How to Hair Oil the Right Way: Unlock Your Dream Hair by Summer

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Hair oiling is not just a beauty step in Ayurveda it is a holistic ritual that nourishes the scalp, calms the mind, balances doshas, and restores overall vitality. How you do it matters as much as what you use.
• The most common reason hair oiling doesn’t work is technique, not the oil itself. Skipping the warm-up step, applying on wet hair, and not massaging properly are the top mistakes people make.
• Always detangle with a wooden or neem comb before oiling. This reduces breakage, stimulates the scalp, and ensures even oil distribution  neem combs also have natural antimicrobial properties that benefit scalp health.
• Warming the oil before application is essential. Warm oil activates its properties, opens the hair shaft, and allows deeper penetration into the scalp significantly improving results compared to cold oil.
• The Marma point massage technique used in Ayurveda is not just about hair it activates energy centres in the scalp that improve circulation, reduce stress, and support hair growth from the root.
• A consistent hair oiling routine matters more than an occasional intensive treatment. A 10-minute weekly ritual done correctly will deliver better results than an overnight oiling done without technique.
• When choosing the best hair oil for hair growth, look for cold-pressed oils containing Amla (strengthens follicles and prevents breakage), Bhringraj (reduces dandruff and scalp inflammation), Rosemary (stimulates follicles for growth), and Argan (adds shine and moisture).
• The Rich Roots Hair & Scalp Oil by Delhicious is one of the best natural oils for hair growth combining 6 cold-pressed Ayurvedic oils: Amla, Bhringraj, Sesame, Argan, Sweet Almond, and Rosemary  in a single bottle designed for the complete oiling ritual.
• The best ayurvedic hair oil for hair growth works by nourishing the scalp at the root level not just coating the hair shaft. This is why Ayurvedic formulations consistently outperform conventional oils for long-term results.

What Is Hair Oiling and Why Does It Matter?

Hair oiling is a traditional practice deeply rooted in South Asian cultures, particularly India. It is one of the oldest and most effective tools in any hair oiling routine  used for centuries to keep hair long, strong, and healthy. Far from being a simple conditioning step, oiling nourishes the scalp, strengthens hair follicles, reduces breakage, and promotes a calm mind through massage.

In Ayurveda, hair oiling is called ‘Shiro Abhyanga’ a ritual that feeds both the hair and the nervous system. The scalp contains some of the highest concentrations of nerve endings and energy points in the body, making regular oiling one of the most impactful self-care habits you can build.

 The Ayurvedic Roots of Hair Oiling

In Ayurvedic medicine, each person has a dominant dosha Vata, Pitta, or Kapha that influences their hair type, scalp condition, and the kind of care their hair needs. Hair oiling is one of the primary ways Ayurveda restores balance to whichever dosha is out of alignment.

The choice of the best ayurvedic hair oil for hair growth also depends on your dosha: Vata types (dry, brittle hair) benefit from heavier oils like sesame and almond; Pitta types (oily scalp, thinning, heat-related loss) need cooling oils like coconut and Bhringraj; Kapha types (sluggish scalp, buildup) do better with lighter, stimulating oils like rosemary and argan. Getting this right is the foundation of an effective hair oiling routine.

Common Hair Oiling Mistakes You’re Probably Making

If you’ve been oiling regularly but not seeing results, it’s often due to a few common mistakes. Here’s what to watch for:

• Applying oil to wet hair  water creates a barrier that prevents absorption
• Using cold oil straight from the bottle cold oil sits on the surface rather than penetrating
• Applying oil to lengths only and skipping the scalp the scalp is where growth starts
• Not massaging properly without stimulation, oil doesn’t reach the follicles
• Leaving oil on for too long more than 8–12 hours can attract dust and clog pores
• Over-washing to remove oil  stripping the scalp with harsh shampoos undoes the benefits

How to Hair Oil the Right Way — Step by Step

Follow this five-step Ayurvedic hair oiling routine for best results. Each step has a reason skipping one undermines the next.

Step 1: Detangle with a Wooden or Neem Comb

Before any oil touches your hair, detangle thoroughly with a wide-toothed wooden or neem comb never a plastic brush. This reduces breakage, stimulates the scalp, and ensures the oil distributes evenly once applied. Neem combs carry the added benefit of natural antimicrobial properties, which support a healthy scalp environment essential for any hair oiling routine focused on growth.

Step 2: Warm Your Oil Before Applying

This is the step most people skip and it makes the biggest difference. Gently warm your chosen oil in a bowl of hot water or on a low heat for 30 seconds until it is warm but not hot. Warm oil activates its active compounds, opens the hair shaft cuticle, and allows much deeper penetration into the scalp than cold oil ever can. If you’re using an ayurvedic hair oil for hair growth like Rich Roots, warming it also makes the massage easier and more relaxing.

Step 3: Section and Apply Oil Directly to the Scalp

Part your hair into four or more sections. Using a dropper or your fingertips, apply the oil directly along each parting to the scalp not the mid-lengths or ends first. The scalp is where nourishment needs to reach most. Once the scalp is covered, work any remaining oil through the lengths and ends to seal moisture and add shine.

Step 4: Massage Using the Marma Point Technique

This is what separates a Shiro Abhyanga from a casual oil application. Using the pads of your fingers (not nails), massage the scalp in slow, firm circular motions for at least 5–10 minutes. Focus on the crown, temples, nape of the neck, and the centre parting  these are the primary Marma points of the scalp. This stimulates blood circulation to the follicles, delivers oxygen and nutrients to the root, and activates the parasympathetic nervous system to reduce stress a major but often overlooked cause of hair loss.

Step 5: Leave On and Rinse Properly

Leave the oil on for a minimum of 1 hour, ideally overnight (wrapped in a soft cloth or shower cap). When washing out, apply your shampoo to dry oiled hair first this emulsifies the oil far more effectively than applying shampoo to wet hair. Rinse thoroughly, then condition mid-lengths to ends only. One thorough wash is usually enough if you’ve applied oil sparingly and massaged it in well.

Which Oils Should You Use for Summer-Ready Hair?

Choosing the best natural oil for hair growth means looking at what each oil actually does at the scalp level, not just how it smells or feels. Here’s what to prioritise in summer:

• Amla Oil strengthens follicles, prevents breakage, and is one of the most studied Ayurvedic ingredients for hair growth
• Bhringraj Oil reduces scalp inflammation and dandruff; a core ingredient in the best ayurvedic hair oil for hair growth formulations
• Rosemary Oil clinically shown to stimulate follicle activity and rival minoxidil in some studies for promoting growth
• Argan Oil adds shine, seals the cuticle, and protects against UV-related summer dryness
• Sesame Oil a deeply penetrating base oil that also offers mild UV protection
• Sweet Almond Oil lightweight, rich in Vitamin E, ideal for soothing a dry or irritated scalp

If you want all of these in one bottle, the Rich Roots Hair & Scalp Oil combines all six cold-pressed and blended specifically for the Ayurvedic oiling ritual.

The Delhicious Rich Roots Range — Your Ayurvedic Hair Ritual

The Rich Roots Hair & Scalp Oil is formulated with 6 cold-pressed Ayurvedic oils Amla, Bhringraj, Sesame, Argan, Sweet Almond, and Rosemary  making it one of the best hair oils for hair growth available without a prescription. It’s free from silicones, parabens, and artificial fragrance, and is designed to be used warm, massaged in, and left overnight for maximum results.

Pair it with the Rich Roots Strengthen & Grow Shampoo and Conditioner to complete a full Ayurvedic hair care system one that cleanses without stripping and conditions without heavy buildup. Together, they form the foundation of a hair oiling routine that delivers visible results over 4–8 weeks of consistent use.

How Often Should You Oil Your Hair?

For most hair types, 1–2 times per week is the ideal frequency for a hair oiling routine. More than this can lead to product buildup and pore congestion on the scalp, which may actually slow growth. Less than once a week means you’re not giving the follicles consistent nourishment to make a meaningful difference. In summer, once a week is usually sufficient twice if your scalp is particularly dry or if you’re swimming regularly.

Hair Oiling Tips for Summer Specifically

Summer brings its own challenges UV exposure, sweat, humidity, and frequent washing can all disrupt even the best hair oiling routine. Here’s how to adapt:

• Use lighter oils in summer (argan, almond, rosemary) rather than heavier ones (castor, coconut) to avoid a heavy or greasy feel in the heat
• Oil the night before washing rather than during the day to prevent sweat mixing with the oil on the scalp
• If you’re swimming, apply a light coat of oil before entering the water it acts as a barrier against chlorine damage
• Keep your oiling session shorter in summer: 1–4 hours is enough rather than overnight
• Rinse with cool water after washing out to seal the cuticle and add shine

FAQs

1. How long should I leave hair oil in before washing it out?

For a standard hair oiling routine, leaving the oil on for at least 1 hour is the minimum to allow absorption into the scalp. Overnight oiling ideally 6–8 hours  gives the best results for nourishment and growth. Avoid leaving oil on for more than 12 hours as this can attract dust, clog follicles, and make it harder to rinse out cleanly. If you have a sensitive or oily scalp, 1–2 hours is plenty.

2. Should I apply hair oil to wet or dry hair?

Always apply oil to dry hair. Wet hair has a water film that acts as a barrier, preventing the oil from reaching the scalp or hair shaft effectively. Oil and water don’t mix so applying to wet hair simply means the oil sits on top rather than penetrating. Start your oiling ritual on hair that is completely dry and detangled for best absorption and results.

3. How often should I oil my hair for best results?

For most people, oiling 1–2 times per week is the sweet spot in any hair oiling routine. This frequency gives the scalp consistent nourishment without causing buildup or clogged pores. If you’re targeting hair loss or thinning specifically, twice a week with a growth-focused oil like Rich Roots one of the best hair oils for hair growth  is recommended for the first 4–8 weeks.

4. Which Ayurvedic oils are best for hair growth and thickness?

The best ayurvedic hair oil for hair growth typically contains a blend of Amla, Bhringraj, and Rosemary as core active ingredients. Amla strengthens follicles and reduces breakage; Bhringraj calms inflammation and stimulates growth; Rosemary has clinical evidence supporting follicle activation. The Rich Roots Hair & Scalp Oil combines all three alongside Sesame, Argan, and Sweet Almond for a complete Ayurvedic growth formula.

5. What is the Marma point massage technique and why does it matter for hair oiling?

Marma points are specific energy centres on the scalp recognised in Ayurvedic medicine that, when stimulated, improve blood circulation, reduce stress, and support hair follicle activity. During your hair oiling routine, massaging these points the crown, temples, nape, and central parting with firm circular motions for 5–10 minutes is what separates a functional oiling session from a truly therapeutic one. Stress is a leading driver of hair loss, and the Marma technique actively addresses this at the root level.

6. What is the best natural oil for hair growth?

The best natural oil for hair growth is not a single ingredient but a combination. Rosemary oil has the strongest clinical evidence for stimulating follicles; Amla oil is the most studied Ayurvedic oil for strengthening hair from the root; and Bhringraj is considered the ‘king of herbs’ for hair in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. A cold-pressed blend of all three such as the Rich Roots Hair & Scalp Oil  gives you the benefits of each without needing to mix them yourself.

7. Can I use the Rich Roots Hair Oil if I have a sensitive or psoriasis-prone scalp?

Yes, the Rich Roots Hair & Scalp Oil is formulated without silicones, parabens, or artificial fragrance, making it suitable for sensitive scalps. The blend of cold-pressed Ayurvedic oils is gentle enough for regular use and several of the ingredients, including Bhringraj and Sesame, have documented anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe scalp conditions. If you have an active flare-up or are unsure, we always recommend patch testing first or speaking to your GP.