Hair oil is one of those products almost everyone owns and very few people use properly. Too much, wrong timing or skipping the scalp can leave hair greasy without any of the benefits. The good news is that a good oiling routine is simple, and it takes only a few minutes once you know the basics.

Start With the Right Oil for Your Concern

Different oils suit different needs, so choose based on what you want to fix:

How to Apply Hair Oil, Step by Step

  1. Detangle first. Brush dry hair gently so the oil spreads evenly and you avoid pulling on knots later.
  2. Use a small amount. A few drops to a teaspoon is enough for most people. You can always add more, but you cannot take it back.
  3. Part your hair in sections. Apply oil to the scalp along each parting so it reaches the skin, not just the hair on top.
  4. Massage for 3 to 5 minutes. Use your fingertips in small circles. Massage improves how evenly the oil spreads and makes the routine relaxing.
  5. Work the leftover oil through the lengths. Use whatever remains on your palms to lightly coat the mid-lengths and ends, which are the driest part of the hair.
  6. Leave it on. Anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours works well. Overnight is fine if your scalp tolerates it.
  7. Wash it out. Apply shampoo to your scalp before adding water, lather, and rinse. Repeat if your hair still feels coated.

How Often Should You Oil Your Hair?

Twice a week suits most hair types. If your scalp gets oily quickly, once a week is plenty. If your hair is dry or frizzy, you can go up to three times a week. Pay attention to how your scalp feels: itchiness, heaviness or breakouts along the hairline are signs to cut back.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using too much oil and skipping the wash-out
  • Oiling only the hair and never the scalp
  • Tying wet, oiled hair very tight, which puts strain on the roots
  • Combing aggressively while the hair is heavy with oil
  • Expecting overnight results. Hair grows slowly, so give any routine at least two to three months before judging it

A Small Tip for Better Results

Warm the oil slightly by rubbing it between your palms before applying. It spreads more easily and feels more comfortable on the scalp. If you are trying a new oil for the first time, do a small patch test behind your ear a day before using it on your whole scalp.

Ready to build your routine? Explore our hair oils or browse the full Rawaayat range.