What is Olive Oil Conditioner?

The majority of commercially grown olives are from the Mediterranean region of Europe, with Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Spain being the biggest producers. Australia and South Africa export olive oil as well. Olive oil conditioner is a hair care product which uses olive oil to provide softness and luster to the hair shaft. There are olive oil conditioner products on the market, but an effective version can also be made inexpensively at home. Unlike some other types of conditioners, a homemade olive oil conditioner is gentle and all natural.

Many people find that their brittle, frizzy, or dry hair benefits from olive oil conditioner. While some prefer a store bought preparation which already contains olive oil, others add the oil to their favorite dry hair conditioner. Combining hair conditioner with olive oil creates a thicker concoction than oil alone, so it may be easier to control without dripping.

For those who prefer a strictly homemade olive oil conditioner, the oil may be applied directly to the hair and scalp. Two tablespoons of warmed oil can be distributed evenly throughout the hair and massaged into the scalp. Essential oil may be blended with the olive oil to add a pleasing scent. Lavender essential oil is a popular choice in addition to bergamot and rose essential oils.

By waiting up to 30 minutes before rinsing, the olive oil can penetrate and soften the hair leaving it shiny and conditioned. The effects of the conditioner may be enhanced by wrapping the hair in a towel or exposing the hair to steam. Once the oil has remained in the hair for the desired length of time, the hair is washed with a gentle shampoo and rinsed with cool water to seal the cuticle and maximize the shine.

There are many types of conditioners which are tailored to different hair types. Olive oil conditioner is considered suitable for all hair types, but it would not be an effective leave in conditioner because of its weight and greasiness. It generally works best as an occasional deep conditioner as well, as oils can build up in the hair and weigh it down with daily use.

Some commercially produced olive oil conditioners may contain additional ingredients, such as sodium lauryl sulfate, petroleum products, chloride and synthetic perfumes. Some of these and other added ingredients can cause skin or eye irritation, or even be toxic. More natural olive oil conditioners may be available at health food stores or natural online retail stores.