The US market for hair regrowth products and various formulations is around $3.8 billion USD. This clearly highlights the high demand for hair regrowth products and hair loss treatments. The range of treatment options available for hair loss are extensive, from topical solutions to surgical implantation. Research is ongoing to uncover the effects of various oils on hair growth and regrowth, and the latest oil that has been touted to be effective in treating hair loss is grapeseed oil. We bring you the latest updated information on the efficacy of grapeseed oil for hair and the ideal manner of application.
Source, extraction method and the effects of Grapeseed Oil for Hair
Grapeseed oil is extracted from the seeds of grapes. The only practical method of collecting grapeseeds is during winemaking, which essentially makes grapeseed oil more of a byproduct in a winepress. Despite the fact that it is unlike other oils or essential oils, wherein the oils are the primary product, Grapeseed Oil for Hair has delivered impressive results.
Properties of grapeseed oil that make it effective in hair care and skin care
The many benefits of grapeseed oil are attributed to the properties of the oil and the manner in which it is extracted. The oil is a rich source of oligomeric proanthycyanidin complexes, commonly known as OPCs. Essentially, OPCs are powerful antioxidants by virtue of the polyphenols present. This is exactly why wine is often regarded as having good antioxidant properties. One of the reasons for the effectiveness of Grapeseed Oil for Hair is the fact that grapeseed has the highest concentration of OPCs – 95%. The presence of OPCs has an impact on the levels of DHT (dihydrotestosterone) produced in the body.
High levels of DHT are considered to be the reasons behind hair loss. Male pattern balding is attributed to higher levels of the endogenous androgen sex hormone. The effect of this hormone is experienced more with advancing age. Hair loss as a result of high DHT levels is not restricted to men but also affects women, though in a relatively lesser number. The main mechanism of action achieved by using Grapeseed Oil for Hair growth is the effect on the DHT levels. DHT that freely flows through the blood ends up on hair follicles by binding with the receptors. As a consequence of this, hair shrinks and the follicles turn incapable of supporting healthy hair growth. By combating the levels of DHT, grapeseed oil helps to keep hair loss low, in addition to ensuring that hair follicles support healthy hair.
Other properties that make Grapeseed Oil for Hair beneficial
In addition to the above properties, grapeseed oil contains fatty acids that are vital for healthy functioning of the organs. For instance, linoleic acid is essential for healthy organ functioning. The human body does not produce this naturally, and the only source is through dietary intake. The best sources of linoleic acid include vegetable oils, seeds, meat and nuts. Grapeseed oil is extracted from seeds, and is a rich source of linoleic acid. In addition to organ health, linoleic acid is necessary for healthy hair growth and sheen. This is precisely why Grapeseed Oil for Hair is a good choice for individuals with hair problems.
Common hair problems and remedies
It is necessary to look at common hair problems and popular remedies to understand the effectiveness of Grapeseed Oil for Hair.
· Lacklustre hair – A large number of individuals grapple with the problem of having lackluster hair. Frizzy locks and split ends are other conditions that impact the appearance and health of hair. Sebum produced in the scalp naturally conditions hair and gives it shine and volume. However, one of the consequences of aging is a reduction in the production of sebum which results in hair losing its primary conditioning quality. By using Grapeseed Oil for Hair it is possible to restore shine and volume as the oil has effective conditioning qualities. Additionally, as it is extracted from seeds, it is relatively light and is therefore easily absorbed in hair without an oily or heavy texture.
· Dandruff – Multiple reasons are attributed to dandruff in hair, and this includes a dry scalp. Treatment for dandruff depends on the reason for the formation of the white flakes on the scalp. Some of the more common reasons include contact dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema and the formation of yeast like fungus. Grapeseed Oil for Hair works by conditioning the scalp naturally without making it too oily. This helps in treating dandruff attributed to dry scalp.
· Hair loss, thinning – Hair loss and thinning is the result of many factors and this includes the presence of DHT, explained in detail above. Grapeseed Oil for Hair is either used alone to tackle hair loss or it can also be used as a blend alongwith other products for treating hairloss. By lowering the levels of DHT, grapeseed oil helps to reduce hair loss, in addition to helping hair follicles grow.
How to choose the best Grapeseed Oil for Hair?
The safety and effectiveness of Grapeseed Oil for Hair entirely depends on the manner in which it is extracted. For instance, grapeseed oil can be either extracted through cold press, expeller pressed or chemical processes. The use of chemical processes or heat for extracting the oil makes it unsafe for use on hair. As a result of the chemical processing, involving the use of hexane, grapeseed oil loses its qualities as a natural conditioning agent. The highlight of grapeseed oil is the rich source of antioxidants. However, when the oil is exposed to heat during extraction, it loses its properties and makes it an ineffective choice. It is therefore necessary to choose grapeseed oil that has been extracted through cold press method. Oil that has been extracted using solvents is not a good choice. Since most commercially available products are extracted through processes involving chemicals, it is important that you check the labels and the source to determine if the oil is safe for use on your hair.