Hair loss and thinning hair is rarely a problem with one treatment and you are done. There could be several reasons why your hair is thinning, including age, heredity, stress, hormonal changes after giving birth, and even certain medications you are taking. And just like there are different reasons for hair falling out, there are different solutions, not all of which will work for everyone. That said, many of us can take steps to improve the health of our hair and scalp that support hair growth. Using hair oils and massaging the scalp are two examples of practices that many hair experts recommend incorporating into your regimen – but with so many oils on the market, where do you start? Hair restoration surgeon Dr. Alan J. Bauman, MD, ABHRS, IAHRS, FISHRS, Founder, CEO, and Medical Director of Bauman Medical Group, says these two hair oils can help you achieve a healthier scalp.
Why Hair Oils?
Many hair oils can be beneficial to the scalp, depending on the problem you’re trying to address, according to Dr. Bauman. “As with anything hair and scalp related, it’s best to know exactly how your hair and scalp should benefit the most from your chosen products,” he adds. “Hair/scalp oils have become a trend on TikTok and other social media platforms. But just like skin care, using the wrong products or even the wrong techniques on your scalp can have side effects.
Recommended hair oils
When it comes to choosing oils that have clear scalp and hair benefits, Dr. Bauman has three in mind:
Amla Oil: “Amla oil is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, has antibacterial properties and can strengthen hair fibers,” says Dr. Bauman. Amla oil can also moisturize dry and brittle hair strands and moisturize the scalp. Amla oil can be used on all hair types.
Argan oil: Argan oil is an anti-inflammatory oil, so it’s great for soothing a sensitive or itchy scalp, says Dr. Bauman, adding that this is a lighter oil, so it not only coats the hair shaft, but can also penetrate the hair cuticle. and help with frizzy hair.
Jojoba oil: Jojoba oil actually has a number of hair and scalp benefits that you may not be aware of. “Jojoba oil can help your scalp retain moisture,” says Dr. Bauman. “Jojoba oil can help regulate sebum production. Jojoba oil can help remove dandruff and seal moisture in hair.
How should oils be included in a hair care routine?
Oils can be incorporated into your hair care routine in several ways. “You can use them as a pre-shampoo treatment, which means you apply the oil before you shampoo,” says Dr. Bauman. “Let it sit on your scalp overnight or at least 30 minutes, then shampoo and conditioner as usual. You can apply a small amount of oil to your scalp, massage it and then use a brush to exfoliate your scalp before washing. You can also apply oil and let it soak in as a leave-in treatment.”
Oils can also be used as a hair mask, adds Dr. Bauman adds, reminding us that it’s best to consult a professional hair and scalp expert, such as a board-certified trichologist or hair restorer to evaluate your scalp condition, any symptoms or concerns, and then determine which oils are best for you. your scalp/hair, as you want your hair and scalp to stay healthy.
Other tips for maintaining a healthy scalp
Hair oils are a great addition to your routine. But don’t forget to check out these additional tips from Dr. Bauman to keep in mind for a healthy scalp:
** Find a professional trichologist to understand your hair and scalp needs.
** Do not go to bed with wet hair/scalp.
** Make sure you wash according to your hair/scalp type (using the right shampoo and shampoo frequency). Please note that this may change with health status, age, environment, lifestyle, change of seasons, as well as styling habits, styling treatments or styling products.
** Mild exfoliation before shampooing can help remove buildup on the scalp.
** Massage your scalp to stimulate blood circulation.
** Get a scalp treatment (this is a kind of facial treatment for your scalp) at least once a month.
** If you have scalp/hair issues, don’t wait before seeking help. The sooner you address the problem, the better.
** Do not apply conditioner to the scalp (it should be applied mid-shaft to ends) unless the conditioner explicitly states so in the directions for use.
** Always follow the manufacturer’s directions on products. With all products, including oils, do a patch test to make sure you don’t have an allergic reaction.
**Remember: Scalp symptoms such as irritation, sensitivity, scalp acne (folliculitis), dandruff, itchy/dry scalp or an overly oily scalp can be a sign of poor scalp health.
** If you experience thinning hair, hair breakage, excessive shedding, loss of scalp coverage or loss of volume, please consult a doctor who specializes in hair loss, such as those who are ABHRS certified, members of ISHRS or are admitted to the IAHRS.