Is Greasing Your Scalp Necessary?

By Jc of The Natural Haven

Many women grew up with a natural hair routine which involved applying oil to the scalp. This was often done after washing  or  applied to part lines in cornrows, twists or braids. Other times it was used to cover up flaking. However, given what is now known about hair care, is this oiling really necessary? The answer is Yes and No.

NO

There are two key reasons why oil is not necessary

1. Oil production for hair starts at the scalp

– Sebum is the natural oil that coats hair. Its production begins just under the skin of the scalp and therefore the scalp surface is naturally coated in oil. A gentle massage of the scalp can help to further distribute the sebum but in general the scalp produces sufficient oil and does not necessarily require a ‘top up’

2. Oils, especially natural oils can feed the fungus that causes dandruff

– Dandruff is caused by a fungus known as malassezia globosa. This fungus thrives on a specific oil known as oleic acid which is found richly in natural oils such as olive oil, coconut oil and shea butter. Reducing the use of oil on the scalp may help reduce dandruff.

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YES

There are two key reasons why oiling may be necessary

1. Dry scalp and Eczema

– If you have scalp eczema, it may be recommended to you by your doctor that you apply a barrier cream or oil to the skin. The oil of choice is likely to be mineral oil (otherwise known as white soft paraffin or petroleum jelly/vaseline) as they form a thick layer to keep moisture in and do not contain the oleic acid that feeds dandruff.

2. Dandruff treatment

– Over the counter shampoos are largely used to treat dandruff but some doctors may recommend creams or ointments which may contain oil. For those taking a natural route, some oils may…