Moringa Oil for Hair: Benefits and How to Use It

There’s no debating that moisturizing oils are an important pillar of any hair (or skin) routine. You’ve likely heard all about jojoba, argan, and perhaps even pracaxi oil, but what about moringa oil? Dermatologist Lucy Chen tells us that the "pretty dense, rich, fatty oil with a very soft peanut, earthy scent" has become a hot new commodity for those seeking out natural hair care ingredients. But given all of the hair oils out there, we can't help but wonder what makes moringa deserving of our attention—and a place in our hair care regimen. So to get all the facts, we consulted Chen as well as dermatologist Purvisha Patel and trichologist Shab Reslan.

Keep reading to find out the benefits of moringa oil for hair.

Benefits of Moringa Oil for Hair

Moringa oil is chock full of the good stuff; meaning: fatty acids, nutrients, and antioxidants. “Because of its almost never-ending list of benefits for the hair, skin, and body, moringa oil is a popular ingredient in cosmetics and dermatology,” says Chen. Here's what it can do for you:

• Stimulates a healthy scalp: "Moringa oil’s standout property is its concentration of monounsaturated fats made up mostly of oleic acid. This type of fatty acid is excellent for cleansing the scalp while protecting its moisture levels," explains Reslan. Meanwhile, its anti-inflammatory properties help with scalp scaling, adds Patel.
• May promote hair growth: “It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which locks in moisture and also promotes hair growth," Chen tells us.
• Strengthens hair: "The high protein content [of moringa oil] can also help restructure your hair and strengthen it," says Reslan. “It has zinc that helps with keratin production, and this can help strengthen hair," continues Patel.
• Improves shine and elasticity: Moringa oil can revitalize dull, brittle strands. “It is also a natural conditioner for shiny and bouncy hair thanks to having one of the highest naturally occurring behenic acid levels, a common ingredient in conditioners,” says Chen. 
• Hydrates and protects: According to Patel, moringa oil acts as a protectant and moisturizer for hair. Chen adds that it does so by protecting strands against sun damage and color depletion. 
• Reverses damage: "The seeds of a moringa tree are also packed with amino acids, which can help repair split ends,” notes Chen.

Hair Type Considerations

While any hair type can benefit from moringa oil, those with dry and/or damaged strands will reap the most rewards. It’s also a great option for those with color-treated tresses. And in case you've got sensitive skin—scalp included—that shouldn't deter you from trying this natural oil. In fact, “Moringa oil is generally not an irritating oil, and due to its anti-inflammatory properties, helps inflamed skin,” explains Patel. Moringa oil actually mimics the natural oils our bodies produce, which makes irritation pretty unlikely to occur, adds Chen. However, to be safe, she recommends performing a patch test first.

How to Use Moringa Oil for Hair 

Thanks to moringa oil's deep conditioning benefits, it can be incorporated into your routine as a treatment for both hair and scalp. Just keep in mind: "As with most oils, moringa oil can be difficult to rinse out if left on or reapplied on the hair and scalp for an extended period of time," says Reslan. She advises using it alongside a weekly cleansing shampoo since that will help to prevent any excess build-up that can clog your scalp and your hair. The best part? After using moringa oil, you can begin to see results immediately, she tells us.

• Try as a scalp treatment: Not only do scalp massages feel good, but as it turns out, they're also good for you. "[Moringa oil] can be used for a scalp massage to fight against dandruff or dry, flaky scalp," comments Chen. Patel agrees: “Moringa oil works well when massaged into the scalp. It has anti-inflammatory properties to help with scalp scaling and moisturizes well."
• Use with a weekly cleansing shampoo: "The most effective method of using moringa oil is to clarify your hair and scalp with a deep cleansing shampoo, towel dry your hair really well but gently, apply your oil and allow to penetrate for you a maximum of 20 minutes before you hop back in the shower and proceed with your daily shampoo and conditioner," says Reslan.