How Often Should I Oil My Scalp?
For its massive benefits, hair oil is often used by women with curly hair. But how frequently should you oil your hair?
Oiling your hair is an excellent method to maintain it healthy and smooth. You may use a variety of oils, including coconut oil, castor oil, jojoba oil, and olive oil.
Many individuals also use essential oils to cure scalp irritation and dandruff, such as peppermint, tea tree, and lavender oil.
Oil gives minerals and vitamins to the hair, which helps to restore it and prevent it from harm.
Oil is extremely nourishing, and when applied on a daily basis, it may help to prevent frizz and split ends.
How Frequently Should I Oil My Scalp?
The frequency with which you should oil your scalp is decided by your hair type and how your hair reacts to oils. Most people seem to find that once or twice a week is sufficient. Some persons with damaged hair, on the other hand, may benefit from an oil treatment every other day until they show some improvement.
It’s crucial to keep in mind that too much oil and product might weigh down the hair, making it seem greasy or flat.
It can also block pores, resulting in an itchy or red scalp. As there is a chance of infection, you must pay particular attention to your scalp.
If your scalp suddenly gets itchy or greasy, it’s time to cut back and restrict how often you put oil on it.
If you want to add body and volume to your hair, use fewer oils on your scalp.
You might try a lighter oil like argan oil or sweet almond oil. If you have fine or thin hair, a once-a-fortnight or monthly treatment may be appropriate for you.
During the summer, you may discover that your scalp generates enough oils on its own, so it may be worth avoiding it entirely.
Since your scalp needs to breathe, it is not suggested that you apply oil on your scalp every day.
This may cause your scalp to get blocked with germs, dirt, and sweat. As a result, begin by performing it once a week and track your progress. If your scalp is still excessively dry, you can increase the frequency of the treatment.
How To Apply Oil On Your Scalp?
Now that we’ve discussed how frequently you should oil your scalp, you might be asking how you might include oil into your hair regimen.
There are three major ways to apply oil to your scalp:
1. Pre-poo:
The pre-poo method requires applying oil to the hair before using shampoo. The benefit of pre-pooing is that it softens and detangles the hair, preparing it for the wash procedure.
This also locks in moisture, so when you shampoo the oil out of your hair, you will suffer less dryness.
This method is especially good for people who have dry or frizzy hair owing to a lack of moisture.
It is simple to use this method:
- Begin by sectioning the hair and combing it through with a broad tooth comb or your fingers. This makes applying the oil simpler.
- Starting at the roots, apply the chosen oil to each region. Massage it lightly into your skin with your fingertips to improve blood circulation and remove any dirt.
- Cover your head with a hat and wait 15 to 30 minutes.
- Rinse your hair with shampoo and water. If your scalp is still greasy, you may need to repeat this process.
2. Hot Oil Treatment:
Heat the oil before applying it to the hair to improve absorption and protect it from harm.
The warmth from the oil helps calm the scalp and stimulate blood flow, promoting healthier, stronger hair.
Make sure the heating oil is not too hot while putting it on the scalp, otherwise it can burn it. Allow it to cool to a warm temperature.
Applying hot oils to clean hair works best. As a result, ensure that your hair is clear of excess oils and products.
- Microwave the oil of your choice for 10 to 15 seconds. After 10 seconds, you may check the temperature and modify the duration accordingly.
- Allow the oil to cool somewhat before using it.
- Remove tangles and knots from your hair by combing it.
- Apply the oil to the roots of the hair and work your way down to the ends.
- Rub the scalp gently with your fingertips, not your nails, since this might cause skin irritation.
- Leave your hair covered with a cap for 30 minutes to an hour.
- Rinse the oil off with shampoo and, if necessary, a tiny quantity of conditioner.
- If necessary, repeat.
3. Scalp Massage
A scalp massage is an ideal way to unwind, boost blood circulation, and improve the condition of your scalp. It has the ability to minimize flaking, irritation, and redness.
To give yourself a scalp massage, simply do the following:
- Warm a tiny quantity of oil (1-3 tbsp) in your hands or microwave.
- Use your fingertips to apply it to your scalp.
- Begin massaging with mild to medium pressure in circular strokes.
- Slowly move your hands around your head to cover every surface.
- Perform this task for at least 5 to 10 minutes.
- Shampoo out the oil and repeat as necessary.
What Mistakes Should You Avoid When Oiling Your Hair?
- Do Not Comb Your Hair Immediately After Oiling It
As your scalp is relaxed, your hair is prone to breaking at this moment. Oil may weigh down your hair, and combing it immediately after oiling it will only cause it to split.
- Don’t Wash Your Clothes Too Soon
It is key to remove any extra oil, but not too quickly! Allow at least one hour for the oil to rest on your scalp. This allows the oil to penetrate the cells and nourish your scalp.
- Don’t Use Too Much Oil
If you apply too much oil to your hair, you’ll have to use more shampoo to remove it. This will remove your hair’s natural oils as well as the extra oil you’re aiming to remove.
- You Shouldn’t Tie Your Hair Up
Tying your hair up makes it more prone to breaking. Your hair is in a fragile state, and the oil has already burdened it down. Tying your hair up can simply cause damage.
- Don’t Use A Towel To Wrap
When saturated in oil, towels are harsh and can damage your hair. Instead, wear a warm plain cotton fabric or shirt.
- Don’t massage too hard
Massaging your scalp too quickly or violently might cause hair breakage. The best method to do this is to gently massage your scalp in circular strokes.
- Don’t Overdo It With Shampoo
It is critical to remove all extra oil. In an attempt to remove extra oil, many of us misuse our shampoo. Too much shampoo can strip your hair of its natural oils, causing more damage than good.
Advantages
Incorporating oils into your hair care routine may make a significant difference in your hair’s general health and condition. It can also relieve and relax an itchy or dry scalp.
The following are the primary advantages:
- Increases Circulation Of The Scalp
Massaging oil into your scalp is a calming sensation that increases blood circulation and enhances scalp health.
A healthy scalp results in stronger, healthier hair that is less susceptible to breakage and split ends.
- Could Help with Dry Scalp
Dry, flaky, and itchy scalps are common in certain people, which can be caused by a lack of moisture or product buildup.
It can also be caused by a variety of medical issues. If the major cause is a lack of moisture, rubbing oil into the scalp can give hydration while also preventing flakes from developing.
It can also help to remove dirt and dead skin cells from your scalp, leaving it feeling fresher and healthier.
- Encourages Hair Growth
If you’re wanting to grow your hair, oiling your scalp is one of the most effective approaches.
When you massage these natural oils into your scalp, you are giving key vitamins and minerals to your hair, which may provide strength and hydration to each strand.
When you massage your scalp with your hands, you increase blood circulation, which promotes new hair development.
- Potentially Protective Against Damage
It aids in the retention of moisture and natural oils in the hair, resulting in less damage and fewer split ends.
- Provides Natural Shine to Hair
Oils, as opposed to silicone-containing hair products, offer hair a natural shine by mending, nourishing, and hydrating the hair strands.
Oils include vitamins that promote the condition and look of the hair and scalp, resulting in manageable, lustrous hair.
Who Shouldn’t Apply Oil to Their Scalp?
Oil on the scalp is not for everyone. Some scalp problems may be worsened by it. People who generate enough oil may discover that it just makes their scalp overly greasy and should avoid it.
Similarly, if you have thin or fine hair, putting oil on the scalp might cause the roots to seem flat.
Why does your hair fall out when you oil it?
Oil causes your hair to weigh down, occasionally taking away the already fragile strands. However, over-massaging your hair might cause it to break. While you’re oiling your scalp, make a point of gently massaging it.
Is it better to apply oil to wet or dry hair?
Water is repelled by oil. When you add oil to damp hair, the water repels it and prevents deep penetration. This renders it ineffective.
Water develops a coating on your hair and scalp that prevents oil from passing through. As a result, you should apply oil to dry hair if you want it to nourish the deeper layers of your scalp and hair.
Is it necessary to oil your hair every day?
Leaving oil on your hair for an extended period of time might result in product buildup on your scalp. It may also clog your pores, attract debris, and cause dandruff to build up.
If you oil your hair every day, you must also wash it with shampoo every day. This is not the best way to get healthy, glossy, and silky hair. It is advised that you oil your hair once or twice a week.
Is it OK to leave the oil on for two days?
The length of time we should leave the oil on our scalp is a source of debate. Different hair types and oils take varying amounts of time to be applied.
It is not a good idea to leave your oil on your hair for more than one day. Even one day is not suggested since the oil can develop a film on your scalp, blocking pores, collecting dandruff, and attracting debris. Aside from that, it will leave your scalp feeling oily and unclean all the time.
Is It Safe To Use Oil On Dirty Hair?
It is not suggested that you add oil to your hair if it is sweaty and unclean. You want to receive the advantages of your hair oil without having to worry about debris clogging your pores.
Recommended Hair Oils
BEST FOR DEEP TREATMENTS
Fable & Mane’s founders created this hair oil as a tribute to the Indian hair-oiling practices they remembered as youngsters.
This true-to-tradition nourisher contains safflower, sesame, and jojoba oils, as well as strengthening Ashwagandha. It’s supposed to be rubbed in gently and left to linger overnight.
BEST FOR HAIR GROWTH
If you want to encourage healthy hair development, you must treat both your scalp and your strands.
This strong recipe, inspired by the Indian practice of hair oiling, is steeped with Ayurvedic herbs such as Amla, Bhrami, and Bhringraj to bring luster and shine to hair while keeping the scalp moisturized and balanced.
Apply it from root to tip, using a meditative scalp massage to maximize the mind-soothing scent’s effects.
BEST FOR FINE HAIR
This one is very magical for finer hair that likes to frizz. The lightweight combination of five oils works to keep humidity from puffing up your strands while remaining entirely invisible on even the thinnest of strands. The end result is smooth, lustrous hair that is never greasy.
Apply it to dry ends as a post-styling sealant as well.
The Final Takeaway
Hair oiling is a hair care therapy derived from Ayurvedic medical practices.
Oiling your hair on a regular basis may protect it from the damage caused by pollutants and chemicals in shampoo. It may also improve hydration, gloss, and shine, as well as prevent hair loss.
It is sufficient to oil your hair 1-2 times each week. Doing it on a daily basis might attract dirt and strip important oils from your hair. Breakage can also be caused by combing, rubbing, and excessively massaging your hair with oil. So, follow the methods we’ve outlined, and you’ll have healthy, attractive hair in no time.
