Rose Oil
Made up of 300 different compounds, rose oil is complex–just to extract 34 ounces of it takes over 8,800 flowers. It contains antimicrobial properties that soothe an inflamed, dry scalp. If tea tree oil is too harsh for you, rose oil might be a gentler alternative with the same benefits for hair and skin. Dehydrated hair will become super moisturized after using rose oil; it’s also great for regulating an oily scalp or skin thanks to the natural production of antioxidant farnesol.
Try this: Karen’s Body Beautiful Secret Weapon Restorative Hair Treatment, $25
Broccoli Seed Oil
We already know how consuming broccoli benefits the body. But did you know this seed-derived oil is rich in hair-nourishing vitamins like C and B6, which are known to create a smooth, silky hair shaft? This veggie oil also contains erucic fatty acid, an omega-9 that creates a natural sheen without adding much build-up to the follicle. It is known to the textured community as the natural version of silicone.
Try this: Kai House Broccoli Shampoo For Curly Hair, $14
Grapefruit Seed Oil
Those who are transitioning from chemically altered hair can find comfort in the power of this citrus. It is full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals necessary for healthy scalp care to promote growth. It also acts as a natural clarifier; grapefruit used directly as a rinse will rid the scalp of the paraben and wax build-up. Grapefruit extract is also a safer, completely natural alternative to adding highlights to the curl. Grapefruit can be added to a homemade concoction of aloe vera gel, glycerin, grapeseed oil, and half a liter of water to detangle the most matted knots.
Try this: Elucence Moisture Acidifying Shampoo, $12
Abyssinian Oil
Curly girls love the viscosity and nourishing qualities of vegetable oils. This leafy one comes from Central Africa and is virtually fragrance free. It can withstand high temperatures, which makes it extremely effective as a hot treatment for promoting hair growth. Abyssinian oil is 100 percent biodegradable and GMO-free, too. With 11 acids in which most are lipids–behenic, lignoceric, oleic, stearic–this oil works well as a sealant for coarser textures but is still lightweight enough for fine-haired or wavy naturals to use in a natural shine boosting serum blend.
Try this: U R Curly Abyssinian Oil, $6
Carrot Seed Oil
This essential oil works wonders on thinning edges and premature graying hair. Carrots naturally contain beta-carotenes and biotin, highly sought-after attributes for growing strong, healthy hair. The oil can be used as a protective sealant to provide natural sheen while also shielding curls from the sun–it has natural SPF. In conditioners, carrot seed oil will smoothen the hair shaft to minimize frizziness in even the most humid climate conditions. It is also rich in carotene and vitamin A, responsible for slowing the hair’s natural aging (whitening”> process.
Try this: SheaMoisture Mango & Carrot Kids Extra-Nourishing Conditioner, $9.99
