In a recent podcast, Indian dermatologist Dr. Rashmi Shetty shared why applying oil to a dirty scalp before washing hair is bad for scalp health.
Although oiling has long been a part of haircare, experts like Dr. Shetty and hairstylists now recommend doing it the right way.
Dr. Shetty clarified that while oiling is beneficial for the scalp, applying it on a dirty or oily scalp causes harm. “When you apply oil on a dirty, oily scalp with dandruff, it drives impurities deeper, causing inflammation and leading to folliculitis (boils on the scalp),” she explained. Her key advice is to ensure the scalp is clean before oil application.
Celebrity hairstylist Jawed Habib also emphasized the proper technique for oiling hair. He suggests that oil should never be applied to dry hair, as oil doesn't work effectively on dry strands. Instead, hair should be dampened with lukewarm water before applying oil. After applying oil, comb or brush through the hair, wait for five minutes, and then wash with shampoo.
In summary, oiling should be done on a clean, slightly damp scalp for maximum benefit, and avoiding oiling on dirty hair can prevent scalp irritation and other health issues.
Courtesy: Hindustan Times
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