6 Hair Oils That Will Bring Back Hair Growth & Shine This Winter (India Edition)

Winter in India often brings a set of hair challenges — a dry scalp, increased frizz, hair fall, and dull hair that lacks its usual lustre. The cool air, indoor heating and low humidity combine to make hair and scalp crave serious nourishment. That’s where a good oil massage becomes your best ally.

Here in this post, hamko explore six powerful hair oils that are especially beneficial in the winter season, tailored for Indian hair types and conditions. Use them regularly and you’ll likely see stronger roots, reduced breakage, and that healthy shine coming back.

Why oiling matters in winter

During colder months, the scalp produces less natural oil, hair cuticles may lift and become rough, and friction from hats, scarves or indoor heating can exacerbate breakage. A warm oil massage:

• Helps moisturise the scalp deeply and prevent dryness.
• Stimulates blood circulation in the scalp, encouraging hair-growth (and potentially reducing hair fall).
• Seals in moisture, smoothes cuticles and adds shine to dry, dull strands.

So let’s dive into the oils — each with its unique properties — and you can pick the ones that suit your needs best.

1. Coconut Oil

One of the most trusted oils for hair care — coconut oil penetrates deeply into the scalp and hair shaft thanks to its medium-chain fatty acids. In winter, it helps by reducing protein loss from hair, preventing breakage and adding a glossy finish. A warm coconut oil massage (10-15 minutes) once or twice a week can help prevent dryness and dandruff caused by cold air and low humidity.

2. Castor Oil

Known for promoting hair growth, castor oil contains ricinoleic acid and vitamin E which strengthen the roots, reduce split ends and help grow thicker strands. Because castor oil is very thick, mixing a few drops with a lighter oil (like almond or coconut) makes it easier to apply and wash off. In winter, this mix works especially well for hair that’s feeling limp or is shedding more than usual.

3. Amla Oil

Amla oil — derived from the Indian gooseberry — is loaded with vitamin C and powerful antioxidants. It boosts scalp health, helps reduce premature greying and improves hair texture. When used regularly, amla oil can give your hair a natural dark shine, strengthen follicles and help control winter dandruff. Once or twice weekly massage is ideal.

4. Argan Oil

Often called “liquid gold”, argan oil is rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids. It’s excellent for hydrating and smoothing rough hair — which is especially helpful in winter when hair tends to become coarse and frizzy. Argan oil is lightweight and non-greasy, so it works well for daily use or as a leave-in serum to tame frizz and protect against heat (like hair dryers or indoor heaters).

5. Onion Seed Oil

Onion seed oil has recently become popular for its hair-growth benefits. It helps boost collagen production, improves scalp circulation and can fight bacterial or fungal infections which sometimes cause winter-time dandruff or scalp irritation. If you’re experiencing increased hair fall or weak roots this season, incorporating onion seed oil into your weekly massage could make a difference.

6. Almond Oil

Almond oil is rich in vitamins A, B, D and E — making it an excellent choice for restoring moisture and adding shine to weather-beaten hair. It softens dry strands, repairs damage caused by styling or pollution and helps reduce stress on the scalp (stress is a common cause of hair fall). Use it as a nourishing overnight oil once a week for best results.

How to Use Hair Oils Effectively This Winter

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get the best from your oiling routine:

1. Warm your chosen oil slightly (be careful — it should be comfortably warm, not hot).
2. Divide your hair into sections and apply oil to the scalp, massaging gently with fingertips in circular motions. Then apply a little to hair lengths.
3. Leave it on for at least 30–60 minutes. For deep nourishment, you can leave it overnight and wash off in the morning.
4. Use a mild sulphate-free shampoo to wash off, followed by conditioner if needed.
5. Repeat this once or twice a week. If your scalp is extremely dry, you could do a lighter oiling every week and a heavier treatment once a week.

Winter Hair Care Tips to Pair With Oiling

To maximise results, pair your oiling with these extra habits:

• Wear a warm hat or scarf when you step out — cold wind increases hair roughness.
• Use a humidifier indoors if possible, or keep a bowl of water near a heater to add moisture to the air.
• Avoid extremely hot showers — hot water can strip natural oils from the scalp.
• Trim split ends regularly to prevent damage from travelling up the hair shaft.
• Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, vitamins and healthy fats (for example: eggs, lentils, nuts, leafy greens, fish/soya). Hair-health begins from within.

FAQ

Q. Can I apply hair oil every day?

A. While you *can*, it may not always be necessary or beneficial. For most people, once or twice a week oiling is optimal. Daily heavy oiling may make the scalp overly greasy and require more frequent washing.

Q. Which oil is best for coloured or chemically treated hair?

A. For coloured or treated hair, go for lighter oils like argan or almond, because they absorb well, smooth the hair and reduce frizz without weighing it down.

Q. Will these oils help with bald patches or extreme hair loss?

A. These oils support healthy scalp and hair growth, but if you’re experiencing severe hair loss or bald patches, it’s best to consult a dermatologist or trichologist. Oils complement care but are not a guaranteed cure for medically-driven hair loss.

Final Word

This winter, make oiling a non-negotiable part of your hair care routine. Whether you pick coconut for deep nourishment, castor for growth, amla for shine, argan for smoothness, onion seed for roots, or almond for moisture — consistency is key. Over time, you’ll notice stronger hair, less breakage, and that beautiful healthy shine returning.

Let your hair feel loved, protected and shining all season long. Happy oiling!