How to Oil Your Hair: A Simple Scalp Massage Routine

Hair oiling, or champi, is a ritual many of us grew up with. Done well, it is a relaxing way to care for your scalp and hair. Done badly, it can leave hair greasy and hard to wash. Here is a simple routine.

What you need

  • A hair oil you like.
  • A wide-tooth comb.
  • An old towel for your shoulders.
  • A mild shampoo for later.

The Hair Revival Oil is a 100ml oil with bhringraj, amla, onion seed and black seed oil. It is made for all hair types and genders, and is free of parabens and sulfates.

Step 1: Detangle

Comb your hair gently with a wide-tooth comb, starting at the ends and working up. Oiling tangled hair leads to more knots and breakage.

Step 2: Warm the oil slightly (optional)

Many people like slightly warm oil. Place the bottle in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes. Test it on your wrist. It should feel only just warm, never hot. Do not heat oil directly on the stove.

Step 3: Part and apply

Part your hair into sections. Pour a little oil onto your fingertips and dab it along each parting, directly on the scalp. Start with a small amount. You can always add more.

Step 4: Massage your scalp (5 minutes)

  1. Use your fingertips, not your nails.
  2. Move in small circles, with gentle pressure.
  3. Start at the hairline and work back towards the crown.
  4. Finish at the nape of your neck and behind the ears.

Keep the pressure light. Rubbing hard or tugging can pull out loose hair.

Step 5: Lengths and ends

Smooth any oil left on your hands along the lengths and ends.

Step 6: Leave it on

An hour or two before washing is enough for many people. If you leave it overnight, cover your pillow with an old towel.

Step 7: Wash it out

  • Apply shampoo to dry, oiled hair first, then add water. This helps lift the oil.
  • Shampoo twice if hair still feels greasy.
  • Use lukewarm water, not very hot.

How often?

Once or twice a week suits most people. If you have an oily scalp, oil less often or focus on the lengths.

Oil, then mask

For a deeper weekly treatment, some people alternate oiling with a hair mask. The Root Revival Hair Mask combines amla, bhringraj and black sesame oil. Apply to damp hair, massage for 2 to 3 minutes, leave for 15 to 20 minutes and rinse. It is used 2 to 3 times a week.

Common mistakes

  • Using too much oil, which is hard to wash out.
  • Tying hair tightly right after oiling.
  • Combing hard while oil is in.
  • Oiling an itchy, flaky or sore scalp without advice. See a doctor for scalp problems.

Quick questions

Can men oil their hair? Yes. Hair Revival Oil is made for all genders.

Should I oil wet or dry hair? Most people oil dry hair before washing.

Not sure which products suit your skin? The Theraglam Glow Scan builds a personal skincare routine from 3 photos and a short quiz. Rs 599, one time.

Patch-test any new hair product on a small area of skin for 24 hours first. Stop using it if you notice irritation. This article is general hair care guidance, not medical advice.

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