The Benefits of Using Pre-Wash Hair Oil for Softer, Shinier Hair

Applying hair oil before washing your hair may seem like an unnecessary step, but it can actually have a big impact on the health and growth of your hair. From nourishing the scalp to preventing breakage, there are many benefits to incorporating pre-wash hair oil into your haircare routine. It’s also a great excuse for a relaxing head massage! Keep reading to learn more.

What is pre-wash hair oil?
Pre-wash hair oil is a type of hair treatment applied to the hair and scalp before shampooing. Inspired by the Ayurvedic tradition of hair oiling, this product is typically made from natural oils such as coconut, argan, or jojoba oil, and is designed to nourish and protect.

How does pre-wash hair oil help your hair?

Adding hair oil before you wash can help moisturise the scalp and improve the overall health and appearance of your hair. This can also help reduce flakiness, dandruff, and other scalp conditions. Additionally, pre-wash hair oil can help prevent breakage and split ends by strengthening the hair shaft and protecting it from damage. It can also improve the overall health and appearance of your hair by making it softer, shinier, and more manageable.

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What are the best types of hair oil to use?

Your choice of hair oil depends on your hair type and specific needs. For example, if you have dry or damaged hair, you may want a heavier oil like sesame or macadamia oil. If you have fine or oily hair, a lighter oil like argan or camellia oil may be more suitable.

When formulating our Organic Hair Renewal Oil, we envisioned a potent yet lightweight blend of ingredients proven to improve hair quality. Along the way, we uncovered haircare secrets from around the world – and incorporated them into this multi-award-winning elixir. Although we used a mix of weights with out oil, with some heavier oils like macadamia which binds to the hair shaft to leave it more robust and healthier, we balance this with beautifully light oils like Sacha inchi, an Amazonian-sourced oil that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help to quench and hydrate dry hair, and make it super-shiny

Just some of our hero ingredients are Camellia oil (a favourite with Japanese geishas), Argan oil (cherished by Moroccan women for its calming, shine-boosting properties) Sesame oil (revered in Ayurvedic medicine), and ultra-hydrating Sacha Inchi from the Amazon. Peppermint and Rosemary essential oils are also included for its growth-boosting properties (leave the hair oil on overnight if you are using it to stimulate healthy growth). You can read more about the best oils for growth and thickness here.

Whichever type of hair oil you choose, we recommend high-quality formulas free from harmful chemicals and additives.  And be sure to check for silicones - which you definitely to NOT want but are very common.

What is the problem with silicones you may be asking? In short, they may give hair the illusion of shine, thanks to the plastic in these synthetic materials it's only an artificial shine – not a shine borne from light reflecting off healthy, properly hydrated hair with properly sealed cuticle layers.  Healthline have an article which states: “Over time, silicone can also build up on your hair, resulting in a dry feel and dull appearance. You may even notice that your hair becomes weaker and more prone to breakage. And if you're using a form of silicone that isn't water-soluble, it can be really hard to remove it with a regular wash."

How often should you use pre-wash hair oil?

Be guided by your hair type and the condition of your tresses when deciding how often to incorporate pre-wash hair oil. If you have dry or damaged hair, once or twice a week could be beneficial. For oily hair, once every two weeks may be enough. It's important not to overdo it as too much oil can weigh your hair down. Our tip? Start by using a small amount and gradually increase as needed.

Tips for incorporating pre-wash hair oil into your hair care routine

If you’re wondering how and when to use hair oil in your routine, don’t worry. It’s easy! Start by selecting a high-quality oil suited to your hair type.

Before washing your hair, apply a small amount of oil, focusing on the ends. Treat yourself to a relaxing head massage as you work the oil into your scalp and hair for a few minutes.

Then, let it sit for at least 30 minutes before washing your hair as usual. You can also leave the oil on overnight for a more intensive treatment. With regular use, pre-wash hair oil can help improve the health and appearance of your hair.

More on why you need to try the Ayurvedic ritual hair oiling 

Want to shop the hair oil that WON BEST HAIR OIL TWICE AT THE WORLD'S MOST PRESTIGIOUS NATURAL BEAUTY AWARDS? Check out Indagare's Organic Hair Renewal Oil here. Formulated to be the ultimate multi-tasker, you can use it as a pre-conditioning treatment, and overnight hair growth treatment, and daily on split ends.