Unlocking hidden secrets in nature has led to discovering unique ingredients in unusual places. Emu oil is one of these hidden gems, a unique substance derived from a flightless Australian bird. Although certain cultures have utilized its potent healing properties for centuries, emu oil is gaining popularity due to its potential hair care benefits.
Can this unique oil for hair be the game-changer you’ve been missing? Let’s explore what you should know about emu oil for hair care, including its composition, benefits, uses, and risks.
Emu Oil Benefits For Hair
If you want to improve your hair health, emu oil could be just what you are looking for. With its moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and nourishing properties, it can help:
- Moisturizes and nourishes hair.
- Enhances hair growth.
- Prevents hair loss.
- Adds shine and improves texture.
- Protects against heat and environmental damage.
- Supports scalp health.
Benefits Of Emu Oil For Hair
Check out these emu oil benefits for hair to see if it may be a valuable addition to your hair routine:
Moisturizes And Nourishes Hair
Emu oil has excellent moisturizing properties that can penetrate the hair shaft, providing hydration and nourishment from within. This helps restore moisture to dry and damaged hair, promoting softness and improving texture.
The oil’s natural antioxidants and vitamins further can contribute to its nourishing effects, protecting the hair from damage. Research suggests that emu oil may help reduce chronic inflammation[1] when applied dermally. However, continued research is needed to elaborate on those claims.
Enhances Hair Growth
Does emu oil grow hair? Emu oil contains essential fatty acids and other nutrients that can stimulate hair growth and promote healthy follicles. This oil’s moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties also help combat dryness and scalp irritation that can hinder hair growth.
Research has found that emu oil possesses unique penetration abilities,[2] helping deliver its beneficial nutrients directly to the roots. This study also suggests that emu oil may be helpful when combined with minoxidil, a medication used for certain types of hair loss, to stimulate hair growth.
Furthermore, massaging the oil into the scalp[3] can stimulate the scalp, leading to fuller, luscious locks.
Prevents Hair Loss
The essential fatty acids and antioxidants in emu oil may help prevent hair loss by nourishing the hair follicles and scalp. While research regarding emu oil and hair loss is limited, studies have shown that deficiencies in fatty acids,[4] such as linoleic acid, may result in the loss of scalp hair. Strong follicles may reduce hair breakage and shedding.[5] Use emu oil or other products for hair regularly to promote thicker, healthier hair.
Adds Shine And Improves Texture
Since palmitic acid[6] makes up a large part of the lipids in hair, replacing this essential amino acid may have a soothing effect on hair cuticles. Emu oil’s high concentration of palmitic acid may help balance the lipid content of hair,[7] resulting in a smoother surface that allows light to reflect more evenly.
Emu oil’s emollient nature works with your skin’s natural skin oils to help soften the hair, making it feel smoother to the touch and improving overall texture. Regular use of emu oil can contribute to vibrant, glossy hair that looks and feels more luxurious.
Protects Against Heat And Environmental Damage
Emu oil may form a protective barrier on hair strands, preventing moisture loss, breakage, and damage caused by external factors like heat-styling tools. Antioxidants can help protect hair[8] against environmental factors like UV radiation and pollution, which can contribute to hair damage and color fading.
Although more studies are needed to investigate emu oil further, its antioxidant content may help protect your hair against the daily stresses that lead to dull, lifeless hair.
Supports Scalp Health
Emu oil’s nourishing properties can also extend to the scalp. The essential amino acids and other beneficial nutrients in emu oil can help support a healthy, nourished scalp. They encourage optimal conditions that allow hair follicles to thrive and grow.
Where Does Emu Oil Come From?
Although emus are primarily raised for meat and hide, their fat is a valuable byproduct. Once an emu is harvested humanely for its meat, the fat is collected, refined, and melted to remove any impurities from the oil.
The oil then goes through molecular distillation or cold-press extraction to filter any remaining solids, ensuring the oil’s purity and quality. The final product is a clear, odorless oil with a pale yellow color.
Because it contains many essential nutrients, emu oil is sought for its potential health benefits[9] and applications. These may include roles in skincare, dietary supplements, and hair care products.
Composition Of Emu Oil
Emu oil’s diverse composition sets it apart from other fats. According to the American Emu Association, emu oil is primarily made up of essential fatty acids like:
- Oleic acid — which can help moisturize and nourish the hair strands, making them softer and more manageable.
- Linoleic acid — an essential omega-6 fatty acid crucial in maintaining healthy hair and stimulating hair growth.[10] It has excellent emollient properties that can help moisturize[11] and nourish the scalp.
- Stearic acid[12]— may provide a lubricating effect, which can enhance the manageability and combability of hair. Stearic acid can help improve the texture and appearance of the hair, making it popular in cosmetics and hair care products.
- Palmitic acid[13] — may help strengthen hair follicles, improve elasticity, and reduce breakage. It may also form a protective barrier on the hair strands to prevent damage from styling.
Hair care products like conditioners, mask treatments, and hair oils with these fatty acids can help nourish and strengthen the hair. They may also enhance shine and improve your hair’s overall appearance and texture.
How To Use Emu Oil On Your Hair
To effectively use emu oil for hair, follow these steps:
- Choose a high-quality emu oil — Choosing an oil that is 100% pure helps to avoid products that contain fillers, additives, or synthetic ingredients. Pure emu oil should have a light, pale yellow color, and a mild, natural scent. Cold-pressed[14] emu oil is often preferred, as it retains the essential nutrients and fatty acids. Also, buy emu oil from a trusted source to ensure the highest quality, as not all emu oils are the same.
- First, clean and towel dry your hair — Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo and conditioner. Then pat dry using a towel, terry cloth, or an old T-shirt until hair is lightly damp.
- Use a small amount of emu oil — Pour a few drops of emu oil into the palm of your hand. Do not use too much, as a little goes a long way.
- Warm the oil — Gently rub your hands together to warm up the oil. This helps it spread easily and penetrate the hair shaft effectively.
- Apply to the damp hair — Starting at the scalp, gently massage the emu oil onto your head. Work the oil from the roots through the hair to the ends. Evenly distribute the oil, but concentrate on the areas that need extra attention.
- Leave it in — Depending on your preference, you can apply the emu oil to your hair as a leave-in treatment or rinse it after a specific amount of time. An emu oil hair mask can be left overnight for an intense conditioning treatment or rinsed after 30 minutes for a lighter treatment.
- Style as desired — Proceed with your regular hairstyling routine after the treatment.
Precautions And Safety
While it is generally safe for use, individuals with sensitive skin or certain allergies may be sensitive to emu oil. Before using it on your hair, perform a patch test. Using a small drop, apply emu oil to an area of the skin, like the inner forearm.
Watch for any signs of irritation. If redness, itching, or swelling occurs, discontinue use immediately and wash the area of the patch test thoroughly with soap and water.
The Bottom Line
Emu oil holds promise as a valuable ingredient for hair care. Its moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and nourishing properties can help address dryness, soothe the scalp, and promote healthier hair.
When choosing an oil, stick with a high-quality, pure emu oil from a trusted source. Always perform a patch test and be mindful of possible allergies or sensitivities. Emu oil can enhance hair health and promote more manageable, nourished strands when used correctly and in moderation.
+ 14 Sources
- Whitehouse, M.J., Turner, A.D., Davis and Mallory (1998). Emu oil(s): A source of non-toxic transdermal anti-inflammatory agents in aboriginal medicine. [online] 6(1), pp.1–8. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s10787-998-0001-9.
- Shatalebi, M.A. and Rafiei, Y. (2014). Preparation and evaluation of minoxidil foamable emu oil emulsion. Research in pharmaceutical sciences, [online] 9(2), pp.123–33. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4311290/.
- Koyama, T., Kobayashi, K., Hama, T., Murakami, K. and Ogawa, R. (2016). Standardized Scalp Massage Results in Increased Hair Thickness by Inducing Stretching Forces to Dermal Papilla Cells in the Subcutaneous Tissue. Eplasty, [online] 16, p.e8. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4740347/.
- Guo, E.L. and Katta, R. (2017). Diet and hair loss: effects of nutrient deficiency and supplement use. [online] pp.1–10. doi:https://doi.org/10.5826/dpc.0701a01.
- Davis, M., Piliang, M., Bergfeld, W.F., Caterino, T.L., Fisher, B.T., Sacha, J.B., Carr, G.J., Moulton, L.T., Whittenbarger, D.J. and Schwartz, J.H. (2021). Scalp application of antioxidants improves scalp condition and reduces hair shedding in a 24-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. [online] doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/ics.12734.
- 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.
- Marsh (2018). Role of Internal Lipids in Hair Health. Journal of cosmetic science, [online] 69(5). Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30767883/#:~:text=Saturated%20and%20unsaturated%20fatty%20acids,feel%2C%20manageability%2C%20and%20strength.
- Meinert (2015). Influence of antioxidants on the sun protection properties of hair care products. Journal of cosmetic science, [online] 55 Suppl. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15645086/.
- Manish Kumar Jeengar, P. Senthil Kumar, Dinesh Thummuri, Shrivastava, S., Lalita Guntuku, Ramakrishna Sistla and Ganga, V. (2015). Review on emu products for use as complementary and alternative medicine. [online] 31(1), pp.21–27. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nut.2014.04.004.
- Hwa Jung Ryu, Jeong, J.-Y., Chun Geun Lee, Lee, K.-S., Jung Pyo Lee, Sung Sup Park and Lee, Y.-M. (2021). Activation of Hair Cell Growth Factors by Linoleic Acid in Malva verticillata Seed. [online] 26(8), pp.2117–2117. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26082117.
- Saman Ahmad Nasrollahi, Azin Ayatollahi, Taraneh Yazdanparast, Samadi, A., Hosseini, H., Mansour Shamsipour, Amir Akhlaghi, Somayeh Yadangi, Abels, C. and Alireza Firooz (2018). Comparison of linoleic acid-containing water-in-oil emulsion with urea-containing water-in-oil emulsion in the treatment of atopic dermatitis: a randomized clinical trial. [online] Volume 11, pp.21–28. doi:https://doi.org/10.2147/ccid.s145561.
- PubChem (2023). Stearic Acid. [online] @pubchem. Available at: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Stearic-acid#section=Consumer-Uses.
- 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/?.
- Durazzo, A., Mohamed Fawzy Ramadan and Lucarini, M. (2022). Editorial: Cold Pressed Oils: A Green Source of Specialty Oils. [online] 8. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2021.836651.