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How To Use Hair Oil On Body?
Hair oiling and body oiling are traditional health and beauty practices that date back thousands of years in many different ancient cultures, like Egypt, Rome, Greece, India, Africa, Japan, the Mediterranean, Aotearoa (New Zealand), and more!
These practices involve using natural oils to nourish and protect the hair and skin, promoting overall wellness. Hair oiling typically uses oils like coconut, almond, or argan to strengthen hair, reduce breakage, and enhance shine. Body oiling often involves oils such as olive, sesame, or jojoba to moisturize the skin, improve elasticity, and provide a soothing effect.
These rituals are not only beneficial for physical health but also offer a moment of relaxation and self-care, connecting individuals to their cultural heritage. Today, many people continue to embrace these traditions, incorporating them into modern beauty routines for their holistic benefits.
Clearly, the benefits of an oiling practice have been observed by many cultures before there was science to back up their claims. Since then, we have had more scientific explanations for why oiling is beneficial, but the result remains the same: using certain botanical oils on the hair and skin has real advantages!
In this article, we will learn about:
- Can Body Oil be Used On Hair?
- Can Hair Oil Be Used On The Body?
- How Hair Oil Encourages Strong Hair
- Different Hair Oils & Benefits
- Oiling Benefits For Skin & Body
What Is Hair Oiling & How To Oil?
Hair oiling is a time-honored practice that not only enhances the appearance of your hair but also promotes its health. Its ability to nourish the scalp, strengthen hair follicles, and promote overall hair health has made it a go-to choice for individuals aiming to enhance their hair’s vitality without relying on synthetic products.
Scalp Application: Part your hair into sections and apply oil directly to the scalp using your fingertips. Massage gently in circular motions.
Mid-Length to Ends Application: Focus on applying oil from the mid-lengths of your hair to the ends. Use your palms to distribute the oil evenly. This technique is ideal for hydrating dry ends and reducing the appearance of split ends without weighing down the roots.
Overnight Treatment: Apply a generous amount of oil to your hair and scalp, then wrap your hair in a towel or use a shower cap. Leave it on overnight and wash it out in the morning.
Pre-Wash Treatment: Apply oil to your hair 30 minutes to an hour before washing. This can help protect the hair from harsh shampoos.
When it comes to hair oiling, less is often more. Using excessive amounts of oil can weigh your hair down, making it look greasy and difficult to manage. Instead, focus on applying just enough to coat your strands and scalp evenly.
For best results, choose oils suited to your hair type, such as coconut oil for hydration or argan oil for added shine. Regular oiling, done in moderation, can help nourish your hair without overwhelming it.
Weekly Hair‑Oiling Routine:
- Detangle: Gently brush or comb your hair to remove knots.
- Dispense: Rub a pea‑sized amount of oil between your palms.
- Apply: Starting from the mid‑lengths, work the oil through to the ends with your fingertips, ensuring even coverage.
- Wait: Leave the oil in for 20 minutes to an hour, or longer if you prefer.
- Rinse: Shampoo and condition as usual to wash the oil out.
Everyone’s hair is unique, so begin slowly and observe how your strands respond. Even natural oils can affect each head of hair differently, so adjust frequency and quantity to find what works best for you.
Essential Oils For Fine Hair
Fine hair can often feel limp and lack volume, but incorporating essential oils into your hair care routine can help enhance its texture and health. Here are some of the best essential oils for fine hair and their benefits:
- Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender oil is known for its calming properties, but it also promotes hair growth and improves scalp health. Its antimicrobial properties help prevent dandruff, ensuring a healthy environment for hair follicles. - Rosemary Essential Oil
Rosemary oil is renowned for stimulating blood circulation in the scalp, which can promote hair growth and thicken fine strands. It also helps to prevent premature graying and dandruff, making it a versatile choice for maintaining healthy hair. - Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint oil has a cooling effect that can invigorate the scalp and enhance blood flow. This stimulation can lead to increased hair growth and volume. Additionally, its refreshing scent can uplift your mood. - Cedarwood Essential Oil
Cedarwood oil is effective in balancing the scalp’s oil production, which can be beneficial for fine hair that tends to get oily. It also has antifungal properties, helping to keep the scalp healthy and free from irritants. - Ylang Ylang Essential Oil
Ylang ylang oil is excellent for moisturizing and nourishing fine hair. It helps to balance oil production, making it suitable for both dry and oily scalps. This oil can add shine and softness, enhancing the overall appearance of fine hair.
To use these essential oils, dilute a few drops in a carrier oil (like jojoba or coconut oil) and massage it into your scalp. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes before washing your hair. Incorporating these oils into your routine can lead to healthier, more voluminous fine hair.
Can Body Oil be Used On Hair?
Yes, body oil can be used on hair, but there are some considerations to keep in mind. Body oils, typically formulated for skin hydration, may contain ingredients beneficial for hair, such as natural oils (e.g., coconut, jojoba, or almond oil). These oils can help moisturize and nourish the hair, adding shine and reducing frizz.
When using body oil on hair, it’s important to apply it sparingly. A small amount can be rubbed between your palms and then applied to the ends of your hair, avoiding the roots to prevent greasiness. This method can help seal moisture and protect against damage from heat styling or environmental factors.
However, not all body oils are suitable for hair. Some may contain fragrances or additives that could irritate the scalp or weigh down the hair. It’s advisable to choose a body oil that is free from synthetic fragrances and harsh chemicals.
How Is Body Oil Different From Hair Oil?
Body oil is specifically designed to hydrate and nourish the skin, often containing ingredients that improve elasticity and smoothness. Hair oil, on the other hand, is tailored to address issues like dryness, frizz, or damage, providing nutrients that strengthen and protect hair strands. While both products enhance moisture, their unique formulations cater to the distinct needs of skin and hair.
Body Oil is typically lighter and absorbs quickly into the skin, providing hydration and a soft, silky feel. It often contains ingredients like jojoba, almond, or grapeseed oil, which are great for nourishing the skin without leaving a greasy residue. Body oils can also include fragrances for a pleasant scent and are often used after bathing to lock in moisture.
On the other hand, Hair Oil is usually thicker and richer, designed to penetrate the hair shaft and nourish from within. Ingredients like coconut, argan, or castor oil are common, as they help with shine, strength, and frizz control. Hair oils can be used on the scalp or the ends of your hair to prevent dryness and split ends.
Can You Use Hair Oil on Your Body?
Yes, you can use many hair oils on your body! Certain oils contain a lot of beneficial nutrients like vitamins E, C, and A, oleic acid, and antioxidants that help protect and nourish the skin.
The oil itself helps lock in moisture and create a physical barrier between the skin to keep moisture in and pollutants, dirt, and germs out.
These oils, particularly those that are cold-pressed and natural, are beneficial not only for your hair but also for your skin. They contain nourishing properties that can help to protect and strengthen your hair strands while simultaneously providing hydration and softness to your skin.
When selecting a hair oil for your body, it’s essential to choose high-quality, 100% pure oils. Look for oils that are free from silicones, synthetic additives, or heavy fragrances, as these can sometimes irritate the skin or cause breakouts.
Some of the most popular natural oils you might consider include coconut oil, argan oil, jojoba oil, and almond oil. Each of these oils has unique properties that can benefit the skin in different ways. For example, coconut oil is known for its deep moisturizing abilities and is also antibacterial, while argan oil is rich in antioxidants and can help with skin elasticity.
| How Is Oiling Different For Sensitive Skin? If you have sensitive skin, it’s crucial to perform a patch test before applying the oil all over your body. This involves applying a small amount of the oil to a discreet area of skin (like your wrist or behind your ear) and waiting 24 hours to see if any adverse reactions occur. This precaution can help you avoid any potential irritation or allergic reactions. The vitamins can be absorbed into the skin, promoting a strong skin barrier, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and discoloration, and soothing some conditions like eczema. |
How Hair Oil Encourages Strong & Healthy Strands
Oils for hair typically have a high amount of omega-3 or other types of fatty acids (think baobab, jojoba, coconut, olive, argan, castor, etc). This is because these types of fats help to lock moisture into the scalp and hair strands, reducing dryness from the inside.
Hair oils such as peppermint oil are known to treat itchy scalps and reduce dandruff. Understanding the right oil you need for your hair requires the advice of a hair specialist.
They also provide essential nutrients that strengthen hair, promote shine, and improve overall hair health. Regular application of these oils can help prevent breakage and split ends, making hair more resilient.
Additionally, some oils have antibacterial and antifungal properties that can maintain a healthy scalp environment, reducing dandruff and irritation. Whether used as a deep conditioning treatment or a styling aid, incorporating these oils into your hair care routine can lead to healthier, more vibrant hair.
Oiling the hair improves the strength and integrity of hair strands, making the hair more resilient to damage and preventing dryness which leads to frizz and split ends.
Oil on the scalp can help reduce the presence of bacteria and fungi that cause itchiness, dryness, and dandruff (depending on the oil and the reason for these symptoms). Additionally, the nutrients in the oil can help hair follicles work more effectively and grow healthier hair.
The act of gently massaging the scalp with oil can promote blood flow to the hair follicles, further increasing their ability to grow lots of strong, healthy hair.
Hair Oil for Growth
Some oils have been shown to help hair growth in different ways, either by strengthening the follicles, encouraging damaged follicles to re-activate, reducing DHT production, and helping the actual hair strands be stronger and healthier.
Pumpkin seed oil, rosemary oil, peppermint oil, batana oil, Castor oil and argan oil are just some of the oils that may have benefits for helping to reduce hair fall and encourage healthy hair growth.
You can either gently massage oils into the scalp before bedtime or at least 15 minutes to 2 hours before washing your hair to ensure you reap the benefits of oiling without having overly oily hair.
| Scientific Evidence Behind Oiling For Hair Growth Research has shown that oils like rosemary oil can stimulate hair growth. A study found that rosemary oil was as effective as minoxidil (a common hair growth treatment) in promoting hair growth over a specific period. Some oils, like pumpkin seed oil, have been studied for their ability to inhibit dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair loss, particularly in androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern baldness). |
Different Hair Oils & Benefits For The Hair
| Oil | Nutrients | Benefits |
| Coconut Oil | Medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) Vitamin E Antioxidants | Deeply penetrates the hair shaft Reduces protein loss Adds shine and softness |
| Argan Oil | Vitamin E Fatty acids (Omega-3, Omega-6) Antioxidants | Moisturizes and conditions Reduces frizz Promotes elasticity |
| Jojoba Oil | Vitamin E B-complex vitamins Minerals (zinc, copper) | Mimics natural sebum Balances oil production Strengthens hair follicles |
| Olive Oil | Monounsaturated fats Vitamin E Antioxidants | Adds moisture Protects against damage Improves shine |
| Castor Oil | Ricinoleic acid Omega-6 fatty acids Vitamin E | Promotes hair growth Thickens hair Moisturizes scalp |
| Almond Oil | Vitamin E Magnesium Omega-3 fatty acids | Strengthens hair Reduces hair loss Improves texture |
| Grapeseed Oil | Linoleic acid Vitamin E Antioxidants | Lightweight and non-greasy Moisturizes without clogging pores Strengthens hair strands |
Oiling Body Benefits For Hair & Skin
While there are numerous benefits to using oils for the hair and body, here are 5 of the main reasons why people love this practice.
Nourishes the Skin and Hair
Natural oils are excellent for delivering vitamins and minerals directly to the skin and hair, enhancing moisture retention and creating a protective barrier. This results in skin that appears supple and radiant, and hair that is strong, soft, and shiny.
Improve Your Complexion
Although it might seem counterintuitive to treat oily, acne-prone skin with more oil, certain skin types and acne conditions benefit greatly from oil cleansing and moisturizing.
Oils such as rosehip seed, jojoba, argan, hemp seed, baobab, and grapeseed can calm inflamed skin, protect against bacteria and pollutants entering damaged areas, and deliver essential moisture and nutrients for healthier skin regeneration.
Soothe Skin and Scalp Irritation
Some moisturizing oils can help reduce irritation from conditions like dandruff and dermatitis, itching, eczema, psoriasis, allergic reactions, and insect bites.
Essential oils like tea tree, rosemary, peppermint, chamomile, lavender, neem, carrot seed, cedar, and others may also provide benefits for certain skin conditions.
Support Youthful-Looking Skin
Regularly infuse your skin with moisture and vitamins, protect it against pollutants and harsh weather, and gently massage it to prevent premature wrinkles and age spots. Make sure you also wear sunscreen!
Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet rich in antioxidants can support skin health from the inside out. Drinking plenty of water and getting enough sleep are equally important to keep your skin looking fresh and youthful.
Consider incorporating a skincare routine tailored to your skin type, and don’t forget to exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells and promote cell renewal.
Create a Signature Scent
Many oils have a delicate scent that’s hardly noticeable, if you want to keep your usual scent. But, you also have the opportunity to create an amazing scent combining the oils that work best for your skin!
Oiling For Hair & Body
Some people may have allergies or sensitivities to certain oils, so it’s essential to start with small amounts and observe any reactions. Additionally, consider consulting with a healthcare professional or an aromatherapist who can provide guidance based on your individual needs and health conditions.
Remember, what works for one person might not necessarily work for another, so patience and persistence are key in discovering the oils that best suit your lifestyle and preferences.
Here is where you can start learning about botanical and essential oils and start thinking about which ones you might like to try.
Botanical Oils
Botanical Oils are derived from fruits, nuts, kernels, and seeds, making them distinct from essential oils. These are typically used on their own, as a carrier oil for essential oils, and/or in a blend.
Jojoba, olive, coconut, rosehip, avocado, argan, baobab, carrot seed, grapeseed, flaxseed, sweet almond, and castor oil are examples of botanical oils.
This type of oil is excellent for moisturizing, protecting against environmental contaminants, and providing nutrients to the skin.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are typically steam-distilled from the stems, leaves, roots, and flowers of plants that smell good and/or have medicinal properties.
Such oils include eucalyptus, lavender, cedar, pine, rosemary, peppermint, oregano, calendula, rose, hyssop, frankincense, clary sage, vetiver, and helichrysum.
Essential oils are known for their distinct smells and properties like antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, drying, and heating or cooling sensations. They also contain compounds that can be great for healing certain conditions, soothing skin, and aromatherapeutic effects; however, you must practice safety with essential oils, like avoiding the eyes, diluting strong oils, and testing a small area for allergic reactions.
Ready to start using oils to improve your hair and skin? Check out Tangie products for a wide array of beneficial oils to choose from!
FAQs About Body & Hair Oiling
When beginning an oiling routine, there are many questions you might have. Here are some of the most common Q & As.
Some oil products are formulated specifically for hair or body, not both. But some, like our Tangie All-Natural Hair & Body Oil, are meant for multi‑purpose use. The blend of fractionated coconut oil, rice bran oil, baobab oil, red raspberry oil, hemp oil, and rosemary oil is perfect for moisturizing, soothing, and promoting healthy skin and hair.
Using a neutral oil like argan, coconut, sweet almond, jojoba, baobab, and olive is perfect for both hair and skin. Essential oils like rosemary, lavender, cedar, lemongrass, patchouli, and hyssop are all great for hair and skin as well.
A general rule of thumb is that skin oils are safe for hair, but not all hair oils are safe for skin. “Hot” oils like cinnamon, peppermint, tea tree, and spearmint can cause skin irritation if they are too strongly concentrated and must be kept away from the eyes, nose, mouth, and other sensitive body areas. But you can use them in the hair as you’d like, as long as they are in a carrier oil.
If you want to include body oiling in your daily routine, you certainly can! While many people only oil 1–3 times per week, you can also oil more than that, as long as the oil you use doesn’t clog your pores or cause an allergic reaction.
You can also oil your hair every day, but if you notice your scalp worsening or your hair being too greasy, it’s wise to cut down on the number of oilings you perform.
| Scalp/Hair Type | Recommended Frequency | Timing |
|---|
| Oily Scalp | Every 2–3 weeks | As a pre‑shampoo mask |
| Normal Scalp | Once per week | 1–2 hours before wash |
| Dry/Itchy Scalp | 2–3 times per week | Overnight or 2–4 hours |
| High-Porosity Hair | 2–3 times per week | Including post‑wash seals |
| Low-Porosity Hair | Once every 1–2 weeks | Light oil, short duration |
The “right” frequency for oiling your hair depends on your scalp type, hair texture, and what you’re trying to achieve.
Yes, certain oils may help in hair growth, but there is no direct scientific evidence that proves oiling can lead to hair growth.
While topical oils like rosemary, castor and Botana oil are popular for supporting hair health, it’s important to note that there’s currently no conclusive scientific evidence proving that oiling alone can trigger new hair growth.
Preliminary studies of rosemary oil suggest it may help reduce hair shedding and improve scalp circulation, while castor oil’s rich fatty‑acid profile and anti‑inflammatory properties can nourish and soothe the scalp. Botanical blends such as Botana oil combine various plant extracts and essential oils to deliver vitamins and antioxidants directly to the hair follicles, promoting stronger, shinier strands and a healthier scalp environment.
While direct evidence is scarce, applying oils via scalp massage can boost blood flow and mechanical stimulation, supporting follicle health. In a small 24‑week study of nine men, daily 4‑minute scalp massages (no oil specified) increased hair thickness measurably.
