The practice of hot oil massage is an Indian tradition that has been around for centuries. For many, they can be an excellent way to wind down and relax.
There are also a variety of benefits that can be received through massage. Including the promotion of hair growth, the prevention of hair damage, and the delay in greying hair.
Many recommend the use of plant-based oils that coat your hair follicles to strengthen and build protection for your hair.
It’s vital that you keep safe when undergoing this treatment, whether you decide to do it at home or at the salon. If you have skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis it would be best to consult the opinion of your doctor or GP before administering oils to your scalp.
Benefits of Hot Oil Massage
It’s not a requirement to visit your local spa to employ the blissful massage to your hair and scalp, benefitting from its many advantages.
From the comfort of your own home, you can fight against the stressors of your life while preventing hair loss.
Read more to discover the benefits of a hot oil massage.
Increases Hair Growth
Likely one of the most sought-after advantages of the hot oil massage is its ability to increase healthy hair growth. It does this by nourishing the hair deeply and promoting the production of nutrients for the hair.
Additionally, whilst you are performing the head massage with hot oil, you are also stimulating the blood supply to the hair follicle. This is beneficial to you as this is where the hair forms and grows, promoting the desired hair growth.
A study conducted found that even regular scalp massages can be beneficial to the thickening of hair. Another study supports this finding, as 69% of participants reported results that improved their alopecia.
Prevents the Appearance of Dandruff
Another benefit of hot oil massage is that it can relieve the itching sensation on your scalp, thus preventing white flaky skin from being visible. Itching can be caused by a microscopic organism called pityriasis. Whilst it usually remains inactive, this fungus is present in the scalp.
Whilst certain elements can negatively affect dandruff by activating it through hormonal imbalances or a change in the scalp Ph, the use of oil can certainly lower the occurrence of an itchy scalp, preventing dandruff.
This happens due to the lubrication of the scalp through the oil treatment. It helps to soften and moisturize your scalp, which can not only bring damaged hair back to life but keep your scalp from becoming dry and flaky.
Promotes Healthy Well-Being
Not unlike most massages, one benefit that can certainly be felt from hot oil massage is the relaxing sensation felt from the physical element of the oil massage.
A study shows that both serotonin and dopamine levels can increase substantially from a massage: the figures by 28% and 31% respectfully.
How To Prepare for A DIY Hot Oil Massage
It’s important to make sure that you have everything you need before starting. If you’re doing your hot oil massage, this is a process that should only take about 30 mins.
What You Need
- Oil of your choice
- Large Saucepan
- Glass Bowl
- Stove
- Water
What To Do
- Pour two or three tablespoons of oil into the glass bowl depending on your hair thickness.
- Fill the saucepan up to the halfway point and place it on the stove.
- Place the glass bowl inside the saucepan allowing the heat and steam from the boiling water to heat the oil.
- Leave it on the stove for a few minutes. The oil should be warmed up enough to coat your hair but not too hot to burn you.
How To Give Yourself a Hot Oil Massage
Giving yourself a hot oil massage is not a difficult task. You can save money doing it at home and have more opportunities to receive the benefits.
You will need:
- Towel
- Hairbrush or wide-toothed comb depending on your hair texture and preference
- Shower cap
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
Once you have the necessary equipment, you can start.
Steps for a Hot Oil Massage:
- Use the brush or comb of choice on your hair, making sure to remove any tangled knots to make the massage as easy as possible.
- Use the towel over your shoulders to protect your clothing from the oil.
- Dip your fingers into the oil and spread it evenly until it coats your fingers.
- With gentle circular motions, start to massage your scalp with your fingers. Continue for 5-10 minutes.
- You can then apply the rest of the oil to the remainder of your hair, as long as the top of your head is coated evenly.
- Tie your hair up and put on the cap so the oil can sink into the hair follicles.
- We recommended leaving the oil in your hair for at least an hour and for better results you can leave it overnight.
- Thoroughly remove the oil from your hair by using warm/hot water and using a light shampoo and conditioner.
How To Get The Most Out Of Your Hot Oil Massage
To ensure the best results for your hair and to soak up the most benefits, make sure to wash your hair a day before the oil massage.
Be aware that chemicals can be damaging for your hair so to avoid unnecessary breakage, opt for virgin and organic oils for your hot oil treatment.
This is a process that can be done regularly to ensure long-lasting results. We recommended repeating the process at least once a week to deep condition your hair.
How To Stay Safe
If you have not used the oil that you choose before, we recommend that you always perform a patch test on the inside of your arm before applying it to your whole head. Once you have confirmed that you are not allergic after checking the same patch again after 24 hours, feel free to indulge in the relaxing hair massage.
If you do have an adverse reaction to the oil you can try to use a different one. There is a variety that could work for you such as argan oil, coconut oil, almond oil, castor oil, and avocado oil.
If you do decide to use a store-bought oil treatment make sure to read and follow the instructions properly.
Excessive heat can be damaging to your hair, so to avoid breakage as a result, always test the temperature of the oil you heat so that it is not too hot. This will also protect you from inflicting harm to your skin and scalp as it will help you to avoid burning yourself.
Overview
There are certainly studies that show that a hot oil massage can promote hair growth and hair thickness. Still, it’s important to uphold healthy hair routines such as avoiding excessive heat and making sure to stay hydrated.
Whilst the benefits such as hair growth can be enticing, it is still important to make sure that a hot oil massage is right for you. You can do this by consulting your doctor and performing patch tests on your skin to make sure you don’t have an allergic reaction.
Massages can be a great way to unwind and relieve stress. They don’t always have to be expensive as there is the option to do a hot oil massage at home, both through DIY and store-bought methods. Using chemically free, virgin oils is recommended, as both lavender and peppermint can promote healthy hair growth.
