Raechele Cochran Gathers, MD Natural butters and oils can improve the health, elasticity and growth of natural hair. From Africa to Asia, natural butters and oils have been used for centuries to reduce shedding, prevent premature graying of the hair, and to promote supple, lustrous and healthy hair. For those seeking to live a more holistic lifestyle, natural butters and oils can be incorporated into your hair and skin care rituals.
Benefits of Natural Butters and Oils
- Deep Condition
- Moisturize
- Seal in moisture
- Strengthen
- Increase elasticity and flexibility
- Increased luster and shine
- Improve scalp blood circulation
- Stimulate growth
- Detangling
- Styling/molding aid
- Soothing scalp treatment
- Aromatherapy (the scent of some can be relaxing and restorative)
Butters and Oils For Natural Hair
1. Shea Butter
Derived from a tree native to parts of Africa, the butter from the shea nut is rich in conditioning minerals and fatty acids. Shea butter was used by the ancient Egyptians to protect the skin from harmful winds and harsh sun. For natural hair, shea butter can be used as an emollient, deep conditioner and styling aid. It can be ideal for dry and brittle hair. Shea butter is often used with twists and braids, and yields a defined and moisturized twist out. Some people may find shea butter too thick and heavy. To lighten the texture of shea butter, it can be mixed with another oil, such as jojoba, and whipped into a light, fluffy texture that can be more easily applies to the hair. You can read more on shea butter here.
2. Jojoba Oil
Native to a shrub found in parts of Arizona, California and Mexico, jojoba oil is heralded for its light consistency. Jojoba oil is said to be similar to the scalp’s natural sebum. Jojoba oil is clear and golden. It contains nourishing fatty acids, and supports moisturized and hydrated hair. Light enough to use daily, jojoba oil is readily absorbed and is thought to have fungicidal properties.
3. Mango Butter
Mango butter is similar in consistency to shea butter, but is somewhat lighter. For those that find shea butter too thick and dense, mango butter is a good compromise. Derived from dried mango kernels, mango butter also contains high levels of fatty acids and supports moisturized hair and a supple scalp. Like shea butter, it can be used for curl definition and aiding in twists and braid out styles.
4. Almond Oil
Almond oil is rich in fatty acids, hair healthy vitamins and the antioxidant vitamin E. It’s also an excellent emollient, and works to soften and condition the hair. Almond oil is light and easily penetrating. It makes the hair supple and combats the brittle ends that can lead to breakage and loss of hair length. Because it’s so light, sweet almond oil is great for skin and scalp massage and aromatherapy.
5. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a popular pre-shampoo scalp and hair treatment. Unrefined coconut oil smells slightly sweet, like coconut. However, if you find the smell of coconut unappealing, you can still reap the benefits of coconut oil. Refined, neutral scented, coconut oils are also widely available. Coconut oil is ideal for dry itchy scalp (and skin)! Coconut oil is thought by many to penetrate and strengthen the hair
6. Avocado Oil
Avocados are rich in vitamins A, E and essential fatty acids, making it a wonderful emollient for the hair. Avocado oil is fairly light and penetrates well, so it’s good for dry skin, scalp and brittle tresses. Unlike coconut oil, which tends to solidify some, avocado oil stays liquid and has a mild aroma. The amino acids in avocado oil can help to strengthen hair, while the oil gives the hair a lovely shine.
7. Castor Oil
A humectant, rich in fatty acids, castor oil is a restorative emollient for the hair, promoting softer and moisturized hair. It is thought to darken the color of the hair and provide the hair with luster. Castor oil is thought to have antibacterial and antifungal properties, and is sometimes used to soothe itchy, dry scalp.
8. Amla Oil
Amla oil is is derived from the fruit of the gooseberry tree, which is native to India. Amla is a popular component of ayurvedic medicine. Amla is said to nourish the hair, support a healthy hair follicle, ease hair shedding, and prevent premature graying of the hair. Indians have used amla oil and amla powder for centuries in rinses and various hair masks and conditioners. Read more about amla oil for the hair here.
9. Argan Oil
Argan oil is has a premium price, but for many, it’s liquid gold. It’s derived from the fruit of the argan tree, indigenous to North Africa. Argan oil is rich in polyphenols and Vitamin E, which are powerful antioxidants for the scalp. Argan oil is also said to be anti-inflammatory.
