If your hair has seen better days, a deep conditioning hair masque may be in order. One inexpensive treatment, hot oil conditioning, can be done at home with a few materials, or you can purchase a kit at your favorite retail store. If you have never done a hot oil conditioning treatment, here is what you need to know:
Olive oil is not only useful in the kitchen, but it makes a nourishing and conditioning hair treatment. A variety of other oils, such as avocado or almond, may also be used as a deep conditioning treatment on your hair, depending on your preferences. If you want a subtle fragrance in your hair, almond oil is an ideal choice, as olive oil offers a stronger, nuttier fragrance. Each of these oils can be found down the oil aisle of any grocery or natural health food store.
Pour between ¼ and 1 cup of oil, depending on the length of the hair, into a microwave-safe bowl and heat up for approximately 45 seconds. It is very important not to heat the oil too much, or else you will burn your scalp as you apply to the hair. Warming up the oil is essential in a deep conditioning treatment, as it will open the hair cuticles to promote nourishment and absorb into parched, damaged ends.
After shampooing and conditioning hair, towel dry so the hair does not have any excess water and begin applying the warm oil to the hair, working from the scalp down to the ends. For those with thick hair, apply the oil over the entire head and for those with fine hair, just moisturize the ends so the oil does not weigh the hair down.
Wrap the hair into a loose bun, or just finger comb back away from the face if you have short hair. Cover the hair in a shower cap, or you can use plastic wrap or bag in a pinch. If you purchase a kit such as the VO5 Hot Oil Moisturizing Treatment, there is often a plastic hair wrap included with the product. Wrap a towel around the plastic cap to keep the warmth from the oil within the cap for extra conditioning.
Allow the oil to soak into the hair for about 20 minutes, and then shampoo and condition the hair once more with your favorite product. If you have dry hair, look for a nourishing product such as Tresemme Moisture Rich Shampoo and Conditioner.
Complete a deep conditioning treatment weekly to maintain shiny, healthy hair.