Since castor oil is a sealant, would it also protect against hair bands and such?

[shikara]

Just wondering what you might think about this. I have a new hairstyle that really works for my tangly hard to style hair but it involves running it through a hair 3 bands one time each. They are Goody Ouchless ponytailers but they are not as smooth as I would certainly prefer (why can't they make those with satin - micro mini scrunchies!). What do you think?

[rosek]

I think that hairties cause mechanical damage. I don't think oils protect against mechanical damage. They may make your hair less prone to breakage, but I don't think they give the strands any special resistance properties. Kind of like you wouldn't expect oiling your hair to protect it against being cut by scissors.

I'm glad you found a style that works for you! Maybe you could try making your own elastics at home, if you aren't happy with products that are available in your area?