Understanding Oil Training for Healthier Hair

Understanding the TikTok Hair Trend: « Oil Training » for Healthier Scalp and Hair

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

**Oil training** involves applying oils to the scalp while reducing shampoo frequency.
It aims to rebalance sebum production, leading to healthier hair.
Scientific evidence supports some benefits of oil treatments but lacks proof for long-term sebum reduction.
Monitor scalp reactions and adjust oil use according to type and condition.
Visible transformations and accessibility contributed to the trend’s virality.

What is « Oil Training » on TikTok?
The Science Behind Oil Training: What Dermatologists Say
Navigating the Claims: Benefits vs. Reality
Who Should Be Cautious About Oil Training?
Creating a Safe Oil Training Routine
Why Did Oil Training Go Viral Now?
Conclusion

What is « Oil Training » on TikTok?

Across viral TikTok videos, oil training typically combines several key components:

Regular Scalp Oiling: Users apply plant-based oils—like coconut, castor, jojoba, rosemary-infused oils, and argan oil—directly to the scalp and lengths of their hair. This can be done as a pre-shampoo treatment or, for some, left on as a leave-in product for extended periods.
Progressive Wash Spacing: Many individuals begin with frequent washes (every day or every other day) before gradually extending the duration between washes, sometimes to just once or twice a week. Advocates claim that the scalp « adapts » over time, resulting in less greasy hair.
Scalp Massage: Engaging in a 2–10 minute massage is suggested to stimulate blood flow and enhance hair growth, a technique that resonates with many hair-care routines seen on platforms like YouTube.
Before-and-After Testimonials: Numerous videos showcase claims of shinier hair, reduced frizz, and denser-looking roots. However, it’s crucial to note that these outcomes are often anecdotal and lack controlled scientific backing.

In French-speaking communities, oil training is referred to as:

Une routine d’“oiling” du cuir chevelu (scalp oiling routine)
Couplée à un espacement progressif des shampoings (gradual spacing out of shampoos) to “rééduquer” the oily scalp.

The Science Behind Oil Training: What Dermatologists Say

While oil training as a formalized technique lacks specific clinical studies, individual components associated with scalp oiling, shampoo frequency, and sebum regulation have garnered scientific attention.

Scalp Oiling

Numerous studies indicate that plant oils—such as coconut, argan, and sunflower—can:

Reduce Protein Loss: Especially with coconut oil as a pre-wash treatment, it has been shown to penetrate the hair shaft effectively.
Enhance Shine and Softness: Regular use of oils often results in improved hair texture and reduced frizz.

From a scalp-care perspective, lighter oils like jojoba, sunflower, or squalane are generally better tolerated compared to heavier, occlusive oils. However, caution should be exercised; overuse of highly comedogenic oils can worsen scalp issues, including:

Seborrheic Dermatitis/Dandruff
Folliculitis (which manifests as itchy, acne-like bumps)

Most dermatologists suggest using oils as occasional pre-shampoo treatments rather than daily leave-ins, particularly for individuals with oily or dandruff-prone scalps.

Shampoo Frequency and « Training » the Scalp

The concept that you can permanently alter sebum production through reduced washing is more contentious. The facts are as follows:

Frequent washing with harsh shampoo can dry out the scalp, causing a rebound effect where the scalp produces more oil.
Gradually spacing out washes can make the scalp feel more balanced and less irritated; however, this should be interpreted as a comfort adjustment rather than a systematic change in sebum production.

The general guidance from dermatologists is to wash as often as needed based on personal comfort and scalp type—some people thrive with daily washes while others find relief washing 2-3 times per week.

Navigating the Claims: Benefits vs. Reality

Claims Promoted on TikTok Include:

“Réduit la production de sébum” (reduces sebum production)
“Fait pousser les cheveux plus vite” (accelerates hair growth)
“Nourrit profondément le cuir chevelu et les longueurs” (deeply nourishes the scalp and hair)
“Remplace les shampoings fréquents” (replaces frequent shampooing)

What is Plausible Based on Evidence:

Increased Shine and Less Breakage: Pre-shampoo oil treatments can indeed reduce mechanical damage and improve manageability.
Enhanced Comfort for Dry or Irritated Scalps: Some oils may bolster the scalp’s barrier function, leading to increased comfort.

Unsupported Claims:

There’s no substantial evidence that oiling and wash spacing leads to a long-term reduction in natural sebum production.
Significant acceleration in hair growth is largely influenced by genetics and health, with scalp wellness potentially assisting hair in reaching its growth potential rather than drastically changing its growth rate.

Who Should Be Cautious About Oil Training?

While the TikTok trend may appeal to many, certain individuals should approach with caution:

Oily or Acne-Prone Scalps: Increasing oil application coupled with infrequent washing may exacerbate conditions like dandruff, itchiness, or scalp acne.
Individuals with Scalp Conditions: Scalp issues like psoriasis, eczema, or severe seborrheic dermatitis typically require medicated treatments rather than oil training.
Fine or Low-Porosity Hair: Such hair types may quickly become limp and greasy; heavy oils may exacerbate flatness and weigh down the strands.

Doctors often recommend:

Avoid long-term application of heavy oils without monitoring.
Don’t abruptly change your wash routine if you have a history of scalp issues.
Consult a professional for persistent scalp discomfort issues.

Creating a Safe Oil Training Routine

If you’re intrigued by oil training but wary of its extremes, consider this moderated approach:

Maintain Regular Cleansing: Begin with your typical washing schedule, gradually extending it by one day based on comfort.
Use Oil as a Pre-Shampoo Treatment: Apply a light oil to your scalp and hair lengths, allowing it to absorb for about 20–60 minutes before rinsing.
Select Oils Based on Hair & Scalp Type:
- For oily scalps, choose light, non-comedogenic oils (like jojoba or grapeseed) in minimal quantities.
- For dry or textured hair, consider richer oils or butters but apply them primarily to the lengths and ends.
Monitor Scalp Reactions: Note any signs of flakes, discomfort, or breakouts and adjust your approach accordingly.
Incorporate Gentle Shampoos: If oiling leads to a stripped feeling, switch to sulfate-free options and utilize clarifying shampoos occasionally to tackle buildup.

Why Did Oil Training Go Viral Now?

The oil training trend gained traction due to:

Visible Before/After Transformations: The before-and-after visuals shared on social media showcase stunning results that appeal to users.
Accessibility: Using common kitchen oils feels approachable and practical for most consumers.
Holistic Self-Care Vibe: Oil training emphasizes relaxation through massages and promotes a natural, less chemical-laden hair care approach, resonating with current beauty trends.
The trend naturally builds upon established practices already popular on platforms such as YouTube and Instagram for hair health and maintenance.

Conclusion

Oil training has emerged as a notable trend in the beauty world, thanks to its promises of healthier, shinier hair. However, it is essential to approach these methods with careful consideration of your unique hair type and scalp condition. By adapting and moderating these practices, consumers and hairstylists alike can harness the benefits of oil training while minimizing potential risks.

If you’re eager to dive deeper into the world of hair care or explore tailored treatments designed just for you, we invite you to connect with us. Let’s discover what innovations can best suit your hair health for optimal results.