# Which Oils Protected Textured Hair in Harsh Climates? ❉ Question

**Published:** 2025-06-02
**Author:** Roothea
**Categories:** Question

---

![This black and white portrait embodies ancestral heritage with its intricate braided updo, a timeless styling of textured hair which speaks volumes of cultural identity and the enduring artistry within Black hair traditions each braid reflecting meticulous detail in the pursuit of beauty and wellness.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-black-woman-braided-hairstyle-updo-regal-profile-black-and-white.jpg)

![Camellia seed oil, a legacy for textured hair wellness, embodies ancestral care and moisture. Its monochrome elegance connects historical beauty rituals to today](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/camellia-seed-oil-black-and-white-still-life-textured-hair.jpg)

## Roots

There are countless stories whispered through generations, carried on the very wind, that speak of how textured hair, in its glorious diversity, has faced the sun’s fervent kiss and the parched earth’s sigh across continents. For those with coils and curls, the elements were never merely background scenery; they were collaborators in a dance of survival, calling forth ancient wisdom in hair care. Our forebears, the tenders of ancestral knowledge, understood deeply the [protective qualities](/area/protective-qualities/) of [natural oils](/area/natural-oils/) long before modern science articulated their chemical compositions. These natural elixirs, born of the earth and pressed by hand, were not just cosmetics.

They were shields against the desert’s dry breath, the humid air’s heavy embrace, and the relentless sun’s glare, forming an unbroken lineage of care for [textured hair heritage](/area/textured-hair-heritage/). This sacred connection to the land and its bounties, manifesting as a rich understanding of oils, stands as a testament to ingenuity in the face of harsh climates. It points to a deep, abiding respect for the vitality of each strand.

![Within an intimate, intergenerational setting, women collaborate, passing down ancestral braiding techniques, celebrating diverse hands styling while addressing the nuances of low porosity high-density coils, applying emollient products and showcasing Fulani braiding artistry and holistic hair care. The Madrasi head tie is showcased for identity](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/generational-braiding-heritage-diverse-hands-styling-natural-textured-hair-coils.jpg)

## Ancestral Hair Wisdom in Arid Lands

In the arid expanse of North Africa and the Sahel, where the sun reigns supreme and moisture clings precariously, specific oils were relied upon for their formidable protective qualities. These regions, home to diverse ethnic groups, developed distinct yet harmonizing [hair care](/area/hair-care/) traditions. Shea butter, derived from the nuts of the karité tree, stands as a cornerstone of these practices. It is a thick, yellow paste, used for centuries across West and East Africa for its conditioning and sun-protective properties.

Women in the Sahel traditionally applied [shea butter](/area/shea-butter/) as a moisturizer for skin and hair, especially during the dry Harmattan period. This traditional application provided a physical barrier, sealing in moisture and offering a degree of UV protection for hair often exposed to intense sunlight.

> Ancestral oils were vital shields, preserving the vitality of textured hair against environmental rigors.
Another powerful ally in these [dry climates](/area/dry-climates/) was **Argan oil**, a liquid gold extracted from the kernels of the Argan tree, which grows exclusively in specific regions of Morocco. For centuries, Berber women applied this oil to their hair to nourish and protect it from the harsh desert climate. Argan oil, rich in [fatty acids](/area/fatty-acids/) and Vitamin E, provided moisture and a protective layer against environmental stressors like extreme heat, cold, dust, and smoke.

![Against a backdrop of sunlit horizons, textured hair in the form of locs is silhouetted, evoking ancestral connections and symbolizing resilience. This image celebrates natural Black hair formations, its beauty, and historical significance in expressive Black cultural identity, wellness, and holistic care through styling](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/silhouette-of-person-with-locs-against-sunlight-revealing-textured-hair-heritage.jpg)

## Oils and the Humid Air

In tropical and subtropical regions, where humidity hangs heavy in the air, a different set of challenges presented themselves to textured hair: frizz and swelling. Here, the knowledge of oils capable of creating a hydrophobic barrier around the [hair shaft](/area/hair-shaft/) was paramount. Coconut oil, readily available in many of these regions, became a preferred choice.

This versatile oil deeply penetrates the hair shaft, helping to hydrate strands from within while creating a protective layer on the outside. This outer coating helps prevent the hair from absorbing excess water from the humid air, thus reducing frizz.

- **Shea Butter** ❉ A staple in West Africa, used for its sealing properties against dry climates and sun.

- **Argan Oil** ❉ From Morocco, valued for its hydrating and protective qualities in arid environments.

- **Coconut Oil** ❉ A common choice in humid climates, known for its ability to reduce frizz by preventing water absorption.

![This vintage hair pick, immortalized in monochrome, speaks volumes about ancestral beauty rituals and the enduring legacy of textured hair traditions. Its robust form emphasizes the enduring practices in textured hair care, echoing ancestral wisdom passed through generations and holistic wellness](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-vintage-hair-pick-detailed-texture-ancestral-heritage-beauty-tool.jpg)

![A child](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/child-touches-ancient-carving-of-woman-with-textured-hair-heritage.jpg)

## Ritual

The application of oils to textured hair, deeply rooted in ancestral practices, was seldom a mere act of maintenance; it was a ritual, a connection to a legacy of care and community. These practices, passed down through generations, speak to a profound understanding of the hair’s needs within its environmental context. The ritual of oiling, intertwined with cultural identity, provided both tangible protection and a sense of continuity for Black and mixed-race communities, particularly when facing the harsh realities of displacement and climate shifts.

![This portrait captures the essence of confident grace. Her hairstyle reflects heritage and contemporary style, symbolizing self-expression and cultural pride](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-a-young-woman-with-exquisite-coiled-textured-hair.jpg)

## The Practice of Oiling across Continents

Hair oiling, an ancient practice, holds deep roots in diverse cultures across the globe. In West African traditions, oils and butters were used to keep hair moisturized in hot, dry climates, often paired with protective styles to maintain length and health. This was not simply a beauty regimen. It was a communal activity, a social opportunity to bond with family and friends.

The Yoruba people of Nigeria, for example, considered hair the most elevated part of the body, viewing its care as linked to one’s destiny. Their traditions involved cleansing with **black soap** and moisturizing with various oils and butters, including palm oil, shea butter, and coconut oil.

> Oiling hair was a communal tradition, a shared moment of care and cultural transmission across generations.
The journey of these oils and practices extends beyond the African continent. Jamaican Black [Castor Oil](/area/castor-oil/) (JBCO), for instance, has a history deeply rooted in the Caribbean, though its origins lie in Africa over 4,000 years ago. Brought to the Caribbean through the slave trade, enslaved Africans adapted and preserved their traditional practices, using castor oil for both medicinal and beauty purposes. JBCO became an essential part of traditional African and Afro-Caribbean remedies, revered for its thick consistency and unique composition that helped with hair growth and preventing loss.

![Moringa seeds, captured in stark monochrome, symbolize a connection to ancient beauty rituals and the revitalization of holistic hair care for diverse textured hair. These seeds embody a legacy where tradition and natural ingredients converged, enriching well-being through mindful hair care practices and ancestral heritage](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/moringa-seeds-holistic-hair-care-ingredient-in-black-and-white-detail.jpg)

## Science and Ancestral Wisdom

Modern scientific understanding often aligns with these long-standing ancestral practices. The ability of certain oils to protect hair in specific climates can be attributed to their fatty acid profiles and molecular structures. For instance, coconut oil’s ability to reduce frizz in humid conditions is linked to its penetration of the hair shaft and its formation of a protective barrier against external moisture.

Shea butter, with its abundance of fatty acids like linoleic, oleic, stearic, and palmitic acids, effectively seals moisture into the hair, enhancing shine and reducing frizz. These scientific explanations provide validation for traditions passed down through countless generations, reinforcing the wisdom embedded within the heritage of [textured hair](/area/textured-hair/) care.

![The focused examination of spiraled textured hair in this image evokes the deep connection between self-care, heritage, and the deliberate art of nurturing ancestral hair patterns emphasizing the importance of thoughtful hair practices and highlighting the inherent beauty found within textured hair.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/womans-hands-examining-twisted-strands-black-textured-hair-against-neutral.jpg)

![This dramatic portrait celebrates Black hair traditions through its majestic braided crown, a testament to ancestral heritage and expressive styling. The interplay of light and shadow accentuates the texture and artistry of the braids, honoring the woman’s strength and the enduring legacy of Black beauty](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-black-and-white-portrait-of-woman-with-elaborate-braided-hairstyle.jpg)

## Relay

The legacy of protecting textured hair through natural oils is a testament to human resilience and adaptable wisdom, echoing from ancient riverbanks to contemporary communities. This enduring knowledge, transmitted across generations, allows us to understand the profound relationship between climate, hair biology, and cultural practice. The careful selection and application of specific oils in varied environments was not merely a matter of trial and error; it represented a sophisticated, albeit often unwritten, science of hair care, deeply embedded in the lives of Black and mixed-race people.

![The horsetail reeds, with their unique segmentation and organic form, provide a powerful visual metaphor for the architecture of textured hair, offering a natural lens through which to appreciate diverse formations and celebrate the innate beauty of each coil and spring.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/abstract-horsetail-reed-arrangement-evokes-natural-textured-hair-patterning.jpg)

## How Did Ancient Societies Address Hair Protection?

The ancient Egyptians, living in a hot and dry climate, viewed hair care as a reflection of health, beauty, and status. They developed practices that not only protected their hair from the harsh desert elements but also conveyed elegance. Natural oils such as **castor oil** and **almond oil** were commonly used for nourishment. Ancient Egyptians would massage these oils into their scalp, believing they also promoted hair growth.

This historical example underscores the early understanding of oils as both protective agents and tools for maintaining hair vitality in extreme conditions. The presence of hair accessories, combs, and wigs in archaeological sites further demonstrates the significance of hair styling and protection in their society.

![The portrait captures a profound sense of wisdom and strength emanating from her detailed afro braided hair, reflecting African ancestral beauty traditions. Woven hair ornaments enhance textured elegance, a legacy of holistic cultural expressions and enduring commitment to heritage and wellness](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/resilient-elder-with-braided-afro-textured-hair-and-traditional-adornments.jpg)

## What Properties Render Oils Protective in Challenging Environments?

The effectiveness of these traditional oils in diverse climates lies in their unique chemical compositions. Many oils favored for textured hair contain fatty acids that act as emollients, forming a protective film around the hair shaft. This film reduces water loss in dry climates and prevents excessive [water absorption](/area/water-absorption/) in humid conditions, thereby minimizing frizz and breakage.

Oleic acid, a common component in many natural oils, helps maintain the softness and radiance of hair. Linoleic acid, another important fatty acid, can assist in moisturizing hair and promoting its growth.

- **Manketti Oil (Mongongo Oil)** ❉ Sourced from trees across Africa, this oil protects skin and hair from harsh winds and dry climates.

- **Yangu Oil (Cape Chestnut Oil)** ❉ A traditional African ingredient, it is rich in essential fatty acids and may provide some UV protection for hair and skin.

- **Marula Oil** ❉ With its wealth of fatty acids and antioxidants, marula oil is used to moisturize and shield hair from severe environmental conditions.
The very structure of textured hair, characterized by its coily nature, provides natural insulation for the scalp from intense sun and allows for better air circulation in hot climates. However, this structure also makes it more prone to dryness and breakage, which further highlights the necessity of external protection. Oils, by coating the outer surface of the hair, act as a barrier against external aggressors such as water, pollution, and the elements.

![Echoing ancestral beauty rituals, the wooden hair fork signifies a commitment to holistic textured hair care. The monochromatic palette accentuates the timeless elegance, connecting contemporary styling with heritage and promoting wellness through mindful adornment for diverse black hair textures](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/artisan-crafted-wooden-hair-fork-for-textured-hair-holistic-care-rituals.jpg)

## How Did Traditional Practices Adapt through Dispersal?

The story of oils protecting textured hair extends beyond geographical origins to the forced migrations of the transatlantic slave trade. Uprooted from their homelands, enslaved Africans were often stripped of their native tools and traditional hair care practices. Yet, through immense resourcefulness, they adapted, utilizing what was available to them. This included resorting to substances such as bacon grease, butter, and animal fats to moisturize and care for their hair.

The continued use of oils, even in the most dire circumstances, underscores the deep cultural importance of hair care as a means of identity preservation and resilience within the diaspora. Jamaican Black Castor Oil’s popularization in the Caribbean, for instance, serves as a powerful instance of how traditional African knowledge persisted and transformed under challenging conditions.

The adaptability of these practices, and the deep understanding of how natural resources could be employed for hair health, speaks volumes about the ancestral wisdom that informed these choices. It illustrates how knowledge of oils provided not only physical protection but also a psychological anchor, maintaining a connection to heritage despite profound disruption.

![This serene black and white study celebrates the beauty of coiled hair styles in its youthful form, with artful braids and thread wrapping. The girl](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-white-portrait-of-a-young-girl-with-coiled-hair-braids.jpg)

![This detailed braid pattern embodies the cultural legacy of hair expressions, highlighting both structured artistry and ancestral hair traditions. The interlocked structure is a complex visual representation of deep interconnectedness, care practices, and the enduring narrative woven through heritage](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/intricate-braided-hair-strand-formation-showing-ancestral-interlocking-textural.jpg)

## Reflection

The journey through the historical use of oils for textured hair reveals a legacy of profound adaptation and unwavering self-care. Each drop of shea butter, each application of castor oil, each trace of [coconut oil](/area/coconut-oil/) on a strand carries the echoes of ancient wisdom and the resilience of a people intimately connected to their heritage. This is not merely about physical protection from harsh climates; it is about preserving a cultural identity, a communal bond, and an intrinsic beauty that transcends time. The very act of oiling hair becomes a sacred conversation with ancestors, a living archive of ingenuity and perseverance.

In our modern pursuit of wellness, we find ourselves returning to these wellsprings of knowledge, recognizing that the past holds keys to a vibrant future for textured hair. This unbroken chain of care, from elemental biology to spiritual practice, embodies the enduring soul of a strand, ever reaching, ever rooted.

![The portrait evokes a profound sense of cultural identity. The Maasai woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/maasai-woman-adorned-in-traditional-beaded-jewelry-and-textured-hair-detail.jpg)

![The image, a study in monochrome contrasts, evokes ancestral heritage through innovative styling, highlighting a deep respect for natural formations and expressive individual style. This contemporary rendering of tradition showcases the enduring legacy of Black hair artistry and offers powerful reflections on identity](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-individual-with-tapered-haircut-and-defined-coils.jpg)

## References

- Morrow, V. (2022). Everything You Need To Know About The Ancient Art Of Hair Oiling. Newsweek.

- Obasi, C. (2017). How did black people do their hair in Africa before slavery began?. Quora.

- Kuza Products. (2023). How Jamaican Black Castor Oil Transforms Hair Health.

- Egyptra Travel Services. (2025). From Ancient Egypt to Modern Beauty: Timeless Cosmetic Secrets.

- Blackmon, L. (2023). What Every Dermatologist Must Know About the History of Black Hair. Cutis.

- PushBlack. (2023). Why Jamaican Black Castor Oil Is Rich in Black History.

- Odele Beauty. (2021). 6 Things Everyone Should Know About Black Hair History.

- TheCollector. (2022). Ancient Egypt’s Most Indulgent Beauty Secrets.

- Wikipedia. (n.d.). Astrocaryum murumuru.

- FRÉ Israel. (n.d.). Learn How Argan Oil Benefits Health.

- Egypt Museum. (n.d.). A false fringe of human hair in pin curl ringlet style.

- Holy Curls. (2021). 5 ways shea butter helps curly hair.

- Boutayeb, A. (2024). Ancient Gems: A Historical Survey of African Beauty Techniques.

- Amazon Oil. (n.d.). Murumuru (Astrocaryum muru-muru).

- The Natural Beauty Workshop. (2011). Oils of Africa.

- Intelexual Media. (2023). A Black Women’s History of Hair. YouTube.

- LUSH. (n.d.). What is murumuru butter?.

- Cécred. (2025). Understanding Hair Oiling: History, Benefits & More.

- Medical News Today. (2019). 7 simple ways to use coconut oil for hair.

- Redmint. (2024). Combat Frizz: Top Hair Oils for Humid Summer Days.

- Saje Natural Wellness. (n.d.). the benefits, uses, and history of shea butter and the shea tree.

- CIFOR-ICRAF. (2014). Shea (Vitellaria paradoxa C.F. Gaertn.) ❉ the emergence of global production networks in Burkina Faso, 1960 ❉ 20211.

## Glossary

### [Challenging Climates](https://roothea.co/area/challenging-climates/)

Meaning ❉ "Challenging Climates" within the sphere of textured hair understanding refers to the subtle interplay between atmospheric conditions and the unique structural needs of curls, coils, and waves.

### [Sunny Climates](https://roothea.co/area/sunny-climates/)

Meaning ❉ Sunny Climates denote environments characterized by sustained warmth and significant solar intensity, presenting unique considerations for the delicate structural integrity of textured hair, particularly for those with Black and mixed heritage.

### [Fatty Acids](https://roothea.co/area/fatty-acids/)

Meaning ❉ Fatty acids are the quiet architects of healthy hair, the organic compounds that form the gentle structure of the beneficial oils and lipids our textured strands crave.

### [Murumuru Butter](https://roothea.co/area/murumuru-butter/)

Meaning ❉ Murumuru Butter, sourced from the Astrocaryum murumuru palm of the Amazon, presents a gentle yet effective solution for textured hair, especially for Black and mixed-race hair types.

### [Arid Climates](https://roothea.co/area/arid-climates/)

Meaning ❉ Arid climates describe atmospheric conditions characterized by a distinct lack of water vapor, presenting a particular environmental consideration for the delicate structure of textured hair.

### [Ancient Human Climates](https://roothea.co/area/ancient-human-climates/)

Meaning ❉ 'Ancient Human Climates' refers to the foundational understanding of how prehistoric atmospheric patterns and geological epochs influenced the inherent characteristics of textured hair, particularly within Black and mixed-race lineages.

### [Arid Climates Hair](https://roothea.co/area/arid-climates-hair/)

Meaning ❉ "Arid Climates Hair" refers to the specific challenges and unique needs of textured hair ❉ coily, kinky, and tightly curled patterns ❉ when consistently exposed to environments characterized by very low atmospheric humidity.

### [Shea Butter](https://roothea.co/area/shea-butter/)

Meaning ❉ Shea Butter, derived from the fruit of the African shea tree, Vitellaria paradoxa, represents a gentle yet potent emollient fundamental to the care of textured hair.

### [Natural Oils](https://roothea.co/area/natural-oils/)

Meaning ❉ Natural oils refer to the sebum naturally produced by the scalp's sebaceous glands, a gentle, intrinsic gift for the well-being of textured hair.

### [Coconut Oil](https://roothea.co/area/coconut-oil/)

Meaning ❉ Coconut Oil, derived from the Cocos nucifera fruit, offers a unique lens through which to understand the specific needs of textured hair.

## Explore Your Heritage

### [What Historical Styles Protected Textured Hair in Hot Climates?](https://roothea.co/question/what-historical-styles-protected-textured-hair-in-hot-climates/)
![This dramatic portrait celebrates Black hair traditions through its majestic braided crown, a testament to ancestral heritage and expressive styling. The interplay of light and shadow accentuates the texture and artistry of the braids, honoring the woman’s strength and the enduring legacy of Black beauty.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-black-and-white-portrait-of-woman-with-elaborate-braided-hairstyle.jpg)

### [How Did Desert Climates Influence Ancient Egyptian Hair Care?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-desert-climates-influence-ancient-egyptian-hair-care/)
![The elegant updo and carefully articulated cornrows in this portrait speak to the rich heritage of Black hair artistry, offering a powerful statement about identity, self-expression, and the deep cultural roots interwoven within each strand and its unique formation.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/sophisticated-portrait-of-woman-with-braided-hair-in-elegant-updo-style.jpg)

### [What Traditional Methods Protected Textured Hair Overnight?](https://roothea.co/question/what-traditional-methods-protected-textured-hair-overnight/)
![Community converges in this timeless frame, hands weaving a legacy into textured hair patterns, showcasing heritage and embracing the natural beauty, while bottles of products emphasize wellness and celebration of Black hair traditions. Expressive artistry blooms, affirming identity and ancestral connection.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/community-braiding-session-textured-hair-heritage-diverse-hands-holistic.jpg)

### [What Ancestral Hair Care Materials Protected Textured Hair from Harsh Climates?](https://roothea.co/question/what-ancestral-hair-care-materials-protected-textured-hair-from-harsh-climates/)
![Hands gently work to form protective coils, reflecting deep rooted cultural traditions of textured hair care. This intimate moment connects to heritage, wellness, and the enduring legacy of styling Black hair, underscoring self expression within diverse communities.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hands-crafting-protective-styles-for-textured-hair-coils-and-heritage.jpg)

### [Which Ancient Practices Protected Textured Hair Overnight Using Natural Materials?](https://roothea.co/question/which-ancient-practices-protected-textured-hair-overnight-using-natural-materials/)
![This striking monochrome image evokes a sense of ancestral heritage through the geometric artistry of cornrow braids, a timeless expression of Black hair traditions. The portrait captures the interplay of light and shadow, emphasizing the beauty and cultural significance of this expressive styling and textured hair formation.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-white-portrait-of-woman-with-cornrow-braids-hairstyle.jpg)

### [What Historical Sun Practices Protected Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/what-historical-sun-practices-protected-textured-hair/)
![The monochrome palette highlights the textures within her hair formations and woven ornaments, evoking a timeless connection to heritage, while the focus on natural elements points towards holistic ideals of beauty and expressive artistry in hair styling rooted in cultural nuance.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-a-woman-adorned-with-braided-headband-and-textured-hair.jpg)

### [What Ancestral Ingredients Protected Textured Hair from Environmental Elements?](https://roothea.co/question/what-ancestral-ingredients-protected-textured-hair-from-environmental-elements/)
![In this monochromatic exploration, the sitter’s coiled textured style, created with a rod set, evokes elegance and a celebration of natural Black hair traditions strategic lighting emphasizes the hair](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-portrait-of-elegant-woman-showcasing-coiled-textured-hair-design.jpg)

### [What Historical Methods Protected Textured Hair from Damage?](https://roothea.co/question/what-historical-methods-protected-textured-hair-from-damage/)
![Botanical textures evoke the organic foundations of holistic hair care, mirroring Black hair traditions and mixed-race hair narratives. This leaf arrangement, reminiscent of ancestral heritage, connects natural ingredients with expressive styling for texture, promoting wellness and celebrating the artistry of textured hair formations.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/artistic-black-and-white-leaves-arrangement-represents-natural-textured-hair.jpg)

### [What Ancestral Hair Practices Protected Textured Hair with Oils?](https://roothea.co/question/what-ancestral-hair-practices-protected-textured-hair-with-oils/)
![The monochrome portrait celebrates the beauty of braided textured hair, echoing ancestral strength and cultural expression. The meticulous braiding technique highlights the diverse styling possibilities within Black hair traditions, while the subject](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-portrait-of-a-woman-with-braided-textured-hair-beauty.jpg)

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            "description": "Meaning ❉ \"Arid Climates Hair\" refers to the specific challenges and unique needs of textured hair ❉ coily, kinky, and tightly curled patterns ❉ when consistently exposed to environments characterized by very low atmospheric humidity."
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}
```


---

**Original URL:** https://roothea.co/question/which-oils-protected-textured-hair-in-harsh-climates/
