Olive oil isn't just for drizzling over salads or dipping bread in; it's a natural moisturizer that can work wonders for your hair and scalp. Keep reading to find out why this kitchen staple deserves a spot in your hair care arsenal and how you can make the most out of it for healthier, shinier locks.
Olive Oil Benefits for Hair
The best part about olive oil is that it moisturizes the hair and scalp—not just one or the other. This popular oil is rich in antioxidants, oleic acid, and squalene, making it a powerhouse for nourishing and moisturizing your hair and scalp. It helps combat dryness and contains vitamin E, which is a great smoothing agent for reducing frizz.
The antioxidants in olive oil may also help promote hair growth. More on this later.
How to Use Olive Oil for Hair
Now that you know why olive oil is a great addition to your natural hair care routine, let's talk about how to use it effectively. We recommend either applying it as a mask or using olive oil hair products.
Here's a simple step-by-step guide on how to use olive oil for hair:
Measure the Olive Oil
It pays to start small, especially if this is your first time applying olive oil to your hair. Use about one tablespoon of olive oil, adding more if needed. You can also mix your olive oil with ingredients, like avocados, honey, or mayonnaise, to make a DIY hair mask. And no—we’re not joking about the mayo.
Massage Into Scalp
Massage the olive oil into your scalp. Make sure you do this by gently and deeply massaging it into your scalp with the pads of your fingers—never your fingernails. After you’ve massaged the oil, grab a shower cap or heated towel. This will allow the oil to steam up and soak in.
Rinse (& Maybe Repeat)
Now it’s time to rinse. Hop in the shower and use a wide-toothed comb to detangle your hair. Use a curl-safe shampoo to thoroughly rinse out the oil; you may have to rinse and repeat a few times, as olive oil can be quite thick.
Olive Oil Hair Care Products
If you're not up for a DIY approach, there are plenty of hair care products infused with the benefits of olive oil. When shopping, look for sulfate-free shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks containing olive oil.
Here are a few recommendations from our Vitale and Wonder Gro collections:
Vitale Olive Oil Wash Bundle
Purchase your entire hair care routine in just a few clicks. Our Vitale Olive Oil Wash Bundle includes shampoo, leave-in conditioner, hair oils, and growth serums to help you achieve your best hair day ever. All Vitale products are formulated with olive oil to provide sleek, long-lasting results.
Wonder Gro Olive Oil
This lightweight blend is formulated with olive oil and helps revive damaged hair, leaving it soft and shiny. Bring your locks back to life and improve the elasticity of your skin with Wonder Gro Olive Oil.
Wonder Gro Olive Oil Styling Gel
The Wonder Gro Olive Oil Styling Gel is formulated with 100% pure olive oil. It’s lightweight, alcohol-free, and blends seamlessly with your hair for an all-day hold. No frizz, no flakes, no problem.
Olive Oil FAQs
You have questions. We have answers.
Is Olive Oil Good for Natural Hair?
Yes! Olive oil is great for natural hair. That’s because olive oil directly penetrates the hair follicle and shaft. When steamed with a hot towel treatment, olive oil will soak deeply into the hair shaft and result in stronger, shinier hair.
Can I Use Cooking Olive Oil for Hair?
Not all cooking olive oil is safe for hair. When choosing an olive oil, make sure it’s unprocessed, cold-pressed, or virgin. You can find out whether or not olive oil is unprocessed by checking the bottle’s label.
How to Use Olive Oil for Hair Growth?
Olive oil can contribute to hair growth by strengthening the hair shaft, preventing breakage, and nourishing the scalp. Regular use can result in stronger hair, which means less chance of fallout. Even though it’s not proven, olive oil has been said to help improve overall hair growth.
Does Olive Oil Make Hair Thicker?
Possibly! Olive oil contains essential Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, which can lead to thicker, stronger hair. It’s important to remember that everyone’s hair is different, and what works best for someone else may not necessarily work for you.
Have a Question?
Do you have a question about olive oil hair care? Shoot us a message, and we’ll get back to you with an answer.
Explore Olive Oil-Infused Products at AFAM
Are dull locks cramping your hairstyle? Give olive oil a try. Whether you’re mixing a DIY hair mask or using olive oil-infused products, you can expect a happier and healthier hair day. Check out our collections of high-quality olive oil hair products that help reduce frizz, enhance shine, and boost confidence.
Shop the Wonder Gro collection, or grab your whole hair care routine for less when you buy the Vitale Olive Oil Wash Bundle. Get started today by shopping your new favorite products.