does oiling help hair growth
I am really frustrated and just need some advice! For the last few months, I've noticed my hair thinning a lot, and it's stressing me out. A friend suggested that I should try oiling my hair, and I'm wondering if oiling helps hair growth for real? I've been using coconut oil and sometimes olive oil because I've heard that those are good, but I'm not sure if I should be doing this every day or just once a week. I do feel like after I oil it, it looks shinier but doesn't seem to be growing any faster. I read online that oiling can help strengthen the hair, but aaah what if that's just a myth?? Last night, I tried a hot oil treatment and it felt nice, but I woke up with the same old flat hair. I keep googling "does oiling help hair growth?" but I find so many mixed opinions. Some say it's awesome for nourishing your scalp, while others just shrug it off! Should I stick with oiling or look for a different solution? Plus, what oils do you think are best for hair growth? I'm starting to wonder if this is all worth the effort or if I'm just wasting my time, I mean, does oiling actually help hair growth or not?
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.
Doctors' responses
Oiling can indeed be beneficial for your hair, though its role in promoting direct hair growth is a bit more complicated. Oiling serves primarily to condition the hair, reduce breakage, and improve overall hair health, which can indirectly support a healthy environment for hair to grow. Coconut oil and olive oil are both good choices due to their moisturizing properties and the ability to penetrate the hair shaft, which can help reduce protein loss and add a sheen. However, the frequency of oiling might need adjustment based on your hair type and scalp condition; for many people, once or twice a week is sufficient to provide benefits without leading to excess oil buildup. Regular oiling can improve scalp health by preventing dryness and reducing dandruff, potentially allowing hair follicles to function better. Yet, expecting oiling alone to dramatically accelerate hair growth isn’t realistic. Hair growth is often influenced by other factors like genetics, diet, stress levels, and overall health. If you’re noticing significant thinning, it’s wise to consider these aspects too. Incorporate a balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. If stress is a factor, stress-reduction techniques like meditation or regular exercise might help. For more targeted treatment, over-the-counter topical treatments containing minoxidil can be considered, but discussing this with a healthcare provider first is a good idea to ensure it’s appropriate for you. If the thinning persists or seems severe, consulting with a dermatologist or a trichologist could provide more personalized insights. They can evaluate for underlying medical conditions like hormonal imbalances or nutrient deficiencies that might need attention. Regarding oils, besides coconut and olive, argan oil and castor oil are popular for hydrating and are believed by some to promote healthier hair. Remember that while oiling can improve hair quality, maintaining hair health involves a holistic approach, tailoring your hair care routine, lifestyle adjustments, and potentially exploring medical interventions as needed.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.
