Sesame oil[1]or gingelly oil is great for the skin as it has many qualities that boosts the appearance of the skin and improves its health as well. The benefits of sesame oil for the skin includes soothing irritated skin, evening the skin texture, and giving the skin a supple look. But, does sesame oil have the same effect on the hair?

There are several benefits of sesame oil for hair. Sesame oil is not a new discovery, it has been in practice for years when it was used to treat the scalp and keep it free from dirt, bacteria and fungus. And of course, this oil is rich in nutrients. It has minerals including phosphorus and magnesium. It also has Vitamin E content and proteins.

These are useful in strengthening the hair and curbing hair loss. These properties and chemical composition is responsible for nourishing and moisturizing the hair. These properties cause the cuticles to seem soft and shiny. It appears shiny because the oil causes the cuticles to lie flat. A hydrated scalp also prevents damage and breakage to the hair. Hydrated hair appears shinier and bouncier as it has better elasticity that dry hair.

By hydrating the hair and scalp, sesame oil ensures that the hair does not get frizzy in hot and harsh climate conditions. In fact, you don’t even need a comb to sort through the hair; you can use your fingers to set your hair.

What is Sesame Oil?

Sesame oil is a vegetable oil that is derived from the seeds of the sesame plant, scientifically known as Sesamum indicum. It is one of the oldest known oilseed crops and has been used for thousands of years in various culinary and medicinal applications. Sesame oil is valued for its distinct flavor, nutritional benefits, and its usefulness in both cooking and non-culinary uses.

Types of Sesame Oil:

There are different types and makes of sesame oil available in the market. However, there are two main types of sesame oil that one must be aware of before buying the oil. These types are refined and unrefined oils

Refined sesame oil – Refined sesame oil is easily accessible and affordable. This light colored oil is usually used for cooking. It can be applied on the hair regularly for good hair health.

Unrefined sesame oil – This version of sesame oil is rich in antioxidants. It also contains other vitamins and minerals including B6, calcium and magnesium. This amber-colored oil is more powerful than the refined version and is comparatively expensive. Buy the oil that is made with the cold pressing technique.

Sesame oil is not only valued for its culinary uses but also for its potential health benefits. It is a good source of antioxidants, healthy fats (including omega-6 fatty acids), and various vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E and magnesium. These properties make it popular in traditional medicine and natural remedies.

Sesame Oil For Hair – How Effective Is It?

Sesame oil for skin is widely known and used. Sesame oil for hair has potent properties that are useful for hair health and maintenance. However, when it comes to hair oils, the name sesame may not be as popular as coconut oil, olive oil, almond oil etc. But, sesame has been used in hair care since a long time.

It finds mention in Ayurveda, traditional Indian medicine, and is used as an ingredient in several cosmetic products for hair and natural concoction for hair. One of the benefits of sesame oil is the high content of Vitamin E[2] which is known to stimulate the hair follicles by nourishing it. It strengthens the roots, which puts a stop to hair loss and promotes hair growth.

Sesame Oil For Hair | Benefits Of Using Sesame Oil For Healthier Hair And Scalp Health

Sesame oil for hair has several and has nutrientsseveral uses for the hair. Let’s see the benefits of sesame oil for hair.

1. Oil For Hair Growth

Sesame oil encourages hair growth. Take a handful of sesame oil and apply it on the scalp. Now massage the scalp feels warm, which means that there is proper blood circulation in the scalp. This ensures that the hair gets all the nourishment it needs, both from the oil and from the oxygenated blood. The oil can be applied on the scalp and the whole hair. The oil penetrates the hair follicles and may stimulates hair growth[3].

2. Oil That Improve Hair Quality

Cold pressed Sesame oil has a lot of nutrients and can heal damaged hair. The underlying cause of the damage can be from the environment or using chemical products. The oil revitalises the hair and makes it healthy and improves its appearance.

3. Oil Protection From Ultraviolet rays

Wandering out into the sun? The UV rays from the sun will definitely harm the hair, especially due to overexposure to sunlight. Applying a small quantity of sesame oil[4] on the hair before going out and sesame will coat the hair, thereby protecting it. This shield by sesame oil is also applicable to the pollutants in the environment.

4. Hair Moisturizing Oil

The basic purpose of the oil is to moisturize the hair and keep it that way. When the hair has enough moisture, it fights dryness and prevents frizzy hair. Apply it at night as a part of a hair mask and leaving it overnight is a good way to moisturize the hair. Sesame oil and a few drops of lemon is the simplest DIY hair mask.

5. Oil That Prevents Hair Loss

Sesame oil has several nutrients essential for the hair and scalp health. It also has cooling properties. In traditional use, sesame oil is heated and massaged on the scalp) [5] at night and this practice might be efficient in stopping hair fall. However, there are many underlying causes of hair loss including genetics, lifestyle habits and dietary choices.

6. Oil That Stops Hair Graying

Premature greying (or greying) of the hair is a common issue that many young people face nowadays. To hide the grey hair chemical dyes are applied on the hair. But why should these dyes be applied when natural sesame oil is available. Hair darkening is one of the properties of the oil and it is applied to prevent premature greying. Apply this oil regularly to stop premature greying and to avoid the use of dyes. To avoid grey hair, oil massage your hair.

7. Lice Killing Sesame Oil

Head lice are a common problem that may occur anytime. It comes from contact with someone who has head lice, and hence a common occurrence in children. Sesame oil is mixed with potent essential oils including tea tree oil and applied on the scalp to eliminate lice. Massage the oil on the scalp and leave it there for a few hours before washing it off with a shampoo.

It is advised to blend sesame oil with carrier oils to get the most out of it. There are many essential oils that one can choose from to get rid of lice. To treat the head lice problem make sure to apply a copious amount of oil on the scalp.

8. Oil That Conditions the Hair Naturally

Sesame oil is a natural oil that conditions the hair and gives it a shiny and healthy look. It also makes the hair smoother which is easier to manage. Sesame oil also protects the shaft of the hair from damage. It is a natural sun-blocking agent with omega-6 fatty acids.

Benefits of using sesame oil are that it limits the exposure to the sun’s UV light by acting as a shield, leading to healthy hair. The vegetable oil derived from sesame seeds is used on the scalp around the hair to prevent hair damage, premature greying of the hair and fills in gaps and forms a protective seal on broken hair.

9. Dandruff Control Oil

If the oil is used regularly it prevents dandruff. Apply the oil on the scalp at night and shampoo it off in the morning. Regular use of the oil will stop the occurrence of dandruff.

10. Good Serum Oil

Sesame oil is a quick action serum. Add a few drops of the oil on the palm and rub the palms together. Now apply the oil on the hair to make it look lustrous. The oil can be mixed with essential oils to make sophisticated, therapeutic and aromatic hair serum.

By including sesame oil in your hair care routine negates the damaging effects of pollution, and restores natural hair colour. Uses of sesame oil around the hair shaft has immense benefits.

11. Oil For Managing Scalp Infections

There are a few conditions that bother the scalp. Sesame oil has cooling and soothing properties. Applying mild war oil on the scalp will provide relief and manage the skin condition.

Sesame oil has soothing properties that calms the inflammation and acts as a coolant. The oil derived from sesame seeds are used as a supplementary hair treatment in case of major infections.

How To Use Sesame Oil For Hair

There are many ways of using sesame oil for hair, but you will get better results if the oil is used with other essential oils, lotions or waxes. Here are some of the ways of using the oil and utilizing its properties to the fullest.

1. Mix Sesame Oil And Aloe vera

The blend of sesame oil and aloe vera is a potent moisturizer for the hair which will protect the hair from the harmful UV rays of the sun. Mix sesame oil and aloe vera in equal proportion and apply on the scalp and the hair. The mixture of oil forms a protective layer over the hair shaft.

2. Blend Essential Oil With Sesame Oil For Hair

There are several essential oils for hair that deal with different scalp and hair problems. Some of the essential oils for hair are rosemary essential oil, tea tree essential oil, cedarwood essential oil, peppermint essential oil, Clary sage essential oil and thyme essential oil.

A few drops of the oil can be mixed with sesame oil once in a week and massaged on the scalp. Two or more essential oils can be mixed with sesame as well.

3. Mix Sesame Oil With Other Carrier Oils

Combining sesame oil with other carrier oils will not make the hair look greasy as long as the quantity of the oils is kept under check. Mixing sesame oil with sweet almond oil or extra virgin olive oil will condition the hair profusely.

The nutrients of both the oils will make the hair healthier. Mix both the oils in equal ratio and massage on the scalp at night. Leave it there for the night and clean the scalp. This can be done twice a week.

4. Mixing Sesame Oil With Fenugreek

Fenugreek is an herb which has the ability to curb hair loss and promote hair growth. The seeds of fenugreek are used as a home remedy for hair loss prevention and dandruff. The benefits of fenugreek oil and sesame oil can prevent dandruff and other infections in the body.

The fenugreek seeds are added to sesame oil and the mixture is slightly heated. Apply the lukewarm oil on the scalp and leave it there for an hour before washing it off. This hair therapy can be done two or three times a week.

Sesame Oil vs Coconut Oil for Hair 

The following table gives a general overview of sesame oil vs coconut oil for hair.

DIY Sesame Oil Hair Mask Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon of honey

Instructions

• Mix the ingredients and apply to damp hair. Leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water and shampooing as usual. This mask can help moisturize and add shine to your hair.

Recipe #2 - Sesame and Yogurt Hair Mask

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
• 3 tablespoons of plain yogurt

Instructions

• Combine the ingredients and apply the mixture to your hair, focusing on the roots and tips. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with cold water. This mask can help nourish and strengthen your hair.

Recipe #3 - Sesame and Aloe Vera Hair Mask

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel

Instructions

• Mix the ingredients and apply the mask to your hair. Leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing with a mild shampoo. Aloe vera can help soothe the scalp and promote hair growth.

Recipe #4 - Sesame and Egg Hair Mask

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
• 1 egg

Instructions

• Beat the egg and mix it with sesame oil. Apply the mask to your hair and leave it on for 20-30 minutes. Rinse with cold water and shampoo. This mask can provide protein and strength to your hair.

Recipe #5 - Sesame and Lemon Hair Mask

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

• Mix the ingredients and apply the mask to your hair. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water. Lemon can help clarify the scalp and add shine to your hair.

Recipe #6 - Sesame and Coconut Oil Hair Mask

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil

Instructions

• Combine the oils and apply the mixture to your hair. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes or overnight, then shampoo thoroughly. This mask can deeply condition and moisturize your hair.

Recipe #7 - Sesame and Fenugreek Hair Mask

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon of fenugreek (methi) powder

Instructions

• Mix the ingredients to form a paste and apply it to your scalp and hair. Leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water. Fenugreek is known to promote hair growth and reduce hair fall.

Safety and Precautions

The following are the safety and precautions for using sesame oil:: 

Check for Allergies

• Conduct a patch test before using sesame oil extensively to check for any allergic reactions. Apply a small amount of oil to a small area of skin and wait for 24 hours to ensure there is no irritation or allergic response.

Skin Sensitivity

• Some individuals may have sensitive skin and could experience irritation or redness when using sesame oil. If you notice any adverse reactions, discontinue use immediately.

Quality Matters

• Ensure you are using high-quality, food-grade or cosmetic-grade sesame oil, especially when applying it to your skin or hair. Look for pure, unadulterated sesame oil without added chemicals or preservatives.

Storage

• Store sesame oil in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat to prevent it from going rancid. Proper storage helps maintain its quality and shelf life.

Moderation in Consumption

• When using sesame oil for cooking, be mindful of its calorie content. Use it in moderation as part of a balanced diet to avoid excessive calorie intake.

Consultation with a Healthcare Professional

• If you have any underlying medical conditions, allergies, or concerns, consult a healthcare professional before using sesame oil for therapeutic purposes. They can provide guidance based on your specific health needs.

Avoid Eye Contact

• Be cautious to avoid contact with the eyes when applying sesame oil to the skin. If it comes into contact with the eyes, rinse thoroughly with water and seek medical attention if irritation persists.

Patch Test for Hair Care

• Before applying sesame oil to your hair and scalp, perform a patch test on a small section of your scalp to ensure you do not experience any adverse reactions or scalp sensitivities.

External Use Only

• Sesame oil is primarily intended for external use on the skin and hair. Avoid ingesting large quantities, and if you plan to use it for culinary purposes, do so in accordance with standard cooking practices.

Discontinue Use if Problems Arise

• If you notice any redness, itching, swelling, or discomfort on your skin or scalp after using sesame oil, stop using it immediately and seek medical advice if necessary.

Conclusion

Sesame oil for hair is rich in nutrients including proteins, vitamins and minerals. It has several benefits for hair health and if used regularly shows its effect quickly. The oil can be mixed with essential oils or other carrier oils for better hair quality.