History

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Ancient Egyptians paid special attention to hair and images of hairdressers are depicted in ancient relics found by archaeologists. Archaic texts found during this era had information about “recipes” used by the Egyptians to tackle baldness. During this time period people used combs and ointments to groom and style their hair.[1]

Uses

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Oil is a popular ingredient in cosmetic products due to fatty acid composition which emulates the structures of cell membranes. Spreading oil over the skin forms a hydrophobic barrier, this protective layer prevents water loss and reduces evaporation from the skin. The oil is slowly absorbed by the skin promoting nourishment and fighting dry skin.[2]

Types of Oils

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Coconut Oil

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Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid, which makes it antiviral and antifungal. It is a great source of vitamin E and K  which are essential for treating dry and brittle hair. Coconut oil is an important ingredient in treating dandruff,dry scalp, dry hair and itchy scalp. This oil also helps to restore protein which is stripped through harsh cosmetic procedures like hair coloring and frequent use of hot tools. Due to the vitamins and minerals present in this oil it leaves a protective barrier on the hair which prevents it from harsh UV rays. The best way to use this oil is to mix a few drops in your choice of shampoo and conditioner and go in with a massage using circular motions to promote blood flow.[3]

Argan Oil

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Argan Oil is derived from nuts found from the argan tree which are local to Morocco. Argan Oil is an important ingredient in cosmetic products such as shampoos and other hair care products[4]. The oil is rich in unsaturated fatty acids as well as bioactive molecules like polyphenols and tocopherols amongst a few[5]. Benefits of hair oil includes hydration by improving the skin’s barrier function, it also helps in skin elasticity as well as wound healing.[6]

Almond Oil
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Almond Oil is extracted from the Prunus dulcis tree which is local to the Middle East and South America. The oil is made up of monounsaturated fatty acid, linoleic acid and oleic acid and is also rich in vitamin E. The fatty acids present in this oil helps to protect the hair from strong UV rays, it also softens the hair and increases elasticity.[7]

Castor Oil
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Castor oil is derived from the seeds of Ricinus communis, the plant is found in tropical and sub-tropical countries. Castor oil consists of glycerides of iso ricinoleic acid, linoleic acid and palmitic acid amongst a few. Castor oil is a popular hair oil as it has a moisturizing and nourishing effect due to the fatty acids present in this oil.[8]  

References
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  1. ^ Sherrow, Victoria (2006). Encyclopedia of Hair: A Cultural History. Greenwood Publishing Group. ISBN 978-0-313-33145-9.
  2. ^ https://nuft.edu.ua/doi/doc/ufj/2016/2/7.pdf
  3. ^ Neal, Sherri (2013-04-28). Coconut Oil For Hair Care: Coconut Oil Secrets and Tips For Beauty. Speedy Publishing LLC. ISBN 978-1-68368-841-9.
  4. ^ "Argan oil benefits: Uses and products for skin and hair". www.medicalnewstoday.com. 2022-03-09. Retrieved 2022-10-19.
  5. ^ Gharby, Said; Charrouf, Zoubida (2022). "Argan Oil: Chemical Composition, Extraction Process, and Quality Control". Frontiers in Nutrition. 8. doi:10.3389/fnut.2021.804587/full. ISSN 2296-861X.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: unflagged free DOI (link)
  6. ^ "Argan oil benefits: Uses and products for skin and hair". www.medicalnewstoday.com. 2022-03-09. Retrieved 2022-10-19.
  7. ^ Mysore, Venkataram; Arghya, Arpita (2022). "Hair Oils: Indigenous Knowledge Revisited". International Journal of Trichology. 14 (3): 84–90. doi:10.4103/ijt.ijt_189_20. ISSN 0974-7753. PMC 9231528. PMID 35755964.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: unflagged free DOI (link)
  8. ^ Mysore, Venkataram; Arghya, Arpita (2022). "Hair Oils: Indigenous Knowledge Revisited". International Journal of Trichology. 14 (3): 84–90. doi:10.4103/ijt.ijt_189_20. ISSN 0974-7753. PMC 9231528. PMID 35755964.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: unflagged free DOI (link)