Exotic/Natural Hair Ingredients: What’s it all about?

Everywhere we look new products tout some new tropical oil, fruit, or veggie that’s guaranteed to make our hair 100% better. Well, what’s really up with all these “nature’s finest” products? What does it mean when new see things like pearl extract, oyster shells, green tea, algae, kelp, papaya, sugar cane, babbassou or Abyssinian oils? What do we know about these products and what is the true significance of them on our hair? Many of today’s products contain a blend of natural oils, exotic extracts, and hydrating humectants needed to create healthy supple hair. Let’s look at few and try to decipher their special purposes in hair care:

• Aloe Vera - Vitamin rich moisturizer (B1, B2, B6, C, Choline, + 18 amino acids)
• Green Tea Extract – Soothes and moisturizes dry hair and scalp.
• Calendula Extract - Increases hair shaft elasticity and flexibility to prevent breakage. Penetrates the core of the hair shaft to help restore keratin levels.
• Chamomile - Strengthens hair, adds sheen.
• Coconut Oil -Rehydrates hair, and restores shine and bounce.Also offers protection from sun damage.
• Soy Protein – Reinforces and strengthens hair. Stimulates hair growth.
• Coconut Milk - Natural curl moisturizer that softens, moisturizes and defrizzes hair.
• Mango & Shea Butter - Ultra rich emollients that provide intense conditioning from cortex to cuticle.
• Avocado Oil - A natural moisturizer is an excellent conditioning oil and contains large amounts of vitamins A, D, & E. The purest oil provided by mother nature! Naturally protects hair from ultraviolet rays.
• Kukui Nut Oil - An emollient obtained from the Hawaiian kukui nut. Helps deter moisture loss.
• Algae Extract -Rich in minerals, and very moisturizing.
• Lecithin - helps maximize hair growth and strength.
• Oyster Shells & Pearl Extract – Used for their mild protein. Strengthen the hair, while increasing elasticity and porosity.

Our list only gives you a peak at the ever expanding list of natural and exotic ingredients found in many commercial and all-natural products today. So don’t be uninformed! Know your hair products and what they offer for your hair. Happy growing!