The present invention relates to the ability of certain unsaturated Guerbet esters to repair damage to the hair and skin. The compounds are oleate esters of Guerbet alcohols. The low viscosity, polarity of the ester group and very low titer point allow the esters of the present invention to spread rapidly and efficiently on the hair and skin, providing an elegant feel and lubricate the surface of the hair or skin repairing damage done to the hair or skin by washing, and allowing for the replacement of the oils from inside the hair or skin.