How to oil your scalp correctly?

Author: Alexys Lindgren  |  Last update: Wednesday, October 22, 2025

Start by sectioning your hair and applying the oil to your scalp, working it all the way down to the ends. Use your fingertips to massage the oil into your scalp, which helps to improve blood circulation, promoting scalp health and healthy hair growth.

What is the proper way to oil your scalp?

Apply warm oil on your scalp and hair using your fingers or a hairbrush. Massage your scalp gently in circular motions for a few minutes. Cover your hair with a shower cap or towel to lock in the moisture. Leave the oil on for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deep conditioning.

Should you put hair oil on wet or dry scalp?

Damp is better. The oil spreads easily and more evenly and it will absorb the oil better than on dry hair especially if its after a hot shower/face wash.

Do I put hair oil on my roots or ends?

Start with 2 pumps, you can always apply more hair oil if needed! Avoid applying hair oil anywhere near the roots of your hair, keep the product at the mid-lengths and ends for best results.

What is the best routine for hair oiling?

Routine: Start your hair oiling routine by warming the oil and massaging it into your scalp and along the lengths of your hair. Let it sit for a few hours, or keep it on overnight for deep conditioning. Repeat this routine twice a week to fortify your hair and protect it from damage.

HAIR OILING MISTAKES THAT WILL RUIN YOUR HAIR! | How to properly oil hair for hair growth

How long should you leave oil in your hair when oiling?

You can leave hair oil in your hair all day or use it as a protectant against styling tools, heat, and other environmental aggressors. If you're oiling your hair with natural oil, leave it in for 1-2 hours max. Wearing the oil in your hair overnight can clog your pores, leaving your hair greasy.

Should I oil my scalp every day?

For people with natural hair, dry hair or curly hair, oiling the scalp once or twice a week can provide the moisture that frizz and breakage-prone people with dry or curly hair need.

How to fix a very dry scalp?

Your dermatologist may also recommend:
  1. A medicated shampoo such as anthralin (Zithranol®).
  2. Scale softeners containing salicylic acid to help soften thick patches.
  3. Topical medications containing vitamin D such as calcipotriene (Dovonex Scalp®). ...
  4. Light therapy (phototherapy), which exposes your skin to ultraviolet light.

Why is my hair frizzy even after oiling?

This is because as time passes the hair cuticle opens up. Hair at this stage is porous and susceptible to frizz. Running your hands through hair with hair oil will rough up the cuticle further and even with oil you risk making things worse.

What are the disadvantages of oiling your hair?

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.

Do rosemary oils regrow hair?

Rosemary hair growth oil is quite effective in curbing hair loss and promoting blood circulation in the scalp, which helps improve hair growth. However, it should never be used in a concentrated form but should be diluted using Coconut Oil or any other hair oil that suits your hair to offer better results.

How much time does oil take to absorb in the scalp?

Hair Type: Fine hair might only need 30 minutes to absorb the oil, while thick or coarse hair can benefit from overnight treatments. Oil Type: Lighter oils like argan or jojoba can be left in longer, while heavier oils like castor oil might need a shorter application time.

How do I get my scalp to absorb oil?

For better absorption, a steam or warm towel treatment can give amazing results. Either give your hair steam or wrap a wet and warm towel around your head to allow the hair oil to do its work.

Why does my hair fall out after oiling?

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.

What are the disadvantages of olive oil for hair?

However, since olive oil is high in fatty acids, using it excessively on your scalp and hair can make them greasy and can clog your pores, which may lead to scalp problems, such as acne or even scalp folliculitis. So, it is best to avoid this type of oil if your hair is greasy already.

How do you hydrate your scalp?

Here are some common ways to treat a dry scalp:
  1. Moisturising shampoo.
  2. Exfoliating scalp masks.
  3. Post-shower hair tonic.
  4. Coconut oil.
  5. Essential oils like tea tree and jojoba.
  6. Aloe vera gel or aloe vera-based products.
  7. Home remedies such as witch hazel or apple cider vinegar.

What are 4 causes of dry scalp?

Major causes of a dry and itchy scalp
  • Skin conditions such as Atopic Dermatitis or Psoriasis.
  • Age – the older you get, the dryer your skin becomes.
  • Physical or emotional stress.
  • Genetic factors.
  • Hormonal changes.

How do I get rid of dry scalp asap?

So, What is the Fastest Way to Get Rid of a Dry Scalp?
  1. Check Whether the Scalp is Dry or Dandruff Prone. ...
  2. Make Sure Hair isn't Washed Too Frequently. ...
  3. Turn Down the Tap Temperature. ...
  4. Wash Hair with a Nourishing Shampoo. ...
  5. Treat the Scalp to a Caring Mask Treatment. ...
  6. Drink Plenty of Water. ...
  7. Massage the Scalp to Remove Flakes.

How to oil hair correctly?

Before you start, scoop out oil if solid, and microwave/heat gently until melted and warmed through. Then, section off pieces of hair and massage the oil from the root to tip, combing after with a wide-tooth comb to ensure even distribution (and to prevent tangles). Massage with your fingertips.

Is it OK to leave oil on your scalp?

But other experts, such as Dr. Khetarpal, advise against putting oil directly on your scalp. It turns out, hair oiling could actually put you at higher risk for seborrheic dermatitis — essentially, dandruff. Overall, it's best to steer clear of oiling your scalp.

Can I put coconut oil on a dry scalp?

Coconut Oil – Coconut oil can moisturize the scalp, while its antifungal and antibacterial properties can reduce the risk of infection. Apply a small amount of melted coconut oil directly to your scalp and massage it into the skin. Let sit for 10 minutes, and then wash your hair as usual.

What is the most hydrating oil for scalp?

Almond oil-

Cold pressed almond oil contains most nutrients and is the ideal way to use it. It has strong hydrating characteristics, helping a dry and damaged scalp. It also contains zinc and biotin, which is used in the healing process for skin ailments.

How do you lubricate a dry scalp?

Incorporate a clarifying ACV rinse into your routine once a month or so and keep your scalp greased with a lightweight oil like the Goddess Strength 7 Oil Blend Scalp & Hair Oil With Castor Oil. You can massage it in before shampooing as a pre-wash treatment or work it through at the first signs of any scalp tightness.

How to exfoliate the scalp?

Here's how the hair experts get their scrub on:
  1. Choose a quality scalp scrub like our Nexxus Clean and Pure Exfoliating Scalp Scrub.
  2. Wet your hair thoroughly.
  3. Apply your scrub directly onto your hair.
  4. Massage your scalp by moving your fingertips in gentle circular motions to spread the scrub.

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