Hair oiling has been a cherished beauty practice for centuries, particularly in regions like India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
This centuries-old tradition is rooted in both cultural and medicinal uses, passed down through generations. Today, it’s experiencing a global revival as people look for natural ways to nourish and enhance their hair’s health. But why has this practice stood the test of time, and how can it benefit your hair, no matter its texture? We asked Ricardo Vila Nova to weigh-in.
The origins of hair oiling
Hair oiling has deep roots in Ayurvedic traditions, where it was considered a key part of daily hair care. In Ayurveda, oiling the hair was not just about beauty – it was viewed as a holistic practice for enhancing overall health. Herbal oils were crafted with a combination of medicinal plants designed to improve circulation, reduce stress, and support hair growth. In addition to improving hair quality, oiling was believed to soothe the mind and promote mental clarity.
“Historically, the practice spread across many cultures, from ancient Egypt, where oils like castor and coconut were applied to the hair for added strength and shine, to the Middle East, where argan and rose oils were used for hydration and nourishment,” shares Vila Nova.
The benefits of hair oiling
Oiling the hair is hugely beneficial, it not only improves the look of the hair, adding megawatt shine to your tresses, but it also has major hair health benefits.
“Oils that are compatible with the hair are full of essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants that can help hydrate dry hair, and lock in moisture, preventing hair from becoming brittle or prone to breakage. They work wonders at shielding strands from environmental pollutants, UV, and heat. While hair oils also help smooth the hair cuticle, reducing frizz and minimizing split ends,” explains Vila Nova.
And you don’t have to stop at the root, you can also apply your oils on the scalp too. “Get your oil choice right and you can ward off a dry scalp, regulate sebum production and stop your scalp from over producing oil, as well as soothe inflammation and treat dandruff. Not only that but the mere act of massaging in your oils can aid growth, as massage helps improve blood circulation in the scalp. When the blood – with all the nutrients it carries – is circulating well your hair follicles reap the benefits. Think increased hair growth and a reduction in hair thinning and shedding,” reveals Vila Nova.
Oil selection is key
With the world at our fingertips, oils that were once impossible to find are now available for all to tap into. “However, just like with your skin, it’s best to pick your oils according to your scalp condition, hair type, texture and concerns. At 212.2 Ricardo Vila Nova we create bespoke oil blends to take the guesswork out of it, favouring the likes of lightweight tsubaki oil, known for its ability to nourish, and strengthen strands as well as soothe the scalp. As well as sacha inchi nut oil, which contains beneficial fatty acids alpha-linolenic acid (omega 3), linoleic acid (omega 6) and oleic acid (omega 9), that moisturise, and hydrate the hair and scalp as well as protect strands from external damage,” explains Vila Nova. But as a rule of thumb, you can’t go wrong with the following texture/oil combinations…
Straight Hair
Lightweight oils such as argan oil, grapeseed oil, and jojoba oil are ideal. They moisturise without weighing down the hair, leaving it soft and shiny without a greasy residue.
Wavy Hair
If your hair is wavy and tends to frizz, try sweet almond oil. These oils provide moisture and control frizz while maintaining the natural volume and wave pattern.
Curly Hair
Curly hair benefits from heavier oils like castor oil, olive oil, and avocado oil. These oils penetrate deeply to hydrate and nourish dry curls, reducing frizz and enhancing definition.
Afro-Textured Hair
For thicker, coarser hair, oils like shea butter, moringa oil, or argan oil are excellent. These oils provide intense moisture and protection against breakage. While Jamaican black castor oil is a popular choice for promoting hair growth and strengthening fragile strands.
Dry or Damaged Hair
Caster oil is a go-to for dry or damaged hair. Its ability to deeply penetrate the hair shaft helps to restore moisture, improve texture, add shine and majorly strengthen strands. Additionally, rosehip oil is great for nourishing and repairing split ends.
The right way to oil your hair
To get the most out of your hair oiling practice, the method is just as important as the product you choose. “I recommend warming the oil between the palms of your hands before apply it to the hair and scalp – as warm oil is better absorbed. Use your fingertips to gently massage the oil in circular motions around the scalp, and then run your hands down the lengths of your hair all the way to the ends. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes or alternatively for deeper conditioning leave it on overnight. Finally rinse off with a gentle shampoo that doesn’t undo all your hard work by stripping the hair and scalp,” explains Vila Nova.
Make time for hair oiling
There’s a reason many of our ancestors incorporated hair oiling into their beauty regimes – not only does it offer a wealth of benefits for all hair types, but it also gets major points for how well it helps relieve stress. With its ability to alleviate tension, and promote relaxation, the act itself becomes a moment of self-care, contributing to your overall well-being.
And whether you have straight, wavy, curly, or afro-textured hair, there’s an oil that’s perfect for your needs. Make it a part of your regular hair care routine and you’ll be able to restore the health, vitality, and shine of your hair in no time.
To take home the perfect Active Fusions oil blend for your tresses, book a consultation by contacting us using the link below.
