can sesame oil be used for hair - #39429
I am really confused about my hair lately. It's been so dry and brittle, like straw, and I heard that can sesame oil be used for hair? My friend swears by it, but I’m not sure. I've tried so many products — like those fancy serums and conditioners, but nothing seems to help. I even did a deep conditioning treatment last week, ugh, and I feel like it made it worse. I read online that sesame oil is rich in nutrients, but can sesame oil be used for hair effectively? I mean, will it really help with the dryness, or am I just chasing after another quick fix that won’t work? I thought about massaging it into my scalp, too, but I’m worried it will make my hair greasy. My scalp can be oily sometimes, and i really wouldn’t want to add to that! If it does work, how much should I use? Like, a tablespoon or more? And do you think it would actually improve the texture? I just want my hair to feel soft and healthy again. Any tips or experiences with sesame oil would be super helpful! Thanks!
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Doctors' responses
Sesame oil can indeed be a beneficial treatment for your hair, especially when dealing with dryness and brittleness. Known as “Til Oil” in Ayurveda, sesame oil is revered for its nourishing and healing properties, making it an excellent option for promoting hair health. The rich nutrients in sesame oil, such as vitamin E, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids, contribute to its effectiveness in moisturizing and strengthening hair strands.
To use sesame oil effectively, consider warming it slightly before application — this helps oil to better penetrate the hair and scalp. You can use a small saucepan or a microwave (on low heat) to warm it a bit. Begin by massaging about a tablespoon of warm sesame oil into scalp and then work it through the lengths of your hair. Be gentle in your massage to stimulate blood circulation, this adds an additional benefit of improving scalp health too.
After applying, let the oil sit for at least 30 minutes or for more intensive treatment, leave it in overnight. Wrap your hair with a warm towel or use a shower cap for deeper penetration. If you’re hesitant about overnight application due to oily scalp concerns, you can apply it and then shampoo your hair after 30 minutes to an hour. Shambooing thoroughly will ensure that your hair doesn’t become too greasy.
Given your concerns with an oily scalp, I’d recommend trying this application once or twice a week initially to monitor how your scalp and hair respond. Ensuring you cleanse the oil out properly with a gentle, preferably sulfate-free shampoo will prevent any greasy buildup.
With repeated use, you should notice improved hair texture, increased softness, and reduced dryness. If you feel the need for a more personalized approach, you might consider consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner who can provide guidance that’s tailored to your specific dosha and hair condition.
While sesame oil can a versatile and effective ally in addressing hair concerns, it’s important to to use it within a balanced routine, always being mindful of your hair’s unique needs.

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