Sesame Oil Benefits for Hair – How to Make & Use for Growth

Sesame oil, rich in nutrients and other vitamins, can help nourish and protect your hair. This golden oil, which is also called til oil, comes from sesame seeds, and it can help make your hair healthier, shinier, and more manageable.

Sesame oil, when applied regularly, can protect your hair from sun damage and pollution, maintain natural color, smooth frizz, and improve overall hair texture. There are many more sesame oil benefits for hair, which include reducing dandruff, fighting scalp infections, and repairing long-term damage.

In this article, let’s learn more about what sesame oil is, its various benefits, and various ways you can use sesame oil for hair.

What is Sesame Oil (Til Oil)?

Sesame oil, also known as til oil, is a popular cooking oil made from sesame seeds. It is widely used in Asian cuisines, including Chinese, Japanese, South Indian, and Middle Eastern dishes. The oil comes in different types depending on whether the seeds are raw or roasted.

Light sesame oil, which is extracted from raw seeds, has a mild flavour and is often used as a neutral cooking oil. On the other hand, toasted sesame oil, made from roasted seeds, is darker, richer, and has a nutty taste, and is used for preparing sauces, soups, and stir-fries.

Sesame seeds are rich in protein, B vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fatty acids. Raw sesame oil is light in color and delicate in flavour, whereas toasted sesame oil has a stronger aroma and deeper color. Both these varieties of sesame oil are used in the kitchen for sautéing, marinating, or adding flavor to dishes.

History of Sesame Oil

Sesame, which is a tall annual herb belonging to the Pedaliaceae family, has been commonly used in cooking. It also has cosmetic and therapeutic uses.

Sesame was believed to be one of the first plants used to extract oil in ancient times. In China, sesame oil has been used for around 3,000 years for food, medicine, and even ink. Ancient Egyptians recorded the use of sesame oil for pain relief about 1,500 years ago.

The Greeks and Romans also used sesame oil for cooking and skincare. In Ayurveda, sesame oil is used as the base for almost 90% of herbal oils and is widely used in massage therapy and aromatherapy due to its nourishing and healing properties.

How to Make Sesame Oil at Home?

You can enjoy the benefits of til oil for hair by making it yourself easily at home.

• Step 1: Roast 2-3 cups of sesame seeds in a pan over medium heat until they turn golden brown.
• Step 2: Mix the roasted seeds with a little cooking oil of your choice or with warm water to create a smooth paste.
• Step 3: Place the paste in a cheesecloth and let it rest.
• Step 4: As the mixture settles, oil will begin to separate.
• Step 5: Freeze the mixture to help separate the oil completely, as sesame oil is lighter than the oil you have used.

Top 10 Sesame Oil Benefits for Hair

Natural Remedy for Lice Removal

Sesame oil, when mixed with essential oils, is an effective home remedy for those wondering how to remove lice from hair permanently. It coats the scalp and suffocates the lice, thus making it easier to wash them out. To help clear lice, you need to apply a generous amount of sesame oil to the scalp and leave it on for a few hours before shampooing.

The antibacterial and antifungal properties of sesame oil make it effective in eliminating lice from your hair and protecting the scalp from infections. Use sesame oil regularly to keep your scalp healthy and clean, and prevent bacterial buildup caused by scratching or irritation.

You can also combine sesame oil with essential oils such as tea tree, lavender, or eucalyptus for better results. The insect-repelling properties exhibited by these oils will enhance the treatment’s effectiveness. Also, remember to dilute the essential oil with sesame oil before applying it to avoid scalp irritation.

Prevents Early Hair Greying

One of the notable benefits of sesame oil for hair is its ability to slow down premature hair greying. It can preserve your hair’s natural pigment and keep it darker and healthier for longer. Regular use of sesame oil for grey hair helps enhance natural hair colour, strengthen the strands, and keep your hair looking youthful.

Deeply Nourishes and Hydrates Hair

Applying sesame oil overnight is a homemade hair mask for frizzy hair. Mix equal parts of sesame oil, root juice, and lemon juice, and massage it into your scalp. After leaving it on overnight, wash it off the next morning with a mild shampoo. This home remedy will help lock in moisture, and your hair will become soft, smooth, and nourished.

Boosts Natural Hair Growth

When you massage warm sesame oil onto your scalp, the blood flow is improved, which allows the hair follicles to receive the nutrients they need from root to tip. Sesame oil has deep penetration and nourishing properties, which support stronger, healthier strands and promote hair growth.

Reduces Hair Fall

Hair loss can occur for various reasons, such as stress, diet, or lifestyle habits. As sesame oil has natural cooling and calming properties, massaging warm sesame oil onto your scalp before bedtime can help reduce stress and promote better scalp health, which in turn helps prevent hair fall.

Controls Dandruff

One of the effective home remedies for dandruff is sesame oil. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which help keep dandruff under control. When you regularly massage warm sesame oil into your scalp before bed, it will help calm irritation, reduce flakes, and maintain a clean, healthy scalp.

Adds Natural Shine

Rub a few drops of warm sesame oil between your palms, and apply it along your hair length to work like a natural hair serum. It adds shine and smoothness to your strands. It also acts as a light leave-in conditioner that can keep your hair soft and manageable.

Natural Hair Conditioner

Warm sesame oil will work as a natural conditioner for your hair, which helps deeply moisturise and soften your hair. With regular use, your strands become smooth, silky, and healthy-looking.

Enhances Overall Hair Quality

Sesame oil helps repair damaged hair caused by heat styling and other harsh treatments. It can restore your hair’s natural strength and shine, and make it look healthier and softer.

Protects Hair from Sun and Pollution

Sesame oil protects your hair against the sun’s harsh UV rays. When you apply a few drops of sesame oil along the length of your hair, it creates a thin, protective layer that helps prevent dryness, breakage, and damage from sun exposure. It also protects your hair from pollution and other environmental stressors, and keeps it healthy and strong.

How to Use Sesame Oil for Hair

Sesame oil can easily penetrate your hair and scalp. It can be combined with other oils or essential oils to enhance their benefits. Here are some simple tips on how to use sesame oil for hair to get the results.

Sesame Oil Hair Massage for Deep Conditioning

You can do this deep-conditioning massage once or twice a week for the best results.

Directions:

• Warm some sesame oil slightly and apply it to your scalp. Massage the oil from the roots to the tips of your hair.
• After 20 minutes, wash it off using a mild shampoo and warm water.

Sesame and Neem Oil Massage for Dandruff

Using sesame oil for dandruff helps improve the absorption of neem oil, which makes this treatment for dandruff more effective.

Directions:

• Mix equal parts of sesame oil and neem oil.
• Massage the blend into your scalp.
• After 30 minutes, wash your hair with a mild shampoo.

Sesame Oil and Sweet Almond Oil Hair Massage

This hair massage that uses sesame and almond oil can deeply condition your hair.

Directions:

• Mix equal parts of sesame oil and sweet almond oil.
• Massage the mixture into your scalp and hair.
• After 30-40 minutes, rinse thoroughly using a mild shampoo.

Sesame Oil and Coconut Oil Hair Massage

Coconut oil can help repair damaged hair, while sesame oil can boost its benefits.

Directions:

• Combine equal parts of sesame oil and coconut oil.
• Massage the mixture into your scalp and hair.
• After 30-40 minutes, wash it off using a mild shampoo.

Sesame Oil and Aloe Vera Hair Mask

This sesame oil hair mask recipe will nourish the scalp and promote hair growth.

Directions:

• Mix equal amounts of fresh aloe vera gel and sesame oil to make a smooth blend.
• Apply it evenly on your scalp.
• After 30 minutes, rinse off with a gentle shampoo.

Sesame Oil and Avocado Hair Mask

This hair mask that uses sesame oil and avocado can deeply nourish and hydrate your hair, as it is packed with essential fatty acids and nutrients.

Directions:

• Mash a ripe avocado and mix it with 2 tablespoons of sesame oil to create a smooth, creamy paste.
• Apply it for 30-40 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with a shampoo.

Sesame Oil and Curry Leaves Hair Mask

This hair mask that uses sesame oil and curry leaves for hair supports hair growth and slows down premature greying.

Directions:

• Warm 3 tablespoons of sesame oil and mix in fresh curry leaves.
• Let the mixture cool and massage it into your scalp.
• After 30 minutes, rinse with a mild shampoo.

Ginger and Sesame Oil Hair Mask

This combination of sesame oil and ginger can help reduce hair fall and support hair growth.

Directions:

• Mix one teaspoon of fresh ginger juice with 2 tablespoons of sesame oil.
• Massage it into your scalp.
• After 30 minutes, wash off with a mild shampoo.

Sesame Oil and Fenugreek Hair Mask

You can use this hair mask to reduce dandruff and prevent hair fall.

Directions:

• Soak fenugreek seeds in sesame oil by placing the jar in a pot of hot water for a few minutes.
• Let it cool until it’s slightly warm.
• Massage the warm oil mixture into your scalp.
• For better absorption, you can wrap your hair in a warm towel.
• After 30-40 minutes, rinse thoroughly with a mild shampoo.

Sesame Oil and Honey Hair Mask

This hair mask will leave your hair soft, smooth, and shiny.

Directions:

• Mix 3 tablespoons of sesame oil with 1 teaspoon of honey to create a smooth blend.
• Apply it evenly from your hair roots to the tips.
• After 30 minutes, wash it off using a mild shampoo.

Precautions While Using Sesame Oil on Hair

Even though sesame oil benefits for hair are numerous, it can sometimes cause issues if not used properly.

• Just like other oils, it may clog pores on your scalp, leading to itchiness or even hair follicle stress. You can avoid this by applying pure sesame oil for a short period and rinsing it off thoroughly.
• After using sesame oil, wash your hair and scalp using warm water and a mild shampoo. Also, massage your scalp during the shower to remove any leftover oil.
• For easier application, you can slightly warm the sesame oil, but make sure it’s not too hot. Take a small drop of oil on your wrist to ensure the temperature is safe before applying it to your hair.

Can You Use Sesame Oil on Hair Every Day?

The answer to the question of whether you can apply sesame oil daily depends on your hair type, scalp condition, and your goals:

• Hair Type: If you have dry or damaged hair, you can apply it daily to add moisture and nourishment to your hair. For those with oily hair, it is better to apply sesame oil once or twice a week to prevent greasiness.
• Scalp Condition: Regular use can help reduce dandruff or scalp irritation. However, if you have clogged follicles or acne on the scalp, avoid daily use.
• Purpose: To deeply condition your hair, you can use it 1-2 times a week. You can add shine or control frizz by applying a few drops of sesame oil to your hair daily.
• Residue Build-Up: As daily oiling can leave hair heavy or flat, wash your hair properly and use a clarifying shampoo occasionally.
• Adverse Reactions: Do not use it daily if you notice itching, irritation, or increased hair fall.
• Quantity: If you are using a small amount, it will go a long way.

Wrapping Up

Sesame oil, abundant in vitamins, antioxidants, and fatty acids, can nourish your scalp and hair shafts. The sesame oil benefits for hair are immense, and when used regularly, it can promote hair growth, reduce hair fall, prevent dandruff, and add a natural shine. You can apply it directly or mix it with other oils and herbal ingredients to create nourishing hair masks and treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions on Sesame Oil Uses for Hair