Discover how the best natural ingredients can improve hair condition
Whilst summertime in Tuscany is bliss, autumn beholds its own magic. The days are warm, and the nights are cool – and the air is alive with excitement as harvest-time begins. The scenery is also full of whimsy. Leaves turn golden, and russet before they blanket the ground. The result is a glorious landscape that sets the scene for festivals that have been traditional to the region for centuries.
At Rossano Ferretti, however, our favourite thing about autumn in Tuscany is its bounty – with grapes being at the top of our list. During the months of September and October, the grapes ripen and are at their best for picking. This is when they provide us with a wonderful natural ingredient that we use in many of our products namely, grape seed extract.
What Is Grape Seed Extract?
Grape seed extract is sourced from grape seeds that have mostly been provided by wine manufacturers – with many of these manufacturers residing in Italy. These seeds are crushed to release oil or to form a powdery supplement which can be used as a natural ingredient in food, health, and beauty products.
For years, grape seeds have been the topic of interest of many scientists. They are highly regarded for their strong antioxidants and nourishing effects.
Grape Seed Extract Properties
Grape seeds include a high concentration of:
- Vitamin E,
- Flavonoids,
- Linoleic acid, and:
- OPCs
The Research
Grapes have been used as a natural healing source since the dawn of history. Even the seeds have been regarded as healing agents across cultures and, as such, scientists have spent much time studying them. Whilst their research into how grape seeds can affect hair hasn’t been as generous as its benefits as a skincare agent, we can share the following findings:
In 1998, Japanese researchers tested grape seed extract on three test subjects. The result was that the subjects who were treated with grape seed extract saw 80-90% improvement in hair growth… [1]
Grape seed extract hair has also shown an ability to facilitate blood flow to the scalp. This could be why it’s beneficial to promoting hair growth. And because grape seed extract is anti-bacterial in nature, it makes sense that it can also be used to treat dandruff, and itchy, flaky scalps.
Let’s take a closer look at the list of benefits that these tiny seeds can have on hair.
How Can Grape Seed Extract Benefit Your Hair?
Grape seed extract is one of the single most hair-healthy natural ingredients available and professional hairstylists love it when this ingredient is included in products. Here’s why:
Can help control Hair Loss
One popular topic surrounding grape seed extract is how effective it is against hair loss. Due to its high content of OPCs (oligomeric proanthocyanidin), some research has shown that grape seed extract stimulates hair cell production and contravenes against hair loss.
It Promotes Hair Growth
Studies have found that shampoo products that include grape seed extract can stimulate hair growth. This is due to the resource’s rich antioxidant properties and high levels of Vitamin E.
* Just remember that the key to seeing results of any kind with natural ingredients is “time”. Patience in seeing results is necessary, and consistency is key.
It can help to Fight Dandruff
If you have a constant problem with dandruff, then grape seed extract may be a solution. Because of its nourishing effects, it can add moisture to your scalp, reducing dry and flaky skin. It also helps to restore cells and heals them, leaving hair with a soft and healthy foundation to grow from.
It can help to Slow Down the Aging Process in Hair
Free radicals can do some serious damage to your hair (and your skin). However, if grape seed extract forms a part of your beauty regimen, then the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties found in this ingredient will work as a natural remedy to both cleanse and nourish your locks. In fact, this extract boasts one powerful property named “leucoanthocyanins”. Leucoanthocyanins have been identified as one of the most potent antioxidants to fight the damage that free radicals cause the body.
It Helps Hair to Retain Moisture
Grape seed extract is used in many medicinal and healthcare products because of its powerful ability to nourish and protect. When it comes to hair, then the linoleic acid, polyphenols, and Vitamin E work together to help restore hair follicles, nourishing them back to perfect health. At the same time, the fatty acids work to retain moisture, leaving hair soft and manageable.
It’s an Excellent Heat Protectant
It’s not uncommon for the best heat protectant hair products and oils to include grape seed extract in their recipe. The many antioxidants work to protect the hair from atmospheric agents and free radicals, including the sun’s UV rays, pollution, and hot styling equipment.
Whilst a glass of fine wine always goes down well, there’s so much more to this small oval-shaped fruit that meets the eye. Grapes, when used correctly, can help heal one’s body from both the inside out, and from the outside in – giving a person a healthy glow and hair that boasts natural beauty and shine.