Bulky synthetic polymer products or frizz fighting serums are perfect for people who have problems with frizz control or wish to improve their natural curls. This age-old crop, treasured for its nutrition and medicinal value has found its way into the hair care market.
Hair girls… Flaxseed has been mostly known for its use in the diet, thanks to its properties it can be put in almost every beauty routine. It contains all the right ingredients – protein, omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins, antioxidants making it great for enhancing the hair. Before venturing into flaxseed gel recipes for lustrous hair, let’s get to know what flaxseed gel is.
Understanding flaxseed gel
Flaxseed, an annual plant renowned for its fiber and seeds, has a storied history dating back to ancient Egypt, where it was first utilized for various purposes, including textiles and medicinal uses. To reap the hair-enhancing benefits of flaxseed, one must create flaxseed gel, a thick, gelatinous substance derived from cooking or processing the seeds to extract their natural oils.
While both flaxseed gel and flaxseed oil offer similar advantages for hair, their consistencies differ. Flaxseed oil is typically available in grocery and health food stores and is commonly used for cooking and natural remedies.
Advantages of flaxseed gel for hair health
According to Celeste Arnold, a senior stylist and owner of Celeste Arnold Hair and Makeup, flaxseed gel can significantly enhance hair growth by nourishing hair follicles. The vitamin E in flaxseed aids in scalp nutrition and combats free radical damage.
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Flaxseed gel benefits for various hair types
- Curly Hair: Arnold notes that flaxseed gel excels at forming defined curl clumps, reducing frizz, and enhancing curl definition without hardening.
- Straight Hair: Those with straight hair can also benefit, as the gel helps maintain smoothness and hydration.
- 4C Hair: The gel serves as an excellent moisturizer and promotes growth for individuals with tightly coiled hair.
- Locs: With its hydrating properties, flaxseed gel softens locs and may improve manageability.
- Dry or Damaged Hair: Rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, flaxseed gel nourishes and moisturizes damaged locks.
Preparation and application
Before applying flaxseed gel, ensure hair is thoroughly washed and conditioned. The gel can be used as a hair mask, left on for up to 15 minutes before rinsing, or as a pre-conditioning rinse post-shampoo.
Flaxseed gel recipes
Preparing flaxseed gel at home is quite easy. Below are some popular recipes:
Basic Flaxseed Gel:
- Ingredients: 4 tbsp whole flaxseeds, 2 cups water.
- Instructions: Simmer flaxseeds in water until a gel-like consistency forms, strain, and store in the fridge.
Flaxseed Gel with Aloe Vera:
- Ingredients: 1/3 cup flaxseeds, 2 cups water, 1/4 cup aloe vera gel (optional).
- Instructions: Boil flaxseeds in water, strain, and mix with aloe vera if desired.
Flaxseed Gel for Locs:
- Ingredients: 1 cup water, 1/8 cup brown flaxseeds.
- Instructions: Boil water, add flaxseeds, and strain into a jar once a gel consistency is achieved.
How to Store Flaxseed Gel?
Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Can You Eat Flaxseed Gel?
It is advised not to consume raw flaxseed. Ground flaxseed can be ingested but should be avoided during pregnancy.
Pro Tips for Optimal Use
- Discard any rancid flaxseeds or gel.
- Use flaxseed gel sparingly to avoid flaking.
- For low porosity hair, avoid heavy oils in the gel to prevent weighing down the hair.
Flaxseed gel stands out as an affordable and natural alternative for maintaining healthy hair, catering to various hair types and concerns.
