Hair health is often overlooked despite frequent exposure to heat, dust, sweat, humidity, high temperatures, and chemical products.

One traditional method to maintain hair health is hair oiling, which promises healthier, stronger, and shinier locks. But is this method genuinely effective? Let’s explore.

What is Hair Oiling?

Hair oiling is a traditional practice originating in India, rooted in Ayurvedic medicine, and has since gained popularity worldwide.

While traditionally in India, hair oil would be left on overnight, modern approaches often reduce the duration to just a few hours. In Ayurveda, daily hair oiling is recommended, but in today’s fast-paced world, people generally do it weekly or monthly.

The practice uses vegetable oils like almond oil, sesame oil, and argan oil. Some prefer warm oil, which can enhance the scalp massage experience and may boost absorption.

How to Do Hair Oiling

Our bodies naturally produce oils to keep hair healthy and shiny. However, heat styling, chemical treatments, and environmental factors can strip hair of these natural oils. Hair oiling is thought to replenish moisture and protect hair from further damage.

Here’s how to oil your hair effectively:

• Applay and massage oil into your scalp using your fingertips in a circular motion.
• Spread the leftover oil from your palms to your hair strands.
• Wrap your hair with a towel or use a head covering, leaving the oil on overnight.
• Shampoo and rinse your hair thoroughly the next day until it is clean.

Benefits of Hair Oiling

Leaving oil in your hair for several hours is believed to provide the following benefits:

• Restores natural moisture and adds shine
• Improves split ends' appearance
• Helps with hygral fatigue—a condition caused by swelling in the hair follicles due to excess moisture
• Reduces hair loss
• Supports scalp health
• Protects hair from sun damage

Is Hair Oiling Effective?

As with any beauty routine, the effectiveness of hair oiling depends on individual factors like hair type, condition, and specific needs.

While some hair types benefit significantly from this practice, others may not see the same results.

In dry, coarse or curly hair, these types tend to benefit more from oiling as the added moisture can improve texture and manageability. While for fine or straight hair, oiling may weigh down this hair type, making it feel greasy or heavy. 

The results also vary based on:

• The natural dryness or oiliness of your hair
• Medical conditions affecting scalp health
• Previous treatments like coloring or styling
• Age

Though some studies highlight the benefits of hair oiling, more research is needed to fully understand its advantages and potential side effects. If you experience irritation such as itching or dandruff after oiling, discontinue use immediately.

For more personalized hair care advice, consult a doctor or use the consultation feature on the Ai Care app, available on the App Store or Play Store.

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