How to Use a Scalp Oil Step By Step Guide from a UK Hairdresser
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How to Use a Scalp Oil - The Right Way, According to a Hairdresser
Scalp oils are having a moment, and rightly so. But I still see so many people using them incorrectly and wondering why they’re not seeing results. If you’ve bought a scalp oil and aren’t sure you’re getting the most from it, this is for you.
When should you apply a scalp oil?
Before you wash your hair. Not after. Not on dry hair as a finishing product. A scalp oil is a pre-wash treatment, which means it works best when applied to a dry or slightly damp scalp before shampooing.
This matters because:
• The oil can penetrate the scalp properly without competing with conditioner
• Shampooing afterwards removes excess oil so your hair doesn’t feel greasy
• The whole process takes less than 30 minutes and can slot into any routine
Step-by-step - how to use a scalp oil
Step 1: Section your hair.
Part your hair into sections so you can access your scalp directly. You don’t need to be precise, just enough to expose the scalp in a few places.
Step 2: Apply the oil directly to your scalp
Using the pipette, apply a few drops directly onto your scalp. Start at the crown, work towards the temples and nape of the neck. You don’t need a lot, four to six drops is usually enough for a full application.
Step 3: Massage for two minutes.
This step matters more than people realise. Use the pads of your fingertips, not your nails and massage in small circular motions across your entire scalp. This stimulates circulation, helps the oil absorb and honestly feels wonderful.
Step 4: Leave it on
Minimum 20 minutes. If you have time, leave it for up to an hour or pop a warm towel around your head to help the oil penetrate deeper. This is a good time to have a bath, do your skincare or simply sit and do nothing for five minutes.
Step 5: Shampoo as normal
Apply your shampoo directly onto the oiled scalp before adding water, this helps it emulsify and remove the oil more effectively. Then rinse, one more shampoo and condition your ends as usual and you’re done.
Can you use scalp oil on your hair too?
Yes, and you should. While your scalp oil is processing, smooth any excess through the lengths of your hair. It works as a conditioning pre-treatment, adds shine and softens dry or damaged ends. Then shampoo and condition as normal.
Can you use scalp oil on your skin?
If it’s formulated with a balanced ratio of pure plant oils, absolutely. Serenity Hair Health & Wellbeing's scalp oil is blended with grapeseed, avocado and jojoba, which means it’s just as effective on your body and face as it is on your scalp. After washing, apply a small amount to dry skin for a non-greasy, fast-absorbing moisture hit.
One product. Three uses. That’s the whole point of our oil.
How often should you use it?
Once or twice a week is enough for most people. If your scalp is particularly dry, irritated or out of balance, start with twice a week for the first month and then drop to once a week as a maintenance treatment.
What results should you expect?
After the first use - your scalp should feel calmer and softer. The tight, uncomfortable feeling that comes with dryness usually eases quickly.
After two to four weeks - you should notice improved balance. Scalps that were overproducing oil tend to settle. Dry scalps feel consistently more comfortable. Hair often feels softer and looks shinier.
After eight weeks - this is where the real change happens. Consistent scalp care creates a healthier foundation for hair growth, and most people notice their hair feels stronger and more resilient over time.
Simple, consistent and genuinely effective. That’s what good scalp care looks like.
Serenity Hair Health & Wellbeing's natural scalp oil - available in Classic, Revive and Harmony.