How to Use Avocado Oil to Strengthen Your Hair

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Not only is your favourite ingredient incredibly versatile, but its oil is a total beauty powerhouse. It’s just one of the many benefits of avocados.

If you have avocado oil in your kitchen, here’s what you need to know about using it to strengthen and condition your hair.

Is avocado oil good for your hair?

Absolutely. It may seem counterintuitive to put oil in your hair—no one wants greasy locks—but a little bit of avocado oil for hair can minimize breakage and condition your scalp.

How so? This oil is high in monounsaturated fats, which helps it soak into hair. When hair follicles are saturated with oil, it reduces the water absorbed into the hair, resulting in less swelling, according to research in the International Journal of Trichology. Since repeated swelling and drying can damage hair, avocado oil is a good way to protect it and minimize breakage!

Not to mention, avocado oil contains ample vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that many believe are beneficial to your hair and scalp.

How to use avocado oil for hair

Ready to start reaping the benefits of avocado oil? Follow these super simple instructions for a weekly avocado oil scalp massage.

No avocado oil on hand? These 3 simple steps could bring you closer to a healthy scalp.

Here’s what you need:

• A small amount of avocado oil

Step 1: Warm it up

Pour a small amount of avocado oil into a microwave-safe container, and warm it up in the microwave for 30 seconds.

There’s no “right” amount of oil to use here—it will depend on how thick your hair is, how dry it is, etc. It’s best to start with a small amount then add more as needed. If you use too much, the oil will just take longer to wash out of your hair.

Step 2: Apply the oil

Separate your hair into sections to provide better access to your scalp. Then, dip your fingers in the warm oil and rub a small amount at the base of your hair. Repeat this process around your head. It may take a while if you have long or thick hair, but the results are worth it.

Step 3: Massage

Use your fingertips to massage the oil into your scalp. Use small, circular motions and gentle pressure. It should feel like a relaxing head massage, so try not to fall asleep!

Step 4: Rinse

Let the avocado oil soak into your hair for a few minutes, then wash and condition as usual. Repeat weekly, and get ready to enjoy your beautiful, healthy head of hair.

How long do you leave avocado oil in your hair?

Try leaving the avocado oil on your hair for 15 to 30 minutes so it has enough time to soak into your hair follicles. You may find that less time is needed if you repeat the process frequently, but everyone’s hair is different.

The first time you do this avocado oil hair treatment, you may want to leave it on longer to ensure any dry, damaged hair can fully reap the benefits. Next, check out 5 more ways to reduce hair breakage this winter.