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Macadamia Oil For Hair 2024: Benefits, Risks & How To Use
Updated on
- Written by Cindy Scott, Health Writer
Medically reviewed by
Jennifer Olejarz, Nutritionist & Health Coach
Macadamia oil is a versatile natural hair care ingredient used for centuries to promote healthy hair growth and improve hair texture. Extracted from macadamia nuts, macadamia oil is rich in vital nutrients that benefit hair in numerous ways.
In recent years, macadamia oil has gained popularity in the beauty industry as a go-to ingredient for nourishing and rejuvenating hair, improving scalp health, and reducing frizz and breakage. Let’s explore tips for hair growth and how to use macadamia oil for hair to help achieve healthy, luscious locks.
9 Benefits Of Macadamia Oil For Hair Growth
Natural oils, such as macadamia oil, are excellent for hair. It’s packed with nourishing fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants that help us with:
- Deeply Conditions Hair
- Strengthens Hair And Improves Elasticity
- Controls Frizz
- Protects Hair From Heat
- Improves Scalp Health
- Adds Shine
- Provides UV Protection
- Repairs Split Ends
- Boosts Nutrients
Benefits Of Macadamia Oil For Hair
Macadamia oil is a luxurious oil renowned for a myriad of advantages that maintain luscious, vibrant locks right down to its roots! Here are some advantages of using this natural nut oil for hair:
Deeply Conditions Hair
Macadamia oil’s high concentration of fatty acids,[1] mainly monounsaturated fatty acids like oleic acid, allows it to penetrate the skin[2] deeply. Linoleic acid,[3] also present in macadamia oil, may keep the scalp and hair properly moisturized.
This deep penetration provides intense moisturization and nourishment to damaged and dry hair, particularly when used in hair masks. Mix macadamia oil with aloe vera and honey for a deep-conditioning DIY hair mask. Leave it on for 30 minutes for softer, more manageable hair that’s less prone to breakage.
Strengthens Hair And Improves Elasticity
Palmitic acid,[4] a product in macadamia oil,[5] is a natural component of healthy hair sebum. When applied to the hair, this acid helps strengthen the hair follicles and improves hair elasticity.
Stronger hair follicles are less prone to breakage, while improved elasticity allows the hair to withstand stretching and styling without sustaining damage. Regular use of macadamia oil promotes healthier, more resilient hair.
Controls Frizz
Palmitic acid also plays a crucial role in taming frizz[6] and reducing flyaways by replenishing, sealing, and deep conditioning the hair cuticle. Macadamia oil helps to smooth down the hair strands, preventing them from becoming unruly and creating frizz.
Consider adding macadamia oil with aloe vera and one drop of chamomile oil for a nourishing intensive hair mask. Leave the mask on for 30 minutes before rinsing to enjoy smoother hair that appears polished and well-groomed.
Protects Hair From Heat
Macadamia oil is often used in heat protectant sprays to help minimize the damage caused by high temperatures. Apply a product containing macadamia oil before using straighteners, curling irons, or blow dryers, to create a protective barrier on the hair, reducing the risk of heat-related hair damage, such as dryness, brittleness, and split ends.
Improves Scalp Health
Macadamia oil is a natural treatment with soothing properties that help maintain a healthy scalp. Many claim this emollient[7] rich in essential fatty acids, calms itchiness and irritation on the scalp, relieving dryness or dandruff. Massaging a few drops of macadamia oil into the scalp can stimulate blood circulation, promoting a healthier scalp[8] environment and stimulating hair growth.
Adds Shine
The lightweight texture and numerous fatty acids in macadamia oil make it an excellent choice to add shine to your hair.[9] Unlike heavier oils that may weigh the hair down, macadamia oil absorbs quickly into the strands,[10] leaving them with a natural, glossy sheen.
By reflecting light off the smooth hair surface, macadamia oil creates the illusion of lustrous, radiant locks, adding an attractive dimension to the overall appearance of the hair.
Provides UV Protection
When exposed to sunlight, hair can experience color fading and damage, resulting in dullness and brittleness. Fortunately, macadamia oil has natural sunscreen properties[11] that may help protect hair from harmful ultraviolet rays. Applying it may block, reduce color changes and protect hair from UV-induced damage. As a result, hair remains vibrant and healthier over time.
Repairs Split Ends
Regular use of macadamia nut oil for hair moisturizes and nourishes the hair shaft to reduce the appearance of split ends, resulting in smoother and less damaged ends.
Packed with essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, this oil hydrates hair to strengthen damaged strands. It can help seal split ends temporarily, minimizing their visibility.
Boosts Nutrients
Macadamia oil is a rich source of essential nutrients that contribute to the overall health of the hair. Vitamin E[12] nourishes hair follicles, stimulating hair growth. Minerals such as calcium, iron, and phosphorus[13] help to strengthen the hair shaft and improve resilience.
Macadamia oil provides these vital nutrients and promotes the development of more vibrant, stronger hair.
What Is Macadamia Oil?
Macadamia oil is a popular natural ingredient in hair care products, valued for its moisturizing and nourishing properties. It’s derived from the nuts of the Australian native macadamia tree. This rich golden oil is loaded with fatty acids and antioxidants.
When applied to hair, macadamia nut oil helps to hydrate and soften strands while protecting against damage from environmental stressors and styling tools. It benefits dry, damaged, or frizzy hair by improving texture, reducing breakage, and increasing hair shine. Overall, macadamia oil hair care offers a range of benefits for healthy and beautiful hair — let’s dive into them now.
How To Use Macadamia Nut Oil For Hair Growth
When using macadamia oil, follow these tips for hair growth:
- Choose high-quality macadamia oil — stick with a high-quality, cold-pressed macadamia oil from organic macadamia nuts.
- First, wash and towel dry your hair — hair should be damp and clean before applying the oil.
- Gently massage the oil into your scalp — warm a small amount of macadamia between your palms, then use your fingertips to focus on areas you desire hair growth.
- Comb through hair — using a wide-toothed comb or your fingers, ensure the oil is evenly distributed on your scalp and along the length of your hair.
- Cover your hair — use a shower cap or towel to create a warm, moist environment to aid absorption.
- Leave on for at least 30 minutes — allow the oil to penetrate the scalp and deeply nourish the hair follicles.
- Rinse and wash hair — use mild shampoo and conditioner to remove residue after a mask treatment.
- Repeat weekly — consistency is key, so make macadamia oil a part of your regular hair care routine to promote growth for optimal results.
Any Risks When Using Macadamia Oil On Hair?
While macadamia nut oil is generally safe, a few potential risks are associated with its usage:
- Allergy symptoms — while less common, some individuals may develop allergic reactions after ingesting macadamia nuts. If you have a known allergy to macadamia nuts, performing a patch test before using its oil on your hair is essential to check for any adverse reactions.
- Greasiness — this oil is rich in fatty acids, which can make it heavier than other oils. Too much oil or improper rinsing can lead to a greasy appearance and oily hair.
- Scalp irritation — macadamia oil may cause scalp irritation or itching in rare cases. If discomfort or adverse reactions occur, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.
Before using any new products or hair supplements, including macadamia nut oil, it’s important to perform a patch test on the scalp and hair to ensure no adverse reactions occur. If you have pre-existing skin conditions, consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional before incorporating macadamia oil into your routine.
The Takeaway
Incorporating macadamia oil into your hair care routine can offer many benefits. Macadamia oil moisturizes and strengthens your hair while promoting growth and reducing hair loss.
As with any hair product, there are potential risks of allergies or irritation with macadamia nut oil products. Take particular caution if you have a tree nut allergy.
By following the proper steps and selecting a high-quality oil, you can enjoy the benefits of macadamia oil for healthy, beautiful hair. With consistent use, you can enjoy healthier, luscious locks with the help of this natural and versatile oil.
+ 13 sources
Health Canal avoids using tertiary references. We have strict sourcing guidelines and rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic researches from medical associations and institutions. To ensure the accuracy of articles in Health Canal, you can read more about the editorial process here
- Edson, Loreana Sanches Silveira, Laureane Nunes Masi, Amanda Rabello Crisma, Mariana Rodrigues Davanso, Souza, G., Aline Boveto Santamarina, Renata Guimarães Moreira, Amanda Posselt Martins, Luís de Sousa, Hirabara, S.M. and José Dantas Neto (2014). Macadamia Oil Supplementation Attenuates Inflammation and Adipocyte Hypertrophy in Obese Mice. [online] 2014, pp.1–9. doi:https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/870634.
- Kumar, P., Singh, S., Handa, V. and Kathuria, H. (2018). Oleic Acid Nanovesicles of Minoxidil for Enhanced Follicular Delivery. [online] 5(3), pp.103–103. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/medicines5030103.
- Schandra Purnamawati, Niken Indrastuti, Retno Danarti and Tatan Saefudin (2017). The Role of Moisturizers in Addressing Various Kinds of Dermatitis: A Review. [online] 15(3-4), pp.75–87. doi:https://doi.org/10.3121/cmr.2017.1363.
- Del Campo, R., Zhang, Y. and Wakeford, C. (2017). Effect of Miracle Fruit (Synsepalum dulcificum) Seed Oil (MFSO®) on the Measurable Improvement of Hair Breakage in Women with Damaged Hair: A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled, Eight-month Trial. The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology, [online] 10(11), pp.39–48. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5774910/
- Tu, X.-L., Wu, B., Xie, Y., Yang, H., Wu, Z., Xin Lv, Wei, F., Du, L. and Chen, H. (2021). A comprehensive study of raw and roasted macadamia nuts: Lipid profile, physicochemical, nutritional, and sensory properties. [online] 9(3), pp.1688–1697. doi:https://doi.org/10.1002/fsn3.2143.
- Song, S.-H., Jong Sung Lim, Son, S., Choi, J.T., Kang, N.-G. and Sang Yup Lee (2019). Prevention of lipid loss from hair by surface and internal modification. [online] 9(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-019-46370-x.
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- Tengku Ismanelly Hanum, Laila, L., Sumaiyah Sumaiyah and Syahrina, E. (2019). Macadamia Nuts Oil in Nanocream and Conventional Cream as Skin Anti-Aging: A Comparative Study. [online] 7(22), pp.3917–3920. doi:https://doi.org/10.3889/oamjms.2019.533.
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Written by:
Cindy Scott, Health Writer
Medically reviewed by:
Medically reviewed by:
