Know How To Apply Hair Oil Effectively And Check Why It Is Not Working

A warm bowl of coconut oil, a Sunday afternoon, and a vigorous champi under the sun, it's a ritual most people grow up with. It's more than just hair care; it's comfort, tradition, and nostalgia wrapped in one. But as times have changed, so have hair concerns. Pollution, stress, styling tools and chemical treatments are often blamed for bad hair days. But sometimes, the problem lies in the basics, like how hair oil is applied.

Yes, oiling your hair seems simple. But doing it the wrong way can cause more harm than good. And let's not forget the confusion when, despite regular oiling, hair remains dull, frizzy or thin. Maybe it's not just the oil, it's how it's being used.

Take a deep dive into how to apply hair oil effectively, and why your old trusty bottle might not be working its magic anymore.

Apply Your Hair Oil Effectively and Fix the Mistakes Holding You Back; Photo Credit: Pexels

1. Oiling Is Not Just Rubbing Oil, It's A Ritual

Most people slap on oil five minutes before a shower and call it a day. That's not oiling, that's surface treatment. Proper oiling is a process. It starts with gently warming the oil. Warm oil penetrates better, feels soothing, and stimulates the scalp.

But don't microwave it or overheat it, lukewarm is perfect. Then comes the massage, slow, circular motions using your fingertips. Not nails, not pressure like you're scrubbing stains off a tawa. Gentle, rhythmic pressure improves blood circulation, nourishes roots and calms the nerves.

Don't forget the ends. While the roots need nourishment, the ends need protection. Massaging oil into the scalp and coating the strands evenly works wonders over time. Oiling is more than maintenance; it's therapy for both the hair and the soul.

2. Choosing The Right Oil Matters More Than You Think

Not all oils are created equal. A bottle of mineral oil with a fancy label won't do much. Hair oils should match your hair type and scalp condition. Dry hair loves coconut oil. Oily scalps do better with light oils like almond or grapeseed. Dandruff? Neem or tea tree-infused oils help.

Also, those flashy bottles promising 'non-sticky miracle growth' with 25 ingredients? Most are diluted, heavily perfumed and loaded with preservatives. Look for cold-pressed, pure oils. They're a bit pricier, yes, but worth every ₹. Even better, go back to grandma's blend: a mix of coconut oil with curry leaves, methi seeds, and hibiscus petals. Homemade always hits different.

The wrong oil can weigh hair down, cause breakouts on the scalp or lead to more hair fall. Choosing well is half the battle.

3. Timing Is Everything, And Overnight Isn't Always Best

Contrary to what many believe, leaving oil overnight is not always beneficial. In fact, for people with sensitive scalps or acne-prone skin, it can do more harm than good. When oil stays too long, it can attract dirt and clog pores.

The sweet spot? Two to four hours. That's enough time for the oil to nourish the roots without causing buildup. If you're using herbal oils or ones with strong essential oils, shorter durations are even better. They're potent and don't need long exposure.

For those who swear by overnight oiling, just make sure to cover your pillow with a soft towel and don't overdo it. Your scalp needs to breathe too, not just marinate in oil like a Sunday mutton curry.

Also Read: Best Hair Colour Per Your Length: Stylish Shades For Short, Medium And Long Hair

4. Quantity Doesn't Equal Quality

Some believe the more oil, the better the results. So they pour it on like it's Holi and hair is the gulal. But too much oil doesn't mean extra nourishment. It just makes shampooing harder, often leading to using more shampoo than necessary, which strips the hair of its natural oils.

One to two tablespoons of oil is usually enough for medium-length hair. Focus on distribution rather than drowning your scalp. Use a wide-toothed comb after oiling to spread it evenly from roots to tips.

Less is more, especially when it comes to hair oil. Quality application trumps quantity every time.

5. Clean Scalp, Happy Hair, Oiling On Dirty Hair Is A No-No

Think of oil as a nutrient-rich supplement. Now imagine trying to apply it over a layer of dust, sweat, and old hair products. That's what happens when you oil on a dirty scalp.

Always oil freshly washed or at least clean, dry hair. If you oil a greasy, sweaty scalp, it can trap bacteria, increase itchiness, and even cause dandruff. The oil cannot penetrate properly, and instead of nourishing, it starts clogging.

Even if the hair isn't freshly washed, it should be at least one or two days post-wash and free from product buildup. Make sure the scalp feels fresh before the oil goes on.

Clean canvas = better results.

6. Heat Styling After Oiling? Please Don't

Oil and heat? Sounds tempting, right? But applying heat tools like straighteners or curlers on oiled hair is a recipe for damage. Oil heats up fast, and when it's on the strands, it can literally fry the hair cuticle.

Even stepping out in harsh sun after oiling can harm the hair. That shiny layer attracts heat and dust, leading to dryness, frizz and split ends. It's like going out in peak May without sunscreen, not wise.

Plan your oiling routine for evenings or weekends when you can stay indoors, let the oil do its job, and wash it off gently. Heat and oil don't mix, at least not on your head.

Your Guide to Oiling Hair Properly and Getting the Results You Crave; Photo Credit: Pexels

7. Wash It Off Right, Gentle Is The Way

Many people struggle with washing off oil, especially thick ones like castor or coconut. The mistake? Pouring shampoo directly onto oiled hair. That makes it harder to lather and strips the scalp too harshly.

Here's the trick, apply a little shampoo on dry hair first. Gently massage to emulsify the oil. Then rinse and wash again with a diluted shampoo. You might need two rounds, but they should be gentle.

Avoid hot water, it weakens hair roots and can make hair brittle. Use lukewarm water followed by a cool rinse. And no, there's no need for aggressive scrubbing. Treat your hair like silk, not a stain on a kurta.

8. Scalp Massage Isn't Just Relaxing, It's Necessary

Ever wondered why traditional head massages feel so rejuvenating? It's not just comfort, it's science. Massaging the scalp improves blood flow, which brings oxygen and nutrients to the follicles. This boosts hair growth and reduces hair fall.

Use fingertips in small, circular motions. Start at the front and move towards the nape of your neck. A ten-minute massage releases tension, reduces stress and promotes hair health. No need for fancy tools, just your hands and a little patience.

Don't rush it. Think of it as a mini spa ritual. Consistency with massages, even just twice a week, can make a visible difference over time.

9. Oiling Alone Can't Fix Everything

Yes, oiling is beneficial. But expecting it to solve all hair problems is like using moisturiser and skipping water. Hair health depends on multiple factors, diet, sleep, water intake, stress levels and external care.

No oil can reverse the damage of constant heat styling, bleaching or poor nutrition. If hair fall is severe or scalp conditions persist, it's wise to consult a dermatologist.

Also, supplements like biotin, iron or omega-3s can support hair from within. Herbal teas, greens, lentils and nuts, all contribute to stronger, shinier hair. Oiling is one slice of the pie, not the whole dessert.

10. When It's Not Working, Listen To Your Hair

Sometimes, even with regular oiling, results may be underwhelming. That's your hair speaking. It might be telling you the oil is too heavy, the scalp is irritated, or it needs a break.

Just like skin, hair has moods. Humid weather might need lighter oils. Monsoon dandruff might need a break from oiling altogether. If hair feels limp, itchy or greasy too soon after oiling, reconsider the method.

Adapt. Test different oils. Reduce frequency. Or pause altogether for a week or two. Hair thrives when it's listened to, not forced into routines.

Sometimes the best solution isn't more, it's smarter.

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Hair oiling isn't outdated, it's just misunderstood. When done right, it can transform dull strands into glossy, healthy tresses. But the key lies in technique, timing and choosing what works for your hair.

Forget the rigid rules. Think of oiling as self-care, not a chore. A little warmth, a slow massage, and some attention can bring both shine and peace. So the next time someone says 'Oiling doesn't work for me', maybe they just need a new way, not a new oil. Because when hair is loved right, it shows. On the head and in the heart. Shop now on Myntra.