Propecia or castor oil: which oil is better for hair growth and fighting dandruff?

doctor-dermatologist, trichologist of JSC “Medicine” (clinic of academician Roitberg), candidate of medical sciences

“Oils are usually divided into moisturizing and sealing oils. The heavier ones are the former. They penetrate the hair shaft and are suitable for deep treatment. The latter help retain moisture. They are ideal for use after washing or to moisturize dry ends.”

Natural oils have a complex chemical composition, so they are very effective and perform important functions such as nourishing, moisturizing and repairing. Their structure allows them to envelope each hair. This creates a protective film. As a result, moisture is retained and your locks shine. But their benefits do not end there.

Benefits of oils for hair

Each hair has a natural protective film, but from the aggressive effects of the environment, it deteriorates. For example, from a hair dryer, heat, cold. As a result, the condition of the curls leaves much to be desired. Natural oils come to the rescue, they create a protective barrier. This helps to prevent further damage.

Oils are able to give shine to dull strands. They are also an essential ingredient that nourishes and retains moisture. Especially when applied to damp curls. Some products can be used to stimulate growth and reduce hair loss.

The product has a rich chemical composition, which includes a large number of vitamins, acids, antioxidants. Due to this substances nourish not only the hair itself, but also the scalp.

Cosmetic oils also have such properties as:

• restoration of damaged structures;
• softening of dry hair and ends;
• reconstruction of the lipid layer;
• strengthening and protection;
• prevention of split ends.

Many manufacturers of cosmetic products include natural oils in the composition of balms, serums, masks, shampoos, indelible care.

What oils to choose

Before going to the pharmacy or store for oil, you need to determine the purpose of use. From this will depend on your choice.

For hair growth

Rosemary oil improves blood circulation and stimulates hair follicles. It is almost as good as a widely used drug for this purpose – 2% minoxidil.

Lavender oil helps to cope with the same problem. It not only gives a lively shine, but also stimulates the growth of new hair. This is evidenced by the studies of scientists, who concluded that the use of this product significantly increases the number and depth of hair follicles, thickens the dermal layer.

Castor oil is the most popular for hair growth. It contains a rare ricinoleic acid, which strengthens hair follicles. Also, the remedy consists of palmitic acid. It prevents hair loss.

For dry and damaged hair

Argan oil is rich in linoleic and oleic acids, as well as vitamin E. These substances protect the hair shaft from damage, reducing its brittleness. It also gives your locks a flawless shine, making them healthy and alive.

Despite its light texture, avocado oil is good at saturating strands. It can be used as an indelible care. It perfectly moisturizes dry hair.

It is worth paying attention to almond oil. It is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids Omega 3, vitamins and antioxidants. It protects, nourishes and gives shine. Visibly improves the appearance of hair.

Rice bran oil strengthens strands, improves their quality. Gives a beautiful shine to the hair without greasy effect.

Against dandruff

Jojoba oil perfectly moisturizes, helps to balance sebum production and stimulates the scalp. It also has anti-fungal properties, which is important for fighting dandruff.

Grape seed oil has a moisturizing and antibacterial effect. It consists of 80% linoleic acid. It not only helps to fight dandruff and dryness, but also has a healing, regenerating and protective function.

Effective in the fight against dandruff and dryness of the scalp is turnip oil. Its composition includes: vitamins A, B, C and E, copper, chromium, fatty acids, tannins. Also in the means there is a lot of inulin, which supports the health of the hair follicle.

Get rid of the feeling of tightness, relieve irritation and remove flaking will help linseed oil. It nourishes the hair with rich alpha-linolic acid, vitamins and trace elements. At the same time, it does not leave a greasy effect.

For curly hair

Curly hair often needs more moisturizing than straight hair. That’s because the oils produced by the scalp with curled locks have a hard time reaching the ends of the hair.

Coconut oil is known for its ability to penetrate deep into the hair shaft, retain moisture and prevent styling damage. It is important to note that coconut is very temperature sensitive, so it should be warmed in your hands before applying it to your hair.

Olive oil softens the hair and gives it shine due to the high oleic acid content in its composition. It is recommended to apply it away from the scalp to avoid fungal growth.

How to use oils correctly

Mask

You can apply oil to dry hair separately on each strand, paying special attention to the ends. Gently brush the strands and let the oil absorb for 20 minutes. After that, proceed to shampoo your hair.

Wrap

It is recommended to apply the oil to dry hair before going to bed (with emphasis on the ends). Wrap your hair with a silk scarf to avoid getting the oil on your bedding. In the morning, shampoo and rinse as usual.

After shampooing

To carry out the procedure using hot oil, slightly heat it. To do this, lower the container into the heat so that it warms up. Apply the product to wet or damp hair after shampooing. Cover your hair with a shower cap or towel. This way you will retain the heat and ensure deep penetration of the oil. Then rinse and condition your hair as usual.

Non-washable care

If you’re styling with a styler (like a curling cream or gel), it’s best to apply the oil to damp hair right before adding it. This way, the curl will be more defined.

Oil can also be a great finishing touch. For thickening and shine, apply it after the hair has been dried and styled. To do this, take a small amount of oil on the palms of your hands, rub them together and lightly run your hands over the strands. This will allow you to evenly distribute the product.

How often to do?

If you use the oil as an indelible care, then it can be used daily. However, in the form of masks, it will be enough to do once a week. In some cases, even less often. This is especially true for owners of oily hair.

It is also not recommended to use oil when styling with a flat iron, straightener or flat iron. Why? It will burn. It is better to do it after. The rule does not apply to the use of a hair dryer. Oil is able to protect the hair from hot air.

How to store the oil?

Before buying oil, pay attention to the expiration date. Some products have a short period of use. It is recommended to store the product in a dry, dark and cool place. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight. A closet, dresser or nightstand is best for this purpose.