January brings with it winter weather and that means blustery winds, cold temperatures, and forced air heating, all of which can seriously dehydrate and dry out your hair and skin. Whether you are looking for a new self-care ritual for winter or any time of the year, check out these oils that are perfect for hair and skin.
Almond Oil
Made from pressed, raw almonds, almond oil contains a big contender in the hair and skin game - Vitamin E. According to Everyday Health, almond oil has a light texture, which may work for face application. However, avoid almond oil, including sweet almond oil, if you have an allergy. If you are unsure how your body may react to any type of oil, try a small test batch on a small part of your skin and see how your skin reacts, but always consult with your doctor if you are unsure about any type of allergy. We are not doctors, so always chat with yours beforehand! Photo credit: Amarita
Black Castor Oil
Also, known as Jamaican black castor oil, black castor oil is used to create a wide variety of natural remedies for general health and well-being. However, it is most often used in topical solutions that can do everything from promoting healthy hair growth to healing chapped lips.
It’s NOLA founder, Margaret Barrow, uses black castor oil in her skincare routine. “I use black castor oil on my hair once a week, overnight,” she shares. “My hair has been healthier since I started doing this.” Barrow’s daughters started doing it years ago and Barrow says their hair is healthy, thick, and long. “My hair did not grow past the nape of my neck until I started this process. Now, my hair has grown about four inches since I began.” Barrow says the oil is a bit sticky, and she is not excited about the smell. However, given the results, she said she can deal with the downsides. Photo credit: PeopleImages
Jojoba Oil
According to the Cleveland Clinic, jojoba oil has been touted for its ability to moisturize skin and fight fine lines. “In fact, it has antibacterial and antioxidant properties and is full of vitamin E and other essential vitamins and minerals,” writes Cleveland Clinic. Cleveland Clinic shares that jojoba oil can help soothe a sunburn. It can also double up as a makeup remover or cuticle oil or can be used as a great leave-in conditioner for the hair. Jojoba oil basically does it all! Photo credit: x-reflexnaja
Rosehip Seed Oil
According to Healthline, rosehip oil includes a variety of vitamins including A, C, and E, which happens to help with inflammation. Rosehip oil can also help moisturize the skin as well as the scalp. It may even help with inflammatory scalp conditions due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Photo credit: Madeleine_Steinbach
Shea Butter
Shea butter is another common ingredient that is added to some body products like lotions. Sometimes even hair products. Everyday Health recommends combining unrefined, organic shea butter with another oil like coconut oil or olive oil to create a super smoother texture for application. Also, note that shea butter is commonly found in a solid, tallow-like form, but melts at body temperature, so do not be alarmed if your shea butter appears to be more like a block. Photo credit: OlgaLarionova
Other oils you may want to try on your hair and skin include:
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Cocoa butter
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Coconut oil
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Grapeseed soil
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Olive oil
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Safflower oil
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Sunflower seed oil
However, keep in mind that heavier oils like cocoa butter, coconut oil, and olive oil may clog pores, so if you have acne-prone skin, you may want to steer clear of these oil options or use them sparingly. Keep your hair and skin moisturized, soft, and supple all winter season long with these oils.
Check out NVLX Labs which is an eco-luxury brand catering to people who wear loc hair styles. Their hair oil products are: "Designed to keep your hair light, flowy, and healthy, our formulas deliver weightless hydration while encouraging the natural locking process without buildup or residue," as noted on their website.
- Stay Healthy and Happy
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