Here are the 5 Misconceptions of Hair Oils and The Best Ways to Use Them

Written by The Mestiza Muse

The words hair and oil together can be terrifying to people who have been lead to believe that applying oil to the hair is a big no-no. There has been a lot of misinformation thrown around concerning hair oils, and in today’s blog, we will discuss some of the more common misconceptions. We will also share a variety of ways to use hair oils.


Hair oils are all the same.
Some oils can penetrate the hair shaft to support moisture retention, while others only coat the hair. There is a perfect oil for almost every hair type—though the process of finding your perfect match can be a game of trial and error. Different oils have different perks, so target them to your needs. It is also essential to figure out the specific amount for your OWN hair. Note: Oils do NOT equal moisture.


Oils are heavy.
Not all oils are created equal. While some oil products sit on top of the hair strands, others like coconut oil can absorb into the hair fiber due to its high concentration of lipids and minerals that work to protect and keep the hair hydrated. The key is to be mindful of how much and how often you’re using it to avoid weighing hair down or build-up.


Oils will make your hair look greasy.
Only a pea-sized amount of oil is needed; a little goes a long way. Oils are a great way to smooth frizz and to keep ends lubricated. They are a sealant as well, so they seal the cuticle down. Be sure you avoid applying too much, which is what can make hair look greasy and make sure your hair even needs it.


Oils don’t belong on hair.
Hair oils have excellent benefits, such as all the fatty acids, which can help replace the lipids in your hair. There are not many hairstylists that agree with applying oils to hair; however, according to hairstylist, Jasmine Merinsky states “Similar to skin, we need oil to have healthy, strong hair. Oil lubricates the outer cuticle and strengthens the inner core by providing moisture to help keep the bonds strong.”


In an article written in Forbes magazine, here’s what celebrity stylist, Mark Townsend had to say: “Every woman would benefit from using oils, even just once a week. You’ll see a major difference in your hair.” New York celebrity hairstylist, Takisha Sturdivant-Drew says “There are a few things to consider ― especially in regards to your hair type and texture ― before you start slathering it all over your locks. Hair oils are particularly good for individuals with dry or tight scalps that are lacking moisture. If your hair itself is also dry, she said applying hair oil can help “give it a nice, natural shine.” She added that she often uses oil on her clients, especially those with coarser, textured, or curly hair, to finish off the hairstyle. Bobby Eliot, a Los Angeles-based celebrity hairstylist, said about hair oils, “It can be used both as a nourishing treatment and as a styling tool to help smooth the hair.”


Sebum is enough.
Sebum (the natural oil from your scalp) contains triglycerides and fatty acids (57%), wax esters (26%), squalene (12%), and cholesterol (4.5%) (you may recognize these ingredients as those found in deep conditioners, some oil also duplicate these compositions as the best way of returning hair to its proper condition). Sebum’s main job is to condition and act as a barrier to prevent internal moisture loss; thus, it is the best conditioner for your hair and scalp…ever, but what happens when your scalp is not producing enough sebum, or it is not able to work its way down the hair strands, as in the case of those with curly hair?