What are cold pressed oils?
Cold pressed oils are extracted by crushing seeds, nuts and fruits with a mechanical extraction method which does not use any extra heat, the pressing occurs at low temperatures to ensure retention of all nutrients.
The oil is filtered by separation from the solid residue without the use of any chemicals or additives. Since these oils are available in their purest form, they can be used for various purposes- from applying to the skin & hair for hair loss control to cooking.
How cold pressed oils promote hair growth?
Cold pressed oils have the ability to deeply penetrate the scalp and hair shaft and form a protective layer around the hair shaft , making strands more resistant to heat damage and breakage. Massaging cold pressed oils onto your scalp can increase blood circulation, aiding in hair loss control.It also helps strengthen the roots, helping with hair fall control. An excessively dry scalp can benefit from application of cold pressed oils as they can help with sebum regulation. Too much or too little of moisture on the scalp can lead to scalp infections.
Best cold pressed oils for hair growth
1. Coconut Oil:
Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid and has a low molecular structure, which gives it the ability to penetrate deep into hair. It can reverse damage by upto 90% & aids in hair fall control. It is also proven to prevent protein loss from strands. Coconut oil gives intense hydration to the hair which helps with prevention of split ends as well.
2. Argan Oil:
Argan oil is liquid gold for the hair, in appearance as well as all the magical benefits it offers. It is rich in vitamin E and acts as a natural heat protectant. It gives hair shine, elasticity and effectively deals with frizz & flyaways. Argan oil is very lightweight in consistency, so it can be used as a daily hair serum too.
3. Almond Oil:
Almonds are one of the richest sources of biotin which can give hair all the strength it needs. Almond oil is suitable for those with dandruff prone strands. It can reduce hair thinning and promote hair thickness.
4. Jojoba Oil:
Jojoba oil is the oil that is the closest to mimicking the natural sebum of your scalp.This makes it great for people with oilier scalps who are looking for a lightweight oil instead of a thicker oil.
5. Amla Oil:
It is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants which stimulates collagen production. It strengthens roots, prevents premature greying of hair and gives strands luster and shine.
6. Olive Oil:
Olive oil is one of the healthiest fats in the world. It contains oleic acid which strengthens weak and brittle hair. It also softens frizzy & damaged strands and gives them a healthy radiance.
7. Mustard Oil:
This is rich in omega 3 fatty acids and protein which strengthens hair. It increases blood circulation to promote faster growth, thickness and volume. Mustard also contains antibacterial properties that prevent scalp infections.
Cold Pressed oil vs Commercial oil:
Cold pressed oils retain all the nutrients of the seed or nut to be extracted. They contain all the essential vitamins and minerals needed to treat any scalp & hair concerns. They are all extracted in their purest form which gives them the ability to provide long term benefits. They are slightly on the more expensive side of the price spectrum, but that is simply because of the superior quality and benefit that they offer.
Commercial oils mostly contain a high percentage of mineral oil and barely any of the good ingredients that they claim to have. Other harmful ingredients that these oils might contain but do not include in their ingredient list include silicones, artificial fragrance, bleach, etc. These are extracted through harsh heat extraction methods which deplete all the nutrients and goodness the nut or seed has to offer. These types of oils don’t actually penetrate the scalp or shaft but actually just form a coating, giving you an illusion of thicker hair. Prolonged use of such oils can create buildup on your scalp & hair while hindering hair growth. They usually come at a cheaper price range than cold press oils for the very fact that they are made up of cheaper ingredients.
How to Apply Cold-Pressed Oils for Maximum Hair Growth & Benefits :
Step 1- choose right oil for your concern:
It is important to choose the correct oil for your specific hair concern.
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For Hair loss control: Castor oil, Amla oil, Rosemary-infused oil
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For Dry & Frizzy Hair: Coconut oil, Argan oil, Olive oil
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For Oily Scalp: Jojoba oil, Mustard oil, Almond oil
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For Dandruff & Scalp Issues: Neem oil, Tea tree-infused oil, Coconut oil
- For Strength & Shine: Almond oil, Argan oil, Olive oil
Step 2- Warm the oil for better absorption:
Put 2-3 tbsps of cold pressed oil into a heat safe bowl and then use the double boiler method to place the bowl in another bowl filled with hot water.
Step 3- Section hair for even application:
Part your hair section by section using a tail comb. Ensure that you comb your hair well to get rid of any tangles and knots.
Step 4- Apply to length & tips:
Dip a cotton ball into the warm oil and apply evenly to the scalp. Once your scalp is completely covered with oil, work your way down to your ends.
Step 5- Massage:
Using your fingertips, start from your crown , using gentle pressure massage your scalp in gentle motions. Slowly move towards your hairline , if needed flip your hair over upside down and indulge yourself into the inversion massage technique. Regular massages can help with hair loss control.
Step 6- Leave for 2-3 hours:
After massaging the scalp thoroughly, tie the hair into a loose braid. Do not keep the oil on for long hours, leave it for a minimum of 1 and maximum of 3 hours. Just a few hours are enough for the oil to get absorbed into the scalp and work its magic of hair loss control.
Step 7 - Wash with gentle shampoo:
Use a gentle cleanser to wash off all the oil. Try to use a sulfate free cleanser with natural ingredients. Use lukewarm water to rinse the shampoo. If you are using heavier oils like castor oil, you might have to wash your hair twice.
Combine essential oils with cold press oils:
You can make your own DIY oil for your hair according to your scalp & hair concern. But how would you know which oil would suit which concern?
First you will have to choose a carrier oil that suits your scalp and hair type.
If you have dandruff prone scalp then try using almond oil, if you’re facing hair thinning, then castor oil can help with hair fall control , If you have weak roots then go for bhringraj oil.
Next choose a specific essential oil for your scalp concern.
For example, rosemary essential oil is superior when it comes to hair growth & hair loss control. Lemon essential oil can balance sebum production on the scalp. Lavender essential oil can help with easing tension and anxiety. Tea tree oil is great for those with flaking and dandruff related issues on their scalp. Peppermint oil can improve blood flow and strengthen roots, helping with hair fall control. Ylang Ylang oil improves shine and balances the oil production on the scalp.
Put 2-3 tablespoons of your chosen carrier oil in a bowl and, using a dropper add 3-4 drops of your choice of essential oil. Mix well and apply evenly onto the scalp.
Scientific Evidence behind cold pressed oils and hair health
- Journal of cosmetic science(2003) proved that coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft deeper than mineral oil and prevents protein loss.
- International Journal of Trichology, 2015 stated that the fatty acids in argan & olive oil form a protective layer on your strands, preventing damage by any external factors.
- Tropical life sciences research 2010 suggested that vitamin E improves hair growth & density.
- A pharmacognosy research in 2017 claimed that black seed oil has significant anti-inflammatory effects and can significantly reduce hair shedding, helping with hair fall control
- Molecules, 2021 stated that the ricinoleic acid in castor oil can improve blood flow on the scalp, aiding in hair loss control
- International Journal of Cosmetic Science , 2015 - stated that mineral oil can only do surface lubrication but can’t penetrate deep.
Common mistakes to avoid when using cold pressed oils
1. Applying too much oil:
Do not saturate your hair and scalp with too much oil, just a light layer is enough to be absorbed. Excessive oiling can create buildup and can clog follicles.
2. Oiling on dirty scalp:
If your scalp already contains a buildup of sebum and dirt, then it won’t be able to absorb anything you apply topically and will just remain on the surface. This can do more harm than good, increasing the likelihood of fungal overgrowth and infections.
3. Leaving oil for too long:
Oiling hair overnight or keeping oil on the scalp for more than 8 hours can attract dust & grime which can clog the hair follicles leading to dandruff and hair fall.
4. Using wrong oil for scalp type:
You must only use oils that suit your scalp type. If you have an oily scalp then go for lighter oils like jojoba. If you have a dry scalp with active dandruff then avoid oils like coconut & olive and go for more soothing oils like almond oil & neem oil.
5. Not diluting essential oils:
Always dilute essential oils with a cold pressed oil. Essential oils must never be directly applied to the scalp, they are in their most concentrated form and can cause severe irritation and burning if done.
6. Do not skip massage:
When applying oils to the scalp, make sure you massage it well into the scalp in circular motions. You want to make sure you're getting the oil into your follicles and root so that it can actually show some benefit.
7. Oiling every day:
Oiling everyday can create buildup, clog follicles and trap dust, leading to fungal overgrowth which can worsen hair fall. Oiling just once or twice a week is enough.
8. Applying oil on wet hair:
Oil won’t be able to penetrate through wet scalp & hair. It is important to ensure that oil is applied onto a dry scalp for proper absorption of nutrients.