Hygiene | The Asian Destination

If you’re Asian like me, you will at some point in your life been encouraged by your mother or other female relatives, to oil your hair to ensure your hair maintained long luscious locks comparable to the commercials on television.

Seeing hair glistening in the sun, freshly oiled and neatly combed can be a common sight amongst schoolgirls (and boys) in Asian countries. However, growing up in a more Western society where ‘greasy hair’ equates to poor hygiene, can make this beauty regime a bit of a nuisance.

There has also been some debate as to whether oiling the hair does more harm than good. Some say that it can unnecessarily aggravate the naturally produced sebum which promotes healthy skin and hair.

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So what’s the verdict?

From personal experience, my hair definitely feels softer and silkier if I shampoo after an overnight oil mask. After doing a little research I have found that it is important to distinguish between the different type of oils; petroleum-based or mineral oils may actually add to hair dryness by reducing natural moisture. Natural oils such as coconut, jojoba and olive oils are thought to be the most nutritious and encourage re-growth, particularly in damaged hair.

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Many of the natural oils can be found in any local supermarket and are relatively cheap to buy.

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Your Turn…!

For maximum benefit, pour some oil into a small bowl and heat for around 20 seconds in the microwave until warm.
Massage oil into hair and scalp.
Wrap your hair in a towel to lock in moisture.
Leave oil on as long as desired (You can either choose to shampoo your hair after an hour, or for best results, leave it on overnight and shampoo your hair in the morning).
Studies have shown regular hair oil treatment ensures healthier hair so make sure you treat your hair to some weekly TLC!

Not convinced?

Other cosmetic brands have started bringing out their own hair oil products.

VO5 Hot Oil Treatment