Oiling hair has become a popular home remedy to nourish hair and promote growth. When it comes to getting the maximum benefits from oiling, many people wonder when the best time to do it is – at night or in the morning?
Quick answer
Most experts recommend oiling your hair at night rather than in the morning. Oiling at night allows more time for the oil to penetrate the hair and scalp. Leaving the oil in overnight lets it work its magic while you sleep. Oiling in the morning means you have to rinse it out faster. So for deeper conditioning and improved results, nighttime is best for hair oiling.
Oiling at night provides more benefits
Oiling your hair at night offers a few advantages over oiling in the morning:
- You can leave the oil on for longer. Leaving oil on your hair overnight allows more time for the oils to thoroughly coat the hair shafts and penetrate the scalp. This extended conditioning time maximizes the oils’ benefits.
- It’s more convenient. At night, you aren’t rushing to get ready for work or other responsibilities. You have time to properly massage the oil into your scalp and hair without feeling rushed.
- Your body temperature is warmer. During sleep, your body temperature rises slightly. This helps the hair follicles absorb the oils better.
- Reduced drying time. Oiling at night eliminates the need to dry oily hair before heading out in the morning.
- Less greasy look. The extra soaking time means you need less oil to get the same benefits. So your hair looks less greasy in the morning.
How to oil your hair at night
Follow these simple steps for easy overnight oiling:
- Pick an oil suitable for your hair type. Options include coconut, olive, almond, and argan oil.
- Warm a few tablespoons of the oil slightly. This makes it penetrate better.
- Apply the warm oil thoroughly to your scalp and hair strands.
- Gently massage your scalp to boost circulation. This improves hair health.
- Use an old towel or shower cap to avoid staining your sheets.
- Leave the oil in overnight and rinse out in the morning.
- Shampoo as usual and condition well after washing out the oil.
The science behind overnight oiling
What makes oiling overnight so effective? Here’s what’s happening on a scientific level:
- Increased oil penetration – Leaving the oil on for an extended period allows better absorption. Oil penetrates the hair shaft and scalp while you sleep.
- Boosted conditioning – Your hair gets extra moisture and nourishment. The oils seal in hydration, make hair softer and improve manageability.
- Reduced hair breakage – Oils lubricate the hair strands, smooth the cuticle and minimize friction. This makes hair less prone to breakage.
- Nutrient delivery– Oils carry nutrients like vitamins A, E, D directly to the follicles.
- Improved circulation – A scalp massage boosts blood flow. This ensures better delivery of the oils’ nutrients.
Oils to use for overnight oiling
Look for oils suited to your hair’s needs. Here are some top oils for overnight hair treatments:
Coconut oil
– Penetrates hair easily due to low molecular size
– Contains fatty acids that prevent protein loss
– Great for reducing frizz and dryness
Olive oil
– Rich in antioxidants that strengthen hair
– Boosts shine and smoothness
– Suitable for all hair types
Almond oil
– Very light and won’t clog follicles
– Loaded with vitamin E to repair damage
– Ideal for sensitive scalps
Argan oil
– Hydrates hair and scalp intensely
– Reduces split ends and tames frizz
– Safe for color-treated and keratin-treated hair
Castor oil
– Thick oil that coats strands well
– Stimulates circulation and boosts growth
– Use in small amounts to avoid greasiness
Should you oil hair daily overnight?
Overnight oiling 1-2 times a week is usually enough for most people. Oiling every day may make hair limp and greasy. Those with dry or damaged hair can oil more frequently, even daily. But limit leave-in time to overnight. Monitor your hair’s condition and adjust routine as needed.
Precautions for overnight oiling
When leaving oils in your hair overnight, keep these precautions in mind:
- Use the right amount of oil – Too much can stain bedding; too little won’t be effective
- Cover pillows with an old towel to prevent oil transfer
- Tie up long hair in a loose braid or bun
- Don’t skip shampooing after overnight oiling to remove excess oil
- Rinse with cool water initially to help dissolve oils
Is morning or night better for oiling hair?
| Time | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Night | More time for oil to absorb | Can stain bedding and pillows |
| Morning | No greasy sheets/pillows | Less time for oil to work |
This comparison shows that nighttime application lets you reap the full benefits of oiling hair. You just need to take some protective measures. Oiling in the morning is more convenient but provides less intense conditioning.
Conclusion
Nighttime is undoubtedly the best time to oil your hair. The extended conditioning time maximizes the oil’s benefits. Your hair gets extra moisture, added nutrition and reduced breakage. For optimal results, use the right oils for your hair type and take steps to avoid messes. Overnight oil application can make a big difference in the health and appearance of your hair.