Grapeseed oil comes from the pressed seeds of the Vitis vinifera grape. It is typically a light yellow or green color, lightweight and odorless. Due to the light non-greasy nature of the oil, it is commonly used as a carrier oil for essential oils, but may also be used on its own. There are several purported benefits of grapeseed oil for hair, such as locking in moisture, improving shine, preventing future damage to the hair, healing dandruff, and promoting hair growth.
The fact that grapeseed oil is non-greasy and lightweight creates several benefits for many users. It helps the body absorb the oil faster than most oils and also helps other oils be absorbed faster. Unlike hair oil that contains coconut or olive oils, it typically does not leave a residue on the scalp or hands. As it is odorless, it typically does not affect the smells of other essential oils if being massaged in the scalp as part of an aromatherapy treatment.
There are a multitude of benefits from using grapeseed oil for hair, because it is quickly absorbed by the scalp and moisturizes the hair follicles from the roots down. Several people recommend using grapeseed oil in hair treatments, such as hot oil conditioning. The oil may also be very effective in treating split ends, breakage, and brittle or damaged hair.
Using grapeseed oil for hair may combat seborrheic dermatitis, also known as dandruff, and cradle cap in infants. This may be because the grapeseed oil helps to remove the flakes of skin from the scalp and keeps it moisturized. When massaged, it may also improve circulation in the scalp, which may prevent further episodes of dandruff or cradle cap.
Perhaps one of the most popular benefits of grapeseed oil for hair is its apparent ability to help hair grow faster. Generally, it is believed that the significant levels of linoleic acid and vitamin E, among other vitamins, minerals and protein, support the reasoning for this logic. It must be noted, however, that more research is required on this matter before anything may conclusively be said about this supposed benefit.
Another benefit of using grapeseed oil for hair is that it is hypoallergenic. This means that even people with sensitive scalps may use this oil with ease. Many healthcare professionals do recommend testing the oil on a patch of skin in the rare event of an allergic reaction.