Hair Oils: Argan, Hemp, and Butters Explained

Óleos Vegetais no Cabelo: Argão, Cânhamo e Manteigas Explicados

Vegetable Oils in Hair: Argan, Hemp, and Butters Explained

Vegetable oils and butters are some of the most valuable ingredients in natural hair care. They nourish, protect, and restore shine to hair, without resorting to silicones that only create a superficial layer. In this guide, we explain what science says and how to get the most out of them.

Our hair selection

A solid shampoo with argan oil, ideal for dry or damaged hair: argan deeply nourishes the hair fiber while gently cleansing. With a top score of INCI Beauty 20/20 and zero plastic.

A light and balanced solid conditioner with hemp oil, that hydrates without weighing hair down. Perfect to sustainably complement washing, also with a 20/20 score.

2-in-1 moisturizing mask for curly hair Avril
2-in-1 moisturizing mask for curly hair Avril
15,00 € · INCI Beauty 18,8/20
View product · Buy

A 2-in-1 treatment mask for curly hair, which concentrates active ingredients for intense nourishment and a more beautiful curl definition.

How oils work on hair

Not all oils behave the same way, and science explains why. Oils with shorter, linear fatty acid chains (like coconut oil) can penetrate the hair fiber and reduce protein loss during washing. "Heavier" oils tend to stay on the surface, forming a protective film.

In both cases, oils fill the gaps between cuticle scales, reduce water absorption (and the swelling that damages the strand), lubricate to reduce friction, and help prevent breakage and split ends (see references at the end, in English).

Argan oil

Rich in vitamin E (tocopherols) and antioxidants (polyphenols), argan oil is a classic in hair care. It is especially valued for dry or damaged hair, helping to keep the strand nourished and restore shine and manageability.

Hemp oil

Hemp oil is light and balanced, ideal for hydrating without weighing hair down. It is an excellent option for conditioning hair, especially in solid and sustainable formats.

Vegetable butters (shea, cocoa, murumuru)

Shea, cocoa, and murumuru butters are rich in fatty acids, vitamins, and triterpenes, with nourishing, soothing, and repairing properties. Being thicker, they are ideal for sealing ends and calming the scalp, rather than for detangling.

Vegetable oils vs. silicones

Silicones (like dimethicone) coat the hair and provide immediate shine and slip, but they do not nourish it; they merely mask. Penetrating vegetable oils truly condition the fiber, reducing protein loss. Both have their place, but if you are looking for care that treats hair from within, vegetable oils are unbeatable.

How to use oils on hair

  • Apply to lengths and ends, avoiding the roots if hair is oily (except when treating a dry scalp).
  • A small amount is enough; excess will weigh hair down.
  • Can be used before washing (oil bath, to reduce protein loss) or on damp hair, as a finishing product.

Treat your hair naturally

To cleanse and nourish dry hair:

The argan solid shampoo, with a top score.

To complement and hydrate without weighing hair down:

The hemp solid conditioner.

Discover all our natural hair care at Prana Market.

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References (in English)