Skim through

What it does: emollient

Also called: simmondsia chinensis seed oil

The science

Jojoba oil is the liquid produced in the seed of the simmondsia chinensis plant, a shrub, which is native to southwestern United States, particularly Arizona, southern California, and northwestern Mexico. 

While it is called an oil, jojoba is actually a liquid wax, also called a wax ester. Its molecular structure is extremely comparable to human skin oil. Unrefined jojoba oil appears as a clear to pale yellow liquid with a slight, nutty aroma. Jojoba oil is also ideal for those with allergy sensitivities.  Refined Jojoba is usually completely clear and has no odor at all.

Jojoba oil is the most similar oil to human sebum (both being wax esters), and the two are completely miscible. Sebum is an oily substance secreted from the sebaceous glands in the skin. It is the skin's way to retain moisture.

Benefits for your hair

Conditions dry hair

Jojoba oil is an excellent natural emollient and so is a great conditioning agent. Jojoba does not interrupt the scalp's natural balance because of its similarities to the oil naturally produced by skin.

Prevents dandruff and dry scalp

Jojoba oil naturally eases the effects of dandruff and dry scalp. Jojoba oil is antifungal, helping to kill of bacterial and fungal infections caused by dirty hair tools, product build-up, etc.

Reduces frizz

Being an emollient, jojoba oil smoothes frizz, which results in shinier and more manageable hair. 

Promotes curl elasticity 

Jojoba hydrates hair deep in the shaft, which help the curl to bounce back from hydral fatigue or over processing of chemicals (relaxers and bleach).

Encourages hair growth 

As the properties of jojoba oil may help clear the scalp of dandruff and support scalp moisture without disrupting its natural oil creation, there is a chance it can also aid in hair growth. All of the fatty acids and natural alcohols found in jojoba provide much-needed nutrition to hair. The plant contains high concentrations of vitamins B and E, as well as minerals like zinc. These are said to stimulate hair growth while providing antioxidant protection. 

Can repair damage from heat and styling 

Studies have concluded that the heat generated from styling tools like curling irons and blow dryers cause the outer cuticle of the hair to crack. These fractures are the source of split ends and result in hair that is prone to breakage. Jojoba oil does not penetrate as deeply as other oils, so it will sit on the outer cuticle of each strand and help fill in the cracks. Furthermore, the oil possesses calming properties that condition and soften strands, leaving you with a smooth and silky finish.

Adds volume to thin hair 

For curlies with fine or thin hair, jojoba oil can be applied to add volume to the hair strand and make it appear thick. This is only a temporary fix to add volume and thickness to your twist out or braid out styles. 

Maintains sebum production on the scalp

The scalp produces sebum to hydrate the hair and keep it healthy. And when it doesn't produce enough sebum, it can lead to dry, brittle hair. In instances when the scalp doesn't produce enough sebum, massaging a few drops of jojoba oil on the scalp regularly will help keep the scalp moisturized. 

Keeps hair soft and shiny

Jojoba oil is a lightweight oil with moisturizing properties which can add shine to your hair and make it softer and easier to manage. 

TLDR

Jojoba oil is a favorite for curlies. From moisturising hair to maintaining a healthy scalp to adding curl definition, the benefits of this magical oil are endless.