Are you tired of using chemical-laden heat protectants on your hair? Do you want to switch to a natural alternative that not only protects your hair from heat damage but also nourishes it?
Look no further than argan oil! This liquid gold from Morocco has become a popular ingredient in hair care products due to its numerous benefits. But can it be used as a heat protectant?
The answer is yes! In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of using argan oil as a heat protectant and how to incorporate it into your hair care routine.
So, let’s dive in and discover the wonders of argan oil for heat protection!
Can I Use Argan Oil As A Heat Protectant?
Argan oil is a nutrient-rich oil that contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as vitamin E. These properties make it an excellent natural heat protectant for your hair. While argan oil may not provide as strong of a protection level as some other oils, such as avocado oil, it is still an important ingredient in a heat protectant for hair.
When used in conjunction with other oils, argan oil can penetrate the hair strands to moisturize and help seal moisture, preventing dryness and cuticle damage due to heat styling. It is also rich in natural fatty acids that can help support hair follicle health and prevent your scalp and hair from drying out. Dry hair is more easily damaged when exposed to heat, so incorporating argan oil into your hair care routine can be beneficial.
When looking for a hairstyling heat protectant containing argan oil, it’s best to also look for one that includes avocado oil. Avocado oil has a higher smoke point than argan oil, making it more effective at protecting your hair from heat damage. Combining repairing and moisturizing argan oil with the hair heat protection of avocado oil results in a dual heat protectant that smooths and protects your locks from hot styling tools and environmental stressors.
What Is Argan Oil And How Does It Work As A Heat Protectant?
Argan oil is a natural oil that is derived from the kernels of the argan tree, which is native to Morocco. It has been used for centuries in Moroccan cuisine and traditional medicine, and more recently, it has gained popularity in the beauty industry for its nourishing and protective properties.
Argan oil works as a heat protectant by forming a barrier between your hair and the heat of styling tools. The oil contains antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamin E, which work together to nourish your hair from the inside out. This helps to prevent damage from heat styling and keep your hair looking healthy and shiny.
One of the benefits of argan oil as a heat protectant is that it has a higher burning point than many other oils, including coconut oil. This means that it can withstand higher temperatures without breaking down or causing damage to your hair.
To use argan oil as a heat protectant, you can make a simple spray by combining half a cup of argan oil with water in an oil mister spray bottle. Alternatively, you can look for store-bought heat protectants that contain argan oil as an ingredient.
Benefits Of Using Argan Oil As A Heat Protectant
Using argan oil as a heat protectant has numerous benefits for your hair. Firstly, argan oil contains antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamin E, which nourish and protect your hair from the inside-out. This means that using argan oil as a heat protectant can help prevent hair damage caused by heat styling tools. Additionally, argan oil has a higher burning point than other oils, which means it can withstand temperatures up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes it an ideal choice for protecting your hair from heat damage.
Argan oil also helps to moisturize and nourish your hair, which is especially important when using hot styling tools. Heat can cause your hair to become dry and brittle, but using argan oil as a heat protectant can help prevent this by providing your hair with the moisture it needs to stay healthy and strong.
Another benefit of using argan oil as a heat protectant is that it can help reduce frizz and tame flyaways. Argan oil is known for its ability to smooth and soften hair, which makes it an excellent choice for those looking to achieve sleek and shiny locks.
How To Apply Argan Oil As A Heat Protectant
To use argan oil as a heat protectant, you will need at least 4 ounces of Moroccan argan oil and an oil mister for light, even application. Normal spray bottles will clog, so the oil mister is essential.
Begin by shampooing and conditioning your hair with a smoothing or moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to remove dirt and traces of old products while providing much-needed moisture to your hair. After washing your hair, gently squeeze excess moisture and pat it dry using a microfiber towel.
Once your hair is about 80% dry, divide it into sections that are one to two inches thick. Apply a small amount of the argan oil heat protectant to damp hair using the oil mister. Be sure to apply the protectant evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the ends.
Using a fluid and steady motion, glide the straightening iron from the roots to the ends, ironing one section at a time. Hold the upper layer of hair using a clip and start working on the sections in the lower layer. Place the straightener as close to the roots as possible for best results.
After styling your hair with a flat iron, work a hair serum through your hair to add shine and tame any errant flyaways. Argan oil can also be used as a leave-in conditioner after styling to add extra moisture and shine.
Argan oil has a shelf life of about two years if stored at room temperature in an unopened bottle. The shelf life reduces once it is opened, but it can still be used for up to 4-6 months if stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight. If you don’t think you’ll be able to use it all in time, keep in mind that it makes an excellent skin moisturizer as well.
Other Ways To Use Argan Oil In Your Hair Care Routine
Aside from using argan oil as a heat protectant, there are many other ways to incorporate this miracle oil into your hair care routine. One way is to use it as a nourishing conditioner. Argan oil is rich in nutrients and vitamins such as vitamins A, C, and E, antioxidants, linoleic acid, and omega-6 fatty acids. All of these super-nourishing ingredients leave the hair strands softer, shinier, more manageable, and frizz-free. Apply a few drops of argan oil to your hair after shampooing and conditioning to lock in moisture and promote healthy hair growth.
Another way to use argan oil is as a protective spray. When working with hot styling tools, it’s important to protect your hair from heat damage. Argan oil is very nourishing and conditioning for the hair, and it provides great slip that makes styling easier. Look for a heat protectant spray that contains argan oil to help protect your hair from heat damage.
Argan oil can also be used as a hydrating hair mask. If you have damaged hair or suffer from dryness and split ends, an argan oil hair mask can work wonders. The vitamin E in the oil helps smooth frayed hair shafts and seal split ends while the omega fatty acids work to strengthen your hair. Leave it on for 15 to 30 minutes to reap the oil’s full benefits.
In addition to the above uses, argan oil can be used as a shine-inducing hair oil, an effective styling product, and even as a relieving scalp treatment. For those who suffer from flakes and dandruff, argan oil provides anti-inflammatory benefits and will not clog pores, which can lead to damaged hair follicles. To use argan oil as more of a treatment, take a few drops and gently massage into the scalp, stimulating blood circulation. Ideally, leave on overnight before rinsing out in the morning.
Precautions And Tips For Using Argan Oil As A Heat Protectant
While argan oil can be a great heat protectant for your hair, it’s important to use it correctly to avoid any potential damage. Here are some precautions and tips to keep in mind when using argan oil as a heat protectant:
1. Use the right amount: Using too much argan oil can weigh down your hair and make it appear greasy. It’s best to start with a small amount and add more as needed.
2. Apply to damp hair: Argan oil is most effective when applied to damp hair before heat styling. This allows the oil to penetrate the hair strands and provide maximum protection.
3. Don’t apply directly to the scalp: Argan oil is meant for the hair, not the scalp. Applying it directly to your scalp can lead to buildup and clogged hair follicles.
4. Use a heat protectant spray: While argan oil can provide some heat protection, it’s best to use a dedicated heat protectant spray for maximum protection. Look for one that contains argan oil as well as other protective ingredients like avocado oil.
5. Avoid high heat settings: Even with a heat protectant, it’s important to avoid using high heat settings on your styling tools. Lower temperatures are less damaging to your hair and will help preserve its health and shine.
By following these precautions and tips, you can use argan oil as a heat protectant effectively and safely. Remember, always prioritize the health of your hair and use heat styling tools sparingly to avoid damage.
