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You’re probably familiar with the benefits of using serums and creams to keep your skin hydrated, but how do you address that pesky, dry scalp? The solution lies in a small bottle of moisture-rich oil. Scalp oils are specifically designed to address dryness and rejuvenate lackluster hair.
This often-overlooked scalp and hair treatment is a true miracle worker with a range of impressive benefits, and it’s easy to integrate into your beauty regimen. Read on to discover what scalp oils are, how to properly apply them, and which products are favored by professional hairstylists.
Getty ImagesWhat Exactly Is Scalp Oil?
Scalp oils are oil-based treatments applied directly to the scalp before shampooing—often using a dropper tool—and massaged in to distribute evenly. Their main purpose is to hydrate and nourish both the scalp and hair roots, though some formulas also feature ingredients that soothe, clarify, or stimulate the scalp.
“Frequent shampooing, styling, and handling can strip away essential nutrients and lead to dryness,” explains Brittany Johnson, a licensed hairstylist at Mayvenn Hair. “Using scalp oil helps restore some of that softness.”
She notes that most hair and skin types can benefit from scalp oils, mainly because there is a wide variety of options available.
“The most important considerations include how often you oil your scalp, the type of hairstyle you prefer—whether it’s a protective style or something suited to your hair’s texture—and how it fits into your regular hair and skincare routine.”
How Often Should You Apply Scalp Oil?
The frequency of using scalp oil treatments varies based on several factors, according to hairstylist Philip Berkovitz, founder of Philip B Botanicals. He advises you to take into account your hair type, scalp condition, the specific type of oil you're using, and your personal preferences.
Here are his recommendations:
- For Normal Hair and Scalp: Once a week
- For Dry Hair and Scalp: Two to three times per week
- For Oily Hair and Scalp: Every two weeks
If you're using scalp oil to encourage hair growth or to treat specific scalp issues like dandruff or itchiness, you may want to apply it more frequently. A two to three times a week regimen could be helpful for these concerns, advises Berkovitz.
For a more intense treatment, consider applying scalp oil once or twice a week and leaving it on overnight for deeper benefits. Wash it out with shampoo in the morning.
How to Apply Scalp Oil
Applying scalp oil is quick and easy, and you can even turn it into a small self-care ritual.
Step 1: Divide Your Hair and Apply
“Using a dropper or your fingers, apply the oil directly to your scalp in parted sections,” advises Berkovitz. “Start at the front and work your way to the back. Pay extra attention to the areas of your scalp that need the most care.”
Step 2: Gently Massage for Five Minutes
Massage the scalp oil into your scalp using circular motions with your fingertips or a silicone scalp massager. “This massage promotes blood flow, helping the oil absorb more effectively and supporting a healthier scalp,” says Berkovitz. Studies have indicated that regular scalp massages can help stimulate hair growth.
Step 3: Let It Set for 15 to 30 Minutes
Allow the oil to sit on your scalp and hair roots for 15 to 30 minutes. If your hair is particularly dry, you can extend the oil application through to the mid-shaft and ends, but avoid over-saturating it.
Step 4: Shampoo, Condition, and Style
Start by giving your hair a thorough wash, concentrating on your scalp to ensure you eliminate any lingering oils. After shampooing, apply your conditioner and then style your hair as usual.
Key Components Found in Scalp Oils
Typically, scalp oils combine an essential oil with a carrier oil to dilute the potency of the essential oil. "If you’re using oils containing essential oils or preparing your own scalp oil, it's crucial to dilute them with a carrier oil like coconut oil before applying it directly to your scalp," advises Johnson.
Essential oils serve various purposes in scalp oils. For hair growth, look for oils like rosemary, mint, jojoba, cedarwood, or clary sage. If conditioning is your focus, opt for argan, lavender, jojoba, coconut, or chamomile. To fortify your hair, choose geranium oil. And for soothing your scalp, chamomile and almond oils are ideal.
However, Johnson also advises consulting with your dermatologist before using scalp oils to treat conditions such as dandruff, psoriasis, or eczema. A dermatologist will provide you with a personalized treatment plan.
