Olive Oil Hair Treatment Put on Wet or Dry Hair
Dry, frizzy hair occurs any time of the year and is caused by a lack of humidity in winter and the sun's rays in the summer. When hair cries out for help, many people head to the salon or the store for the latest and greatest deep-moisturizing product. Surprisingly, you may have the answer to repairing distressed hair right in your kitchen. An essential oil, such as olive oil, adds moisture and shine to lackluster hair. Treat your hair -- wet or dry -- with olive oil to deep-moisturize your hair at a fraction of the cost of a salon visit.
A woman is getting a hair treatment. (Image: LuminaStock/iStock/Getty Images)Olive Oil Treatment Benefits
One of the biggest benefits of olive oil is that is contains antioxidants, which remove harmful free radicals from the surface of your hair and scalp. Free radicals contribute to premature aging, so protecting the hair follicle with antioxidants may help with hair loss. Olive oil is also an emollient, which means that it penetrates the hair shaft better than other types of oils. This aspect creates shiny, healthy hair with improved elasticity.
Wet-Hair Application Method
Dampen your hair and wash it well with a teaspoon of shampoo. Rinse your hair thoroughly and then apply a quarter-sized amount of conditioner to your hair by massaging it through with your fingers. Rinse out the conditioner and then comb your hair. Protect your shoulders with a towel and pour 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil into your hand. Work the oil through your hair making sure to cover each strand thoroughly.
Dry-Hair Application Method
For a dry-hair application, start by combing out your hair gently and protecting your clothing by draping a towel around your shoulders. Pour 1 teaspoon of olive oil into your palm and start applying it to the ends of your hair. Work it in by massaging your hair strands gently. Work on small sections at a time and apply the oil to all of your hair, but stop the oil application 1 inch from your scalp. Turn a blow dryer to medium heat and hold it 8 inches away from your head. Turn it on and apply the heat for two to three minutes to help the oil penetrate.
Treatment Time Depends on Damage Type
The drier your hair, the longer the oil needs to work. For those with minor dryness, 45 minutes is sufficient time to leave on the oil. If you have extensive damage, such as from chemical treatments or coloring, leave the oil on for up to two hours. You can also leave it on overnight by covering your hair with a shower cap. Wash your hair with 1 tablespoon of shampoo to remove the oil and rinse it dry.
