Hot oil treatments may be seen as somewhat old school, but we're bringing them back for all the fabulous benefits! Whether you are aiming to tame frizzy hair, protect and repair damaged and dry hair, give a deep moisturising treatment or promote new hair growth from loss and thinning, hot oil treatments can do it all. There's nothing quite so effective as applying a solution directly to the root (pun intended) cause, in this case, conditioning oils to hair and scalp.

Do Hot Oil Treatments work?

Since many people struggle with hair loss and hair thinning, I thought I would share a natural solution that works. I've always had long but relatively thin hair, especially around my forehead area, so I personally tested out a hot oil remedy and found that it actually worked, seeing results after about three applications. The key for this treatment, like the key for any big change in life, is consistency. You need to apply this once a week minimum, every week. Why specifically hot oil, you may ask? Heating the oil makes it easier to work with, and helps it soak into the hair strands, follicles and scalp better. The heat on your scalp also helps stimulate circulation, encouraging new growth.

Hot oil treatments can be somewhat messy, so get yourself a large bottle with a pipette applicator to make things easier. Have a look at these options. You will also need a towel around your shoulders to protect your clothes. Pick a day once a week where you don't need to go out for an hour or two, and let that be your hair treatment day.

Oil Options According To Hair Type & Needs

Hair Oils for finer hair

Go for lightweight oils such as almond, jojoba, argan and walnut.

Hair Oils for thicker or frizzy hair 

Go for richer, more heavy oils such as coconut, castor and olive oil.

Hair Oil Encyclopedia

• Jojoba oil, actually not a true oil but rather a plant wax, is an ideal option in a hair oil blend. It is regarded as the oil closest in nature to that of our natural oil and sebum production. It is a moisturising and softening oil, and perfect for any hair type.
• Argan oil is famed as a hair oil for its natural conditioning properties. I highly recommend you add this oil to your treatment blend.
• Castor oil is great for promoting hair growth. If hair growth is your goal, then definitely add in castor oil to your blend, no matter your hair type! It also promotes strength and shine.
• Coconut oil is good for extremely dry hair, and helps with moisture and hydration. It can also help in styling and keeping natural hair in order.
• Avocado oil is rich in nutrients and also promotes hair growth. It is a deep conditioner, containing vitamins A and E and fatty acids.
• Grapeseed oil is another excellent hair conditioning oil. It is packed with vitamin E, omega 6 and antioxidants.
• Walnut oil is a lightweight and moisturising oil, ideal for finer hair.

Customising With Essential Oils & Botanicals

The easiest way to customise your hot oil treatment is with essential oils. Essential oils for hair include rosemary, lemongrass, cedarwood. Add a few drops of your chosen essential oil to your oil blend. Not only will your hair smell good, but it will reap the benefits too.

But did you know you can also infuse your chosen oils with botanicals to add a multitude of additional benefits to your pamper session? Here is a guide to the botanicals that are best for hair and scalp:

• Hair growth: peppermint, horsetail, nettle
• Strengthening: nettle, horsetail
• Creating volume: horsetail and marshmallow
• Moisturise: calendula, chamomile, lavender, aloe
• Gentle clarifying action: rosemary, sage
• To enhance hair colour: hibiscus (redheads), nettle (brunette), black tea (brunette), rosemary (brunette), chamomile (blonde), calendula (blonde).