A hot oil treatment is a fabulous way to moisturize dry, brittle hair that has been damaged from heat styling and harsh weather. You can purchase hot oil treatments from pharmacies and hair salons, but it is far cheaper and more effective to create your own using natural ingredients. The following tips will help you create the perfect hot oil treatment that guarantees perfect results.
1. Choose Your Oil
You can use just about any oil you wish to make your hot oil treatment. Certain oils have individual properties that are useful on different types of hair. Coconut oil is ideal for those suffering from dandruff or itchy scalp. Jojoba oil is perfect for greasy hair as it is lighter than other varieties. For those with dry, frizzy or afro hair, avocado oil will add much needed moisture and shine.
2. Prepare Your Hair
You can apply your hot oil treatment to either wet or dry hair as long as it is clean and free from styling products. Ideally, shampoo your hair in the morning or the night before using a hot oil treatment to get the best results. Oil treatments are suitable for all types of hair whether it is oily, dry, coloured or fine.
3. Gather Your Equipment
Gather all the equipment you will need before starting to apply the oil to avoid running around the house with oily hands and hair. You will need a small jar to hold the oil, a large bowl, some old towels, kitchen roll for mopping up spills, and your ingredients. You will also need some boiling water to heat the oil to the required temperature.
4. Protect Your Clothing
Accidentally spilling oil onto your clothing or furniture could be a disaster. Certain fabrics, especially silk, are incredibly difficult to clean, and you may not be able to get the oil out without damaging the fabric. Wear old clothing and line the collar with kitchen paper. Try to stay inside the bathroom for the duration of the treatment as the oil will begin to drip from your hair as it heats up.
5. Heat the Oil
Once you are ready to begin, pour some boiling water into a large bowl. Pour your chosen oil into the glass jar and place it in the boiling water. The level of the water should be the same as the level of the oil within the jar. Depending on the thickness of your jar, it should only take a few minutes for the oil to heat up. While you are waiting, infuse your oil with some essential oils and natural herbs.
6. Add Some Essential Oils and Herbs
Essentials oils such as lavender, rosemary and sandalwood are perfect for those with dry brittle hair. If you suffer from greasy hair, an invigorating oil such as peppermint, lemon or tea tree oil is ideal. Herbs are also a great addition to hot oil treatments. For dark hair, use black tea, walnut shells, rosemary and sage. If your hair is blonde, camomile, calendula and cloves are wonderful ways to enhance your natural colour. If you use herbs, gently heat the oil for at least half an hour before using.
More: 11 Incredible Benefits of Lavender Essential Oil
7. Apply Oil to Your Hair
Start by taking small handfuls of oil and massaging it gently into your scalp. This stimulates the hair follicles encouraging new growth. Slowly work your way through the lengths of your hair to the ends. You want to apply a thin coat of oil to your hair. If you drench your entire head, then you will have difficulties shampooing the oil out later.
8. Turn Up the Heat
Once you have coated your hair in oil from the roots to the tips, place a plastic shower cap over your head or wrap your hair in cling film. Wrap a warm, damp towel over your head, and leave the oil on your hair for at least 30 minutes. Ideally, leaving the oil on your hair for two hours will allow it to penetrate deep into the hair shaft helping to repair damage and replace lost moisture.
More: 10 Beauty Mistakes That Age You
9. Wash Your Hair
Once you are ready to wash the treatment out of your hair, begin by rinsing your hair in the hottest water that you can stand. Next, gently shampoo your hair as many times as it takes to remove all of the oil. Most people do not need to use a conditioner after a hot oil treatment, but if your hair is curly or especially dry then it is advisable to use one.
More: 10 Classic Makeup Looks to Try
10. Enjoy Smooth, Silky Hair
Allow your hair to air dry completely or for as long as you can. Avoid using heated styling tools such as hairdryers and straighteners unless you absolutely have to. Repeat your hot oil treatments at least once a fortnight for strong, healthy hair. Experiment with different formulas until you find one that works perfectly for your hair.
Jars of hot oil treatments infused with herbs and essential oils make wonderful homemade gifts for family and friends. Once you have applied the oil to your hair, take the time to relax and read a book, sip some wine or even soak in a hot bath whilst the oil penetrates into your hair and scalp.
