Why Sesame Oil is a Game-Changer for Hair Health: A Complete Guide

Key insights: Sesame oil is rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, which nourish hair follicles and promote healthy hair growth. Vitamin E in sesame oil helps prevent oxidative stress, reducing the risk of premature greying. It acts as a natural sunscreen, protecting hair from UV damage. It has antifungal and antibacterial properties that balance the scalp, reducing dandruff and itchiness. Regular use of sesame oil adds shine and smoothness to hair while preventing dryness and breakage..

Sesame oil has been utilised for centuries as a natural hair care product. It is derived from the nutrient-rich seeds of the sesame plant. It is sometimes referred to as the "wonder oil" for hair due to its high nourishing value. With myriad benefits ranging from nourishing to preventing damage, it is no surprise that many are turning to this natural remedy for better-looking, stronger, and shinier hair. 

But what makes sesame oil for hair so special, and how do you incorporate it into your hair care routine? Start reading to discover all the details.

Did you know? Sesame oil containing essential fatty acids with antioxidants acts as a nourisher to the hair follicles.  Sesame oil is antifungal as well as antibacterial in nature, thus bringing balance and reducing itchiness. Amla is full of vitamin C and assists in hair growth and preventing dandruff. Yoghourt helps soften and condition hair with its protein content.

Benefits of Sesame Oil for Hair

Sesame oil has many benefits for hair. It's a hydrating and moisturising oil that heals dry and damaged hair. Since it's penetrative, your hair is nourished from the roots to its tips.

1. Encourages Hair Growth: Sesame oil containing essential fatty acids with antioxidants acts as a nourisher to the hair follicles. That leads to strong, healthy sesame oil is a powerhouse of essential fatty acids and antioxidants, which are vital for maintaining healthy hair follicles. The oil deeply penetrates the scalp, nourishing it from within and improving blood circulation. 

This increased blood flow to the hair roots strengthens the follicles, promoting the growth of thick, strong hair. Rich in nutrients like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, sesame oil helps repair damaged hair and revitalise it. 

Moreover, it contains minerals like zinc and magnesium that further support hair health by preventing hair thinning and breakage. Regularly massaging sesame oil onto the scalp stimulates new hair growth and helps reduce hair fall by reinforcing the hair strands. Its natural properties make it an excellent remedy for individuals experiencing slow hair growth or loss. hair growth.

2. Prevents Premature Greying: One of the most common issues people face today is premature greying of hair, often caused by oxidative stress. Sesame oil is rich in Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant that combats free radicals, one of the primary causes of hair ageing and greying. Sesame oil protects the hair's natural pigment by reducing oxidative damage, helping it retain its original colour for longer. 

In addition, sesame oil enhances the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for hair's natural colour. Regular use of sesame oil prevents premature greying and adds a darker tone to the hair, making it appear more vibrant. Its cooling properties also soothe the scalp and help manage stress, another factor contributing to premature greying.

3. Provides Protection Against Sun Damage: Prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage hair, leading to dryness, brittleness, and loss of natural shine. Sesame oil acts as a natural sunscreen for your hair, forming a protective coat that shields it from UV damage. Its thick, viscous nature prevents environmental pollutants and harmful chemicals from penetrating the hair shaft. 

The antioxidants in sesame oil neutralise free radicals caused by sun exposure, ensuring the hair remains healthy and hydrated. Additionally, sesame oil’s soothing properties protect the scalp from sunburn and heat damage, keeping it cool and balanced. Applying sesame oil before stepping out in the sun can be a natural barrier, ensuring your hair stays soft, shiny, and protected from environmental aggressors.

4. Natural Moisturiser for Dry Scalp: Dry scalp, dandruff, and itchiness are common problems, especially during changing weather conditions. With its antifungal and antibacterial properties, Sesame oil helps maintain a healthy scalp by eliminating dandruff-causing microbes and reducing inflammation. Its high moisturising capacity ensures that the scalp remains hydrated, preventing dryness and flakiness. 

The oil’s nutrients repair and nourish the skin on the scalp, creating an environment that supports healthy hair growth. Sesame oil also balances the scalp’s natural oil production, ensuring it doesn’t become too oily or dry. 

Massaging sesame oil regularly relieves people struggling with scalp irritation by reducing itchiness and soothing inflammation. Its natural cooling effect also helps alleviate stress-related scalp issues, promoting overall health.

5. Shining and Lustrous Locks: Sesame oil is known for enhancing hair's shine and smoothness. When applied, the oil coats each strand, locking in moisture and creating a glossy appearance. Its rich nutrient profile, including vitamins and minerals, helps repair damaged hair, making it look healthier and more vibrant. 

Sesame oil also smooths the hair cuticles, reducing frizz and giving the hair a silky texture. A regular massage with sesame oil can improve the hair's overall texture, making it softer to touch and easier to manage. 

Furthermore, it protects the hair from styling damage caused by heat and chemicals. Whether your hair is straight, curly, or wavy, sesame oil adds a natural sheen that enhances its beauty, leaving you with lustrous and radiant locks.

Key Nutrients in Sesame oil 

Sesame oil is rich in a variety of nutrients that make it a magical ingredient for your tresses:

1. Vitamins: Sesame oil is packed full of vitamin E, which fixes the hair follicles and tends to minimise breakage. It also contains B-complex vitamins, which help improve blood flow around the scalp to promote hair growth.
2. Minerals: Sesame oil contains zinc, magnesium, and calcium, which nourish hair follicles and enhance hair growth.
3. Fatty Acids: It comes with a lot of omega-3 and omega-6, which help the hair to get hydrated deep, thus avoiding split ends as much as possible.
4. Sesamol and Sesamin: These defend hair against oxidative stress and environmental damage, preventing early ageing and hair loss.

Ayurvedic Benefits of Sesame Oil for Hair

In Ayurveda, sesame oil is sacred or pure oil because of its ability to balance the doshas in the human body. Taking sesame oil as a hair care product keeps one's body in balance, as this reflects healthy hair.

• Vata Dosha: Individuals who have higher levels of these tend to have dry, brittle hair. The nourishing quality of sesame oil soothes and hydrates the scalp, restoring moisture and preventing breakage.
• Pitta Dosha: This can make hair grey early and lead to loss. The cooling quality of sesame oil balances the Pitta dosha, thus making one's hair appear less thin and discoloured.
• Kapha Dosha: In people with Kapha dosha imbalance, excess oil being produced in the scalp tends to cause dandruff. Sesame oil balances the production of oil and removes all the unhealthy dead tissues from the scalp.

How to Apply Sesame Oil for Hair Growth

• Warm 2-3 tablespoons of sesame oil by heating it gently. The heat helps it penetrate the scalp.
• Massage with the oil for around 5-10 minutes. This can help blood to flow into the hair follicles.
• Massage this oil all over your hair length, specifically at the ends, to prevent dryness and breakage.
• Let it be in your hair for at least half an hour or overnight for deep conditioning.
• Shampoo your hair with a gentle shampoo using lukewarm water.

To get the best benefit out of sesame oil, use it 2-3 times a week. You can apply the oil overnight if your hair is highly dry or damaged. In fact, it's best to apply the oil at night so that the scalp can absorb all the nutrients while you sleep.

In addition to this also, do have a look at our range of best herbal hair oils in India.

Sesame Oil Hair Mask Recipes

Mix sesame oil with other nourishing ingredients to make the best mask recipes. Here are some suggestions:

1. Sesame Oil and Hibiscus Mask

Hibiscus can strengthen hair, so this mask is perfect for fighting hair loss. Combine 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and 3-4 crushed hibiscus flowers into a smooth paste and apply it to your scalp and hair. Let it stay on your hair for 30 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.

2. Sesame Oil and Amla Mask

Amla is full of vitamin C and assists in hair growth and preventing dandruff. Mix 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of amla powder. Apply the mixture to your scalp and leave it for 45 minutes before washing.

3. Sesame Oil and Yogurt Mask

Yoghurt helps soften and condition hair with its protein content. Sesame oil gives nutrients to the hair. Take 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and 3 tablespoons of yoghurt. Apply to your scalp and hair and then let it be there for 20 minutes before washing off using a gentle shampoo.

Side Effects of Sesame Oil

Sesame oil can clog pores like any other type of oil. This can irritate your skin and scalp and cause hair follicles to fall out. To prevent this, apply pure sesame oil to your hair and scalp for a short time.

Additionally, ensure your hair and scalp are completely free of sesame oil. After a sesame oil hair treatment, rinse your hair with warm water and shampoo. In the shower, carefully massage your scalp to make sure all the oil has been removed.

Applying sesame oil could be more comfortable if you warm it up a little. Be careful not to overheat the oil. Before applying, place a small drop on your wrist to check the temperature. Hot oil can harm your hair and burn your scalp.

Conclusion

Sesame oil is a multifunctional and beneficial addition to any hair care regimen. It stimulates growth and treats dandruff. It is also known for helping prevent premature greying. Embrace this natural oil with nourishing ingredients to say goodbye to dull and unhealthy locks.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to see results with sesame oil?

Generally, you will note that your hair texture has improved after a few weeks of frequent use. You will begin noticing steady hair growth within a few months of use. 

2. Can I use sesame oil daily?

To enjoy sesame oil's benefits, it is optimal to use it 2 to 3 times a week. Overuse might cause buildup. 

3. Can sesame oil reverse hair damage?

Sesame oil would repair and nourish damaged hair with necessary nutrients and moisture. With consistent application, you can prevent further damage to your tresses.

References:

1. Sesame oil containing essential fatty acids with antioxidants acts as a nourisher to the hair follicles (https://scijournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/). 
2. Sesame oil is antifungal as well as antibacterial in nature, thus bringing balance and reducing itchiness (https://www.sciencedirect.com/).
3. Amla is full of vitamin C and assists in hair growth and preventing dandruff (https://www.researchgate.net/).
4. Yoghurt helps soften and condition hair with its protein content (https://link.springer.com/).