During the monsoons, my dry scalp gets a front seat in my beauty routine. Massaging it and giving it TLC is essential, otherwise, the humidity takes a toll on my mane and how! Think flaking, hair loss, and strands that feel drier-than-the-Sahara-dessert. To combat all of that, over the last few years, I have started incorporating a hot oil treatment in my regime. No, I don’t mean pouring steaming hot oil on your scalp. This is a little more in-depth than that!
What does hot oil do for hair?
Hot oil does more than just nourish your hair and scalp. It can provide relief from itchiness, dandruff, dryness, frizz, flyaways, and more. Plus, if you have bleached or coloured your hair, it can do a great job of restoring shine and strength to your mane. While the oils used in hot hair treatments like this (think coconut, castor, or jojoba oil) won’t stop hairfall in its tracks, they can promote healthier hair as you massage them in. This stimulates the hair follicles and increases blood flow, ultimately leading to nourished hair and a flake-free scalp.
How do I pick the right hair oil for my scalp?
If your scalp and mane tend to be on the oilier side, go for lightweight options like jojoba oil. The consistency of this is similar to sebum (natural oil produced by your body) and it won’t weigh your hair down. If your hair is on the drier side, using a mix of oils like coconut, almond, argan and olive oil can help repair dry and unhealthy hair.
How can I do this at home?
Take the required amount of oil (as per your hair length and density) in a heatproof bowl.
Using the double boiler method, heat it till you can comfortably dip your finger in the bowl.
Take some oil in your hands and massage your scalp gently. Spend at least 15 minutes doing this and then comb your hair to remove all the knots and tangles.
Take a damp towel and pop it in the microwave for a minute. Wait till it cools down a little and then wrap your hair in it.
After 30 minutes, wash and shampoo as usual.