What Are the Benefits of Using Avocado Oil on Hair?

Applying avocado oil to your scalp and strands can help hydrate, repair, and fortify your hair. Incorporating it into your meals may also support healthier tresses.

Avocado for hair

Avocado is a tasty fruit that adds a nutritious boost to many dishes. Its fats, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities, and mineral content also make it a valuable ingredient for both hair and skin. Discover how avocado oil for hair can reduce frizz while encouraging growth, luster, and more.

Benefits of avocado oil

You can use avocado in its whole-fruit form or as oil for hair care. The oil is abundant in:

• antioxidants
• minerals
• essential fatty acids
• biotin
• vitamins A, B-5, and E

Eating a balanced diet is the most effective way to maintain strong hair. Biotin, vitamin B-5, and vitamin E all contribute to hair health. Increase avocado intake or switch to avocado oil for cooking to enjoy these advantages.

Applied externally, avocado oil can also benefit hair. Using avocado oil may hydrate, mend, and strengthen hair fibers. Research reported in the International Journal of Trichology indicates minerals similar to those in avocado oil can help seal cuticle cells, reducing hair breakage.

How to use avocados for hair growth

Animal studies indicate that certain essential oils can encourage hair growth. Avocado oil often serves as a carrier oil for these essential oils. Combine one ounce of avocado oil with three to six drops of peppermint or lavender essential oil for a DIY hair tonic.

You can also massage a nickel-sized amount of avocado oil into your scalp. This helps increase circulation and clear clogged follicles. Such effects may aid in preventing hair loss.

The oil absorbs readily into skin, so it should not leave a greasy residue on your scalp. If you apply too much, wash it out thoroughly with a chemical-free shampoo until the oil is removed.

Read more: Can I use castor oil for hair growth? »

How to use avocado oil for conditioning

Hair mask

You can buy avocado-based hair masks or make one at home. For a smooth, protein-rich treatment without lumps, blend the following:

• 1 avocado
• 1 banana
• 1 tbsp. avocado oil
• 1 tbsp. coconut oil
• 1 tbsp. honey

Puree the solids in a blender to avoid a chunky mixture. Add the oils and honey afterward, then apply the mask to your hair. Leave the paste on for at least 20 minutes or up to three hours. Rinse the avocado mask out with warm water or a gentle, chemical-free shampoo according to your preference.

Other methods

Leave-in conditioner
Spread a nickel-sized amount of avocado oil evenly through the ends of damp hair. You can also apply it after drying. Avoid heat styling until the oil is fully dry.

Detangler
Run a small amount of avocado oil through knotted sections to loosen tangles. Using avocado oil to detangle causes less damage than combing dry hair.

Antibreakage solution
Rub avocado oil onto the tips of your hair to protect against split ends and snapping. Use sparingly to prevent over-greasing.

How to use avocado oil as a hot oil treatment

What you need:

• avocado oil
• extra virgin coconut oil
• warm towel
• glass jar
• saucepan

Steps:

1. Bring water to a boil in a saucepan.
2. Mix equal parts avocado oil and extra virgin coconut oil (about 3 to 5 tablespoons each, depending on hair length) in a glass jar. For added benefits, include a few drops of an essential oil like rosemary or lavender.
3. Place the jar of oil in the hot water for one to two minutes to warm.
4. Check the oil temperature on your wrist before applying.
5. Gently massage the warm oil into clean hair and cover with a warm towel for up to 20 minutes.
6. Rinse the treatment out with warm water.

What the research says

There’s limited evidence on the topical benefits of avocado oil for hair. While it’s an excellent moisturizer, avocado oil may be more effective when consumed as part of a nutritious diet than used solely as a topical product. Because hair is composed of dead cells, maintaining overall health is the best approach to achieving healthy hair.

Learn more: 10 health benefits of avocado »

Risks and warnings

Generally, avocado is safe to apply, but individuals with avocado allergies should consult their physician. Applying avocado oil can still cause reactions even if you can eat the fruit safely. Perform a patch test on the skin before using avocado oil on your scalp to rule out sensitivity.

The bottom line

Eating avocado is linked with a generally higher-quality diet and improved health outcomes, according to national survey findings. A 2012 study reported that avocado intake supports cardiovascular and digestive health, as well as healthy aging. To boost your nutrition, substitute corn or canola oil with avocado oil when cooking or making dressings.

Avocado oil is widely available in grocery stores. The nutrients in avocados may be particularly helpful for hair growth. For lasting benefits, follow a balanced diet that provides the vitamins and minerals essential for hair growth and overall hair health.