Incorporating scalp oiling into your clean beauty routine may just be the answer to your quest for healthy looking hair!
Healthy looking, shiny, resilient hair is, for many of us, a goal we’re constantly chasing.
But obtaining the hair we seek may be easier than we’ve imagined. Enter scalp oiling, the practice of massaging certain beneficial oils into the scalp to encourage a healthier scalp–and hair.
Incorporating scalp oiling into your clean beauty routine may just be the answer to your quest for healthy looking hair!
What is scalp oiling?
Scalp oiling is the practice of massaging beneficial oils into the scalp in order to encourage healthier feeling scalp and hair. While many of us may add hair oil to our hair to help soften, detangle, and add shine, scalp oiling concentrates on truly working oil into the scalp to improve the conditions of the scalp and hair.
What types of oil should be used for scalp oiling?
When it comes to scalp oiling, not all oils are created equal. Our scalps can become congested from using oils that are too heavy, like mineral oils or even olive oil. Instead, look for other natural oils that offer nourishing benefits without weighing the scalp down: Argan and avocado oils are great options.
Not only are they well tolerated by many, but they are loaded with naturally occurring anti-inflammatory properties, high in antioxidants, and deliver highly effective moisture without clogging pores.
Benefits of scalp oiling
“Scalp oiling has multiple benefits,” says Sarah Mirsini, founder of MASK Skincare. “Adding scalp oiling into your clean beauty routine may not only help alleviate a dry, tight, itchy scalp, but it can also, over time, help to improve the look and feel of your hair. And even if you don’t suffer from a scalp in need of moisture, performing a scalp massage with nourishing oils just feels incredible. It’s a beautiful and relaxing act of self-care.”
Encourages hair growth
Scalp oiling and scalp massage go hand in hand; you have to work the oil into the scalp in order to reap its benefits. When performed regularly over time, this combination may actually encourage hair growth.
According to health.com, “Some research suggests that scalp massage can stimulate hair growth. One 2016 study, for example, found that men who received a daily scalp massage had significantly thicker hair after six months. The study participants didn’t have a history of hair loss.1” The act of massage anywhere on the body is known to improve blood flow in skin by opening blood vessels. Doing so on the scalp may help to encourage hair growth; it may also help slow or prevent hair loss over time.
Moisturizes hair
When scalp oiling is a part of a non toxic skincare regimen, it can help moisturize hair, as well. The beneficial oil gets worked into the roots of the hair, but our fingers can also help distribute that oil down the hair shaft, where it will help moisturize and soften dry or brittle hair. Well moisturized hair, especially when treated to beneficial fatty acids, may resist breakage, making it appear healthier and shinier overall.
Lowers stress levels
Anyone who has ever enjoyed a massage knows it is one of the most effective ways to lower stress levels, and scalp oiling is no exception. The massaging that occurs during scalp oiling may help relieve the stress of the day, and over time, may help alleviate feelings of overall stress, as well.
The National Library of Medicine at the National Institutes of Health published a study that looked at the effects of scalp massage on female office workers and its effects on stress hormones. The conclusion? “As a result of applying scalp massage to female office workers for 15 and 25 minutes, positive effects were observed on stress hormone, blood pressure and heart rate. Therefore, scalp massage can be used for stress control with no spatial or time limit.”
Reduces inflammation
When using oils like avocado or argan oils, scalp oiling can be highly effective at reducing scalp inflammation. This can mean a reduction in redness, dryness, and irritation. MASK Skincare’s Organic Hair and Body Oil contains all three of those ingredients, plus other beneficial oils that help promote cell turnover, which helps bring about a healthier, more balanced scalp.
Prevents dryness
Last but not least, scalp oiling can prevent dryness of the scalp and hair. Using organic, plant based skincare ingredients can help stave off dry flakes and help hair maintain moisture, making it more manageable.
If you haven’t tried scalp oiling yet, consider adding it to your clean skincare lineup. As with any new addition to your routine, moderation is key. Go slow with scalp oiling–once a week may be plenty–and if you have an existing scalp condition, always consult with your dermatologist or trusted doctor to ensure your scalp will tolerate this practice.
Last but not least…enjoy!