A Complete Beginner's Guide
Hair oiling has been practiced for centuries in cultures around the world, particularly throughout South Asia, where botanical oils have long been used to nourish the scalp and support healthier-looking hair.
Today, hair oiling has become one of the most searched natural hair care practices online—and for good reason. When done correctly, a consistent hair oiling routine can help support scalp health, improve manageability, and protect the hair from everyday stressors.
If you're new to hair oiling, this beginner's guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What Is Hair Oiling?
Hair oiling is the practice of applying oils to the scalp and hair strands before washing or as part of an ongoing hair care routine.
Different oils have different properties. Some oils are known for their ability to penetrate the hair shaft, while others form a protective coating around the hair to help reduce moisture loss and improve softness and shine.
Why Do People Oil Their Hair?
Many people incorporate hair oiling into their routines to help:
- Support scalp wellness
- Improve softness and shine
- Reduce the appearance of dryness
- Protect hair from mechanical damage
- Improve manageability
- Promote a relaxing self-care ritual
- Support the appearance of healthier-looking hair over time
Can Hair Oiling Help Hair Growth?
Hair oiling itself does not magically make hair grow faster. However, many of the oils in CRISAN penetrate beneath the follicle which in turn stimulates blood flow to the follicle and helps to increase healthy hair growth. Healthy hair growth begins with a healthy scalp and healthy hair practices.
By helping nourish the scalp and protecting the hair from breakage and dryness, a consistent hair oiling routine may help improve length retention and support healthier-looking hair over time.
The Best Beginner Hair Oiling Routine
Step 1: Choose the Right Oil
Not all oils behave the same way.
Some oils are considered more penetrating because of their fatty acid composition, while others are better known for creating a protective layer around the hair.
Examples of penetrating oils:
- Coconut Oil
- Babassu Oil
- Avocado Oil
- Olive Oil
Examples of protective or sealing oils:
- Castor Oil
- Argan Oil
- Grapeseed Oil
- Jojoba Oil
Many people enjoy using blends that combine multiple botanical oils for a more complete hair care experience.
Step 2: Apply Oil to the Scalp
Part your hair into sections and apply a small amount of oil directly to the scalp.
Using your fingertips, gently massage the scalp for several minutes.
Scalp massage itself can be a relaxing ritual and may help support circulation to the scalp.
Step 3: Apply Oil to the Lengths
After applying oil to the scalp, distribute a small amount through the mid-lengths and ends of the hair.
This can help improve softness and protect the hair from friction during washing.
Step 4: Let the Oil Sit
Many people allow their oil treatment to sit anywhere from:
- 30 minutes
- 1 hour
- Several hours
- Overnight
Choose what works best for your hair type and lifestyle.
Step 5: Shampoo Thoroughly
After your oil treatment, wash your hair thoroughly using a gentle shampoo.
Some people prefer to shampoo twice to remove excess oil while still leaving the hair feeling soft and nourished.
How Often Should You Oil Your Hair?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer.
Frequency often depends on your hair type, scalp condition, and personal preferences.
| Hair Type | Suggested Routine |
|---|---|
| Fine Hair | 1 time per week |
| Medium Hair | 1–2 times per week |
| Curly Hair | 2 times per week |
| Coily Hair | 2–3 times per week |
Hair Oiling for Different Hair Types
Fine Hair
Use lighter amounts of oil and avoid over-applying to the roots.
Wavy Hair
Focus on the mid-lengths and ends to improve softness and reduce dryness.
Curly Hair
Many people enjoy overnight oil treatments to help improve manageability.
Coily Hair
Coily hair often benefits from more frequent moisturizing and protective practices, including pre-shampoo oil treatments and leave-in sealing routines.
Healthy hair growth isn't about finding one miracle ingredient—it's about creating a consistent routine that nourishes both your scalp and your hair over time.
Common Hair Oiling Mistakes
- Using too much oil
- Scratching the scalp aggressively
- Leaving oil on the scalp for too long if irritation occurs
- Applying oils without washing regularly
- Expecting overnight results
- Being inconsistent with your routine
A Family Tradition of Hair Oiling
For generations, botanical hair oiling has been part of family traditions throughout Sri Lanka and many parts of South Asia.
After experiencing postpartum hair loss herself, CRISAN founder Ariana Selvaratnam turned to a treasured Ayurvedic recipe passed down through her husband's family.
Inspired by these traditions, she refined and expanded the original formulation into what would eventually become CRISAN's signature Hair Strengthening Oil.
Today, more than 120,000 women have made hair oiling part of their self-care routines with CRISAN.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I oil my hair overnight?
Many people enjoy overnight oil treatments, although shorter treatments can also be effective depending on your preferences.
Can I oil my hair every day?
Some hair types tolerate frequent oiling well, while others prefer once or twice per week.
Should I apply oil to wet or dry hair?
Most people apply oils to dry hair before shampooing, although some oils may also be used sparingly on damp hair for added softness.
How long does it take to see results from hair oiling?
Consistency matters more than speed. Many people notice improvements in softness and manageability quickly, while healthier-looking hair is typically the result of long-term habits.
Final Thoughts
Hair oiling is more than just a beauty trend—it is a centuries-old self-care ritual that encourages us to slow down and care for our hair intentionally.
The best hair oiling routine is the one you can practice consistently. Healthy-looking hair is built through small habits repeated over time.
From our family to yours, we hope this guide helps you begin a beautiful and nourishing hair care journey.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.
