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Skin and Hair Disorders
Consultation #36266
270 days ago
525

is oil good for hair - #36266

Samuel
FREE

I am really confused about this whole “is oil good for hair” thing. Like, my friend swears by it, says it changed her life or whatever, but I’m not sure. I’ve tried a few oils like coconut and argan, but my scalp gets so oily afterwards and I just feel like a greasy mess, ugh. Last week I put some olive oil on before washing, and my hair was smooth but like... also super weighed down? Did I do it wrong?? Also, I read somewhere that you should warm the oil before applying, but then I worried I’d burn myself or something. Plus, my sister says she has super thick hair, and oils work wonders for her, while mine is kinda fine and limp, so I'm wondering if that makes a difference? And what about the whole "oil cleansing" thing? Is that even a thing for hair? Is oil good for hair in the long run? I’m super desperate for shine and have this annoying floaty frizz. I thought oil would help but now I’m not even sure. Pls send help if u have any tips or know if I should stick with it or ditch it altogether! Thanks, guys!

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Doctors' responses

Dr. Maitri Bhavesh Kumar Acharya
Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery
266 days ago
5

The idea of oil being good or bad for hair is not one-size-fits-all; it really depends on your hair type, lifestyle, and how you apply the oil. In Ayurveda, different hair types respond differently to oils, and not all oils suit every individual equally.

Based on what you’ve shared, it sounds like you’re dealing with fine hair. Fine hair tends to get weighed down easily, especially with heavier oils like olive or coconut. Ayurveda suggests choosing lighter oils, such as almond oil or jojoba oil for fine hair, as it nourishes without that heavy, greasy feeling. Argan oil is also a good choice since it’s less heavy compared to coconut or olive oils and can add luster and minimize frizz.

Warmng oil before application can indeed enhance its benefits by increasing absorption into the scalp and hairshaft. However, it should be warm to the touch, not hot, to avoid any discomfort or burns. Test it on your wrist first; it should feel pleasantly warm.

As you noticed, your friend with thick hair finds oils beneficial because thick, curly or wavy hair generally requires more moisture and can handle the added weight. Alternatively, fine hair needs less moisturizing weight to avoid feeling flat or slick — moderation is key.

Regarding the “oil cleansing” notion, utilizing oil for the scalp can actually help maintain balance and minimize problems like dry scalp, if done correctly. Yet, integrate it carefully; apply oil before shampooing so it can be effectively washed out, which will avoid the greasy aftermath you experienced.

In terms of long-term benefits, oils, especially when used correctly and consistently, can offer nourishment, improved scalp health, and shine. They can smooth down frizz and leave your hair looking glossy. Aim to apply the right oil once or twice a week, focusing on the ends and fringe areas prone to damage, while limiting the amount on your scalp.

Finally, your hair care shouldn’t rely solely on oiling. Ensure a holistic approach — eat a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, hydrate well and minimize the use of heat-styling tools to support hair health. But if oiling continues to leave your hair feeling heavy, reconsider its place in your routine. Trial, observation, and adjustment are invaluable in figuring out what works best for you!

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Dr. Sara Garg
Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery
263 days ago
5

Oils can indeed be beneficial for hair, but their effects mainly depend on hair type, scalp condition, and how you use them. In the Siddha-Ayurvedic approach, oils are seen as balancing agents, especially for vata dosha imbalances, which can manifest as dryness and frizz in hair. However, not all hair types require the same treatment – fine or oily hair may not need as much oil as thick or dry hair, so your friend’s experience could be different from yours.

For fine hair prone to greasiness, like yours, lighter oils such as jojoba or grapeseed might be more suitable, as they are less likely to weigh the hair down. The trick is to apply a small amount, focusing on the ends where the hair tends to be driest and avoiding the scalp.

Warming the oil slightly can help with absorption, but there’s no need to get it too hot – just warm it gently until it feels comfortable on your skin. It’s a good practice, but approach it cautiously to prevent burns. Olive oil is nutritive but heavy, which could explain the weighed down feeling you had.

The oil cleansing method typically refers to skin care, but some apply principles to hair and scalp for deep cleaning. Essential here is moderation; overuse or applying it incorrectly can lead to buildup or exacerbating issues like oiliness or dandruff.

In the long run, incorporating oils into your regimen can help manage frizz, add shine, and nourish the scalp. Start by experimenting with different oils and amounts. Ensure you’re not applying too much – often, just a few drops are adequate. If you ever feel unsure, adapt or find alternatives for better hair health without causing imbalance.

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