Can massaging the scalp with hot oil boost hair growth? Find out here - Health shots

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There’s nothing that a hair massage cannot fix, including tension, worry, and fatigue. However, it is most famous for boosting hair growth and controlling hair fall. While hair massaging with oil itself can do wonders for your hair, mothers and grandmothers have long praised the benefits of using warm oil for hair massage. So, let’s learn how warm oil hair massage, also known as hot oil treatment, can help in hair growth!

Hot oil treatment​

We’ve all had our share of hair problems at one point or another. But be it hair loss or damaged hair, we have been attempting to resolve these issues. Indian women have long understood the ancient trick of massaging their hair and scalp with nutritious warm oils for strong, voluminous hair.

To understand the benefits of applying warm oil to your hair, Health Shots spoke to Dr Amit Bangia, Senior Consultant Dermatologist, Asian Hospital, Faridabad.

Here’s why should you use warm oil to apply to your hair​

The good old ‘champi’ keeps the scalp hydrated and promotes hair growth. In fact, a 2016 study revealed that regular scalp massages promoted the growth of thicker hair. At the same time, massaging the scalp with warm oil works by sealing the hair cuticle, which helps to strengthen and protect your hair from the roots.

A scalp massage will relax you like no other. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Hear it from an expert:​

Dr Bangia says, “In hot oil treatment, the oil is first heated and applied on the scalp and left for 20-30 mins, and washed off. This process can strengthen the hair follicles. In fact, it might be able to handle your dandruff problem.”

He adds, “When you apply hot oil on your scalp, it improves the blood circulation, this blood supply brings new nutrients and these new nutrients promote new growth of your hair. So, hot oil treatment is effective but should be done on the prescription of a dermatologist because it can have adverse outcomes like psoriasis and eczemas.”

Also read: I used silicone scalp massager for a month, and my hair growth went supersonic

Remember, the hot oil is heated. Therefore, if the temperature is too high, the scalp could be burned. It’s crucial that the temperature of your hair oil is appropriate.

Is a hot oil treatment right for you?​

Anyone with normal to dry, brittle, or frizzy hair can benefit from a warm oil hair massage because it helps to replenish moisture in the hair. However, you might wish to use a less fatty oil if your hair or scalp tends to be greasy. Jojoba and almond oils are suitable options because they have the propensity to be readily absorbed.

The road to envious hair does include regular massages with warm oil. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

How does a hair massage promote hair growth?​

If done frequently but carefully, scalp massage might encourage hair growth. More hair loss may result if you massage your hair vigorously. When you massage your hair, your hair cells get stronger and carry nutrients to your hair follicles, enhancing growth and giving you thicker hair. Avoid massaging too much and hot oil treatments if your scalp is oily and greasy, or use the right oil. Using oil on an oily scalp might clog the pores and lead to infection, explains Dr Bangia.