The best time to use sealing oil on hair is after you have properly moisturized it.
Sealing oils function by creating a protective barrier on the hair strand. This barrier is effective at preventing moisture from escaping your hair, which is crucial for retaining hydration, especially in dry conditions or for hair types prone to dryness.
However, as the reference from May 4, 2022, highlights, this same barrier also prevents moisture from getting in. Therefore, applying a sealing oil before moisturizing can actually hinder hydration.
Why Timing is Key
Think of a sealing oil like a topcoat or a sealant. You apply it after everything you want to protect is in place. In hair care, this means applying it after applying your hydrators.
- Moisturizers (like water-based leave-in conditioners, creams, or plain water) provide the actual moisture that your hair needs to be soft and flexible.
- Sealing Oils lock that moisture inside the hair shaft, preventing it from evaporating.
How to Incorporate Sealing Oils
Using sealing oils effectively is a simple but crucial step in a moisturizing routine.
- Step 1: Moisturize First. Start by applying a water-based product or simply dampening your hair with water. Follow up with your leave-in conditioner or moisturizing cream.
- Step 2: Apply Sealing Oil. After your moisturizer is applied, take a small amount of sealing oil (start with a few drops) and gently work it through sections of your hair, focusing on the ends which are often the driest part.
Do's and Don'ts of Using Sealing Oils
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Use after moisturizing. | Use on completely dry hair. |
| Focus on mid-lengths and ends. | Use excessive amounts (can weigh hair down). |
| Use as part of your hydration routine. | Rely on oil alone for moisture. |
This method, often referred to as the "LOC" (Liquid, Oil, Cream) or "LCO" (Liquid, Cream, Oil) method, emphasizes applying moisture before sealing it in with oil.
By following this sequence, you ensure that your hair receives the necessary hydration first, and then you use the oil to help retain it, leading to softer, more pliable, and less breakage-prone hair over time.
