Get healthy strands from regular oiling

Having healthy, good-looking hair is every woman’s dream. However, achieving this can prove elusive even after trying out a number of hair products. In as much as you might buy the best hair products in the market, how you use them will determine whether you will have healthy hair. Healthy hair starts from the roots and the best way of getting healthy hair is through a healthy diet, proper hair treatment, which includes regular shampoo, conditioning and oiling using quality products. Oiling your hair regularly is important as it stimulates hair follicles and moisturises the scalp, preventing dryness, itching and flaking. It is particularly good for an irritated scalp from use of chemicals or braiding. Oiling hair and scalp with good products leaves it soft, shiny, well nourished and reduces weakening. This makes hair more manageable and easier to maintain and style. The oils also protect it from harmful environmental conditions such as rain, sun and wind.

To achieve good results you should use oils suited to your hair type and scalp condition. Coarser, thicker hair usually benefits from heavier oils, which provide a protective coating, while fine and thin hair often responds better to light oils. Darker hair looks shiny after oiling, while lighter hair looks greasy or dirty if too much oil is used.

Hair oiling tips

Oil your hair at least three times a week. Regular oiling ensures healthy hair. It is advisable to oil hair after washing and drying. Always ensure the hair is fully detangled before oiling.

Section the hair and oil the scalp by massaging in circular motions. Ensure you oil the whole scalp and cover all the hair. You should not use too much oil as it may attract dust and dirt. Warming the oils in your hands before applying ensures better absorption.

Gently massage the scalp for a few minutes, then comb through. Massage allows even distribution of oil and also stimulates blood vessels for better circulation. It is also relaxing as it eases pressure in the veins.

Just like plants, hair requires nutrients to grow.

Choose a hair oil, which contains essential nutrients and vitamins. Be careful not to be deceived by overrated advertising hype. Seek advice from your hairdresser. It is important to use products manufactured by companies recognised for their quality. The oils you buy will contain different ingredients and it’s important for you to know which one will give you the best results. Always read the label carefully and check the expiry date. Hair oil lasts a long time and its best to buy one that has one or two years before expiry.

Essential hair oils

Jojoba: This is a good oil for dry and damaged hair, or hair that is prone to breaking and tangling. It moisturises the hair and scalp, keeping it soft and tangle free. It also adds shine to hair and reduces occurrence of dandruff. Jojoba contains iodine, which is known to heal damaged scalp. Regular use strengthens hair.

Coconut: This is a common and widely used hair oil. It is easily absorbed due to its low molecular weight and is therefore suitable for all hair types. It is especially recommended for dry hair. Coconut oil contains important nutrients, which are essential for damaged hair, such as magnesium, potassium and calcium.

Rosemary: This is a herbal oil, best used when you suffer from dandruff. It is soothing and moisturising and helps reduce itchiness. It also promotes hair growth.

Olive: This oil strengthens and nourishes the hair. It contains vitamin E, which helps maintain elasticity in hair. Using olive oil enhances the health and vitality of your hair. Olive oil also works as a natural hair conditioner and can be used before a shampoo.

Basil: This is a beneficial herbal oil that stimulates the scalp and promotes hair growth. Massaging basil oil into an irritated scalp promotes healing and also improves blood circulation.

Almond: The most effective and beneficial component present in almond oil is vitamin A. Using almond oil will not only promote faster hair growth, but will also revive damaged hair.