SCALP OILING? HERE'S THE DO'S AND DONT'S
- truubynature
- Jul 26
- 7 min read
If you’ve ever stood in your bathroom debating whether or not to oil your scalp, you’re not alone. With the rise of DIY hair routines and natural beauty content online, scalp oiling has become a go-to ritual for many. But is it truly necessary? And more importantly, are we doing it right?
Let’s talk about it – clearly, and with science-backed nuance, because all those videos on social media suggesting you combine plant-powders with oils and slather them on your scalp overnight are WRONG!
why use oils on the scalp?
Plant oils can be a beautiful addition to your scalp care routine when used properly. Certain oils are rich in compounds that help soothe irritation, support the skin barrier, and offer anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
For example:
Coconut oil has been shown to reduce protein loss in hair and exhibits antifungal activity against Malassezia, the yeast involved in dandruff.
Castor oil is a fan favourite for its ricinoleic acid content, known to support circulation and scalp conditioning.
Olive oil contains squalene and oleic acid, both of which are naturally present in our skin's sebum.
Essential oils like tea tree, rosemary, and peppermint can help stimulate the scalp and reduce itch or flaking – but they must be diluted and used sparingly. They’re potent, and even natural ingredients can disrupt the scalp’s delicate balance if overused.
oils on the scalp: short-term guests, not long-term tenants
Here’s the part most people don’t talk about: leaving oil on the scalp too long could actually cause more harm than good.
According to respected research, applying oils to the scalp and not washing them out within 30–60 minutes can lead to residue build-up. Over time, this may weaken the hair at the root, lift the cuticle layer, and affect the overall health of your hair. Oils, especially when combined with sweat, styling products, and environmental debris, can also block hair follicles and irritate the scalp, much like shellac on wood, or wearing a raincoat to protect you against rain.
So yes – oils can benefit the scalp, but only when used intentionally and rinsed out thoroughly with a gentle, effective cleanser. Think of it as a targeted scalp treatment, not an all-day or overnight soak.
oils on hair lengths: that’s where they shine!
When it comes to hair strands, the story changes. The hair lengths – especially the mid-lengths to ends – benefit immensely from plant oils: they offer protection, conditioning, reduce breakage, and improve softness and shine.
In our blog post [Hair: Oils That Penetrate vs Oils That Seal the Hair], we explain how some oils (like coconut and avocado oil) can penetrate the hair shaft and help to reinforce it from within, while other oils (like broccoli seed oil) form a protective layer to help retain moisture.
The key takeaway: oils belong on the hair for longer durations – but only briefly on the scalp.
the scalp microbiome: less is best
One of the most overlooked parts of scalp care is the microbiome – the ecosystem of beneficial microbes that live on our skin, including the scalp. A healthy scalp microbiome helps regulate oil production, supports skin barrier function, and even defends against pathogens like bacteria and fungi.
Product build-up, overuse of essential oils, harsh cleansers, and frequent oiling without proper washing can all throw this microbiome off balance and result in itching, build-up, and even dandruff.
This is why less is more. Keeping your scalp clean, balanced, and free of excess residue is foundational! Choose a shampoo that’s both effective and respectful of the skin’s natural ecosystem. Avoid formulas that overly strip or coat the scalp – and yes, this includes watching out for heavy conditioners or butters creeping up toward your roots.
Try our fantastically-cleansing, professionally formulated Powered Shampoo (just add water and you're good to go!)
how to use scalp oils the right way
If you choose to oil your scalp, do it with intention:
With clean hands, warm the oil slightly by rubbing between your hands, and then slipping it under your hair lengths, onto your scalp.
Massage gently into the scalp for 5–10 minutes to stimulate blood flow.
Leave on for no more than an hour. That's all you need (longer doesn't mean better).
Follow with a thorough cleanse using a microbiome-friendly shampoo, as mentioned above.
Always patch test essential oils before adding them to your routine. Dilution matters too – a few drops of the essential oil in a carrier oil (like jojoba or olive oil) is typically enough.
Oiling your scalp can absolutely have its place in a holistic hair routine. But the benefits come not from the quantity of oil, but from how thoughtfully it’s used. Focus on the scalp’s health by keeping it clean, lightly nourished, and free of buildup. Let your hair enjoy the deeper conditioning benefits of plant oils!
If you’re not sure which oils your scalp or hair needs, or how often to use them, check out our earlier post on penetrating vs sealing oils to learn more about how different oils function – and how to choose the right ones for you.
FAQs ABOUT USING OILS ON THE SCALP
How often should I oil my scalp?
It depends on your scalp condition, but in general, once per week is more than enough if you’re using oil as a pre-wash treatment. If your scalp is 'healthy' – meaning you don't feel itchiness, have dandruff, or redness, there may be no need to oil it at all – especially if your shampoo and routine are already supportive of moisture and scalp balance.
Can I leave oil on my scalp overnight?
No, it's not recommended. Leaving oil on your scalp for extended periods can lead to product buildup, clogged follicles, and difficulty washing it out thoroughly – especially if you have fine or low-porosity hair. A 30–60 minute treatment is typically sufficient, followed by a good, gentle cleanse.
What’s the best oil for dry scalp or flaking?
Jojoba oil (which closely mimics natural sebum), coconut oil (for its antimicrobial effects), and diluted tea tree essential oil are often helpful. Just be sure to use essential oils sparingly – they’re strong and can irritate if not properly diluted.
Does oiling my scalp help with hair growth?
Not directly. Oils won’t “make” your hair grow faster, but they can create a healthier environment for hair follicles by improving circulation (when massaged), reducing inflammation, and protecting the scalp from oxidative stress. That said, hair growth is also influenced by genetics, nutrition, and overall health. Read more on this topic here:
Is it better to apply oil on wet or dry scalp?
For scalp oiling, a dry scalp is generally best. Water can prevent proper absorption, and oil repels water – so applying it to wet skin may reduce the oil’s effectiveness. However, always shampoo after oiling to ensure it’s removed cleanly.
Are essential oils safe to use on the scalp?
They can be – but only when diluted in a carrier oil (such as coconut, grapeseed, jojoba or avocado oil) and used in very small amounts. For example, add 1 drop of essential oil to 1 tablespoon of carrier oil. Essential oils are strong, and very potent, so you don't need much more than that. Never apply essential oils directly to the scalp, and always patch test first.
What if my scalp feels itchy or oily after using oils?
This can be a sign that the oils you are using may not be the right ones for you, or that it wasn’t washed out properly. Some oils are heavier and more occlusive than others. Try a lighter oil (like hemp seed or jojoba), reduce how much you use, and always follow with a thorough, gentle cleanse.
Should i use oils if i have a sensitive scalp?
Yes you can, but proceed cautiously. If you have a sensitive scalp you may want to avoid essential oils unless professionally advised, and stick with lighter, non-irritating oils like jojoba or sunflower.
Less is more. And if irritation or flaking continues, it may be worth consulting a professional – sometimes what looks like dryness is actually inflammation or an imbalance in the scalp microbiome.
Why is it so difficult to wash out coconut oil from my hair?
We get this question a lot! Coconut oil is one of the most researched oils for hair penetration, and as such, it can often be challenging to wash it out of your hair completely – even if your intention was only to use it on the scalp (since hair is attached to it).
If this happened to you, then all you can do is wash it out until your scalp is clean and oil-free. Next time, try combining your coconut oil with a lighter oil like hemp seed, rice bran, argan or jojoba; then you will not only reap the rewards from the unique benefits that coconut offers, but that of the other oils too!
What about the comedogenic rating of oils? Should I worry about that affecting my scalp?
No, and here is why:
The comedogenic scale was developed in the 70s by testing various oils on rabbit ears, not on human skin (which is very different). Instead, focus on what your skin likes and don't be afraid to test various oils to see how your scalp reacts to them. Many oils have excellent anti-inflammatory benefits, so using them will actually help your skin – choose combinations cleverly, and sparingly because "more doesn't mean better".
Some oils can settle into your scalp, enveloping themselves in your hair, some oils can "harden" as they cool, forming a slight coating overtop of your scalp – choose your scalp oils wisely and with intent, before dumping a whole load of oil on it overnight!
What about you – have you tried oiling your scalp before? Did you have any issues or see any benefits? Comment below and let's talk about it!
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