Black Sesame Oil for Hair: The Traditional Til Oil, Explained

Til ka tel, or sesame oil, has been part of Indian self-care for generations, from winter body massages to weekly head oiling. Black sesame oil in particular appears in many Ayurvedic hair treatments. Here is what it is traditionally used for and how to use it.

What is black sesame oil?

Black sesame oil is pressed from black sesame seeds. It is a rich, warming oil that has long been used in Ayurveda for massage and hair care, often blended with herbs.

How it is traditionally used for hair

  • Scalp massage before washing.
  • Nourishing dry lengths so hair feels softer.
  • Adding shine to dull hair.
  • Blending with herbs like amla and bhringraj in traditional hair preparations.

Using plain sesame oil

  1. Warm a few spoons of oil gently. It should feel warm, never hot. Test on your wrist first.
  2. Part your hair and massage the oil into your scalp with your fingertips for five minutes.
  3. Run the rest through the lengths.
  4. Leave for at least an hour, then wash with a mild shampoo. You may need two washes.

A mask with black sesame oil

If plain oil feels too heavy or messy, a mask is an easier option. The Theraglam Root Revival Hair Mask combines black sesame oil with amla and bhringraj. It is made to nourish dry, damaged strands, reduce breakage and restore softness and shine, and is free of parabens and sulfates.

How to use it

  1. Wash your hair and squeeze out excess water.
  2. Apply the mask to damp hair and massage for two to three minutes.
  3. Leave for 15 to 20 minutes.
  4. Rinse well.

Use it two to three times a week.

Oil and mask together

Many people pair an oil and a mask in one weekly routine. Hair Revival Oil, with bhringraj, amla, onion seed and black seed oil, works as a pre-wash scalp massage, and the Root Revival Hair Mask as a post-wash treatment on another day.

Who it suits

  • Dry, rough or frizzy hair: a good match.
  • Oily scalp: use a smaller amount and wash it out the same day.
  • Fine hair: keep it mostly on the scalp and ends so hair is not weighed down.

Common mistakes

  • Using oil that is too hot. Warm, not hot, always.
  • Using far too much. A few spoons is enough for most hair lengths.
  • Rubbing the scalp hard. Gentle fingertip circles feel better and avoid pulling hair.
  • Skipping the rinse time on a mask. Give it the full 15 to 20 minutes.

Black sesame vs white sesame

Both are sesame oils. Black sesame is the one most often mentioned in traditional hair care, while white sesame oil is widely used in cooking and body massage.

Quick questions

Can I leave sesame oil in overnight? Many people do. Use an old pillowcase or a towel.

Can I use cooking sesame oil? Use pure, cold-pressed oil meant for hair or body if you can.

Patch-test any new product first. This article is general hair care guidance, not medical advice. For sudden hair loss or scalp problems, please see a doctor or dermatologist.

Want a full plan for your skin, diet and habits? Try the Theraglam Glow Scan.

Related reading: Noticing a few early greys? See Premature Grey Hair: Common Causes and Gentle Hair Care Habits.

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