The practice of hair oiling has been used for centuries across the globe, dating back to Ayurvedic customs. Ayurveda believes in balancing the overall wellness of the mind and body. So, not only is hair and scalp oiling calming for the senses, but it also has a myriad of benefits for both. Expect nourished strands, a healthier scalp, supported hair growth, and even scalp microbiome protection.

Benefits of hair oiling

Let’s get into it and unpack the reason this tradition has stood the test of time. From hydrating the scalp to nourishing the follicles and down to the hair strands, hair oiling has many benefits. Here are some of the basics.

Nourishes the scalp

Hair oiling helps to nourish the scalp by providing it with nutrients directly to the follicles. Oils such as coconut oil, almond oil, and jojoba oil are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help to nourish and hydrate the scalp.

Strengthens hair strands

Hair oiling helps to visibly strengthen hair which can help make your hair more manageable. Some studies have shown that the process of the oils being absorbed into the hair medulla, or the inner core of the hair strand, can help increase hair's tensile strength, which measures how much force is needed to break the hair. Oiling hair can also help to reduce frizziness and prevent breakage. Work the oils into your scalp and through your strands for healthier, shinier, and stronger-looking locks.

Promotes hair growth

Hair oiling can help to promote hair growth by promoting circulation, aka blood flow to the scalp. This can help to increase the delivery of fresh nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles, supporting their natural growth.

Adds shine and softness

Oiling can help to add shine and softness to hair by coating the hair strands with a protective emollient layer, which also helps to hydrate the scalp. This is best done as a pre-wash treatment or done after hair is freshly cleansed to lock in hydration.

Types of hair oil

When choosing a hair oil, you have options! Different types of naturally occurring oils can be used for hair oiling, including coconut oil, almond oil, argan oil, jojoba oil, and many others. Each oil has unique properties that can benefit hair and scalp health differently. For example, coconut oil is rich in fatty acids that can nourish the hair shaft, while jojoba oil is similar to the natural oils produced by the scalp and can help promote healthy sebum production.

Our favorite is Hair La Vie’s Pure Argan Oil, which is lightweight and non-greasy, so it won't weigh hair down, works on every hair type, and is a rich source of vitamins A and E and essential fatty acids alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and linoleic acid (LA). It’s just a perfectly simple way to add softness to hair while nourishing the scalp for fabulous-looking, more manageable, lustrous locks.

Overall, argan oil is a versatile ingredient that can be used as a styling product or as a leave-in treatment after using Hair La Vie’s hydrating Hair Mask. The refreshingly scented mask contains 11 naturally-sourced ingredients, including argan, keratin, avocado and coconut oils, and meadowfoam seed. Just apply a small amount, let it sit for 5 minutes, rinse out with Hair La Vie’s Shampoo (no conditioner needed!), and then apply some Pure Argan Oil, and that’s it—your hair will love you for it! 

How to do hair oiling for maximum benefits

A scalp and hair oiling treatment are easy to work into your current haircare routine. It takes little time and yields significant benefits.

Here’s how to experience the magic of hair and scalp oiling:

1. Simply apply a few drops of Hair La Vie’s Pure Argan Oil into your hands.

2. Warm the oil by rubbing your hands together.

3. Part your hair into sections around your crown and hairline.

4. Massage it into your roots and scalp for a few blissful minutes, or you can work it into your hair and bring the oils down throughout the hair strands to nourish and hydrate, but either way—let it work its wonder.

5. Let the product sit for 5-10 minutes as a pre-shower treatment. Then, cleanse and condition as you usually would with a gentle shampoo like Hair La Vie’s Shampoo and Conditioner and feel the luxurious difference in your hair. Your scalp will feel soothed, healthy, and hydrated, and your locks will glisten.

How to add hair oiling to your haircare routine

Depending on the condition of your scalp and hair type, you may want to adjust the frequency of how often you include a pre-shower oil treatment into your routine, but generally, once a week is a good place to start!

Give yourself a few extra minutes at the end of a long day to unwind and indulge in a relaxing head massage. Make it a Sunday night to beat the Sunday Scaries, wake up to beautiful, lustrous hair, and help maintain a healthy scalp.

Final thoughts

Hair and scalp oiling is a time-tested and beloved haircare practice that can work wonders for healthy growth and hydration. Whether you prefer coconut, jojoba, or our favorite—argan oil, you can expect to reap the benefits of nourished strands and a healthier scalp. Plus, it's a luxurious and relaxing way to pamper yourself and show your hair some love.