Are you a blonde who loves using argan oil on your hair?
While this popular oil from Morocco is known for its conditioning properties, it can also have some negative effects on blonde hair.
The yellow tint of argan oil can cause brassiness and even turn your blonde locks yellow.
But don’t worry, there are still plenty of other nourishing oils out there that won’t leave your hair looking brassy.
In this article, we’ll explore the effects of argan oil on blonde hair and recommend some alternative oils to keep your locks looking their best.
So, if you’re a blonde who loves using hair oils, keep reading to find out if argan oil is bad for your hair.
Is Argan Oil Bad For Blonde Hair?
Argan oil is a popular ingredient in hair care products due to its hydrating and repairing properties. However, for blondes, using argan oil can be tricky. The yellow tint of the oil can cause brassiness and even turn your blonde locks yellow.
When you put products infused with argan oil on your blonde hair, it may include a tint that you certainly don’t want to have. For that reason, it is best to choose white or clear products to prevent your blonde from staining.
Additionally, other oils like olive oil and almond oil can also have darkening and yellowing effects on blonde hair. So, it’s important to be cautious when using any oil on your blonde locks.
The Benefits Of Argan Oil For Hair
Despite the potential for yellowing, argan oil has numerous benefits for hair health. The composition of argan oil, which includes vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, makes it a go-to oil for hydrating and softening hair. It can also increase hair elasticity and restore shine to dull or lifeless hair.
Argan oil can also prevent breakage by neutralizing damage from free radicals and other elements that our hair is exposed to on a daily basis. This is especially important for blonde hair, which can be more fragile and prone to breakage. Additionally, argan oil can protect hair from mechanical stress caused by styling tools like straighteners and curling irons.
Furthermore, argan oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe sensitive or itchy scalps. It can also repair damage caused by coloring treatments or perms, restoring shine to damaged hair.
Finally, argan oil promotes healthy hair growth by strengthening hair follicles and promoting cell production on the scalp. It aids in the production of keratin, a protein that is essential for healthy hair growth.
The Yellow Tint Of Argan Oil And Its Effects On Blonde Hair
Argan oil, sourced from Morocco, has become a popular ingredient in hair care products due to its conditioning properties. However, its yellow tint can cause problems for those with blonde hair. When applied to blonde hair, argan oil can leave a yellow crude coating on the hair, leading to brassiness and yellowing of the locks. This is because the yellow coloring molecules naturally present in the oil can deposit onto the hair’s surface.
Pure argan oil formulations containing high concentrations of argan oil should be avoided by those with silver, grey, or blonde hair. However, argan oil is frequently used in shampoos, conditioners, and masks. In these products, the oil has been emulsified and blended with other ingredients in a water phase product, making it safe to use. These formulations generally contain argan oil in a concentration range of 0.25 – 2.50%.
A 2022 study published in Fashion and Textiles found that bleached hair treated with an argan oil-infused conditioner became shinier and softer compared with bleached hair that was just shampooed. Bleached hair also became smoother after 21 days of treatment. So, if you notice your blonde hair looking dull and lifeless, a touch of this liquid gold may bring back its shine.
To prevent yellowing caused by hard water residue, consider installing a showerhead that includes a water filter or using products designed specifically to prevent buildup from hard water. Malibu recommends using these products on white/gray hair but not with heat.
How To Identify Brassiness In Blonde Hair
Brassiness in blonde hair can be identified by the presence of warm, yellow or orange tones. If your once-blonde locks have started to take on a more yellow or orange hue, it could be a sign that your hair is brassy. This usually happens when the natural pigment in your hair starts to break down, allowing underlying brassiness to come through. Another way to identify brassiness in blonde hair is by feeling the texture. If your hair feels dry and coarse, it’s likely because the brassiness has stripped away its natural moisture and oils. As a result, your hair may become frizzy and unmanageable.
If you’re still unsure about whether or not your blonde hair is brassy, try looking at it under different lighting conditions. Natural sunlight tends to highlight any unwanted tones in your hair, so take a look at your locks outside in the sun. If you notice any yellow or orange undertones, then it’s likely that your blonde hair is brassy.
It’s also important to note that using too much heat styling or swimming frequently in chlorinated water can cause brassiness in all types of hair, including blonde locks. So, if you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s important to take steps to protect your hair and prevent further damage.
Alternatives To Argan Oil For Blonde Hair
If you’re looking for alternatives to argan oil for blonde hair, there are a few options that can provide similar benefits without the risk of yellowing or brassiness.
One option is grapeseed oil, which is a lightweight and clear oil that can help add shine and moisture to blonde hair without altering its color. It is also rich in antioxidants and can help protect hair from environmental damage.
Another alternative is camellia seed oil, which is a clear and lightweight oil that can help nourish and hydrate blonde hair without causing any discoloration. It is also rich in fatty acids that can help strengthen hair and prevent breakage.
For those with very fine or thin blonde hair, jojoba oil can be a great option as it is a lightweight and non-greasy oil that can help balance sebum production on the scalp without weighing down the hair. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals that can help promote healthy hair growth.
Lastly, marula oil is another great alternative for blonde hair as it is a clear and lightweight oil that can help nourish and protect hair without causing any yellowing or brassiness. It is also rich in antioxidants and fatty acids that can help improve the overall health of your hair.
