How to Use Olive Oil for Hair Care

Although more studies are necessary, olive oil may help retain hair hydration and bolster strand strength. It often works better for particular hair types, such as dense or coarse hair.

People have relied on olive oil for hair care for millennia, claiming it delivers luster, body, softness, and durability.

The chief components of olive oil are oleic acid, palmitic acid, and squalene. These substances act as emollients, meaning they soften and smooth. Many commercial shampoos, conditioners, and styling products use synthetic versions of these emollients.

Scientific backing for olive oil’s widespread use in haircare is limited. Still, some research indicates it can offer substantial moisturizing benefits.

Olive oil may add softness and fortify hair by penetrating the hair shaft and locking in moisture. The glossy appearance attributed to olive oil likely comes from its ability to smooth the hair cuticle.

You may need to try a few approaches to discover a regimen that suits you. If you’ve never applied olive oil as a hair treatment, here’s a simple way to begin.

1. Measure

If you’re new to using olive oil on your hair, start with just one or two tablespoons for your initial treatment.

The quantity you need depends on how intensely you want to moisturize and which areas you’re treating. The ends typically require no more than a tablespoon.

If you plan to treat your whole head, prepare at least 1/4 cup of olive oil — particularly if your hair is long or very thick.

2. Massage

Work the oil deeply into your hair for several minutes. You can also massage it into the scalp if you experience dryness there.

For more effective conditioning, cover your hair with a shower cap and allow the oil to penetrate for 15 minutes or longer.

3. Rinse

Use a wide-toothed comb before shampooing to detangle and make styling afterwards easier.

Shampoo thoroughly and dry your hair to observe the outcome. Depending on how much oil you applied, you may need to shampoo twice.

Conditioning with olive oil is generally safe. Unless your hair is very dry and requires daily moisturizing, use it weekly or less frequently for optimal effects.

Who should use olive oil?

Using oils isn’t ideal for every hair type because some textures retain oil longer than others. Your body naturally produces sebum from glands connected to hair follicles, and this oil travels more quickly down fine, straight hair than it does along coarse or curly hair.

Thick hair

Olive oil is most advantageous for dry, thick hair. Proponents claim it helps maintain moisture and resilience. Conversely, it can weigh down fine hair. People with oily hair or scalps generally don’t need this extra conditioning.

Processed hair

Heavily processed hair — such as strands treated with relaxers, perms, or bleach — particularly benefits from added hydration.

Wait at least 72 hours after a chemical treatment before applying olive oil. If you use olive oil on bleached hair, test a small section first to ensure it doesn’t impart any greenish tint.

Split ends

Olive oil can help smooth frayed or heat-damaged ends. Apply it to the last 2 inches of the strands that are compromised.

Even when treating only the ends, keep your hair pinned up to prevent oil transfer to clothing. To condition the entire length, begin at the scalp and work the oil through to the tips.

Beyond conditioning

Lice

Olive oil may assist in removing head lice, but it’s not more effective than other oils or conditioning treatments. It’s essential to use the appropriate comb and remove all live lice and nits.

Dandruff

If you’re attempting to address dandruff, remember it can arise from many causes, including fungal factors. There’s no definitive cure for dandruff, though olive oil might help reduce flaking.

Massage olive oil into a dry scalp and comb out loosened flakes. Leaving olive oil in and covering with a shower cap can provide additional conditioning.