Is this nature’s secret for a perfect mane?
Today’s topic is one of the most talked about recently: the “miraculous” properties of castor oil for the hair. Most women must have heard about this product at some point (especially about its ability to make hair grow faster), but it is not new. This oil is a secular product, extracted from the seeds of the castor bean plant, and is used for various healing and cosmetic purposes. Today we are going to talk exclusively about the use of this natural product on hair[1]Saunders, N., & Saunders, N. (2021, January 4). Everything You’ve *Ever* Wanted to Know About Using Castor Oil for Hair Growth. Cosmopolitan. … Continue reading!
It is important to know that castor oil is composed mainly of fatty acids, mineral salts and vitamin E, essential substances for the health of the hair, as well as for its growth. Its composition is extremely rich in nutrients that prevent inflammation in the scalp, bring flexibility to the hair and are also antimicrobial! These qualities make this oil one of the most used in hair masks and conditioners. See below more reasons to add it to your list of favorite products!
STRONGER AND BRIGHTER HAIR
Another component of the castor oil is omega 6[2]Óleos ricos em ômega 6 para queda de cabelo. (2020, May 5). MMI Clinic. https://mmiclinic.com.br/oleos-ricos-em-omega-6-para-queda-de-cabelo/, a powerful fatty acid strongly recommended for hair loss sufferers. This substance stimulates the hair follicles in a way that it encourages the growth of the hair, which will acquire a healthier and stronger aspect! In addition, this nutrient seals the hair cuticles, giving your strands a silky and shiny appearance. Not bad, right?
SAY BYE-BYE TO DANDRUFF
Another incredible reason to use this versatile oil is its antifungal property! If you suffer from dandruff, you should know that castor oil can be a great ally to your treatment (remember to go to the dermatologist, ok?), as most dandruff cases are caused by fungi. In addition, because it is an emollient, the oil will prevent the hair from drying out and your scalp from scaling!
HYDRATION TIME
As we said before, castor oil is rich in fatty acids, such as omega 6 and omega 9. These components work in order to build a protective pellicle around the strands, preventing water loss and thus leaving you with extremely hydrated hair!
HAIR GROWTH
This one is the subject of several debates. Although it is not scientifically proven that castor oil accelerates hair growth[3]Davis, T. (2020, June 24). Is Castor Oil The Secret to Hair Growth? ELLE. https://www.elle.com/beauty/hair/a32948617/castor-oil-for-hair/, we do know that there is some kind of influence. After all, how many people do you know who have used this natural oil and swear it helped in the growth of the hair (eyebrows and eyelashes, inclusive)?
Well, we can say that the influence of castor oil in hair growth is indirect: because it contains ricinoleic acid, it ends up stimulating the dilation of blood vessels, which increases the flow of oxygen and nutrients in the region of the hair follicles and stimulating capillary growth!
After learning about all these awesome benefits of castor oil, I bet you’re dying to add it to your hair care routine! And here’s a tip: these benefits are common for several incredible natural oils, such as avocado oil, coconut oil and argan oil! On Metro Brazil’s website, you can find several product options with different ones as the main component. Rest assured that one of them is going to be perfect for your hair!
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