Oiling the scalp is an ancient beauty ritual passed down through generations across Indian, Mediterranean, African, and Asian cultures, and for good reason.
Rooted in tradition and rich with intention, scalp oiling isn't just about hair growth. It's about nourishment, connection, and giving your roots what they need to thrive.
Growing up, I used to coat my curls in olive oil treatments. A simple, time-tested ritual that left my hair softer, shinier, and stronger. Today, that ritual lives on in a more elevated form. I'm excited to share a simple, effective hair-oiling routine to help you nurture your scalp for long-term growth, hydration, and resilience.
Whether your scalp feels dry, tight, flaky, or simply forgotten, the Root Revival Ritual is your moment to reconnect with yourself...and your roots.
Why Scalp Oiling Works
When your scalp is dry, inflamed, or undernourished, it can slow down hair growth and weaken new strands before they even emerge.
Oiling can support scalp health by:
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Replenishing moisture and essential lipids
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Helping calm visible flakes and dryness
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Supporting circulation with massage
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Creating a protective layer against environmental stressors
Over time, a healthy scalp often leads to hair that looks and feels stronger, softer, and more resilient.
Who It's For:
Anyone with a dry, itchy scalp or visible flakes
Those noticing slower growth or breakage
Natural textures, protective styles, and anyone wanting a more intentional care routine
What You'll Need:
- ioli (2–3 full dropperfuls)
- Wide-tooth comb
- Optional: scalp brush, claw clip
1. Prep Your Hair:
Gently comb through dry hair to remove knots. This will make sectioning and application much easier (and cleaner).
2. Section Your Hair:
How many sections you create depends on your texture and density. Create clear parts so you can reach your scalp.
- Thicker or curlier hair: 6–8 sections
- Finer hair: 4 sections
3. Apply the Oil:
Using the dropper, place small drops of oil along each section. Work in clean lines or curves for even coverage.
Tip: Never squeeze an entire dropper in one spot — a little goes a long way.
4. Massage It In:
Take about one dropperful between your palms, press onto the scalp, and begin massaging in slow, circular motions. This boosts circulation and helps the oil absorb. Let this be a moment to slow down and reconnect.
5. Clip It Up:
- Gather your hair into a loose bun or secure it with a claw clip.
- Avoid combing or pulling your hair while it's oiled, your follicles are softened and need gentle handling.
6. Rinse + Restore:
Use a gentle or clarifying shampoo to rinse thoroughly. You may need to shampoo twice depending on your hair type. Follow with your usual routine.
How Often Should You Oil Your Scalp?
Start with 1–2 times per month to replenish moisture and calm irritation. If your scalp is very dry or you're focusing on supporting growth, you can oil up to 1–2 times per week.
Begin by leaving the oil in for 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on your schedule and hair type. Some may find their hair tolerates longer treatments, but we generally don’t recommend leaving it in for more than 8 hours.
Scalp oiling is more than a trend. It's a form of self-care, a quiet moment to honor the parts of ourselves that are often overlooked. Across generations and cultures, hair oiling has been used to nurture hair growth and connection to heritage, ritual, and the body itself.
This is your invitation to make that tradition your own.
Ready to revive your roots? Try the Root Revival Ritual with ioli
