What is the worst hair oil if you want long hair? – Times of India

Certain hair oils can sabotage your quest for long, luscious locks. Mineral oils and synthetic fragrances top the list of culprits, creating a barrier that locks in moisture and nutrients. Similarly, silicone-based and some vegetable oils offer shine to the skin but ultimately dry out the hair.

When it comes to growing long, healthy hair, the products you use, especially hair oils, can play an important role in the health and appearance of your hair. While there are many oils that are beneficial for hair growth and overall hair health, there are certain types of hair oils that can actually inhibit hair growth or cause long-term damage to your hair. If you want long hair, take a look at the worst hair oils.

Mineral oil

Mineral oil, which is derived from petroleum, is one of the worst oils you can apply to your hair if you’re aiming for healthy hair growth. While mineral oil can give your hair instant shine and make it feel smooth, it does so by coating the hair shaft in a thick layer. This prevents moisture from penetrating your hair, which can lead to dryness, breakage, and weakness over time.

Mineral oil is not a natural substance and lacks any beneficial nutrients that can support hair growth. It also tends to accumulate on the scalp, blocking the pores, which can lead to scalp problems such as dandruff, itching, or hair loss. The heavy nature of mineral oil can weigh your hair down, making it look limp and greasy instead of full and healthy.

Synthetic fragrance oils

Many commercial hair oils contain synthetic fragrances that can mask the smell of other ingredients. However, these artificial fragrances are often made with chemicals that can cause scalp irritation and allergic reactions. The chemicals in synthetic fragrances can also dry out your hair, stripping it of essential moisture, which is detrimental when trying to grow long, healthy hair.
Repeated use of hair oils containing artificial fragrances can cause build-up on the scalp, which can clog pores, preventing healthy hair growth. If you want long hair, it’s important to avoid synthetic fragrance oils, as they can do more harm than good.

Silicone based hair oil

Silicone-based oils, often found in hair serums and commercial hair oils, are designed to add instant softness and shine to your hair. However, silicones coat the hair with a synthetic film that prevents moisture from entering the hair shaft. Over time, it can make your hair dry and brittle, especially if used frequently.

Silicone build-up can also weigh your hair down and make it look lifeless. It can also cause hair to lose its natural texture and leave your scalp feeling greasy. Because silicones prevent moisture and nutrients from penetrating the hair, they can inhibit long-term hair health, making it harder for your hair to grow longer and healthier.

Vegetable oil (in some cases)

Vegetable oils such as soybean oil or corn oil are often used in mass-market hair products because of their affordability. Although these oils may seem harmless, they are often highly refined and lack important nutrients found in natural oils such as argan or olive oil. They can also be high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can cause inflammation when applied directly to the scalp in large amounts. This inflammation, in turn, can reduce hair growth or even lead to hair loss over time.

In addition, these oils are generally more prone to oxidation, which means they can go bad quickly and lose their beneficial properties. Applying oxidized vegetable oil to your hair can cause hair damage and poor health.
If you’re looking to grow long, healthy hair, it’s important to choose hair oils that nourish, hydrate and promote scalp health. Mineral oils, synthetic fragrances, silicone-based oils, and certain vegetable oils are best avoided, as they can inhibit hair growth, damage, or cause scalp problems. Instead, opt for oils like argan oil, jojoba oil, or olive oil, which are known for their nourishing properties and ability to promote healthy, long hair when used in moderation.