We all remember that typical Sunday afternoon, when mum or grandma is seated with a steel katori of warm coconut oil and calling out your name to will you over as you pretended to be “way too busy” playing cricket or watching cartoons. Because in those times oiling the hair seemed to be a tedious task. And now, it is the ultimate indulgence for your hair when it comes to self-care.
This is where people mess up. They consider oiling your hair like we splash water on our face, a 2 minute job. And of course, when it doesn't work they cry foul. The fact is, hair oiling has a science of its own and it follows its own rhythm and rules.
When done correctly, your hair will reward you with strength, shine and volume. Do it incorrectly and you may risk injuring your scalp or cause a blockage to your growth cycle.
In this post, I am going to breakdown the actual Hair Oiling do’s and don’ts, share best tips for your hair type, debunk myths, AND teach you how precisely to oil your mane the right way to get some results.
That being said, I will even name you after some clinically approved oils from Soulflower which can be worthy of investing on your shelf.
What Exactly Is Hair Oiling?
To clarify, hair oiling is NOT just “putting oil” on your head. It’s a treatment. It's a process that nourishes your scalp, strengthens the roots and also protects the strand from environmental stress.
Indians have traditionally been using hard oils like coconut, sesame or mustard processed through cold-pressed method infused with herbs such as bhringraj or amla (Indian gooseberry).
Today, these traditional treatments have been modernized by combining them with contemporary botanicals such as Rosemary, Tea Tree and Argan that target specific issues in both the skin and hair, marrying grandmother's know-how to lab-proven science.
The goal? For the moisture and nutrients, scalp balance It could be robbed because of your diet, environment, and some lifestyle.
Benefits of Hair Oiling: Why It Still Works in 2025
People often ask me, “With serums, masks and fancy treatments available, is hair oiling still relevant?” My answer is always: Absolutely. In fact, it’s even more important now because our hair faces more stress than ever, from pollution, heat styling, hard water and even stress hormones.
Here’s why you should keep oiling your hair:
- Strength from Root to Tip – Oils like Soulflower Bhringraj Hair Growth Oil supply vitamins and minerals that make your roots stronger and more resilient.
- Better Blood Circulation – A proper scalp massage stimulates blood flow, feeding your follicles.
- Moisture Lock – Soulflower Virgin Coconut Oil seals hydration into your hair shaft, preventing dryness and split ends.
- Scalp Health – Tea tree-based blends keep dandruff, itchiness and flakiness at bay.
- Regrowth Support – Soulflower Rosemary Lavender Hair Growth Oil is clinically proven to stimulate new hair strands in 90 days.
- Natural Shine – Unlike silicone serums, oils add a soft, healthy sheen that’s actually good for your hair.
Hair Oiling Do’s (And Why They Matter)
These aren’t random tips. They’re habits that transform your oiling from a ritual into a results-driven treatment.
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Pick the Right Oil for Your Hair Needs
Different oils target different concerns. For hair fall, rosemary or bhringraj is your hero. For dandruff, go for tea tree. For brittle hair, choose coconut or argan.
Expert Pick:- For growth: Soulflower Rosemary Lavender Hair Growth Oil
- For dandruff: Soulflower Tea Tree Scalp Oil
- For dry hair: Soulflower Moroccan Argan Oil
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Warm It Up — Just a Little
Lukewarm oil opens up your cuticles and lets nutrients penetrate better. Avoid overheating, you’re not making pakoras. -
Massage, Don’t Scrub
Use your fingertips, not nails, and work in small circles. This relaxes your scalp, stimulates growth and prevents microtears. -
Apply in Sections
Part your hair and apply directly to the scalp, then smooth it down to the ends. This ensures every inch gets nourishment. -
Give It Time to Work
Three to four hours is ideal. Overnight works for gentle oils like coconut or almond. -
Follow with a Gentle Wash
Use a sulphate-free shampoo so you’re cleansing without stripping natural oils.
Hair Oiling Don’ts (Avoid These Common Mistakes)
- Don’t Overload the Oil – A few teaspoons is enough. More oil just means more shampoo, which can dry out your hair.
- Don’t Scratch While Massaging – Nails can damage your scalp barrier and invite infection.
- Don’t Leave It On for Days – Beyond 24 hours, oil traps dust, dirt and pollution on your scalp.
- Don’t Oil Wet Hair – Water repels oil, so your hair won’t absorb the nutrients.
- Don’t Skip the Wash – Unwashed oil can clog pores and cause dandruff flare-ups.
Hair Oiling for Different Hair Types
| Hair Concern | Oil Choice | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Hair Fall / Thinning | Rosemary Lavender Hair Growth Oil | 3 times/week |
| Dandruff / Itchy Scalp | Tea Tree Scalp Oil | 2 times/week |
| Dry / Frizzy Hair | Coconut or Argan | 2–3 times/week |
| Damaged / Coloured Hair | Olive Oil | 2 times/week |
| Men’s Beard & Hairline | Beard & Moustache Oil | Daily light application |
Expert Tips for Better Results
- Wrap your head in a warm towel after oiling for deeper absorption.
- Alternate oils to address multiple concerns.
- Trim your hair every 8–10 weeks, oiling won’t fix split ends.
- Stay consistent for at least 8–12 weeks to see changes.
Myths About Hair Oiling — Busted
Myth: Oiling every day makes hair grow faster.
Fact: Over-oiling can suffocate your scalp.
Myth: All oils are the same.
Fact: Each oil has unique nutrients.
Myth: Leaving oil on for days is better.
Fact: It’s an invitation for buildup and irritation.
Final Thoughts
The correct way to oil your hair is not complicated, but it’s not mindless either. Be intentional about your oil choice, your technique and your timing.
If you want results that are visible and lasting, invest in cold-pressed, natural and clinically backed oils like those from Soulflower’s Hair Oil Collection. Your grandmother will approve. Your hair will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Oiling is one of the best things you can do for your hair, provided you do it right. Using a high-quality, cold-pressed oil like Soulflower Rosemary Lavender Hair Growth Oil can nourish your scalp, strengthen roots, and add a natural shine without any harmful chemicals.
For most people, 2–3 times a week is the sweet spot. If you have a dry scalp, you might go up to three times; if your scalp is oily, twice is enough. The key is consistency, not overdoing it.
Yes. Loading your scalp with excess oil can lead to product buildup, scalp congestion, and the need for extra shampooing, which can strip natural moisture. Always use just enough to coat the scalp and strands, about 2–3 teaspoons for medium-length hair.
Absolutely. Leaving oil on without washing can trap dirt and sweat, leading to irritation. Use a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo after your oiling session to cleanse while keeping your scalp’s natural balance intact.
Evening or nighttime is ideal. It gives the oil a few hours (or overnight) to work its magic while you rest. Just remember to protect your pillowcase or use a hair wrap to avoid stains.
Not recommended. Leaving oil for that long can clog hair follicles, attract dust, and even cause dandruff. 3–8 hours is generally enough, unless you’re using a very light oil like Soulflower Virgin Coconut Oil.
Clinical studies point towards rosemary as a proven growth booster. Soulflower Rosemary Lavender Hair Growth Oil combines rosemary’s follicle stimulation with lavender’s calming effect, making it a favourite for both men and women.
Always start at the scalp, that’s where hair growth begins. Massage the oil into your scalp using gentle circular motions, then work it down the strands to nourish the lengths and ends.