Last Updated on March 4, 2023 by Il-ham B
Did you know that the oils we use on our hair and skin have different functions? Penetrating oils vs sealing oils are great for hair health. However, knowing how they both support your hair care regimen is key. Plant-based oils can either penetrate your hair strands or work as sealants. It usually depends on whether you are trying to achieve shine or retain moisture. Your oil’s molecular structure dictates whether the oil will enter the hair shaft or sit on top of the strand. In turn, the more fatty acids contained in the composition of the oil, the easier the penetration into the hair shaft.
In this blog post, I will be putting you on a game regarding the difference between oils that penetrate your hair shaft and oils that prevent moisture from entering or exiting your strands. That is if you weren’t aware of their distinctions. The goal is to know; how to use oils to maximize their many benefits and minimize frustrations. You will also get a list of the best sealing oils and the best moisturizing oils natural for hair.
Moisturizing Oils / Penetrating Oils
Moisturizing oils can penetrate the hair’s cortex while calling moisture to the hair. They are most effective on hair that tends to feel dry and coarse. (Side note: They can also prevent and treat dry skin.) Moisturizing oils increase the elasticity of the hair, making it more flexible. Elasticity can be lost when the hair is damaged. Accordingly, moisture is essential in reducing breakage and retaining length.
Using penetrating oils for natural hair in conjunction with heat helps the oil deeper penetrate the hair. One of the best ways to use it is before shampooing your hair (pre-poo). This method prevents the loss of protein and decreases strand dehydration. Your shampoo can cleanse your hair without completely stripping it of its much-needed natural oils. The outcome is less frizz and clumped curls. Bear in mind that oils don’t define curls. They aid in adding shine, protecting your strands, or drawing/preventing moisture into your strands. A great way to use penetration oils is by adding them to your deep conditioner or as a pre-poo.
The best types of moisturizing oils
- COCONUT OIL
- BABASSU OIL
- SUNFLOWER OIL
Coconut oil is said to be the most penetrable of natural oils. Its molecular structure is small enough, to allow it to penetrate the hair shaft.
Sealing Oil / Coating Oil
You will notice that sealing oils or non-penetrating oils are mostly used in products. That is if you pay attention to product ingredients. The most common sealing oil is the famous mineral oil. Their general purpose is to increase shine and gloss in the hair by coating the hair strands. They also lubricate the hair and help decrease friction. Making it easier to manipulate and decrease tangling when combing/styling. On the other hand, its key objective is to prevent moisture from entering the hair shaft. As well as preventing it from escaping your strands.
When using these types of oils, make sure it is after maximizing the moisture levels in your hair first. This is best done with a water-based product. I do this when using the LCO (Liquid, Cream, Oil) method. Personally, this is the method that best holds moisture for my type 4 hair. Sealing oils are also great for protective styling. Another tip is to coat your hair with oil before separating braid-out, twist-out, or Bantu knots. It helps minimize frizz and adds shine.
The best TYPES OF SEALING OILS
- JAMAICAN BLACK CASTOR OIL
- GRAPESEED OIL
- JOJOBA OIL
Mineral oils are super sealants and can be found in many haircare/skincare products. They are not always bad but, it is always important to know what their effects are on your hair/ skin. (Continue your research.) Because they are made from crude petroleum oil, I prefer to use plant-based oils. I have tried using it in grease form but my hair didn’t like it.
Bellow are other names for mineral oil in product ingredients: paraffinum liquidum, petrolatum, cera microcrystalline, microcrystalline wax, ozokerite, ceresin isoparaffin, paraffin, and synthetic wax.
PENETRATING/SEALING OILS
Equally, some oils can act as moisturizers and sealants. With their molecular compositions, these oils can slightly penetrate the hair shaft while also sealing in moisture. Here is a short list of everything in between.
The best types of sealing oils
- OLIVE OIL
- AVOCADO OIL
- SWEET ALMOND OIL
- SHEA BUTTER
- ARGAN OIL
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All in all, knowing when and how to use penetrating oils vs sealing oils is ideal for maintaining the overall health of your hair. Applying the right oils makes it easier during your regimen and helps in achieving your desired style. In contrast, incorrect use of oils can leave you disappointed and even frustrated. Likewise, sealing oils on your scalp can prevent moisture from entering and even exiting your scalp. This can lead to a clogged scalp. Above all, you should not use oils alone to moisturize or seal in moisture. They need to be met with water, a leave-in conditioner, a cream, or simply a water-based product.
I hope you enjoyed this blog post! Share this post and your thoughts in the comments section below if you found this information useful. What are some of your favorite moisturizing and sealing oils?
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