by Sabrina Perkins via CurlyNikki
Breast-feeding? High cholesterol? Just want healthy hair that shines like nobody’s business? Lecithin is a natural-occurring, essential component of every cell in our bodies. It is the basis in cell structure that prevents the hardening of membranes,and is found in several foods including meats, vegetables, and egg yolks. Lecithin helps maintain a body’s resistance to many diseases, supports cardiovascular health, and some even say aids in weight loss and arthritis relief. Consumed through foods and supplements, the majority of commercial lecithins sold in the market today are from soybean, sunflower, and grape seeds. But what about that shine I mentioned?
How does lecithin help with hair?
Lecithins are emulsifiers that are surface-active and water-loving. These fatty substances are often found in hair and skin products because of their main nutrients: choline and insotil; both part of the B complex vitamins which promote healthy growth. Lecithin supports and enhances the required amount of protein for hair growth while improving the texture and look of hair by adding shine or luster. Its high concentration of fatty acids creates a protective barrier on the skin and hair that effectively captures and seals in moisture.
This moisturizing benefit makes lecithin perfect for persons suffering from dry, brittle hair often damaged by styling, chemical applications, heat, or environmental changes. This is why shampoos and conditioners often utilize lecithin in their ingredients. It also helps control the viscosity of liquids and helps with product absorption into the skin or hair. Not just for conditioning and moisturizing, lecithin helps to prevent fly-away hair for our straight-haired naturals.
There are dietary supplements of lecithin and of course food sources, but if you want some go-to hair products that use the emulsifying and moistening power of lecithin in their formulas, here are my top picks:
Products with lecithin
LUSH Jungle Solid Conditioner
Curlisto Repair Styling Cream
Mario Badescu Lecithin Nourishing Shampoo
Regenepure Nourishing Treatment Hair Thickening Shampoo for Hair Thinning Treatment
