There’s nothing like applying a pre-wash oil before running errands or understanding to present you an air of superiority. Pre-wash hair oils are scalp treatments applied before shampooing to supply extra moisture and make clear buildup. They can even help to guard the hair from damage attributable to shampoo and other styling products, in addition to from heat-styling tools.

While essential, showering can strip away the natural oils and moisture that safeguard your hair. “Most shampoos and conditioners don’t prevent moisture damage but reasonably decrease the degrees of harm,” explains Konstantin VasyukevichMD, a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon in Latest York City. “A pre-wash hair oil works to stop this moisture damage altogether.”

“The predominant good thing about pre-wash oils is that of an emollient, which provides a coating over the hair shaft, which seals the cuticle and traps moisture inside,” says Vladyslava Doktor, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founding father of Skin Center Boston. The most effective ones moisturize dry hair, provide protection against UV damage, contain antibacterial and antifungal properties, increase the hair’s elasticity, offer anti-inflammatory motion, stimulate hair growth, and help prevent protein loss from various hair practices.

There are so many various oils on the market that it will possibly get overwhelming. Azza HalimMD, a board-certified multi-specialist physician, suggests “using oils that may penetrate the hair to hydrate and protect reminiscent of coconut oil, avocado oil, and castor oil.” One other vital note: you should use pre-wash hair oil as often as desired but Dr. Doktor doesn’t recommend frequent use for those with very oily hair or with scalp conditions reminiscent of dandruff, fungus, or scalp psoriasis because the oils could cause flare or worsen symptoms.

In case your scalp is in desperate need of some TLC, try a number of the best hair pre-wash hair oils to deliver nutrients, stimulate growth, and help prevent a dry scalp.

TikTok aficionados may recognize this viral HoliRoots Hair Oil from Fable & Mane. This pre-wash treatment incorporates a mix of strengthening ashwagandha, nourishing castor oil, and holistic plant roots to moisturize dry, damaged hair, and help rid the hair and scalp of any stubborn build-up. “There are quite a lot of options available on the market and most of them are mixed with other ingredients, but I like this one as castor oil is certainly one of the predominant ingredients,” shares Dr. Doktor.