Beauty Advice
Should you be using a hair oil?
Having spent time washing your hair, it may feel counterintuitive to use a hair oil. But, far from giving us greasy locks, this beauty staple can work wonders for keeping our tresses in tip-top condition.
We explain what you need to know about hair oils, plus share a few of our favourite brands to help you pick the perfect product.
What do hair oils do?
While our scalp produces a natural oily substance called sebum, it’s often not enough to counteract the modern-day techniques we use on our hair. Regular blow-drying and heat-styling can drain our hair of its moisture. This is where a hair oil may come in handy.
Hair oils add a protective layer to the hair. They can work to seal the hair cuticle down, forming a physical barrier against heat damage.
This physical barrier also works to prevent moisture from the hair escaping. It helps to keep hair hydrated, while fighting frizz. For this reason, hair oils are ideal for adding extra shine to dry locks.
How to apply a hair oil
Applying a hair oil to wet hair can help you to spread the product evenly. Think about applying from the mid-length down towards the tips.
You may even find it easier to start at the tips of your hair and work your way up. This will reduce the likelihood of you putting too much near your scalp and risking greasy-looking locks.
Hair oil can also come in handy if you have dry ends or fly-away frizz. Simply rub a tiny amount of oil between your fingertips and use on dry hair to tame an unruly mane.
If you struggle with a dry scalp, a hair oil that you can apply directly to your scalp may help to nourish and hydrate your skin, while strengthening your hair.
Our pick of the best hair oils
Fable & Mane HoliRoots Hair Oil
This pre-wash treatment not only smells divine, it works wonders for hair too. Created by siblings Nikita and Akash Mehta, HoliRoots Hair Oil is cruelty-free and teeming with powerful plant ingredients. The oil is designed to be massaged directly into the scalp before shampooing. It works to hydrate hair and soothe the scalp at the same time. Hair is left feeling silky, strong and nourished.
Find out more about Fable & Mane
Moroccanoil Treatment
Something of a cult classic, Moroccanoil is arguably the product that brought argan oil to the fore. Infused with antioxidants, strengthening proteins and vitamins, Morocanoil works to leave hair feeling smooth and manageable, all with a glossy shine.
Find out more about Moroccanoil
Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil
Looking for heat protection? Look no further than the Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil. This hair oil aims to restore hair appearance and texture, all while adding a protective layer. Use on dry or wet hair, or just before styling with heat. Olaplex works to protect hair from the inside out, penetrating into strands to repair damage and restore structure and strength.
Afrocenchix Seal – Natural Hair Oil for Afro Hair
This nourishing oil aims to lock in moisture, helping to prevent hair from breaking. It also works fight frizz and leave hair looking wonderfully shiny, with a range of gorgeous plant oils, including coconut and jojoba. Use on damp hair or apply a few drops before styling for everyday shine.
Find out more about Afrocenchix
The Body Shop Spa of The World Polynesian Monoï Radiance Oil
Want a multi-tasking oil that can do it all? The Body Shop’s Polynesian Monoï Radiance Oil could be just what you’re looking for. This soothing oil can be used on both the hair and body and contains a blend of coconut oil with fragrant tiare flowers to leave you glowing and feeling wonderfully relaxed.
Find out more about The Body Shop
