Jojoba oil is actually a waxy ester derived from a woody shrub that grows throughout Arizona, California and Utah in the United States, though it’s commonly called an oil. Jojoba has shown to be beneficial in moisturizing skin and hair, and may be beneficial in treating a number of skin conditions such as eczema and acne. Jojoba oil is readily available online of from health outlets that deal in essential oils, and it makes an excellent carrier oil for a number of skin treatments and for aromatic massage oil. Of all the many uses of jojoba, it is possibly most beneficial and effective for promoting healthy, beautiful hair.
Why jojoba for your hair?
Jojoba oil is very similar in weight and consistency to sebum, the oil naturally produced by the scalp to moisturize and protect the hair. Jojoba oil coats and smooths the hair follicle, causing the cuticle – or outer sheath – to lay down flat for maximum shine and the softest hair possible. At the same time, jojoba does not build up on the hair, so it doesn’t require potentially damaging clarifying treatments or cause dullness and tangling over time.
Jojoba is a light oil that easily absorbs into the scalp so the skin and hair can readily benefit from its moisturizing effects, and it does not leave oily residue that can weigh the hair down and make it look dirty or unkempt. Jojoba is excellent for regular treatment of dry and damaged hair, or a great preventative measure for healthy hair. An extra coating of jojoba can also help protect the hair from excessive sun exposure or severe cold.
Using jojoba on the hair
Jojoba is most often used as a leave-in conditioning oil, which is also beneficial as a detangler. Simply smooth a couple of drops of pure jojoba oil over your hair, paying special attention to the roots and damaged portions of the hair. Re-apply as desired, which may be daily or more for severely damaged or dry hair.
To use jojoba oil as a carrier for scalp massage oil, simply mix in a couple of drops of lavender oil, tea tree oil, or other invigorating essential oils. Apply directly to a clean scalp and gently massage into the skin, smoothing excess oil along the length of your hair. Scalp massages will help stimulate blood flow to the scalp, allowing more natural oils to be secreted as well as stimulating the hair follicles so that hair will grow more quickly. In addition, the moisturizing effect of the jojoba oil may help relieve itching, dandruff, and other common scalp ailments.
Jojoba and other hair care products
Jojoba oil can be added to any commercial or homemade hair care products for a little bit of added natural moisturizer. This can be especially beneficial in shampoo/conditioner combinations and in your normal conditioner. Add a few drops to hairspray or mousse, or apply after perms and dyeing to help counteract the harmful effects of the chemicals in these products and treatments. While you’re at it, add a little jojoba oil to your favorite shower gel or foot scrub as well, jojoba oil works wonders as an all-over skin moisturizer. If you’re interested in more “green” alternatives in your hair care routine, jojoba is an essential ingredient in homemade shampoos, conditioners, skin creams and lotions.
