When it comes to hair care, we love to focus on keeping hair hydrated, shiny and frizz-free. There are many care products designed for this purpose, but sometimes we look for more everyday ingredients that can transform our hair. One of them is olive oil and according to statements by dermatologist Ana Molina to the publication Salud y WOOE, this specific oil can have many benefits for hair.
“It has been observed that the phytoestrogens present in olive oil can have an antiandrogenic effect through the inhibition of the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is one of the main causes of androgenetic alopecia, as it causes the miniaturization of hair follicles. By reducing DHT levels, phytoestrogens can help prevent or slow down the progression of androgenetic alopecia,” says the expert.
In this sense, the expert highlights that there are some studies that indicate that the phytoestrogens found in olive oil “can stimulate hair growth by improving blood circulation in the scalp and increasing the proliferation of hair follicle cells,” adds the dermatologist.
What is achieved with olive oil applied topically
Olive oil, as with other oils, is also beneficial applied directly to the hair. It provides a lot of nutrition and shine, and helps improve the frizz effect. On the other hand, the scalp also benefits since we must not forget that this oil has antioxidant and protective properties.
According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, in which the effects of various oils were evaluated regarding the hydration and elasticity they provided to the hair, it was observed that olive oil improved hair hydration significantly and made it have greater resistance. This was due to its ability to penetrate the hair fiber and its high content of essential fatty acids.
But beyond hair, in this same study, the effects of olive oil in the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp were also investigated and “it was found that olive oil helped reduce flaking and inflammation of the scalp, improving its general health.”
Another very interesting study in the International Journal of Trichology was the one that investigated the benefits that different oils provided on the damage to hair after chemical processes such as dyeing. In this case “olive oil was effective in reducing damage, thanks to its emollient and protective properties that help maintain the integrity of the hair cuticle,” comments Ana Molina.
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