In our childhood, we all believed that applying hair oil and braiding them tight will make our hair grow long and strong. Our mothers and grandmothers considered hair oil as the ultimate hero. Ever complained to your mother about hair fall and dry and frizzy hair? A swift response would be because we do not apply hair oil as often. But does hair oil for hair fall really work? While hair oil has its own benefits, there are a lot of unnecessary myths revolving around it. While some believe it as the magic elixir for hair growth, others debate that hair oil alone cannot promote hair growth. Below we will debunk some hair growth oil myths, and also recommend which is the best oil for hair fall.
Hair Growth Oil Myths Debunked: The Basics
We are in a constant search for the best hair oil for hair fall. The moment we see unforeseen hair fall or dandruff arising, we head straight to Google and search for the best oil for hair growth and hair fall control, ayurvedic oil for hair fall, best hair oil for hair fall and dandruff, and more such queries. Though hair oiling is an age-old tradition, it is not the only contributing factor to hair growth. A healthy scalp and a head full of mane depends upon various factors like eating habits, stress levels, sleep patterns, haircare routine and lifestyle choices. Hair growth and hair fall also depend on genetics and hormonal changes. To optimise the benefits of hair oil in the best way possible, we will demystify some common myths about hair oil for hair growth.
Hair Growth Oil Myths Debunked
Myth #1: Hair Growth Oils Guarantee Rapid Hair Growth
The most common hair growth myth is that hair oil guarantees rapid hair growth. While some oils such as coconut oil, argan oil and castor oil moisturise and nourish the hair and scalp, they do not initiate hair growth. These oils are good conditioners, and they form a protective coat over the hair shaft and improve the frizz and dry strands. However, regularly massaging the scalp with oils can improve blood circulation and provide proper nourishment to the hair follicles.
Incorporating onion juice and onion oil for hair fall and hair growth has become popular in recent times. If you do not want to DIY at home, the best alternative is Love Beauty and Planet Onion, Black Seed Oil & Patchouli Hair fall Control Hair Oil. The goodness of natural onion and blackseed oil help strengthen hair and nourish the scalp. Onion oil is also known to reduce hair fall and promote hair growth.
Myth #2: All Hair Growth Oils Work in the Same Way
Different hair oils have different properties that focus on various hair concerns. Some hair oils work on controlling frizz, increase hair strength and help in adding shine. For example, plant-based hair oils have soothing and antimicrobial properties. If you are looking for a plant-based, ayurvedic oil for hair fall, we recommend using Indulekha Bringha Ayurvedic Oil. The key ingredients in this oil are amla, vatadha, svetakutaja, virgin coconut oil and bhringraj. Amla is a rich source of vitamin C which helps in increasing blood circulation in the scalp. Meanwhile, bhringharaj is rich in antioxidants that aid in reducing hair fall and grow new hair.
Coconut oil is widely popular and is known for its moisturising properties. Argan oil and castor oil have gained recognition in the recent past. Castor oil is often mixed with a carrier oil since it has a thick consistency. It is believed to have moisturising and conditioning properties. As for argan oil, it is rich in antioxidants and vitamins that help in reducing frizz and add shine.
Myth #3: Hair Growth Oils Can Regrow Hair on Bald Spots
Bald spots can be caused due to various factors, but hair oils alone cannot regrow hair on completely bald spots. Bald spots typically occur when hair follicles shrink or cease producing hair altogether. Once a hair follicle is dormant, it cannot be revived solely through the use of hair oils. Bald spots that may be challenging to regrow hair are for people suffering from genetic and autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata and androgenetic alopecia. Without medical intervention, it may not be possible to regrow hair in that area.
However, in some cases, hair oils may promote hair growth on thinning areas where hair follicles are still active but producing weak or miniaturised hair. Massaging with hair oils can moisturise the scalp, improve blood circulation and nourish the hair follicles which can support healthier hair growth.
Myth #4: Applying More Hair Growth Oil Yields Better Results
Our grandmothers and mothers believed in drenching the hair and scalp with oil. But using oil more than it is required may lead to dry and damaged hair. More oil means more shampoo to remove the oil. This will strip the hair of its natural moisture and oils and cause dryness. Applying too much oils can lead to clogged pores and build-up which can hinder hair growth.
If you are looking for an oil to nourish your hair and repair your scalp, we recommend using Love Beauty and Planet Virgin Coconut Oil, Aloe Vera & Ylang Ylang Hair Oil. Aloe vera is known to moisturise the strands and promote cell growth as it contains vitamins A, C and E. Coconut oil helps nourish dry and damaged hair as it contains essential fatty acids.
Myth #5: Hair Growth Oils Work Overnight
This is one of the most common myths that oiling your hair overnight will help oil absorb better. Experts suggest leaving the oil for about one to two hours is enough for conditioning the hair. Leaving the oil for longer hours can attract dirt and cause build-up, making it difficult to wash the oil off. People with skin problems should specially stay off overnight oiling as it can exacerbate the conditions.
Myth #6: Hair Growth Oils Can Fix All Hair Problems
Hair oil is not the cure to all hair concerns. Hair loss that occurs due to genetics or medical conditions cannot be cured by using hair oil. Hair oils also cannot repair the structural damage such as split ends or severe breakage. Certain scalp conditions such as psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis or fungal infections may require treatments beyond the use of hair oils.
FAQs about Hair Growth Oils Myths Debunked
Q1. How often should you apply hair oil?
A. Application of oil depends on your hair type, scalp condition and personal preference. It is recommended to apply oil not more than two times in a week. It is important to see what works best for your hair.
Q2. Can hair oil be applied on wet hair?
A. Hair oil can be applied both on wet and dry hair. Applying oil on wet hair can help seal in the moisture and provide extra hydration. On the other hand, applying oil on dry hair can tame frizz, add shine and makes it easy to detangle.
Q3. Can multiple oils be used together?
A. Yes. A concoction of essential and carrier oils can be mixed together that address specific hair concerns. Make sure that oils complement each other and are suitable for your hair type.
Hair oils can certainly contribute to hair and scalp health, but they cannot independently solve hair fall issues. Hair oils can moisturise the hair, nourish the scalp and promote a healthier environment. If you have hair loss due to genetics or medical conditions, consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable as they can provide personalised guidance and recommendations based on your specific hair concerns.
Written by Team BB on Jun 25, 2023