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- What are the proven benefits of hair oiling?
- How often should you oil your hair?
- Are different oils better for different hair types?
- How do you wash out hair oil properly?
- So, is hair oiling worth it?
There’s no denying that scalp care is trending. Whether it’s detoxifying scrubs, follicle-stimulating serums or high-tech LED combs, the root of healthy hair – quite literally – is getting more attention than ever before. One of the most ancient techniques making a modern comeback? Hair oiling.
It’s a practice that dates back thousands of years, with roots in Ayurvedic medicine, and is often passed down through generations. But what once felt like a deeply personal beauty tradition is now a booming category online, with over 850 million views on #hairoiling on TikTok alone.
But like many trending rituals, opinions can be divided. While some experts swear by the scalp-soothing, shine-boosting benefits, others are more cautious – particularly when it comes to oiling irritated or sensitive scalps. So, should you be adding hair oil to your Sunday self-care line-up? And if so, how do you do it without clogging your scalp or wrecking your blow-dry?
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What are the proven benefits of hair oiling?
Proponents of hair oiling often liken it to nurturing the roots of a plant – take care of the roots, and the whole thing thrives. ‘Hair oiling is an age-old ritual that’s long been revered for promoting healthy hair and scalp,’ explains Dr Shivani Misra, Ayurvedic doctor at Kama Ayurveda. ‘When the roots are well cared for, the results are naturally visible in the form of stronger, shinier, and more resilient hair.’
Traditionally, hair oiling involves massaging a nourishing oil into the scalp to moisturise skin, improve blood circulation, and deliver active ingredients directly to the hair follicles. ‘The oil works to strengthen the hair shaft, enhance shine, reduce breakage, and help with overall manageability,’ adds Niki Mehta, co-founder of Fable & Mane. ‘And beyond the physical benefits, there’s something deeply grounding about the ritual – it’s wellness for both hair and mind.’
Dean Harris, colourist at Larry King Marylebone, agrees: ‘Hair oiling is back in the spotlight – and for good reason. It nourishes the scalp, strengthens strands, reduces breakage, and leaves hair softer and shinier. Regular oiling can even minimise dandruff and improve circulation, boosting overall scalp health.’
While many people might be googling 'does hair oil help your hair grow longer?' from a scientific perspective, the benefits may vary depending on the formulation. Oils like coconut, castor, and sesame have been shown to penetrate the hair shaft, helping to reduce protein loss and improve elasticity. Ayurvedic blends – such as Kama Ayurveda’s Bringadi Oil, which contains Bhringraj and Indigo – also boast antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may support scalp health and reduce stress-related shedding.
That said, not everyone is on board. ‘Scalp oiling isn’t something we generally recommend,’ says Zoë Passam, Senior Consultant Trichologist at Philip Kingsley. ‘If someone suffers from dandruff or seborrhoeic dermatitis, these conditions can be driven by yeast overgrowth – and yeast feeds on oils, which can exacerbate the problem.’
How often should you oil your hair?
Like most things in beauty, consistency trumps intensity. ‘Oiling your hair once or twice a week is usually sufficient to see results,’ says Dr Misra. ‘Ideally, leave the oil in for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours – or an overnight treatment can offer even deeper benefits.’
But how often you oil should be tailored to your hair type and lifestyle. ‘Dry or curly hair thrives with oiling twice a week, while normal hair benefits from a weekly session,’ says Harris. ‘If your scalp is oily or sensitive, oiling every other week or as a quick spot treatment is usually enough.’
When it comes to timing, more isn’t necessarily better. ‘Depending on the oil, you can leave it in for at least 15 minutes or overnight – but don’t go beyond 24 hours to avoid build-up,’ he adds.
Mehta agrees, recommending you treat hair oiling like skincare: little and often. ‘I love turning it into a Sunday ritual – it’s my way to unwind and give my hair some love.’
Are different oils better for different hair types?
Absolutely – and choosing the right oil is crucial. ‘Fine hair does best with lightweight oils like argan or jojoba,’ says Harris. ‘Thick strands love nourishing coconut or castor oil. Curly hair responds well to olive or almond oil, while sensitive scalps may benefit from soothing oils like brahmi or diluted tea tree.’
Mehta adds, ‘Different oils have different molecular weights. For finer hair, lighter oils like jojoba or grapeseed are ideal, while thicker, curlier textures can benefit from richer oils like coconut or castor.’
Ayurveda takes it a step further by tailoring oils to your scalp’s dosha or condition – ‘Bringadi Oil is often regarded as one of the best because it hydrates, stimulates protein synthesis, and supports hair bulb regeneration,’ says Dr Misra. ‘It suits a wide range of concerns, from dryness and thinning to stress-induced hair fall.’
Looking for a go-to all-rounder? Harris recommends Larry King’s Spoilt for Choice oil. ‘It hydrates, smooths, and strengthens without weighing hair down. Packed with nourishing oils and a signature scent, it’s perfect for pre-wash, styling, or overnight use.’
How do you wash out hair oil properly?
The short answer: with care. The long answer? With technique. ‘You can’t just douse your scalp in oil and expect a single shampoo to lift it all off,’ says Mehta. ‘The trick is to apply shampoo before adding water. Massage it directly onto your oiled scalp to emulsify the oil, then gradually add water and rinse thoroughly. You may need to double shampoo – especially after an overnight treatment.’
Harris suggests a similar method but adds a clever twist: ‘To wash out oil without stripping your hair, apply conditioner first to break down the oil, then follow with a gentle shampoo. This method keeps your hair moisturised and clean – no squeaky dryness.’
For a finishing touch, seal in hydration with a hair mask. ‘Our Shine Hair Mask adds a glossy finish and leaves your hair smelling divine,’ says Mehta. ‘It’s the perfect final step.’
So, is hair oiling worth it?
If your scalp is healthy and your hair enjoys the extra nourishment, oiling can absolutely be a beneficial ritual – especially when done with intention and the right products. But it’s not a cure-all, and for those with scalp conditions or fine hair, it may do more harm than good.
The bottom line? Know your scalp. And if in doubt, seek expert advice.
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