How to Oil Your Scalp for Healthier Looking Hair

Summer brings adventures of all kinds, and often finds us spending time under the sun or in chlorinated or salt water.

While we wouldn’t trade the chance to make new memories for anything, all this time in the elements can leave our hair feeling dry, brittle, and in need of some extra nourishment. As it turns out, shiny, soft, healthy looking hair may be only a few drops of oil away.

Here’s how to oil your scalp for healthier looking hair, any time of year. 

What is scalp oiling? 

Scalp oiling is the practice of massaging certain types of oil into the scalp to moisturize and nourish the scalp and hair roots with the objective of encouraging healthy, moisturized, shiny hair. It is also done to help prevent dry scalp, and to encourage hair growth. 

What are the benefits of scalp oiling? 

Scalp oiling helps to moisturize the scalp by adding nourishing oils directly to the scalp, where it can benefit the roots of hair. But in addition to the oil itself, the act of massaging the oil into the scalp to help distribute it evenly can help boost circulation–a plus for scalp and hair health. And, depending on the formula used, the oil may help soothe irritation, as well.

What type of oil should I use to oil my scalp? 

When it comes to oiling your scalp, you want to be discerning about which oils you use. Trichologist Bridgette Hill tells InStyle, “Oiling the scalp with improper oils, pomades, or greases that feed bacteria, are not antimicrobial or antifungal by nature, and have to absorb into the skins cells disrupt the microbiome and can create an unwanted condition [that can] negatively impacting scalp health and hair fiber growth.” 

Choosing an oil blend that includes plant-based natural ingredients that not only moisturize, but help soothe the scalp with anti-inflammatory properties, is key.

An organic blend like MASK Skincare Organic Hair + Body Oil hits all the right notes: Not only does it deeply nourish with just a few drops, but the blend of calming full spectrum CBD, together with apricot kernel, avocado, castor seed, and argan oils moisturize and protect hair and scalp without being too heavy. 

How often should I oil my scalp?

To begin your scalp oiling routine, aim for once a week. You’ll reap the benefits of applying organic hair and body oil to your scalp without creating too much build-up. 

I have recurring scalp issues. Can I incorporate scalp oiling into my clean beauty routine? 

If you have scalp issues, it’s always a good idea to consult with your dermatologist before embarking on a new scalp oiling regimen. If you have dandruff, for instance, scalp oiling may not be for you. According to Byrdie, “A big misconception is that applying oil directly to the scalp relieves dandruff. As previously stated, pre-shampoo scalp oiling may be okay to use when treating dandruff. [However,] it depends on the severity of the problem.

Our scalps are a delicate microbiome made up of healthy yeast, called Malassezia, and other necessary bacteria. Certain oils can feed and disrupt the balance of bacteria, which promotes the development of unhealthy bacteria. The accumulation of rapidly shedding skin cells, dandruff, along with a buildup of excess oil and sebum, can create a larger dandruff and scalp problem.”

But if you don’t have scalp issues, then scalp oiling may be just what you need to support healthy, soft shiny hair. 

How do I oil my scalp?

Using one full dropper of MASK Skincare’s Organic Hair + Body Oil, apply oil prior to shampooing. According to Byrdie, “Start your massage at the nape of the neck, using both hands, work your fingers up the head to the crown.

Then work from the base of the ear to the top of the head on both sides. There's a lot of area to cover, so take your time. Spend three to five minutes massaging the appropriate oil into the scalp to soften skin cells, exfoliate, and remove debris to encourage blood flow."

In the heat of summer, give your oil about an hour to sink in before you rinse it out–and the same rule can be applied to those with oilier hair and scalps. During frigid winter months or if your hair is particularly dry and weak, you can leave the oil in overnight, if you’re so inclined. 

Scalp oiling can be a wonderful, helpful, and deeply relaxing form of self-care. Enjoy!