Ask Ayurveda

FREE! Just write your question
— get answers from Best Ayurvedic doctors
No chat. No calls. Just write your question and receive expert replies
1000+ doctors ONLINE
#1 Ayurveda Platform
Ask question for free
00H : 27M : 19S
background image
Click Here
background image
Skin and Hair Disorders
Question #36093
146 days ago
356

is oiling good for hair - #36093

Victoria

I am really curious about this whole oiling thing for hair, like is oiling good for hair? My grandma always swore by it, and I sorta see why. But I recently started noticing my hair feeling super dry and kinda frizzy, especially after all that hair coloring I did last summer. I tried some fancy shampoos but they don’t seem to really help much. Like, I keep hearing people say, “Oh just oil your hair!” but does that actually work? Last week, I did a coconut oil treatment after reading about it, but honestly, it was kinda messy and took me forever to wash it out. I just can’t tell if it’s worth the hassle. On the other hand, I've heard people say things like “You can’t overdo oiling” and “Is oiling good for hair?” I mean, if I did it every other day or something, would that really be too much? I’m also kinda worried about making my hair too greasy—sometimes I just wanna throw my hair into a bun and go without worrying if it looks like a slick! Is it really a good practice or just a trend? Any advice from you experts would be super helpful, thanks!

FREE
Question is closed

Doctor-recommended remedies for this condition

83 Doctors recommend
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7, 100% Anonymous
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
background-image
background-image
background image
banner-image
banner-image

Doctors' responses

Oiling hair holds an essential place in Ayurvedic tradition and is indeed beneficial when done correctly. Hair oiling, according to Ayurveda, nourishes the scalp, strengthens hair strands, and can help counterbalance dosha imbalances, notably Vata dosha, which can cause dryness and frizziness. Regular oiling can indeed bring life back to hair by providing necessary moisture and nutrients.

Considering your specific concerns—especially those stemming from hair coloring—your hair might be experiencing post-damage dryness, which is why you’re noticing more frizz. Ayurvedic texts suggest that how often you oil your hair depends greatly on your individual prakriti (constitution) and current conditions. For someone dealing with dryness and chemically treated hair, twice a week is often sufficient, but always take care to observe how your hair responds.

Coconut oil is a popular choice because it penetrates hair shafts well, helping with conditioning and damage repair. However, it can be tricky to wash out, especially if you leave it long or use too much. Here’s a practical tip—apply warm oil to dry hair, massage gently and after about 30 minutes, use a mild, sulfate-free shampoo to rinse it off. You might need to repeat or follow up with a very light conditioner on the ends. The warmth helps in better absorption by the scalp and hair, maximizing the benefits.

To avoid greasiness, be mindful of the amount; a little goes a long way—just enough to lightly coat your hair without it being drippy. Everyone’s hair is different, so adjust as needed. If your hair feels too greasy or weighed down, reduce the frequency or quantity of oil you use. Avoid oiling if you’re aiming for a sleek, washed appearance shortly after, instead opt for nights before rest days.

Being consistent with the practice helps in achieving optimal results. Incorporating light scalp massages during oiling can further enhance circulation and relaxation, stimulating hair growth and aiding in scalp health.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all recommendation; your hair will signal what it needs, and gentle observation will guide you in determining the perfect routine. If doubt persist, consult with a specialist who can give personalized advice based on your hair type and lifestyle.

11771 answered questions
29% best answers
Your personalized treatment is ready
The doctor has prepared a personalized treatment plan for you.
Your personalized treatment is ready
The doctor has prepared a personalized treatment plan for you.

0 replies

Oiling can indeed be beneficial for the hair, especially when dryness and frizziness are concerns. In Siddha and Ayurveda, we look at hair health through the lens of doshas, particularly the balance of Vata (air and space elements). Dryness and frizz often indicate an imbalance in Vata. Hair coloring and chemical treatments can exacerbate this, leading to the symptoms you’re experiencing.

Coconut oil, as you’ve used, is traditionally used in Southern India and is excellent for reducing Vata due to its nourishing and cooling properties. However, if it’s feeling too greasy or cumbersome, consider the amount and application method. Applying a small amount—just enough to coat the strands lightly—can be less messy. Warming the oil slightly before applying may help it penetrate better without requiring excessive quantities.

Aim for oiling 1-2 times per week rather than every other day; this helps maintain balance without causing your scalp to become too oily. To prevent greasiness, focus on applying oil to the lengths and ends of the hair rather than the roots. You could also explore lighter oils, like sesame or almond oil, if coconut feels too heavy for frequent use. Also consider doing a pre-shampoo treatment, leave tha oil for an hour or so before washing, instead of overnight, might reduce hassle.

Consistency is key so give it a few weeks to observe any changes. Good practices include gentle massage during oiling to enhance circulation to the scalp. If oiling ever leads to irritation or discomfort, reducing frequency or consulting a practitioner can help adapt the approach specifically to your prakriti (individual constitution). Oiling isn’t a trend; it’s a time-tested technique but personalized adjustments make it work best.

13694 answered questions
37% best answers
Your personalized treatment is ready
The doctor has prepared a personalized treatment plan for you.
Your personalized treatment is ready
The doctor has prepared a personalized treatment plan for you.

0 replies
Speech bubble
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous

600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.

About our doctors

Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions

Doctors online

Latest reviews

Dylan
1 hour ago
This answer was super helpful! The suggestions are clear and I'll definitely give them a try. Thanks for the advice on diet too.
This answer was super helpful! The suggestions are clear and I'll definitely give them a try. Thanks for the advice on diet too.
Vada
1 hour ago
Thanks for making it easy to understand this. Really reassured me about taking it safely. Your advice was very helpful!
Thanks for making it easy to understand this. Really reassured me about taking it safely. Your advice was very helpful!
Andrew
1 hour ago
Thanks a ton for the detailed answer! It really put my mind at ease about the ingredients. Feeling more confident taking it now!
Thanks a ton for the detailed answer! It really put my mind at ease about the ingredients. Feeling more confident taking it now!
Patrick
1 hour ago
Thanks so much for clarifying this! I had no idea mixing meds could be risky. I'll stick to my doctor's meds and look into Ayurveda separately.
Thanks so much for clarifying this! I had no idea mixing meds could be risky. I'll stick to my doctor's meds and look into Ayurveda separately.