.

PACIFIC SHAVING COMPANY CLEAN SHAVE CREAM

This shaving cream has good stuff like shea butter, vitamin E, and sunflower seed oil that make your skin feel really nice. It helps protect your skin from getting hurt by the razor and also makes it feel hydrated. The shaving cream makes lots of foam that feels smooth on your skin and keeps it safe. It comes in versions with no smell and a little smell for anyone to use.

HOW TO SHAVE WITH SENSITIVE SKIN

Here are some easy steps to help you get a good shave if you have sensitive skin:

  • Make sure your skin is wet before you start shaving to avoid irritation.
  • Use a razor made for sensitive skin.
  • Put enough shaving gel or cream on your skin before you shave.
  • Be gentle and take your time, especially in sensitive areas.
  • Shave in the same direction your hair grows, not against it.
  • Wash and moisturize your skin well afterward to keep it healthy.
  • Test a small area of your skin with the shaving product before using it all over.

CONCLUSION

So there you have it, folks! Say goodbye to shaving worries. Along with the fundamental rules for shave down there, these top 10 shaving creams can help you avoid razor burn and achieve smooth, irritation-free skin. Keep in mind to choose a cream that matches what you like – whether it’s fragrance-free, lathers up nicely, or uses natural ingredients. Armed with the perfect product, you can confidently tackle your reflection and embrace the day with skin as stunning as it feels.