Blue Magic, Ultra Sheen, Murray’s, Royal Crown, Luster’s Pink Oil Moisturizer - so many of us have used these and other hair care products for generations. These "old school" products have been our "go-to" hair grease since hot combs in the kitchen on a summer Sunday morning. But are these petroleum-based products actually good for our hair, scalp, and skin?
Petroleum-based hair products are made from petroleum jelly, a thick, oily substance that is often used as a moisturizer. Petroleum is also processed to make gasoline, kerosene, jet fuel, diesel oil, asphalt, and other industrial products. Petroleum-based hair products can be beneficial for natural black hair in some ways, but they also have some significant potential drawbacks to be aware of. Here are some pros and cons of petroleum-based hair products:
Benefits of Petroleum-Based Hair Products
Moisturizes hair: Petroleum jelly can help to seal in moisture and prevent hair from drying out. This can be especially beneficial for natural black hair, which is more prone to dryness than other hair types.
Protects hair from damage: Petroleum jelly can create a barrier around the hair shaft, which can help to protect it from damage from heat, styling tools, and environmental factors.
Makes hair smooth: Petroleum jelly can help to smooth the hair cuticle, which can make hair look shinier and healthier.
Control frizz: Petroleum jelly can help to control frizz by weighing down the hair. This can be helpful for people with curly or tightly coiled hair.
Disadvantages of Petroleum-Based Hair Products
Can weigh down hair: Petroleum jelly is a heavy product, so it can weigh down hair and make it look greasy. This is especially true for people with fine or thin hair.
Can clog hair follicles: Petroleum jelly can clog hair follicles, which can lead to dandruff, acne, and other scalp problems.
Can be difficult to wash out: Petroleum jelly can be difficult to wash out of hair, which can lead to buildup and make hair look dirty.
Not natural: Petroleum-based hair products are not natural, so some people may prefer to avoid them.
If you do decide to use petroleum-based hair products, it is important to use them sparingly and to wash them out of your hair thoroughly. You should also avoid using these products if you have fine or thin hair, or if you have any scalp problems.
Natural Alternatives
Natural hair care products are more accessible than ever before, and they have fewer, if any, harmful effects than petroleum-based products. Here are some natural alternatives to petroleum-based hair products to consider:
Shea butter: Shea butter is a natural moisturizer that can help to hydrate and protect hair.
Coconut oil: Coconut oil is another natural moisturizer that can help to keep hair healthy and shiny.
Avocado oil: Avocado oil is a rich source of vitamins and minerals that can help to nourish hair.
Argan oil: Argan oil is a Moroccan oil that is known for its moisturizing and conditioning properties.
Jojoba oil: Jojoba oil is a natural oil that is similar to the sebum produced by the scalp. This makes it a good choice for people with oily hair.
These natural alternatives can be just as effective as petroleum-based hair products, and they are less likely to cause damage to your hair or scalp.
Making The Right Choice For You
Whether or not to use petroleum-based hair products on natural black hair is a personal decision. There are some potential benefits to using these products, but there are also some potential drawbacks. Talk to a hair professional about what styling product is best for you!
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