Going overboard with natural oils can dehydrate your scalp and produce excess oil. Use just enough oil to cover your roots and the rest of your hair. (Trust us, you'll still see results).
Oil is a sealant and lubricant. Sure, you can ``seal in the moisture'' with oil, but you're also dealing water and moisture out. Oil is waterproof, so the more you use it, the harder it is to remove, and the harder it becomes for water to penetrate your strands. That leaves hair dehydrated, brittle, and broken.
Oiling your scalp without washing it afterward can potentially cause hair damage. Excessive oil buildup on the scalp can lead to clogged hair follicles and an unhealthy scalp environment. This might contribute to issues like dandruff, scalp acne, or even hair breakage.
If you've applied it while hair is wet or after just drying it, you're on the right track to smooth hair. If though, you've let hair dry and left it for several hours then applying oil you risk creating frizz. This is because as time passes the hair cuticle opens up.
Actually, it's hard to wash out, so you end up using lots of shampoo, which can dry out your hair. Plus, if the oil stays on your scalp because you can't wash it away properly, it might clog your hair roots and make you lose hair.
Using oil alone may not be enough to hydrate and moisturize your hair, especially if your hair is naturally dry or damaged. While oil can help to seal in moisture and protect your hair from environmental factors, it may not be enough to provide the hydration that your hair needs.
While leaving oil on your hair may seem beneficial, prolonged exposure can have adverse effects. If hair growth oil is left on for extended periods, it can attract dirt, clog pores, and lead to dandruff and itching. Over-saturation may also weaken hair strands, making them prone to breakage.
“Certain hair types can benefit from oiling more than others,” he says. “People with dry, coarse tightly curled hair can benefit from oiling, while others with fine, straight hair may find oiling weighs their hair down too much. Those who are prone to dandruff should avoid all types of oils.”
“Coconut oil will sit on top of your strands, which will not allow essential nutrients to penetrate the shaft and cause your hair to feel dry and brittle—the opposite effect of what you're looking for.”
“Look for products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera, which hydrate without leaving a greasy residue,” says Garshick. “Use a lightweight conditioner and avoid heavy oils or creams. A leave-in conditioner spray or a volumizing conditioner can also help add moisture without making hair flat.”
Over-oiling leads to a greasy buildup that may block hair follicles and affect scalp health adversely. This can breed a fungus and the onset of dandruff, which exacerbates hair loss. A moderate amount will work, applied sparingly, as a rule. Most people find that once a week or every fortnight is ample.
Oiling your hair 1-2 times a week is enough. Doing it everyday can attract dirt and also strip away essential oils from your hair. Combing, rubbing and vigorously massaging your hair with oil can also cause breakage. So, follow the steps we mentioned and healthy, beautiful hair will follow.
Mineral oil, synthetic fragrances, silicone-based oils, and certain vegetable oils are best avoided, as they can hinder hair growth, cause damage, or lead to scalp issues.
This includes: Washing your hair too often – this can strip the natural oils, leading to dry hair. Excessive blow-drying and straightening – too much heat exposure can dry out the cuticle and cause damage. Using harsh chemicals – certain chemicals from dying, perming or relaxing the hair can make it dry out.
It's crucial to wash your hair after applying oil, otherwise residue will weigh down water-based products (such as leave-in treatments) so they can't penetrate your hair. This may also make your scalp look oily and unkempt. In fact, it's a good idea to wash your hair after using any product that coats the strands.
How often should I oil my scalp? The frequency of oiling your scalp can vary depending on your hair's needs and your scalp's condition. Generally, it's recommended to oil your scalp 1-3 times a week to maintain moisture and promote hair health.
Coconut oil has been found to be a highly effective moisturiser for dry and cracked .
"Stress, diet, aging, minerals in your water, seasons changing, hot tools and chemical services…the list can go on! It's important to talk with your stylist to help narrow down the factors you can control to bring your hair back to its best self.
Less split ends: Hair oil is ultra-hydrating and nourishing, and this can heal split ends and hydrate the dry parts of your hair. While oil may not reverse the damage, it can prevent further damage. Improved hair texture: The extra dose of hydration will help enhance your hair's natural luster and texture.
“When your hair is greasy, your hair follicles tend to look wet, which makes it look thin ...” This is especially true for people with fine or thinning hair, which tends to get greasy faster — especially if you're using the wrong type of products.
Never Keep the Oil in Your Scalp for Too Long
Hair and scalp care experts recommend limiting the duration you keep oil in your head because it can attract dust and impurities. So even if your traditional knowledge suggests that the longer you keep your oil the better, it may not be right.
Slathering your scalp and hair with oil isn't doing anything for its health—on the contrary, it's counter-productive. “Applying excess oil can clog hair follicles, leading to hair fall and dandruff. Similarly, applying it to dirty hair can cause scalp infections,” shares Dr Smita Naram, co-founder Ayushakti.