Are you looking for a natural way to protect your hair from heat damage while styling?
Look no further than argan oil! This versatile oil has been used for centuries in Morocco for its nourishing and moisturizing properties.
But can you heat argan oil? The answer is yes! In fact, argan oil has a higher smoke point than many other oils, making it an excellent choice for heat protection.
Keep reading to learn more about how to use argan oil to protect your hair from heat damage and achieve a smoother, shinier finish.
Can You Heat Argan Oil?
As mentioned above, argan oil can be heated and used as a heat protectant for your hair. This is because argan oil has a high smoke point of 420 degrees Fahrenheit, which means it can withstand higher temperatures without breaking down and producing harmful chemicals.
To use argan oil as a heat protectant, simply apply a small amount to your hair before using heat-styling tools such as flat irons or curling wands. You can also mix argan oil with other oils such as avocado oil for added protection and moisture.
It’s important to note that while argan oil can be heated, it should not be used alone as a heat protectant for hair. This is because it may not provide enough protection on its own and could still lead to damage. Instead, look for hair styling products that contain argan oil as an ingredient, or mix it with other oils for added protection.
What Is Argan Oil And How Is It Made?
Argan oil is a plant oil that comes from the kernels of the argan tree, which is native to Morocco and southwestern Algeria. The oil is produced by extracting the kernels from the inside of the fruit and then crushing and grinding them to extract the oil. This process is done by hand, and it takes rural workers, primarily women, about 16 hours to create one liter of argan oil.
Argan oil is used in cooking and as a moisturizer for skin and hair because it is rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy omega-3 fats. The argan oil used for cooking is made from roasted kernels, while the argan oil used in cosmetics and personal care products comes from unroasted kernels.
Argan oil is high in both oleic (omega 9) and linoleic (omega 6) essential fatty acids, which aid acne-prone skin. Linoleic acid will reduce inflammation and acne, increase skin moisture, while oleic acid can improve the skin’s permeability and assist other ingredients penetrate the skin more easily.
The production of argan oil has historically been unfair to women in Morocco who have not been paid fairly for their work. However, there have been improvements in recent years with better wages and government protection.
Understanding Heat Damage And How Argan Oil Can Help
Heat damage occurs when high temperatures cause the cuticle, or outer layer of the hair shaft, to lift and become damaged. This can result in split ends, breakage, and overall weakening of the hair. Using heat-styling tools without any protection can exacerbate this damage and lead to further hair problems.
This is where argan oil comes in. Argan oil contains antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamin E, which can nourish and protect the hair from the inside-out. When applied to the hair before using heat-styling tools, it acts as a barrier between the hair and the heat, helping to prevent damage.
Additionally, argan oil has a moisturizing effect on the hair, which can help to combat dryness and prevent cuticle damage. It also contains natural fatty acids that support hair follicle health and prevent the scalp and hair from drying out. This is important because dry hair is more easily damaged when exposed to high temperatures.
While argan oil is not a complete solution for preventing heat damage, it can be an important component of a heat protectant routine. By using argan oil in conjunction with other oils such as avocado oil, you can create a powerful heat protectant that not only shields your hair from heat but also nourishes and moisturizes it.
How To Apply Argan Oil Before Heat Styling
Before using heat-styling tools, it’s important to apply argan oil to your hair properly to ensure maximum protection and benefits. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply argan oil before heat styling:
1. Start with clean, damp hair. Use a smoothing or moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to remove dirt and traces of old products while providing much-needed moisture to your hair.
2. Apply a small amount of argan oil to your hair. For best results, apply the oil to damp hair before blow-drying. This will help protect your strands from the heat, add moisture and shine to your hair, and reduce frizz all at the same time.
3. Divide your hair into sections. Instead of grabbing random clumps of hair, iron your hair one section at a time. Sections should be one to two inches thick so you can easily straighten your hair with fewer passes.
4. Hold the upper layer of hair using a clip and start working on the sections in the lower layer. Using a fluid and steady motion, glide the straightening iron from the roots to the ends. Iron one section at a time and place the straightener as close to the roots as possible.
5. Once you’re done styling, work a hair serum through your hair to add shine and tame any errant flyways.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your hair is protected from heat damage while also enjoying the benefits of argan oil for healthy, shiny locks.
Other Benefits Of Using Argan Oil For Hair Care
Aside from being a great heat protectant, argan oil has many other benefits for hair care. One of the most notable is its ability to hydrate and soften hair. Argan oil is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can help to nourish and strengthen hair from the inside out. As a result, it can make hair more manageable and less prone to breakage and split ends.
In addition to its hydrating properties, argan oil can also increase hair elasticity. This is due to its high content of antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and vitamin E, which work together to restore shine and vitality to dull, lifeless hair. By using argan oil regularly, you can help to prevent damage from everyday pollution, chemical treatments, and hot tools.
Another benefit of argan oil for hair care is its ability to protect against mechanical stress. This means that it can help to keep your hair looking healthy even when exposed to styling products or heat-styling tools. Additionally, argan oil promotes shine, smoothness, and definition, making it a great choice for anyone looking to enhance their natural hair texture.
Finally, argan oil is an excellent choice for those with dandruff or dry scalp. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help to soothe irritation and reduce redness, while its hydrating properties can help to prevent flakiness and itching. By using argan oil as part of your regular hair care routine, you can improve the overall health and appearance of your hair and scalp.
Tips For Choosing The Best Quality Argan Oil
When choosing argan oil for your hair or skin, it’s important to look for high-quality, pure products. Here are some tips to help you choose the best quality argan oil:
1. Look for a golden hue: Authentic argan oil should have a golden yellow color. If the oil is too pale or clear, it may have been mixed with other oils or filtered, which can reduce its effectiveness.
2. Check the scent: High-quality argan oil should have a slightly nutty scent. If the oil has a strong or unpleasant odor, it may be rancid or of low quality.
3. Check the label: Look for 100% pure argan oil on the label. Some products may contain only a small percentage of argan oil, which can reduce its effectiveness.
4. Check the production process: Cold-pressed argan oil is the best quality as it has been extracted without heat, which can damage the oil’s beneficial properties.
5. Check the packaging: Argan oil should be stored in a dark glass bottle to protect it from light and air, which can cause it to spoil.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you are buying high-quality argan oil that will provide maximum benefits for your hair and skin.
