is hot oil good for hair - #37800
I am really struggling with my hair lately. Like, it’s super dry and frizzy, and I’ve tried all these products, but nothing seems to work. A friend mentioned that using hot oil might help, but I’m not sure if that’s really true or just one of those beauty myths. Is hot oil good for hair? I’ve read different things online. Some say it can really nourish and hydrate, while others warn about potential damage if it’s too hot or if you don’t rinse it out well. Last weekend, I thought I’d try it out myself. Got some coconut oil, warmed it up a bit, but honestly, I was worried about applying it too hot, ya know? I massaged it into my scalp and left it on for like an hour before washing it out, but now I'm just left wondering — did I do it right? My hair feels a little better, I guess, but it’s hard to tell. Should I make this a regular thing? And how hot is too hot when it comes to oil? I don’t wanna end up damaging my hair more. Any advice from you Ayurvedic gurus would be super helpful! Thank you! 😊
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Doctors' responses
Using hot oil for hair indeed be beneficial, especially if you’re dealing with dryness and frizz. According to Ayurveda, warm oil penetrates the hair shaft, nourishes the scalp, and helps balance your doshas, mainly Vata, which when imbalanced can lead to dry and brittle hair. Coconut oil is excellent because it’s cooling and soothing; it even suits most doshas.
When warming the oil, it shouldn’t be too hot. You’re aiming for warmth that matches your body temperature. Test it on your wrist before applying - if it feels comfortably warm to your skin, it’s good for your scalp too. Overly hot oil can damage your hair and scalp, causing more harm.
Massaging gently with fingers helps increase circulation and promotes healthy hair growth. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes, up to an hour. Longer, like overnight in some cases, can be beneficial, but ensure you rinse it out thoroughly. You did right with an hour. Warm water rinse will help loosen the oil, followed by a mild shampoo.
Do this weekly or bi-weekly as part of your hair care routine. Regular application has shown to improve texture and manageability. Incorporate calming and rejuvenating herbs if you have access to them. Infusing the oil with hibiscus or bhringraj (false daisy) helps.
But keep an eye, if a regular routine doesn’t improve your hair condition, it might be helpful to assess your diet. Hydration and diet are crucial—consider foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, and hydrate well. Seasonal changes also affect hair, so adapt your routine as needed. Remember, hair care is holistic, integrating internal and external health through proper care. Yet, remain cautious. If issues worsen, consider consulting a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized guidance.

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