Does Oil Make Your Hair Grow?
You probably remember oiling your scalp during childhood while simultaneously having the best hair growth of your life and assuming that was the reason why. However, most will notice that just doesn't work quite the same in adulthood. Childhood hair benefits mostly from low-manipulation, and while heavy oils and greases certainly played a role in protective styling, it is not the main reason for your hair growth.
The scalp is a multilayered structure with many purposes and one of its main functions is to house the hair follicles. Your hair follicles contain sebaceous (oil) glands that produce sebum, which is the hair and skin's natural oil. The main role of sebum is to condition the skin and scalp and provide a barrier to prevent moisture loss.
Sebum is a mixture of fatty lipids that include a lot of the main ingredients found in conditioning treatments, like cholesterol and other fatty acids. The reason haircare products often include similar ingredients that the body naturally produces via sebum is because a lot of people suffer from a genetic lack of sebum production and need external help. Other reasons include coarser, curlier textures that make the spread of sebum along the hair shaft more difficult. Also certain hormonal imbalances can be the culprit.
While sebum production essentially proves the scalp does benefit from oil, the confusion is that artificial heavy oils provide the same benefits as a healthy scalp naturally produces. THIS IS NOT TRUE. In fact, even an over production of sebum will cause it to harden and produce a wax-like consistency that results in build up, scalp irritation and flaking. This is the same result that occurs when heavy oils are placed directly on the scalp, creating unfavorable conditions for the scalp to flourish which ultimately inhibits optimal hair growth.
If you feel you suffer from an underproduction of sebum resulting in dry scalp and/or hair and could benefit from a light oil, it is best to only use those that closely resemble your body's natural sebum, like jojoba or coconut, and to be sure to cleanse the scalp weekly (or more) with a gentle clarifying and moisture shampoo combo that offers the necessary ingredients your hair needs to flourish.
The scalp, similar to the face, needs to be cleaned regularly to free it of obstructions that create poor hair growth conditions. The best way to offer your hair maximum growth potential is through your shampoo and conditioner, along with proper water intake and daily vitamins, esp Vitamin D. It is strongly advised that you use a shampoo & conditioner system free of any harsh, drying chemicals such as alcohols and parabens as well. B.LUXE is the perfect well-balanced 5-part system designed specifically with your hair care needs in mind.
