In Indian households, getting your hair oiled or getting a champi by your mother or grandmother is a fond memory that we all grew up with. However, as we grew up with our busy schedules, champi often took a back seat and we started relying on our shampoo and conditioner to maintain our hair health. But did you know, apart from nostalgia and fond memories, hair oiling also comes with a lot of benefits for your hair? Speaking with indianexpress.com, Dr Kalpana Sarangi, Cosmetic Dermatologist and Trichologist, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai shared, “Hair oiling can be beneficial as it acts as a natural conditioner, helping to smooth out the hair cuticle and reduce frizz. It also stimulates blood circulation when massaged into the scalp gently, which can promote hair growth. This is because increased blood flow to the hair follicles can result in healthier, more resilient hair, as it delivers vital nutrients and oxygen to the hair roots." Dr Sanjib Chowdhuri, Consultant, Dermatologist, Fortis Hospital Anandapur, Kolkata agreed to this and shared, “Hair oiling can be beneficial for hair health if applied correctly. It helps nourish the scalp, moisturise the hair follicles, and prevent dryness”. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dr Rashmi Shetty Dermatologist (@drrashmishettyra) How to choose the right hair oil While hair oiling can be beneficial for hair health, there are a wide variety of hair oils available in the market to choose from. Your specific needs and hair type should be taken into consideration when choosing a hair oil. For dry or damaged hair, oils like “argan or coconut” can provide deep hydration. “Lighter oils such as jojoba or grapeseed are suitable for oily hair,” said Dr Chowdhuri. Dr Chowdhuri added that experimenting with different varieties of oils and observing how your hair responds to them can help determine the best oil for you. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rujuta Diwekar (@rujuta.diwekar) When to stay away from oiling Dermatologists may recommend limiting or avoiding oiling for individuals with certain scalp or hair conditions. “Excessive oiling can lead to a buildup of sebum, which may contribute to an oily scalp, dandruff, or acne. Some oils can also clog hair follicles, potentially leading to hair breakage or thinning,” said Dr Chowdhuri. Dr Sarangi concluded that excessive oiling, especially in a humid climate, can exacerbate scalp issues like folliculitis, a condition that causes inflammation of the hair follicles, and waxy dandruff. “It can also contribute to acne on the forehead and back because oils can trap bacteria and other impurities on the skin's surface, leading to breakouts." 📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don't miss out on the latest updates!
