Hair Oiling: The Ancient Secret to Lustrous Locks

You’re standing in front of the mirror, running your fingers through your hair and sighing at the sight of dry, lifeless strands. We’ve all been there, desperately searching for that miracle solution to transform our tresses. Well, what if we told you that the answer to your hair woes has been hiding in plain sight for centuries? We’re talking about hair oiling—the ancient beauty ritual making a major comeback in the modern world of hair care. Today, let’s talk about hair oiling, its benefits and how you can practise it using modern hair care products you can easily shop online.

Where does hair oiling come from?

Hair oiling has roots that stretch back thousands of years. This practice originated in the Indian subcontinent, where it has been a key part of Ayurvedic medicine and beauty traditions for millennia. It was deeply ingrained in daily life, with people of all ages and genders regularly massaging oils into their scalps and hair. It was believed to nourish the hair, promote mental clarity, reduce stress, and improve overall health.

The choice of oils was as diverse as the subcontinent itself. Coconut oil, revered for its cooling properties, was a favourite in the tropical south. In the north, mustard seed oil was prized for its warming effects. Amla oil, derived from the Indian gooseberry, was celebrated for its rejuvenating properties.

As trade routes expanded, the practice of hair oiling spread beyond India’s borders. It found its way into other cultures, each adapting the practice to suit local preferences and available ingredients. In ancient Egypt, castor oil, often infused with aromatic herbs, was a popular choice for hair care.

Throughout history, hair oiling has been more than just a beauty treatment. It’s been a social ritual, a meditative practice, and a way to pass down traditional knowledge from one generation to the next. Today, as we rediscover this ancient secret to lustrous locks, we’re not merely embracing a beauty trend—we’re connecting with a rich cultural tradition and heritage that spans continents and millennia.

Is hair oiling good for hair growth?

Absolutely! When you massage oil into your roots, you’re stimulating blood flow to your hair follicles, which, in turn, promotes healthier, faster hair growth. Many hair oils are also rich in vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids that nourish the scalp and hair follicles. This nourishment creates an optimal environment for hair growth.

Other benefits of hair oiling

But wait, there’s more! Hair oiling for hair growth isn’t all that matters. Use it correctly, and you can treat your strands to a full-on spa day. Here’s what else you can expect:

• Moisture retention: Say goodbye to dry, brittle hair. Oiling helps lock in moisture, giving you softer, more manageable locks.
• Stress relief: That scalp massage isn’t just good for your hair; it’s also a mini meditation session. Feel the tension melt away as you work the oil into your scalp.
• Frizz fighter: Tame those flyway's and embrace smoother, sleeker hair.
• Nutrient boost: Depending on the chosen oil, you’re feeding your hair a cocktail of vitamins and minerals.
• Shield from environmental damage: Hair oils can form a protective layer on the hair and scalp, shielding them from environmental stressors that could impede growth.

Hair oiling: How to do it the modern way

Now, we know what you’re thinking: “Won’t this make my hair look greasy?” Fear not! Here’s a quick hair oiling routine, or how to oil your hair the modern way:

1. Choose your oil wisely (more on that in a moment).
2. Start with damp or dry hair—what matters is that it is clean.
3. Warm the oil slightly between your palms.
4. Section your hair and apply from roots to tips.
5. Give yourself a relaxing scalp massage (you deserve it!).
6. Leave it on for a few hours or overnight if you feel indulgent.
7. Shampoo thoroughly, maybe twice, to ensure no residue is left.

Which hair oil products are best to use?

The beauty of hair oiling is that there’s an oil for every hair type and concern. Here’s a quick guide to some of the best oils for different hair types:

For Fine/Thin Hair:

• Argan oil: Lightweight and non-greasy, perfect for adding shine without weighing hair down
• Jojoba oil: Closely mimics natural scalp oils, great for balancing oil production

For Thick/Coarse Hair:

• Coconut oil: Deeply moisturising and penetrating for dry, thick strands
• Castor oil: Rich and nourishing, excellent for promoting thickness and growth

For Curly/Textured Hair:

• Avocado oil: Packed with nutrients to hydrate and define curls
• Olive oil: Helps smooth frizz and add moisture to thirsty curls

For Dry/Damaged Hair:

• Rosemary oil: Stimulates circulation and promotes hair growth
• Almond oil: Rich in vitamin E, great for repairing damage and adding shine

For Oily Hair:

• Grapeseed oil: Light and balanced, helps regulate oil production
• Tea tree oil: Has clarifying properties to combat excess oil and dandruff

For All Hair Types:

• Batana oil: A versatile oil that promotes hair growth and overall hair health
• Biotin-infused oils: Great for strengthening hair and promoting growth
• Hemp oil: A newcomer to the scene, packed with omega fatty acids for ultimate nourishment.

Your next question is probably this: How much hair oil to apply? With hair oil, a little goes a long way. So, no matter your hair type and choice of hair oil, it’s good to start with a small amount and adjust as needed. For best results, apply hair oil to damp or dry hair, focus on the mid-lengths to ends, and follow our application tips.

Explore our hair oil products today.

If you want to start trying the ancient practice of hair oiling, Jericho Skincare Australia is here to offer a range of quality hair oil products you can use. Interested in hemp oil? Check out our Cannabio Shampoo with Hemp Oil. Give our Bio Botanic Oil Shampoo a whirl if you’re dealing with thin, fragile hair. If you’re seeking the magic of argan oil, our Golden Curl Argan Oil Hair Serum is a must-try.

Check out our entire hair care collection to explore more hair oil products, hair serums and other hair care products infused with the most nourishing oils.