Olive oil, an unsaturated fat, is rich in iron and vitamins A, C, D, E, K, B-1 and B-2. Although the Mediterranean staple is now widely used in the U.S. as dietary oil, there are many uses of olive oil to improve the structure, strength and elasticity of hair. To achieve optimal at-home hair and scalp treatments, buy organic, cold-pressed olive oil, which has not been subjected to heat during processing, and retains all of its naturally occurring vitamins and minerals.
Split Ends
Although the only surefire cure for split ends is to cut them off, an olive oil-based home remedy will significantly reduce the appearance of split ends until your next haircut. Mix 2 tbsp. of olive oil with one beaten egg and 1 tsp. honey. Massage the mixture into split ends and wrap your head with a towel or shower cap. Leave on for 30 to 45 minutes. Shampoo and rinse your hair as usual.
If you don't have an egg and honey on hand, mix ½ cup of boiling water into ½ cup of olive oil. Cool to room temperature. Massage the mixture into split ends and wrap your head with a hot, wet towel. Leave on for about 30 minutes, then shampoo out.
Dandruff
A hot olive oil treatment softens and loosens dandruff scales, dermatologist R. Jeffrey Herten says. Heat about 3 oz. of olive oil in the microwave or on the stovetop until just warmed through. Wet your hair so the olive oil will soak into the scalp, not the hair. Pull your hair back into small sections to expose as much of the scalp as possible. Apply the warmed oil to scalp with a cotton ball. Wrap your head in a towel or shower cap and leave on for about 30 minutes. Shampoo out with a dandruff shampoo.
Deep Conditioner
An olive oil deep conditioning treatment invigorates the scalp, improves hair elasticity and strength and leaves the hair shiny and radiant. Heat about ½ cup of olive oil on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add five drops of your favorite essential oil, such as lavender or frankincense, and stir thoroughly. Pour mixture into a jar, cover and let sit overnight in a dark, cool place. Rinse your hair with lukewarm water. Shake the jar thoroughly to redistribute the essential oil. Warm about 1 tbsp. of the deep conditioner in the palm of your hands and use your fingertips to massage the oil into the scalp in circular motions. Repeat until the scalp is covered, then apply the remaining oil to your hair, concentrating on the ends. Cover hair with a shower cap, towel or plastic wrap and let sit for 30 minutes to one hour. Shampoo out with a clarifying shampoo.
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