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is it necessary to apply oil on hair - #39305
I am really worried about my hair lately. For the past month or so, I've noticed it’s been falling out more than usual, and I keep thinking about how my mom always used to tell me, "is it necessary to apply oil on hair?" She swore by it and said it made her hair thicker and healthier. I don't remember her complaining about hair loss like I am now. I never really took her advice seriously, but at this point, I'm kinda desperate to try anything. My friend suggested trying coconut oil, but honestly, I’m not sure if it’s worth the hassle. Like, do I have to apply oil on hair every day? Or is just once a week enough? And which oil is the best, for real? I’ve heard so many different opinions. Also, I’ve tried some herbal shampoos thinking it was the shampoo causing the problem, but that didn’t help much either. My scalp tends to get oily so I get conflicted if using oil would just make it worse. Stressing out about my hair also isn’t helping, which I heard can be a factor too. Really curious if applying oil will really make a difference or if I’m wasting my time! Any thoughts?
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Doctors' responses
Applying oil to the hair is indeed a common practice in Ayurveda and there is wisdom to your mother’s suggestion. According to Ayurvedic principles, regular oiling can help nourish the scalp, strengthen hair roots, and promote hair growth. However, you need to consider your prakriti, or your body’s natural constitution, as it affects how your body responds to various treatments.
For individuals with a Kapha prakriti, who might have an oily scalp, using excessive oil frequently may not be necessary. In such cases, applying oil once a week might be sufficient. This helps ensure that the scalp is not overloaded, which could indeed aggravate oiliness. On the other hand, Vata constitutions benefit greatly from regular oiling because their dry scalps require more nourishment; they might benefit from applying oil 2-3 times a week. Pitta-types especially benefit from cooling oils like coconut oil to soothe the scalp and minimize hair loss.
Coconut oil is a good choice due to its cooling properties and ability to penetrate the hair shaft. You could also consider oils like sesame or almond oil, which nourish the hair while being relatively light. To apply, gently massage the oil into your scalp using your fingertips for about 10-15 minutes; this action promotes circulation and absorption. You may leave the oil on overnight if it’s comfortable or rinse off after an hour two—adjust based on your convenience.
To complement oiling, ensure a balanced diet rich in proteins, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are critical for hair health. Avoid processed sugars and foods that may increase Pitta and Vata doshas, often associated with hair thinning and loss. Mindful practices such as yoga or meditation may help minimize stress-related hair fall.
While oiling certainly plays a potentially beneficial role, it’s important to observe how your hair and scalp respond. If hair fall persists or worsens, professional consultation should be considered as more specific internal imbalances might be at play.
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