Babassu oil, also know as Cusi oil has become increasingly popular in the natural hair world. It is extracted by cold pressing from the seeds of Babassu palm, a tree native to the rain forest of South America.
In this article, we are going to dive into the benefits of Babassu oil on hair, and how to use it for hair growth.
Here is a summary of the benefits of using babassu oil on hair
- Babassu oil is rich in healthy fatty acids and vitamins that are great for your hair and scalp.
- It contains high amounts of saturated fatty acids mainly lauric acid and myristic acid. These components are essential for maintaining hair health.
- Contains omega-6 fatty acids such as oleic acid and omega-9 fatty acids which contribute to the overall health and vitality of your hair.
- It has natural antioxidants such as Vitamin E and phytosterols which help combat cellular damage and keep your scalp and hair cells healthy.
Benefits of Babassu Oil on Hair
1. Moisturizes the hair
Babassu oil is often compared to coconut oil, but it has a distinct advantage. While coconut oil can leave your hair looking greasy, Babassu oil is lighter and gets readily absorbed, providing your hair with deep hydration without the need for excessive rinsing.
2. Natural Antioxidant
The natural antioxidants (vitamin E and phytosterols) in Babassu oil help reduce cellular damage of scalp and hair cells by free radicals.
3. Protection from Scalp Infections
Babassu oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In a study it was found to be effective in killing Staphylococcus aureus the microorganism responsible for staph infection. The oil contains lauric acid which is a natural anti-inflammatory fatty acid.
For this reason babassu oil has proven is effective in treating a variety of inflammatory conditions. This reduces chances of hair shedding due to aggressive scratching. Scalp health is also greatly improved hence healthy hair growth.
4. Protects the Hair from Damage
When applied it leaves behind a powder-like coating on skin that protects it against contaminants and other pollutants which may cause hair damage.
Babassu oil is also a natural sunscreen. It filters UV radiation thus protecting your hair and scalp from high temperatures and damaging Sunlight.
5. Promotes Hair Growth
Babassu oil provides healthy fatty acids to your hair and scalp. These fatty acids provide nourishment to your scalp thus promoting hair growth.
It also contains vitamin E which is essential for cell regeneration including hair cells. As new cells get regenerated old cells get packed up enabling the hair to grow.
6. Conditions the hair
Babassu oil acts as a conditioner. Babassu oil is extremely resistant to oxidation thus it is able to boost the moisture retention capacity. It keeps moisture from escaping once it is on the scalp and hair shaft by locking it in. By doing so it leaves your hair feeling soft and less prone to breakage.
Babassu oil lubricates your hair and scalp giving you that slip when styling
How to use Babassu Oil for hair
1. Make DIY Hair Products
Babasu oil can be used to make DIY hair products shampoos and conditioners. It can be substituted with coconut oil in homemade skin and hair care recipes because of their similarity in behavior.
2. For Deep Conditioning
Add two tablespoons of the oil to your conditioner. It supplements the nutrients delivered to hair. It also simplifies consistent application.
3. For Scalp Massage
Heat 6 tablespoons of the oil in the microwave carefully massage on hair and scalp, cover and leave it for 20 minutes then shampoo.
4. For Heat Protection
Coat your scalp and strands with babassu oil. It leaves behind a powder-like coat on stands. This coating offers protection against harsh environmental conditions, contaminants and other pollutants.
5. Used as a carrier Oil
Babassu oil can easily penetrate the skin hence it can also be used as carrier oil for essential oils.
Lastly,
Babassu oil is a great choice for natural hair as it holds moisture to the shafts.
It is important to note that there isn’t much information which gives the potential side effects of Babassu oil on hair and therefore do a patch test before using it.
If you are to incorporate Babassu in your hair care regimen use the natural unrefined babassu oil as it is richer in nutrients essential for maintaining your hair and scalp in their best condition.
