What's Your Routine After Oiling Your Hair? Here's How to Do It Right

For most Indian homes, hair oiling is simply a part of life. Maybe it was your mom who insisted on it, or perhaps you turned to it after noticing more strands on your pillow than usual. At one point or another, you've likely reached for almond, coconut, or castor oil. Yet, what happens after oiling often goes unspoken.

Here's a familiar inquiry making the rounds: "I leave almond oil in my hair overnight, then wash with Pantene Lively Clean, double cleanse with L'Oréal Hyaluron Shampoo, and finish with Matrix Biolage. Is this too much?"

Your instincts are on point. Let's unpack this process.

The Importance of Your Post-Oiling Routine

Oiling your hair overnight gives the oil ample time to nourish and protect. Almond oil is particularly favored for not feeling overly greasy, making it ideal for overnight treatments.

The mistake many fall into is not washing out the oil properly. Residual oil can attract dirt, mix with sweat, and in our humid climate, lead to clogged follicles and potentially increase hair fall.

So, how you wash out that oil truly matters.

Step 1: Skip Pre-Wash Wetting

It's a surprise to many. Wetting oily hair before shampooing can prevent the cleanser from effectively removing the oil, as it ends up targeting water instead.

Begin with shampoo on dry or very damp hair, massaging it into the scalp, letting it sit, and then rinsing. You'll see it lathers better and removes oil more efficiently.

Step 2: Mastering the Double Cleanse

The described method, starting with Pantene Lively Clean followed by L'Oréal Hyaluron Shampoo, is quite effective.

• First shampoo: This step handles most of the oil and build-up. Pantene Lively Clean is excellent here because it cleans without harshness.

• Second shampoo: Choose a nourishing formula like L'Oréal's Hyaluron, which replenishes moisture post-cleansing.

Just like double cleansing your face: the first removes impurities, the second truly cleanses. However, if you experience dryness or flakiness, limiting this routine to a weekly basis might be better.

Step 3: Conditioners and Treatments with Matrix Biolage

After cleansing, your hair can feel stripped. This is where a reliable conditioner steps in. Matrix Biolage, a trusted professional line (notably available through Niram in India), excels at sealing cuticles post-wash.

Some conditioner tips:

• Apply it from mid-lengths to ends, avoiding the scalp.

• Let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes before rinsing.

• If using a Biolage mask, replace your regular conditioner once a week.

For severely damaged or color-treated hair, a weekly deep conditioning treatment is beneficial. Brands like Schwarzkopf, Wella Professional, and Matrix offer salon-quality masks easily accessible online.

Considering Hair Serums or Leave-Ins

After a good wash and condition post-oiling, your hair should be in a neat state. There's no need to load up on products unless frizz is an issue, which can be especially problematic in humid weather. In that case, a tiny bit of serum can make a big difference when applied to damp hair.

Use a minimal amount, like a pea-sized drop for medium hair, to prevent bringing back the greasiness.

Overnight Oiling Frequency

While weekly overnight oiling might seem committed, it can be excessive for some. Those with oily scalps or dandruff can find it problematic, so limit it to 1 to 2 hours before washing. Those with dry scalps or thick hair can enjoy overnight oiling weekly without adverse effects.

An Overview of Your Post-Oiling Routine

• Before washing: Start with your first shampoo on dry/damp hair, massaging it well. Rinse thoroughly.

• Last wash: Use a nourishing shampoo. Wet hair beforehand, then lather and rinse.

• Conditioning: Apply conditioner from mid-length to ends, waiting a few minutes before rinsing with cool or lukewarm water to minimize frizz.

• Drying: Gently pat with a soft cotton t-shirt, not a rough towel, and let air dry.

• Optional finisher: A small dose of serum or leave-in if frizz persists.

Don't Skip This Key Step

A final rinse with cool water. While hot showers are relaxing, ending with a cool rinse helps close the hair cuticle, reducing frizz and making your conditioner more effective. Just a brief cool rinse at the end will do.

Final Advice

Your current regimen of almond oil overnight, double cleansing, and conditioning is sound. Just be cautious not to overdo it and ensure the first shampoo is applied on dry hair.

Oil will always be a part of good Indian haircare. It’s not about avoiding it but refining the wash-off process to be as considerate as the oiling itself.

If you have queries about the best oils for your hair type or selecting a clarifying shampoo that doesn’t harm your scalp, feel free to ask below.