Credits: Social Media
Olive oil is ancient hair remedy but not a one-size-fits-all solution
Where better than the kitchen to look for solutions to dermatological and trichological problems? People have been using olive oil as a hair conditioner and scalp moisturizer for centuries, one expert tells us. In other words, its more than a fad. But is there a method in the Moresh?
We spoke to hair transplant surgeon Dr Ross Kopelman, and skin and hair surgeon Anil Sharma, to understand more about the history and effectiveness of using olive oil as a hair treatment. Olive oils efficacy in hangover prevention has already been roundly debunked, and given recent increases in the prices of certain foods (with olive oil receiving the biggest price hike!), we cant in good conscience recommend using it for everything. But a spoonful on your hair here and a spoonful rubbed into your scalp there? Dont knock it till youve tried it.
Possible benefits of using olive oil as a hair and scalp treatment
Dr Sharma says olive can function as a hair moisturizer and conditioner. But how effective it is depends on your hair type.
It’s an emollient that can coat the hair shaft, potentially reducing moisture loss and adding shine, he says.
Massaging any oil into the scalp can increase blood circulation, which may promote hair growth. Olive oil specifically contains antioxidants and vitamin E, which could theoretically protect hair from damage. The oil can also provide a temporary smoothing effect, making hair appear healthier.”
He lists the following four positive impacts olive oil can have if you get into the habit of massaging it into your hair and scalp regularly.
- It can help seal moisture
- Its antioxidants can help protect against environmental damage such as dryness in winter
- It can add a temporary luster to your hair
- It can help soothe dry, itchy scalps.
Dr Ross Kopelman, meanwhile, emphasizes that olive oil is rich in healthy fats as well as the antioxidants and vitamins Dr Sharma already highlighted. The combination of fats, antioxidants, and vitamins can be particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or frizzy hair, as it may help to smooth the hair cuticle and improve overall shine and manageability.
Using olive oil as a conditioner every day for a week, he says, might help you see some improvement in the silkiness or texture of your hair, especially if your hair is on the drier side.
More than a fad but not a one-size-fits-all solution
Olive oil has been used for centuries as a hair treatment, Dr Kopelman says. But that doesnt mean its a miracle cure.
It can offer temporary benefits in terms of moisture and shine, but it doesnt have the same scientifically-backed properties as some other hair care ingredients that are specifically formulated to address hair health.
For example, compared with coconut oil, it doesnt penetrate very deeply into the hair shaft, which limits its ability to strengthen hair from within.
Meanwhile, using it too much could potentially weigh down your hair, Dr Kopelman cautions, especially if you have fine hair, making it appear greasy rather than healthy.
Dr Sharma also advises caution. Olive oils heaviness makes it an unsuitable remedy for those with fine or thin hair, and its inherent oiliness can exacerbate oily scalp conditions.
For some people, he says, it could clog hair follicles, potentially leading to issues like folliculitis. As a general rule, it shouldnt replace professional hair care products, which people have formulated specifically for hair and scalp needs.
All in all, while massaging olive oil into the hair and scalp can confer some benefits, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and for many people, specially formulated hair care products may be more effective and easier to use.
Dr Kopelman adds that, while its historical use renders it much more than a beauty fad or a trend, the effectiveness of using olive oil as a hair and scalp treatment is more anecdotal than scientifically proven.
Dr Anil Sharma is a physician from England. He studied in Glasgow, has since trained in Milan, Paris, and London, and is a member of the Canadian Medical Association.
Dr Ross Kopelman is a hair transplant surgeon at Kopelman Hair Restoration. He treats hair loss and is active on YouTube.
- YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT: Doctor warns that carnivorous diet comes with severe risks
