Hair oiling 101: Tips to nourish your scalp without weighing it down

Discover how to oil your hair the right way to keep your scalp healthy without making your hair feel heavy. (Image: Pexels)

Hair oiling has long been a cherished part of Indian beauty rituals. Passed down through generations, it is often considered a cure-all for every kind of hair woe. But modern-day lifestyles, urban pollutants, and product overloads have changed the game, making it essential to revisit this age-old tradition with a little more strategy.

One of the most common mistakes people make is leaving hair oil on for too long. Always wash your hair after oiling, advise many hair experts. Leaving it on too long will definitely attract dirt and cause buildup. Use a light hand, massage gently, and rinse thoroughly within a few hours. Remember that more oil doesn’t mean more nourishment. Oiling will work only when you use the right oil, in the right amount, and in the right way

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Know your scalp before you oil:

Respect your scalp’s needs, listen to what your hair is telling you, and oil with intent. Ketki Garud, Founder of The Volume Company, emphasises that one size does not fit all when it comes to oiling. She says, “Oiling works best when tailored to your scalp type. If your scalp is dry, go generous; if oily, be light-handed. And the same applies for the length of your hair. For maximum absorption, simply warm the oil for 20–30 seconds and gently massage it in with a cotton ball. Let it sit overnight if your scalp can handle it, or at least 30 minutes before washing off with a mild shampoo. It’s best if you can oil 2-3 times a week. Oiling overnight can cause scalp issues if the oil is too heavy and doesn’t suit your scalp. Some oils are richer and greasier by nature. If your scalp can’t absorb that much, the excess can lead to buildup, clogged pores, itching, or flakes.” Essentially, the golden rule is to pay attention to how your scalp and hair react. A little customisation goes a long way in getting the best results.

Right ingredients for the right problem:

From seasonal dryness to increased hair fall during the monsoon, Indian hair bears the brunt of weather, water, and pollution. Ketki explains, “Indian hair goes through a lot, from heat and humidity to hard water, pollution, and seasonal scalp imbalances. That’s why you should look for ingredients that not only nourish the length but also balance and protect the scalp.

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If you’re struggling with hair fall, you can blindly trust Brahmi or Bhringraj. To get rid of dandruff, go for Neem and Curry Leaves. For better hair growth, especially if you live in highly polluted areas, keep an eye out for Onion Seeds. Sesame oil helps with dry, under-nourished hair, and Hibiscus helps make hair shiny and reduce frizz. In my experience, what works best is a smart blend of these ingredients, after understanding your lifestyle and current hair needs.”

Disclaimer: This article only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific diagnosis.