THE BENEFITS OF GRAPESEED AND APRICOT OIL

The Benefits of Grapeseed & Apricot Oil

Grapeseed and Apricot Oil are two of the most forgotten oils in the natural hair space.  Why? Because the dominating oils, coconut and castor oil, tend to outshine the rest.  But today, I’d like to shed light on these two oils because they have hidden benefits that are not talked about enough and deserve some attention.  

Grapeseed Oil

Grapeseed oil helps to retain moisture due to the high level of linoleic acid, which is a type of omega-6 fatty acid.  It’s consistency is a mix between jojoba oil and olive oil, but closer to jojoba  which is great for someone with locs, and works great for natural hair period.  Locs tend to benefit more from oils which are lighter vs. heavier.  Grapeseed oil has the unique ability to alleviate a dry scalp, moisturize hair and act as a sealant, retaining moisture.  

Grapeseed oil contains a lot of vitamin E, which is necessary for hair growth and health.  Hot oil treatments will help the hair look shiny but not greasy.

Grapeseed Oil:

• Contain extensive proteins and minerals
• Smooth cuticles and prevent frizz
• Prevent split ends, thinning and breaking
• Hypoallergenic, therefore safe for sensitive skin
• Anti-inflammatory, therefore can be used to reduce swelling and pain

It is important to note that, since Grapeseed oil is an anti-inflammatory, it may prove useful prior to braiding or afterwards when and if the scalp may be tight.  It can benefit locticians when completing “updo” styles where locs are twisted in various directions.  

Apricot Oil

Apricot Kernel Oil is derived from the Apricot Tree, prunus armeniaa with origins from China, Korea, and Japan.  Apricots are full of beta-carotene and fiber.  It is full of proteins and unsaturated fatty acids such as oleic and linoleic acid (which is also in Grapeseed Oil).  In addition, it has a great many vitamins such as Vitamin A, C, E, & K, as well as niacin.  It is chock-full of minerals such as copper, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous and potassium. It is excellent for softening and moisturizing and helps to retain elasticity.  It’s omega-9 fatty acid, oleic acid, makes hair softer and acts as an excellent emollient. These vitamins and minerals are important because: 

Apricot Oil:

• Stimulates hair growth
• Increases hydration
• Reduces dryness
• Is a gentle lubricant
• Reduces breakage

This oil also absorbs into the skin or hair without leaving a greasy residue. Apricot and Grapeseed oil are hidden treasures in the oil family and don’t receive as much praise as they deserve.  As it is with these oils, so can this be in life.  Sometimes the hidden ones are the best ones!  You can find these oils in the Tiffany’s Loc Jewels Loc Drench line of products which comes in four scents: Fruity, Floral, Mint and Men’s.  Each bottle has a mix of Apricot and Grapeseed Oil along with stimulating growth oils such as: Blackseed Oil, Calendula, Nettle and Neem Oil.  These are complimentary oils to the Natural Hair Mist line which are nourishing leave-in conditioners, water-based, yet includes a healthy dose of Jojoba, Argan, Tea Tree, Aloe Vera Gel and Avocado Oil in each bottle.  Click link here to purchase or learn more!

(Sources: goodhealthacademy.com, naturallycurly.com)

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