Like many of us, Kareena Kapoor oils her hair overnight following a good ol’ champi. Kapoor typically mixes castor, coconut, and almond oils together. She’s known to throw in an egg here and there too. That’s exactly why her hair looks lustrous and thick even now.
But it got me thinking. Is overnight oiling good for the hair? While most of us have simply taken to the old-school ritual, we haven’t done our homework around the concept. Because there are always exceptions. I’ve roped in Dr. Sravya C Tipirneni, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetologist & Trichologist at Manipal Hospitals in Bangalore to deliver the verdict on this topic.
Are there benefits to keeping oil on overnight?
According to Dr. Tipirneni, oil conditions the hair naturally; moisturising the hair and scalp effectively. Leaving oil on overnight allows it to penetrate deeply into the shaft and scalp; providing intense nourishment and hydration. It can help combat dryness, reduce frizz, and improve the overall health of your hair.
What about the cons?
If too much oil is applied or if your hair is not washed thoroughly the following morning, the expert says that it can make your strands look greasy and weighed down. Some might also experience clogged pores or an itchy, irritated scalp if the oil is not rinsed out thoroughly. The bottom line is: don’t go overboard with oiling and ensure you’re washing it off properly later.
Does this vary from oil to oil?
Coconut, Olive, and Almond oils are commonly overnight hair treatments and are generally safe for most people. These oils have moisturising properties and can benefit the hair. But some oils may be heavier or have a higher likelihood of causing scalp irritation. That’s why it’s important to choose an oil that works well for your specific hair type and scalp condition.
Here are some oils that can cause irritation or feel heavy:
- Mustard Oil
- Castor Oil
- Neem Oil
You can minimise the amount of time you plan on keeping them on.
How long should someone keep it on?
The recommended duration for keeping an oil on overnight can vary depending on personal preference and the type of oil being used. In general, leaving the oil on for at least 6 to 8 hours, or overnight, allows for better absorption and effectiveness. But it’s important to find the right balance because leaving oil on for too long can make your hair overly greasy and make it just that much more difficult for you to wash it out.
The difference between oiling overnight and during the day
The main difference is the duration of the treatment. When you oil your hair during the day, it’s typically for a shorter period of time before you wash it out. Overnight oiling allows for a longer treatment duration; giving the oil more time to work its way into the hair and scalp. Some people find overnight oiling more convenient as they can leave the oil on while they sleep and wash it out in the morning. But it ultimately depends on personal preference and individual hair needs.
Thank god. I don’t think I could’ve put a ban on my late-night champis. It’s therapeutic.
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