The Curly Girl Chronicles: DIY Hot Oil Treatment For Natural Hair

If you're a natural, you'll know how bad the cold weather is on our hair. I'm not the biggest fan of protective styles, so keeping my hair moisturized is a struggle. My favorite way of keeping moisture in is a weekly hot oil treatment. I use oils that I already have in the house and apply this before my shampooing routine. All of these oils penetrate the hair and I can tell the difference in texture when I skip this step in my routine.

The Oils

Avocado oil contains vitamin A, B, and E and are rich in fatty acids and proteins. These are essential to hair growth.
Olive oil promotes scalp health due to the high vitamin E content. It leaves your hair so shiny and is so rich in Omega 3s and Vitamin E.
Jojoba oil is the best for excessive dry scalp and dandruff. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins E and B, this light oil helps to increase blood flow to the scalp and absorbs quickly.
Castor oil thickens hair, reduces frizz. You can use Jamaican Black Castor if you don't have the regular oil.
Coconut oil helps prevent split ends and improves elasticity. It's also antibacterial and antifungal.
Sweet Almond Oil rich in Vitamin E, proteins, potassium and zinc.

*If you are allergic to latex or pollen, speak to a doctor before using this treatment.

The Assembly

Assembly is really easy. I usually add an equal amount of all oils adding a little more olive oil since it's the most affordable of all products. The amount of products all depend your hair length.I didn't use all of the oil. For my shoulder length hair,

1. Fill an 8 oz applicator bottle with 1 oz of avocado, jojoba, castor, and coconut oil, and 3 oz of olive oil. 
2. Heat the oils in hot water for 5 minutes until the oils are warm. The coconut oil should be in liquid form. The oil shouldn't be hot. If so, let cool until warm to the touch.

The Application

1. Separate your hair into four sections. This will help with detangling and easier application. (Optional: Spray each section with warm water until slightly damp.) 
2. Generously apply the oil mixture from scalp to ends. 
3. Gently massage oil into the hair focusing on the scalp and ends. 
4. Apply a shower cap over your entire head and a towel to keep in the heat. 
5. Let sit for 30 minutes. 
6. Detangle, rinse with warm water and shampoo as normal. 

Your hair should left soft and very shiny. If you feel your hair is too greasy, you can rinse with apple cider vinegar or shampoo again. I don't mind the extra oil, but it's not for everyone.