Sobhita Dhulipala, recognized for her graceful appearance and striking black hair, frequently stuns her followers with her various hairstyles, whether she’s gracing the red carpet or celebrating personal milestones such as her wedding with Naga Chaitanya.
During her pre-wedding functions, Sobhita captivated everyone with her simple braided hairstyles and exquisite traditional outfits. This led many to wonder about the secret behind her beautiful hair.
In an interview with Tweak India, Sobhita shared that the secret to her hair is a classic routine most of us are familiar with: regular oiling. However, for Sobhita, this ritual is more about self-care than beauty. She explained, “I used to have really long hair. After ‘She went to Bombay,’ I cut it, but I still maintain the habit of oiling my hair because it’s the only way I could manage it and braid it. For me, it’s more of a self-care ritual than a beauty regimen.”
But how effective is oiling for maintaining healthy hair? To shed light on this, dermatologist Dr. Shikha Khare from Yatharth Hospitals provided insight.
### The Benefits of Oiling Hair
Although oiling doesn’t directly stimulate hair growth, Dr. Khare pointed out that it offers several temporary benefits for the scalp and hair:
1. **Improved Scalp Health:** Massaging oil into the scalp promotes better blood circulation, creating a healthier environment for the scalp.
2. **Protection from Pollutants:** Oil creates a protective layer against environmental damage, helping the hair look shinier and smoother.
3. **Stress Relief:** The soothing massage involved in oiling can significantly reduce stress.
### Who Should Avoid Oiling Hair?
Oiling may not be suitable for everyone. Dr. Khare cautions against it for:
1. **People with Oily Scalps or Dandruff:** Regular oiling can clog pores and worsen these conditions by fostering fungal growth.
2. **Individuals with Sensitive Scalps:** Excess oil can attract dust and dirt, potentially leading to irritation or infections.
### Best Practices for Hair Oiling
For those who choose to oil their hair, Dr. Khare recommends the following practices to maximize benefits while avoiding potential downsides:
1. **Use Sparingly:** Apply only a small amount of oil to prevent buildup.
2. **Massage Gently:** Focus on the scalp to stimulate blood flow and avoid overloading the hair strands.
3. **Wash Promptly:** Don’t leave oil in the hair for more than 30 minutes to prevent residue or fungal growth.
While oiling can temporarily enhance shine and smoothness, it isn’t a universal solution. For people with certain scalp conditions, lighter alternatives like leave-in conditioners or serums may offer better hydration and protection without the risks of oil accumulation.
