HOW TO OIL YOUR HAIR. EFFECTIVE METHODS AND THE BEST OILS

Oiling hair is one of the best methods for hair regeneration, deep moisturization and protection against damage. We commonly talk about oiling hair, but in reality the best and most effective is oiling the scalp, and we only rub the remaining oil into our hair. The hair oiling cosmetics that we have created at Orientana come from the tradition of Ayurveda. During my stay in India, I learned their advantages, the way of performing them and the entire ritual passed down from generation to generation.

If you are wondering how to oil your hair properly and what oils to choose, I will describe various techniques and ingredients in this article - natural vegetable oils, and you can adjust them to your needs. The effects may positively surprise you!

Choosing the right oil for your hair porosity

Although in India and even throughout Asia hair porosity is not a major concept , just like in hair care in Poland, the key element of effective oiling is the selection of the right oil .

The selection of Asian oil for hair porosity should be based on the content of fatty acids in a given oil, because they determine how well the oil will "get along" with a specific type of hair. Asian hair care is a treasure trove of natural oils that not only nourish but also protect hair from external factors.

If you want to choose oils according to your hair porosity, here's how to do it

Low porosity hair

This hair is characterized by tightly adhering scales, which makes it smooth, shiny and relatively resistant to damage. At the same time, it has difficulty absorbing water and nutrients. In their case, light oils, rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, work best, which do not weigh down the hair and do not cause excessive greasiness.

Camellia oil , known in Japan as tsubaki, is ideal for this type of hair. It is a light, quickly absorbed oil that moisturizes, smoothes and protects hair from the effects of weather conditions.

Camellia has been used in traditional geisha care rituals. Rice oil works equally well, softening hair, giving it shine and strengthening its structure, while being gentle on the scalp. Another noteworthy suggestion is jojoba oil , often used in Asian cosmetics.

Thanks to its structure resembling human sebum, this oil perfectly regulates the oiliness of the scalp and protects the hair against moisture loss.

Medium porosity hair

This is the most common porosity in our country. This type of hair has moderately raised scales. It is the most susceptible to styling and usually absorbs water easily, but at the same time it is sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity, which can cause frizz and tangling. Oils with an average content of polyunsaturated fatty acids are suitable for oiling medium porosity hair.

For oiling medium porosity hair, choose sesame oil , widely used in Indian Ayurveda. It contains vitamins B, E, and minerals that strengthen hair follicles, protect against UV radiation to some extent, and improve hair elasticity.

Green tea seed oil (Camellia sinensis) is equally effective – it has antioxidant properties, soothes irritations and prevents excessive hair loss. Avocado oil is also suitable for medium porosity hair ,

In the case of oiling medium porosity hair , fermented coconut oil is also well tolerated. Unlike classic oil, which can be too heavy, the fermented version is milder, absorbs faster and nourishes the hair better without weighing it down.

Highly porous hair

This is a structure with strongly raised scales, which makes them lose moisture easily, frizz quickly and are more susceptible to mechanical and chemical damage (e.g. after lightening or dyeing). They require intensive regeneration and deep nourishment. Oiling high porosity hair works best with heavier oils, rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids.

The most effective is amla oil , also known as Indian gooseberry. It has strong regenerative properties, strengthens the structure, darkens them naturally and stimulates growth.

Another Ayurvedic classic is bhringraj oil , referred to as the "king of hair". It improves blood circulation in the scalp, prevents premature graying and helps rebuild damaged strands.

For people with scalp problems (e.g. dandruff, itching, prone to inflammation) , neem oil is a good choice. It has strong antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Linseed oil also works well for highly porous hair.

Regardless of the porosity of your hair, the method of washing off the oil is very simple. Remember that after oiling, you should wash your hair with shampoo.

How to oil your hair? Methods

Hair oiling can be done in different ways, depending on the needs of your hair and the time you have available. Each method has its advantages and can be adapted to your individual care routine.

Dry - this is a quick and convenient option, ideal for busy people. The oil is applied directly to dry hair, without previously wetting it. The method works when you need quick nourishment and do not have time for a more complex ritual. This is a quick and convenient option, ideal for busy people. This method works especially well for dull hair that needs immediate nourishment and weakened hair that requires quick regeneration

Wet hair oiling – a great method for hair that requires intense moisture. Wetting your hair before applying oil helps create an occlusive layer that traps moisture within the hair, which can increase its softness and elasticity. This is a great method for hair that requires intense moisture and is especially recommended if you regularly style your hair with heat and need extra protection, or you color your hair and want to prevent it from drying out.

In a bowl – this care treatment consists of emulsifying oil with water, usually using a bowl and warm water. The hair is immersed or poured with this mixture, which facilitates the absorption of the oil, and thanks to this, the strands are evenly covered with nutrients, which intensifies the effect of hair moisturizing. This method is ideal for extremely dry hair , requiring deep regeneration, people with frizzy hair who want to smooth it and for weakened hair , in need of intensive nourishment.

Oiling on conditioner or gel - involves applying oil on a previously applied moisturizing base, e.g. aloe gel, hydrolate or silicone-free conditioner. Oiling on conditioner or gel enhances the moisturizing effect and helps to better "lock" moisture in the hair. Oiling on base is a great solution for high porosity hair that quickly loses moisture, people with dry strands and for hair that requires intensive regeneration .

Oiling hair overnight – The time you keep the oil in always depends on the condition and needs of your hair, but oiling overnight is a method for people who want maximum hair regeneration. The oil stays on your hair for a few hours, which gives time for deep absorption of nutrients. In the morning, just wash the oil off your hair thoroughly to enjoy its softness and shine. To avoid staining your bed linen, it is worth protecting your hair with a cap or towel. This method is especially recommended for damaged hair that requires deep reconstruction, brittle hair that needs strengthening and hair that lacks elasticity and shine.

Now consider which hair oiling method to choose and reach for natural vegetable oils.

How often should you oil your hair and what are the benefits of oiling your hair?

The frequency of oiling depends on the condition and needs of your hair. Regular use of this method can bring spectacular effects - the strands will become stronger, more elastic and full of shine . Oiling the scalp and performing a massage at the same time is an excellent treatment for strengthening hair follicles.

Oiling hair is one of the simplest and most effective methods of hair care. It involves applying oil to the strands, which supports their regeneration, strengthens the structure and protects against damage. Regular use of oils makes the hair smooth, moisturized and stronger , and also helps regulate sebum secretion, which promotes healthy growth.

It is not only a way to have beautiful hair here and now, but also an investment in its long-term condition . Oiling increases the resistance of the strands to external factors, such as pollution or changing weather conditions. If you are wondering whether it is worth trying - the answer is simple: yes! See for yourself how much it can change your hair.

Benefits of oiling for hair condition

Oiling hair is not only a procedure that affects its aesthetics, but above all a form of in-depth care, affecting the hair from the inside. Systematic use of vegetable oils helps restore the lipid balance of hair, improve its strength and overall condition. This natural hair care provides incredible benefits.

One of the basic effects of oiling is improving hair elasticity . Hair that is regularly oiled becomes more elastic and resistant to breakage. Oils soften the hair shaft, increasing its susceptibility to styling, while reducing the risk of mechanical damage, especially during combing or thermal styling. Oiling hair is good protection against damage.

Another important advantage is the intensive moisturization of hair . Oils create an occlusive layer on the hair surface, which limits transepidermal water loss. Thanks to this, it is possible to maintain an appropriate level of moisture inside the hair, which has a positive effect on its elasticity, shine and softness to the touch.

Oiling also proves effective in preventing split ends . The smoothing effect of oils promotes adhesion of hair cuticles, which reduces their susceptibility to delamination. As a result, the hair looks more uniform, healthy and well-groomed, even with long strands.

The influence of oiling on the stimulation of hair growth is also significant. Regular scalp massages with oils improve microcirculation and support the transport of nutrients to hair follicles. It also strengthens hair bulbs. Combined with the regenerative properties of individual oils, this treatment promotes faster and healthier hair growth.

A beneficial effect of oiling is also the reduction of hair loss . Nourished hair bulbs, protected from free radicals and drying, are less susceptible to weakening. Proper care can in many cases limit excessive hair loss resulting from malnutrition of the scalp or micro-damage to the hair.

Finally, oiling helps to soothe scalp irritations . Many oils, such as neem, coconut, and tea tree, have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Using them can reduce symptoms such as itching, flaking, and tightness. This makes oiling not only a skin care treatment, but also a way to support scalp health.

Oils recommended for oiling the scalp include castor oil – it stimulates microcirculation and strengthens hair bulbs. Fenugreek oil is perfect, as it is rich in phytoestrogens, saponins, nicotinic acid (niacin) and plant mucilages, which stimulate microcirculation in the scalp. As a result, hair bulbs are better nourished and oxygenated, which promotes faster hair growth and the appearance of so-called “baby hair”.

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and strengthening properties, fenugreek oil helps reduce hair loss, especially that caused by weakened hair follicles, oxidative stress or micronutrient deficiencies. Regular rubbing strengthens the hair structure at the level of the hair follicle.

The ingredients in fenugreek affect sebum balance. The oil can be helpful for both oily and dry skin, as it has a normalizing effect – it does not dry out the skin, but it does not burden it either.

Fenugreek has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties. The oil from this plant soothes inflammation of the scalp, reduces itching, reduces dandruff and calms irritation, making it an ideal solution for people with problematic scalps.

You will find this ingredient in this hair lotion - check it out.

How to properly oil your hair step by step?

Oiling your hair is a great way to regenerate and strengthen it. However, to get the best results, it is worth following a few rules. How to apply oil so that it fulfills its task?

1. Wash your hair – prepare your scalp and strands for better absorption of nutrients and wash your hair with shampoo.
2. Apply the oil – spread it evenly on the scalp
3. Massage your skin – this will stimulate circulation and facilitate the absorption of nutrients.
4. Massage the remaining oil into slightly damp or dry hair, concentrating on the ends.
5. Wrap your hair in a towel or wear a cap – the heat will increase the effectiveness of the treatment.
6. Leave the oil on your hair – the optimal time to leave the oil in is from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the condition of your hair.

How to apply oil to hair?

Precise application is the key to effective care. Start with the ends, because they dry out and break the fastest. Then gently spread the oil over the entire length of the hair. Remember not to overdo it with the amount of oil - too much can weigh it down. If you have long or extremely dry hair, you can use a little more oil, but always in moderation to avoid the effect of greasiness.

How long should you keep the oil on your hair?

The time the oil is exposed to is of great importance. The minimum time is 30 minutes , which allows for the absorption of nutrients. Oiling low porosity hair may require a shorter time to avoid weighing it down, while high porosity hair will benefit from longer oiling - up to 2 hours . It is best to experiment and observe the reaction of the hair to the time of holding the oil in, to choose the optimal time.

How often should you oil your hair?

Regular hair oiling is key to their health and shine. Normally, 1-2 times a week is enough, but if your hair is exceptionally dry or damaged, you can do it more often - even with every wash. The most important thing is to observe their reaction and adjust the frequency so as not to overdo it and not burden the strands.

What is an effective method for washing off oil?

Removing oil from hair is a key step in oiling – it determines whether the strands will be light and fresh or weighed down and greasy. To effectively get rid of the oil layer, it is worth using a proven method that will not only make washing easier, but also take care of the condition of the hair. One of the best ways is to emulsify the oil with conditioner before using shampoo. This allows the oil to combine with the conditioner, making it easier to rinse off and the hair not remaining greasy.

Oil Emulsification - How to Do It Properly

To effectively remove oil from hair, apply conditioner to oiled hair, distributing it evenly, then leave it on the hair for a few minutes so that it can combine with the oil. Finally, wash the hair with a gentle shampoo to remove any remaining oil and conditioner.

This method is especially recommended for those who regularly oil their hair, as it prevents excessive weight on the strands and eliminates the risk of greasy residues. Moreover, proper emulsification not only makes it easier to wash off the oil, but also improves hair hydration and softness .

OMO method and effective hair cleansing

The OMO method (conditioner-wash-conditioner) is a great way to thoroughly remove oil, while also providing additional moisture and protection to the hair . Thanks to this technique, the strands are cleansed but do not lose their natural moisture.

The OMO method is especially beneficial for people who regularly oil their hair and want to avoid drying it out. This process helps maintain the hair's hydrolipid balance , which is crucial for its health and elasticity. If your hair often feels dry and rough after washing, it is worth checking whether the OMO method would not be a better solution for it.

Which oils to choose for your specific hair needs?

Each hair is different and requires an individual approach to care. Oiling is an effective method that can be adapted to different types of hair – from dyed, through oily, to damaged.

What needs do different hair types have?

• Dyed hair – requires color protection and additional moisture.
• Oily hair – needs to regulate sebum secretion.
• Damaged hair – requires intensive regeneration.

So how do you tailor your oiling to your hair’s specific needs to get the best results? Check out the tips below!

Oiling dyed hair – how to protect the color?

Dyed hair often loses its shine and color intensity faster than we would like. Oiling can help maintain the depth of color, provided that you choose the right oils. The best oils for colored hair are grape seed oil - it moisturizes, creates a protective layer and prevents color fading and jojoba oil - strengthens the hair structure and prolongs the durability of color.

Regularly oiling your hair with these oils makes the color remain intense and the hair shinier and healthier.

Oiling oily hair – how to regulate sebum?

Oily hair can be a real challenge. However, proper oiling can help restore the balance of the scalp. The key is to use light oils that do not weigh down the hair, while regulating sebum secretion.

The best oils for oily hair include tea tree oil, which has antibacterial properties and refreshes the scalp. An effective treatment with grape seed oil helps normalize the sebaceous glands.

Regularly oiling your hair with these oils can reduce the problem of excessive hair greasiness, leaving it fresh for longer. Maybe it's worth trying this method?

Ayurveda advises which oils to choose

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian science of health and longevity, places great emphasis on natural hair care through oiling. Oiling hair is seen as a therapy that balances the doshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha), promoting hair growth, nourishment and regeneration. Below are the scientifically described best oils for hair oiling according to the Ayurvedic tradition.

Castor oil (Ricinus communis)
Castor oil, rich in ricinoleic acid (omega-9), has a strong humectant effect, meaning it attracts and retains moisture. In Ayurveda, it is often used to thicken hair and stimulate the growth of eyelashes and eyebrows. This oil balances the Vata dosha, strengthens the hair structure and reduces its breakage. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects make it effective in treating scalp infections and also in soothing irritations.

Choosing the right oil for hair care is key to their health and beautiful appearance . The best effects are achieved with natural oils in blends tailored to specific problems.

Coconut oil (Cocos nucifera)

This is the best oil for oiling low porosity hair. Coconut oil is one of the most valued oils in Ayurveda, especially for people with a dominant Pitta dosha. Due to its high content of saturated fatty acids, including lauric acid, it has strong antibacterial and antifungal properties. Lauric acid penetrates the hair shaft better than other fatty acids, making it effective in preventing protein loss from the hair. This oil cools the scalp, soothes inflammation and reduces dandruff, and also prevents excessive hair loss.

Amla oil (Emblica officinalis)
Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is a rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants such as flavonoids and tannins. Amla oil applied externally has antioxidant, photoprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. According to Ayurveda, amla balances all three doshas, ​​especially Pitta, which makes it counteract premature graying and balding. The compounds present in amla stimulate hair follicles and support collagen production, which leads to increased hair density and elasticity.

Sesame oil (Sesamum indicum)
Sesame oil, referred to in Ayurveda as the “king of oils,” is rich in vitamins E and B, phospholipids, magnesium, and omega-6 fatty acids. Thanks to its ability to deeply penetrate the structures of the skin and hair, it nourishes hair follicles and improves microcirculation in the scalp. Sesame oil is especially recommended for balancing the Vata and Kapha doshas, ​​and has antioxidant and adaptogenic properties, which helps reduce oxidative stress, which causes hair loss.

Neem oil (Azadirachta indica)
Neem is a plant with strong antiseptic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Neem seed oil contains active substances such as azadirachtin, nimbolide and nimbic acid, which effectively combat scalp infections, dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Ayurveda recommends neem oil to people with excess Kapha and Pitta doshas, ​​as it cleanses the scalp, supports detoxification and reduces inflammation. Additionally, its bitter taste and cooling properties strengthen hair follicles and prevent hair loss.

Bhringraj oil (Eclipta alba)
Bhringraj, also known as the “king of hair” in Ayurveda, contains phytochemicals such as eclalbidin, luteolin, and wedelolactone. Studies show that bhringraj oil has cytoprotective effects on scalp cells and stimulates the anagen phase (hair growth). This oil is especially recommended for people with a predominance of Vata dosha, as it strengthens hair follicles, moisturizes dry locks, and helps regenerate the scalp. Used regularly, it can accelerate hair growth and prevent breakage.

Each of the above oils can be used alone or in mixtures, adjusting them to the type of dosha and the individual needs of the scalp and hair. Regular oiling according to the principles of Ayurveda not only strengthens the structure of the hair, but also works holistically - reducing stress, improving circulation and balancing life energy (prana).

The best oils for hair oiling

It is worth starting to oil your hair with ready-made mixtures.

Ayurvedic Gotu Kola Therapy Strengthening

Regular hair oiling with a mixture of 11 oils containing unsaturated fatty acids and 12 extracts of Indian herbs is a real powerhouse for hair. This rich, beautifully scented hair therapy is designed to intensively nourish the scalp, strengthen the follicles and restore the hair's natural strength and shine.

What are the benefits of oiling your hair with Therapy?

• in strengthening and thickening the hair
• stimulating growth and inhibiting hair loss
• moisturizing, nourishing and regenerating the scalp
• Helps to balance the scalp thanks to ferments and plant bioactive ingredients
• soft, shiny and healthy-looking hair

A unique composition prepared according to an Ayurvedic recipe:

• Coconut oil and sesame oil – deeply moisturize, protect and give hair shine
• Lactobacillus Ferment – ​​supports the scalp microbiome, has a soothing and protective effect
• Burdock (Arctium Lappa), Bhringraj (Eclipta Alba), Centella Asiatica, Neem (Azadirachta Indica) – known in Ayurveda for their anti-hair loss and growth stimulating effects
• Henna (Lawsonia Inermis) and Indigo (Indigofera Tinctoria) – strengthen hair and deepen its natural color
• Cardamom, Jasmine, Cinnamon, Camphor, Calamine – give the oil a beautiful scent and a soothing and cleansing effect
• Calamus root oil, barberry, licorice and other traditional Ayurvedic herbs – support scalp balance and improve the overall condition of hair

Ayurvedic Hair Oil Amla and Bhringraj Density

Traditional formula based on Ayurvedic knowledge, created for comprehensive hair and scalp care. Amla & Bhringraj oil used before washing accelerates hair growth, strengthens its structure and helps maintain natural, deep color - especially in dark hair - delaying the graying process.

Natural vegetable oils and herbs in a bottle

• stimulate hair growth and prevent hair loss
• strengthen the natural pigment and delay graying
• smooth, nourish and add shine to hair
• soothes scalp irritations and supports its health
• restore balance and strengthen hair follicles

Key Ingredients:

• Amla (Emblica Officinalis) – rich in vitamin C, strong antioxidant, strengthens hair colour and structure
• Bhringraj (Eclipta Alba) – an Ayurvedic herb known for its hair growth stimulating and hair loss preventing properties
• Sesame oil, coconut oil, olive oil, almond oil and sunflower oil - regenerate, moisturize and protect hair from drying out
• Neem, Bacopa Monnieri and Tulsi (Ocimum Sanctum) – have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, supporting a healthy scalp
• Rosemary, camphor and fenugreek oil (Trigonella Foenum-Graecum) - stimulate circulation and strengthen hair follicles
• Lawsonia (henna), Acacia Concinna (Shikakai) – natural ingredients that nourish hair and support its natural shine and volume

After using these cosmetics, remember to wash your hair.

The Most Common Hair Oiling Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Oiling your hair is an effective method of regenerating and nourishing it. However, improper use of oils can have the opposite effect. Correct application makes the strands stronger, shinier and healthier. What mistakes do we make most often and how to avoid them? Let's find out!

Can you overdo it with the amount of oil?

Yes! Many people believe that the more oil, the better the effect. This is a mistake. Too much makes the hair heavy, difficult to wash and loses volume. How much oil to use? It depends on the length and density of the hair, but usually a few drops evenly distributed on the strands are enough. If after washing the hair is still greasy, use less product next time.

What oils can weigh down hair?

Not every oil works the same on every hair. Some can weigh it down too much. Coconut oil can make low porosity hair stiff and dull. Castor oil – very thick, can cause the scalp to become oily. The key to success? Testing and observing the hair's reaction.

Now that you know what oiling your hair does, are you ready to give it a try? This could be the start of a new hair care routine that will bring benefits for years to come.