Argan Oil

Q: Every time I try to grow my hair out, it just becomes so dry and coarse you could practically scour pots with it. Is there anything that can be done to make my hair softer and more manageable?

A: One of my go-to solutions for clients dealing with this exact issue is argan oil, and I've seen some truly remarkable transformations with it.

Argan oil is a natural oil that's extracted from the kernels found inside the pits of argan fruit. What makes this oil so special is the labor-intensive process behind it. Each pit typically contains one to three kernels, which are carefully roasted and then pressed to extract the precious oil. The entire process has been traditionally done by hand for centuries, which is part of what makes pure argan oil so valuable.

The argan tree itself is native to the southwestern regions of Morocco in North Africa, where it grows in harsh, arid conditions. The tree produces kernels packed with essential fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants that help protect and nourish both hair and skin.

When it comes to treating dry, coarse hair, argan oil works on multiple levels. Its molecular structure allows it to penetrate the hair shaft rather than just sitting on the surface, which means it can actually repair damage from the inside out. The high concentration of oleic, linoleic, and palmitic acids helps restore the hair's natural moisture barrier, while vitamin E provides antioxidant protection against environmental damage that can make hair feel rough and brittle.

You can find argan oil preparations specifically formulated for cosmetic use at most beauty supply stores and many drugstores. Beyond pure argan oil, you'll also discover shampoos and conditioners that incorporate argan oil into their formulations. While these products can be convenient for daily use, I often recommend starting with pure argan oil for intensive treatments, especially if your hair is severely damaged or extremely dry.

I've had incredible success using argan oil with my clients over the years. One case that particularly stands out involved a client who had severely over-processed her hair through repeated bleaching and coloring treatments. Her hair had become so damaged that it felt almost straw-like to the touch. We tried a deep conditioning treatment using warmed argan oil.

I gently heated the oil to just above body temperature, applied it generously from mid-length to the ends of her hair, covered it with a plastic cap to create a warm, humid environment, and had her sleep with it overnight. The next morning, after shampooing out the treatment, the transformation was remarkable. Her hair felt soft and silky, had a beautiful natural shine, and looked much healthier. The improvement was so significant that she continued doing this treatment once a week for a month, and her hair completely transformed.

Argan oil is equally effective for treating dry skin and can be used as an after-bath moisturizer for your entire body. This versatility also makes it perfect for addressing dry scalp issues, which are often at the root of hair problems. If your scalp is dry and irritated, it can't properly nourish your hair follicles, leading to weak hair growth. By massaging a small amount of argan oil into your scalp before washing, you can create a healthier environment for hair growth.

©Hairfinder.com

See also:

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