Beeswax for Hair Care
If you are looking for a new ally in hair care you should consider beeswax. Known for its ability to tame frizz, lock in moisture, and provide lasting hold for styles like braids and twists – beeswax and hair have a close connection. Of course, you have to know how to use it. In this article, you will learn the proper ways to use beeswax, some of the benefits and a few drawbacks.
Personally, I don’t do a lot of hair styling. But, I have heard from numerous people who consider hair care to be one of the top uses for beeswax. It is especially useful for curly or braided hair styles.
Beeswax: Nature’s Gift to Hair
Where does this wonderful substance come from? Honey bees make beeswax using special glands on their abdomen.
Bees use the wax to used to build sheets of honeycomb with thousands of hexagonal wax cells. This is their home where they store food and rear young. Beekeepers are able to harvest some excess beeswax from the hive.
Natural Qualities
Beeswax has antibacterial and antioxidant properties and it is noncomedogenic – it doesn’t clog pores. Yet, it acts as a sealant providing a protective barrier.
This combination of natural properties provides hold, protection, and moisture retention. Wax also contains Vitamin A -a natural moisturizer for hair and skin care. This is also why it is used in healing salves – try it – make some Calendula Salve.
Unlike water-based products, beeswax has a lot of lasting power and continues to work well even in challenging weather conditions.
Benefits of Beeswax for Hair
- locks in moisture
- protects hair from harsh chemicals
- smooths flyway’s or frizz
- may help promote hair growth
The ability to lock in existing moisture is why beeswax is good for skin and hair both. It also forms a protective shield that helps protect hair from environmental chemicals and dirt.
Many stylists use waxy styling products like hair pomades. You may be surprised to know that beeswax is a common ingredient in these products.
While you only need to use a small amount of beeswax on your hair, you can adjust the amount a bit. The amount of hold needed can be changed by increasing or decreasing the amount of beeswax.
One of the biggest reasons to add some beeswax to your hair is its ability to smooth flyaways. This is often caused by dryness. A little wax – a natural humectant – helps lock in moisture that prevents unruly locks.
At any rate, it is a non-toxic and chemical free alternative to synthetic products that you may be using now.
Hair Growth Debate
Some users believe that using beeswax on their hair actually helps hair grow. There is no scientific evidence to firmly support this claim.
However, due to the moisturizing effect – it is possible that beeswax helps reduce hair breakage and damage. This creates an environment where healthy hair can thrive and appear longer over time.
Hair Types that Work Best
As great as it is, beeswax is not the best choice for all types of hair. Thin fine hair may be weighted down by the application of a wax product.
For normal hair types, keep moderation in mind Like many things, too much of it can lead to problems. Sticky reside can occur if you apply to much of any wax product.
We usually want to keep our hair in place but not make it feel weighed down and sticky. You can avoid waxy buildup by using just the right amount.
Beeswax hair care products can help tame curly, kinky or textured strands. A little goes a long way and you should not need to use it more than a couple of times a week.
How to Use Beeswax for Hair
For basic application, remember – a little goes a long way. Don’t over do it. You can even apply a little wax with your hands – but you can create some homemade products too.
- apply alone on with carrier oil
- buy a commercial product
- use on dread locks
- create a beard balm for facial hair
Hand Application
You can make your own wax solution by mixing beeswax with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or jojoba oil.
Simply melt the wax and add a small amount of oil – let cool and test firmness. You may need to experiment a bit to get the right consistency.
Others choose to simply warm a small bar of wax and rub it on damp strands. You really only want to apply a very small amount. Do not use it every day – a few times a week is usually sufficient for most people.
Commercial Blends
Commercial styling blends are available to purchase. Always check the label to make sure your are pleased with the listed ingredients.
These may say beeswax on the label but they have other ingredients mixed in to make application easier.
Dreadlocks : Braiding and Twisting
The sticky properties of warm beeswax make it a good product to use when starting dreadlocks.
It will help hold them in place in the beginning while you are just starting to train them. It also helps seal them together.
Section your hair as desired, apply warm (not melted) beeswax to the hair and roll between your palms. Use a small amount-but continue to do this until your dreadlocks are staying in place.
Depending on the type of hair you have, beeswax can be an excellent partner for hair twisting and braiding of all styles. It is a gentle substance and is not damaging to hair-even if it is a bit damaged.
Make Your Own Beard Balm
Many men enjoy making their own beard balm to condition facial hair. A simple recipe includes beeswax with some nourishing oils or butters. This make application easy and provides good moisturizing.
You can start with: 2 parts beeswax – 1 part (shea butter or cocoa butter) – 4 parts carrier oil (jojoba or almond oil). For there experiment with the recipe until you get the blend you like.
It can be used unscented or you may choose to add a few drops of your favorite essential oil.
Risks
There are numerous benefits of using beeswax for hair care but you must consider a few precautions too.
It can be quite heavy and leave a reside-if applied to heavily. Always apply lightly and with moderation until you learn how your hair responds.
Also, some people experience allergies to bee products. There are individuals who are even allergic to honey (that’s so sad). So before you apply beeswax all over your scalp, conduct a small patch test first.
How to Remove Beeswax from Hair
Though it can make styling easier, you can end up with more wax on your tresses than you desire. Regular shampoo will not remove the wax. In fact, it can be challenging to remove beeswax from surfaces.
But, for your hair – the wax can be washed out without a lot of trouble. Use a strong clarifying shampoo or even liquid dishwashing soap and foam into the head. You may need to repeat several times and then rinse well.
As an alternative, a bit of warm olive oil can be massaged in. Let soak a couple of minutes and then wash with dishwashing liquid and rinse. Follow with good moisturizing shampoo and conditioner.
Soothing for Dry Scalp
In addition to providing great hold and improved styling, some people believe that beeswax can encourage hair growth. It definitely reduces the appearance of split ends and makes wavy locks easier to style.
If you suffer from dry scalp or eczema, beeswax may be a smart part of a good hair care regime. This study from 2016 reports that it may play a role in a healthier scalp.
FAQs
Yes, beeswax is very safe to use on your hair when used in moderation. It provides even more benefits for those with dry or brittle hair.
The most common application is once or twice a week.
Yes, if you use too much wax or do it too frequently.
In most cases, you should expect it to take about 3 months to lock dreads in place. However, depending on your hair texture and the exact formula used – it can be much sooner.
When applying wax to your hair, it is best to avoid getting it on your scalp. Too much accumulation could clog pores in the skin.
Final Thoughts
If you are someone with a hair texture that doesn’t seem to want to behave. A little natural beeswax may be just the answer. Go slow and only add a small amount in the beginning.
Many crafters use beeswax for sewing projects. It works in a similar way making fibers strong, reducing knotting and preventing frizz. So, what can a little beeswax do-for your latest “do”?
Disclaimer: This information is shared for entertainment purposes only. I am not a dermatologist but want to share tips on ways to use beeswax that works for others. If you have any concerns, consult the proper medical professionals before using.