DIY Honey Hair Masks-Part 1

Honey has been used to treat various conditions since the ancient times. The natural antibacterial properties of honey has been discovered around 19th century [1].  Honey also has natural anti-inflammatory qualities. Did you know not all honey are the same and their potency vary depending on where it comes from? [2] For instance, Manuka honey from New Zealand is one of the most potent kind of honey compared to others. Interesting, isn’t it?

Honey has high levels of enriching minerals (magnesium, potassium, calcium, sulphur, iron, zinc), anti-oxidants, proteins and vitamins like B1, B2, B3 that is good for hair. Honey also has antioxidant flavonoids with antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antiallergic activities [3]. Honey is a great emollient and humectant. It attracts and holds moisture, which would make hair softer and shinier.

So if you are looking for a quick and cheaper alternative in the middle of the night to calm down your frizzy hair, you can try honey!

Here are some DIY wonders for your hair using honey:

Olive and Honey Hair Mask

Olive oil is packed with antioxidants, A and E vitamins that will help moisturize and condition your hair.

What you will need:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup honey
• warm, damp towel

Mix honey and olive oil. Distribute on your hair. Wrap your hair with a warm towel. Let it sit for 30 minutes.  Rinse and wash.

Coconut, Avocado and Honey Hair Mask

Coconut oil, especially Monoi de Tahiti oil is great for restoring shine and softness  to hair. Coconut oil has been shown to have high affinity for hair proteins and penetrate deep into hair shaft, thus preventing the hair damage [4]. Coconut oil will freeze at low temperatures so warm it a litle before use. Avocado contains Vitamins A, D and E and plant oils. Avocado is perfect for hydrating and reviving dull hair.

What you will need:

• 1/4 cup coconut oil or Monoi de Tahiti oil
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 mashed avocado
• warm, damp towel

Mix honey and coconut oil. Puree the avocado completely. Add mashed avocado to coconut oil/ honey and mix thoroughly.   Apply evenly on your hair. Wrap your hair with a warm towel. Let it sit for 30 minutes.  Rinse and wash with a moisturizing shampoo. This mask is good for dry and damaged hair.

Interesting fact: Honey mixed with water releases a natural peroxide [4], which could lighten your hair . This is for another post. :)

We will continue with more DIY Honey Hair care recipes next week!

Any ideas? How do you do your Honey Hair care masks?

:)

References

1. Antibacterial components of honey.Kwakman PH, Zaat SA.IUBMB Life. 2012 Jan;64(1):48-55. doi: 10.1002/iub.578. Epub 2011 Nov 17.Link

2.Chemical composition, characterization, and differentiation of honey botanical and geographical origins. Wang J, Li QX. Adv Food Nutr Res. 2011;62:89-137. Link

3. Functional properties of honey, propolis, and royal jelly. Viuda-Martos M, Ruiz-Navajas Y, Fernández-López J, Pérez-Alvarez JA. J Food Sci. 2008 Nov;73(9):R117-24 Link

4. Effect of mineral oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil on prevention of hair damage.Rele AS, Mohile RB. J Cosmet Sci. 2003 Mar-Apr;54(2):175-92. Link

4. Re-examining the role of hydrogen peroxide in bacteriostatic and bactericidal activities of honey. Brudzynski K, Abubaker K, St-Laurent M, Castle A. Front Microbiol. 2011;2:213 Link