Whether to apply oil before or after washing your hair is a common question many people have. Oil can provide numerous benefits for hair health, including added moisture, strength, and shine. However, some debate exists over when the optimal time is to use oil on hair – before or after shampooing. This article will examine the potential benefits and drawbacks of applying hair oil both before and after washing in order to help determine the best practice.
Applying Oil Before Washing
Using oil on hair before shampooing, known as the “pre-wash oiling method,” has several potential advantages:
May help protect hair
Applying oil before washing acts as a protective barrier on the hair strands. This can help reduce friction and minimize damage or breakage during the shampoo process. The oil seals the hair cuticles, which safeguards the cortex against the detergent effects of shampoo. This helps preserve hair strength and integrity.
Enhances conditioning
Massaging oil into the hair and scalp before shampooing can enhance the conditioning properties of the oil. The oil is able to thoroughly coat and penetrate the hair strands while sitting on the hair before washing. This allows the nourishing vitamins and fatty acids in the oil more time to be absorbed into the hair shaft for improved conditioning.
Easier detangling
Applying oil pre-wash makes wet detangling after shampooing easier and less damaging. The oil helps smooth and lubricate the hair strands, decreasing friction that causes snags and knots during washing. The added slipperiness enables combs and brushes to glide through hair more easily without pulling or ripping.
Increased moisture retention
Studies have found pre-shampooing application of oil boosts the hair’s moisture levels and increases hydration retention. The oil is able to attract and seal in moisture. Hair maintains these increased moisture levels even after thorough shampooing since oil creates a protective layer. This helps keep hair softer and more supple.
Potential Drawbacks
While pre-wash oiling has benefits, some possible drawbacks exist:
– Oil may lead to limp, greasy hair if used in excessive amounts before washing
– Can cause buildup on scalp over time if not washed out thoroughly
– Shampoo lathers less due to oil coating the hair
– Takes more time for preparation before showering
Applying Oil After Washing
Putting oil on hair after shampooing, known as the “post-wash oiling technique,” also has several advantages:
Seals in moisture
Applying oil on clean, wet hair after shampooing can help seal in moisture. The oil forms a protective coating and prevents the hydration levels from diminishing as hair dries. This keeps hair softer and more supple.
Reduces frizz and flyaways
Using a few drops of oil on wet strands after washing can help smooth down the hair cuticle. This results in less frizz and fewer flyaway hairs once the hair is dry. The oil’s emollient qualities keep hair straighter and more manageable.
Adds shine and luster
Post-wash oiling helps boost hair’s shine factor. The oil imparts a luminous, glossy finish as light reflects off the smooth, conditioned hair strands. Using oils high in essential fatty acids like omega-3s enhance shine best.
Lightweight application
Since hair is already cleansed after shampooing, only a small amount of oil is needed. Less oil means an ultra-light, non-greasy application. Excess oil can drag hair down. A few concentrated drops distribute well through wet hair.
Potential Drawbacks
Some possible disadvantages to post-shampoo oiling include:
– If applied too heavily, can still coat hair and lead to limp, greasy-looking strands
– Doesn’t allow oil as much time to penetrate and condition hair before rinsing
– Doesn’t provide pre-wash protection during shampoo process
– Requires showering first before oil can be applied
Key Considerations
When deciding whether to apply oil before or after shampooing hair, keep these tips in mind:
– Hair type – Dry, damaged hair benefits more from pre-wash oiling. Oil may be too heavy for fine hair if used before washing.
– Oil choice – Lighter oils like grapeseed or jojoba oil may work better before washing for grease-prone hair. Save thicker oils like coconut for after.
– Amount – Only a small amount of oil is needed – usually a teaspoon or less. Too much can lead to buildup.
– Avoid roots – Apply oil only mid-length to ends. Using on scalp may cause excess oiliness.
– Detangle first – Separate knots and tangles before applying oil to distribute it better.
– Pat in – Gently pat in oil on wet hair instead of rubbing to prevent friction damage.
– Wash out – Rinse with a clarifying shampoo once a week if pre-washing to remove residue.
The Best Method
Based on the potential benefits and drawbacks analysis, the recommended practice is to use **both** methods – apply oil before and after washing for maximize effectiveness:
Pre-shampoo: Apply a lighter oil from mid-shaft to ends before washing. This provides protective benefits.
Post-shampoo: Use a small amount of thicker oil on wet hair after rinsing. This boosts shine and manages frizz.
The combined approach allows the versatility to tailor oil use for your hair’s specific needs. Pre-wash oil guards against damage while a touch of post-shampoo oil enhances styling and managability. Avoid roots when pre-washing and use sparingly when wet for optimal results.
Conclusion
While some debate exists on when to apply hair oil for the best results, both pre- and post-shampoo oiling have unique benefits. Using oil before cleansing helps protect and detangle hair, while applying a few drops after rinsing can boost moisture, add shine, and reduce frizz. Splitting oil use between both washing steps enables you to customize your routine and provides the most benefits. Adjust which oils you use and how much based on your hair type’s needs. With the right technique, oils can improve hair health, leaving locks looking shiny and feeling soft.