How to Oil Hair Effectively Before Washing

Co-authored by Mindy Nguyen

Last Updated: September 25, 2022

Applying oil to the hair before washing is important as it prevents drying of the hair because of the shampoo being used. Here are few tips to oil your hair effectively.

Steps

1
Choose an oil which you want to apply; coconut, olive, castor, etc.
2
Warm the oil slightly. Do not heat it too much or you'll burn your hand or scalp.

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3
Dip your finger tips in the warm oil and apply the oil to the roots of the hair in circular motion.^{[1]
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4
Do this to the entire scalp.
5
After applying oil to the entire scalp, apply oil to the rest of the hair till the tips.
6
Applying oil to the tips is important as it prevents split ends.^{[2]
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7
Massage the scalp with finger tips (don't use nails) for 10 minutes to improve circulation.
8
Leave the oil for at least an hour before washing it off. Leaving the oil overnight is even better.^{[3]
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- If you are leaving the oil overnight, make sure your hair is covered with a plastic shower cap and wash your hair the next morning.
9
Wash off the oil completely with shampoo.

Community Q&A

Question

How do I make my straight hair look softer and silkier? Is Tresemme a good conditioner to use?

Community Answer

It isn't bad, but Matrix Mega Sleek is great and doesn't leave a build-up on the scalp like other brands.
Question

How do I stop my hair from falling out naturally?

Community Answer

Get a grip on how you brush your hair. Use hair ties made of fabrics, and make your hair root stronger by doing yoga for hair loss. Overall, eat healthy, exercise, reduce stress, and get enough sleep.
Question

How do I oil my hair if I have dandruff?

Community Answer

Aloe vera on your scalp can help significantly. Put lots of it on your scalp for about twenty minutes and then shampoo and condition like normal.