Hair Oil: When should one use it?

Hair oils are cosmetic products designed for the maintenance and enhancement of hair. Most often, they are composed exclusively of a blend of vegetable oils extracted from various plants, fruits, seeds or nuts, but there are also hair oils that contain synthetic components such as silicones. The choice between these two formulations primarily depends on the nature of your hair and the result you are looking for.

In addition to containing essential fatty acids, vegetable oils are generally good sources of antioxidants, allowing hair oils to act on multiple levels on the hair and provide various benefits. One of the main advantages of this type of treatment is to moisturise and nourish the fibres. Indeed, in addition to forming a protective veil on their surface, they stand out for their ability to penetrate into the hair fibres to make the hair more supple and shiny. Hair oils also protect the hair from external aggressions such as ultraviolet rays and pollution.

In order to reap all the benefits that hair oils can offer, it is important to apply them at the right time. This can vary from one product to another, but also depending on the nature and needs of your hair.

• The use of hair oil as a pre-shampoo treatment.

  Whether it's to nourish, hydrate or repair your mane, hair oil can be used as a treatment before shampooing. To do this, take a few drops of hair oil and apply them strand by strand from mid-lengths to ends. It is generally recommended to leave the oil on for about fifteen minutes before proceeding with the shampoo.

  Indeed, studies have shown that the prior application of vegetable oils such as coconut oil can limit breakage during brushing or washing on various hair types. By coating the hair fibres with a film, the lipids contained in the oils help to protect the hair scales from the detergent agents present in most shampoos. This pre-shampoo treatment also has a protective effect on the lipid barrier naturally present on the hair and helps to limit the penetration of water into the cuticles, which is harmful to the fibres.

• The hair oil as a post-shampoo treatment.

  To maintain and enhance your hair, you can also use a hair oil after your shampoo and conditioner, upon exiting the shower. Applying a hair oil at this time allows for deep repair of the hair, particularly after washing, a time when it can be vulnerable. Hair oil also helps to seal in moisture, thus preventing dryness and split ends. Finally, the use of a hair oil at this stage can provide thermal protection, minimising the damage caused by the use of a hairdryer or other heat styling tools.

• Hair oil for daily care.

  Some hair oils for very dry or textured hair can be used daily as a nourishing and disciplining treatment. Regular application helps define curls and control frizz, making hair more manageable and shiny. However, it's important not to overload hair with oil, as this can make it greasy and heavy.

The key takeaway : Hair oil is generally applied at the same time as shampooing, although daily use is possible depending on needs and hair type.

• MOHILE R. B. & al. Impact of mineral oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil on the prevention of hair damage. Journal of Cosmetic Science (2003).

• CAMPOS P. & al. Development and efficacy evaluation of hair care formulations containing vegetable oils and silicone. International Journal of Phytocosmetics and Natural Ingredients (2018).

• MESINKOVSKA N. & al. Coconut, Castor, and Argan Oil for Hair in Skin of Colour Patients: A Systematic Review. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology (2022).