“Sesame Elixir: 7 Compelling Reasons to Embrace Sesame Oil for Your Hair”
Using sesame oil on your hair can promote hair growth and improve scalp health. Sesame oil has been known for its healing and moisturizing properties for centuries. It is a powerhouse of essential vitamins and minerals. Sesame oil, which is obtained from sesame seeds, is used for several purposes, including strengthening hair roots. In this article, we look at the hair care benefits of sesame oil. Scroll down to learn how to properly apply sesame oil to your hair and get the most out of its benefits!
What is sesame oil?
Sesame oil is a rich source of essential fatty acids and antioxidants that can have positive effects on hair (1). The oil also has antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties that help treat various scalp and hair problems. It is also enriched with vitamins B and E as well as minerals such as magnesium, calcium, phosphorus and protein. These nutrients help strengthen hair from the roots.
In the following section, we will explore the benefits of sesame oil for hair.
1. Promotes hair growth
Sesame oil is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6 fats (2). These fatty acids can support hair growth. A deficiency of these fatty acids can lead to loss (3). Sesame oil also stimulates blood circulation and hair follicles, promoting hair growth. It also easily penetrates the scalp and helps heal hair from chemical damage.
Sesame oil also contains oleic acid, which penetrates quickly (4).
2. May help treat dandruff
Sesame oil is one of nature’s most potent natural oils, possessing antimicrobial properties that may help treat dandruff (5). Massaging sesame oil into your scalp every night before bed can help soothe your scalp and reduce dandruff. However, further research is required in this regard.
Additionally, sesame oil can also help moisturize the scalp/skin (6). This effective hair treatment can help treat dandruff and scalp itching that comes with dandruff.
3. Can combat dry scalp
The emollient properties of sesame oil can smooth your hair strands (7). The fatty acids in this hair oil can help combat dryness. The oil penetrates deep into the hair roots and scalp and can moisturize the hair. You can mix sesame oil and lemon juice in equal proportions and use it to reduce scalp dryness. You can apply this oil to your scalp using your fingertips. Massage in circular movements, covering all parts of the scalp. Leave it overnight and wash it the next morning.
For better results, soak a towel in hot water, squeeze out the excess water, and wrap it around your head. Leave it on for 30 minutes and then wash your hair with shampoo. The heat allows the oil mixture to penetrate deep into the scalp and nourish it.
4. Can treat premature graying
Massaging your hair and scalp with sesame oil can prevent premature graying of hair. In fact, sesame oil has hair-darkening properties (7). Regular use of the oil can help darken hair. The antioxidants in sesame oil may also help prevent premature graying of hair. However, further research is required in this regard.
5. Can protect hair from harmful UV rays
Exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause damage to the scalp and hair. Sesame oil is a natural sunscreen. It resists up to 30 percent of UV rays (8). Applying sesame oil to your scalp and hair can prevent potential hair damage that can occur from prolonged exposure to the sun. The oil forms a protective coat around the hair shaft and protects it from harmful sun rays. It also protects your hair from the harmful effects of pollution.
How to use sesame oil for hair?
1. Sesame oil with almond oil
Almond oil nourishes your hair without weighing it down. It is also a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E. Vitamin E can reduce oxidative stress in the scalp, helps condition hair, and promotes hair growth (9).
You will need
sesame oil, 2 tablespoons
Almond oil, 2 tablespoons
Proceedings
Mix sesame and almond oil in a bowl.
Massage the oil mixture into your scalp and work it into your hair. Make sure you cover the entire length of your hair.
Wrap your hair with a hot towel. You can warm the towel by dipping it in hot water.
Leave the towel on for 30-40 minutes. Rinse your hair with a mild shampoo.
2. Sesame oil and aloe vera
Both aloe vera and sesame oil help reflect harmful UV rays(10). This blend helps form a protective barrier around your hair shaft and prevent sun damage.
You will need
Aloe vera gel, 2 tablespoons
sesame oil, 2 tablespoons
Proceedings
Mix aloe vera gel and sesame oil in a pot. Heat for a few minutes and set aside to cool.
Apply the mixture to your scalp and hair and leave it on for 30-45 minutes.
Wash your hair with a mild shampoo.
3. Sesame oil and avocado
Avocado is rich in vitamin E and has a high antioxidant content. Antioxidants help maintain scalp health by neutralizing the damaging free radicals (11), (12). Avocado also contains oils that nourish your hair and restore its health.
You will need
1 ripe avocado
sesame oil, 2 tablespoons
Proceedings
Mash the avocado until there are no lumps left. Mix it with the sesame oil to create a smooth, even paste.
Apply this mixture to your scalp and hair and leave it on for an hour.
Wash with shampoo.
4. Sesame oil and coconut oil
Coconut oil intensively nourishes your hair shaft with its rich fatty acid content. It also helps control frizz and condition your hair.
You will need
sesame oil, 2 tablespoons
Coconut oil, 2 tablespoons
Proceedings
Mix sesame and coconut oil in a bowl.
Massage the oil into your scalp and work it into your hair. Make sure you cover the entire length of your hair.
Wrap your hair with a hot towel.
Leave it on for 30-40 minutes and rinse your hair with a mild shampoo.
5. Sesame oil and curry leaves
Anecdotal evidence suggests that curry leaves may help curb hair loss. They can also promote healthy hair growth.
You will need
A bunch of curry leaves
sesame oil, 3 tablespoons
Proceedings
Heat sesame oil in a pot and add the curry leaves. Wait for black residue to form around the leaves. Set the oil aside to cool.
Massage the cooled oil into your scalp and work it into your hair. Make sure you cover the entire length of your hair.
Wrap your hair with a hot towel.
Leave it on for 30-40 minutes and rinse with a mild shampoo.