How to pick the right hair oil for your hair

Try: Coconut Oil

“Coconut oil acts as a protective barrier, and it also has a low sun protector factor, so it can help protect your hair colour (both natural and dyed) from fading,” says Andrea.

That said, she warns that coconut oil can build up on the hair, leaving it oily over time, so it’s best used sparingly and only from mid-shaft to the ends.

IGK Rich Kid Coconut Oil Gel, $43.

ALSO READ: 16 BEST SHAMPOOS FOR ASIAN HAIR TO SOLVE ALL HAIR AND SCALP ISSUES

Try: Camellia Oil

This antioxidant-rich oil has long been used in Japanese beauty rituals because it’s rich in vitamins and minerals, as well as oleic acid and Omega-9 fats, all of which are beneficial to skin and hair health.

According to Andrea, camellia oil’s lightweight nature works well for fine hair, as it absorbs quickly without weighing hair down.

Tsubaki Oil Perfection Hair Oil, $18.90

ALSO READ: HER WORLD HAIR AWARDS 2019 WINNERS: THE BEST HAIR PRODUCTS THAT’LL TAME YOUR MANE

Try: Moringa Oil

Curly hair naturally tends to be drier as compared to straight hair. This is because hydrating oils from the scalp slip down straight hair much more easily than on curly locks.

Rich in antioxidants as well as vitamin E, moringa oil is the perfect companion for unruly hair as it helps soften it, making them easier to detangle. “Moringa oil conditions thick, curly hair, and is also great for treating dry and irritated scalps,” says Andrea.

Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil, $46.

ALSO READ: 16 BEST SHAMPOOS FOR ASIAN HAIR TO SOLVE ALL HAIR AND SCALP ISSUES

Try: Argan Oil

Packed with a nourishing mix of Omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins A, C, and E and antioxidants, argan oil is a great choice for frizzy and damaged hair.

A word of advice from Andrea for those with lighter coloured hair: “Argan oil is naturally orange so be careful if you’re applying this on ashy or lighter hair colours as it can stain your hair”.

Briogeo Farewell Frizz Rosehip, Argan & Coconut Oil Blend, $43.

ALSO READ: HER WORLD HAIR AWARDS 2019 WINNERS: THE BEST HAIR PRODUCTS THAT’LL TAME YOUR MANE

Try: Squalane Oil

You may have seen this hydrating ingredient listed in your face moisturiser, but it works wonders on your hair too. Known for its lightweight, non-greasy texture, squalane can help to hydrate and condition dry hair without making it feel too oily.

“Squalane increases heat protection, adds shine, reduces breakage and is suitable for all hair types,” says Andrea. We’re sold!

Biossance 100% Squalane Oil, $47.

ALSO READ: 16 BEST SHAMPOOS FOR ASIAN HAIR TO SOLVE ALL HAIR AND SCALP ISSUES

Try: Castor Oil

While there are few scientific studies to prove that castor oil directly causes hair growth, it does have several beneficial properties that could lead to a healthier scalp and hair, in general.

Castor oil is rich in fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins and proteins, as well as ricinoleic acid, which can help improve blood circulation on the scalp. When blood flow is improved, the flow of nutrients and oxygen to the roots of your hair also improves.

Andrea says: “I’ve had clients swear by castor oil for dealing with hair fall, over-shaved eyebrows and sparse eyelashes. The idea is to apply it on the affected area, sleep with it on and wash it off in the morning.”  However, it’s worth noting that some medical professionals caution against the use of castor oil around the eye area.

Melvita Organic Castor Oil, $45.

Read Next

9 common mistakes that cause hair loss

Your scalp ages six times faster than your face – here’s what you can do about it

Japanese hair products you never knew existed and they are under $20