It was a ritual that started with heating oil and finding a cosy spot in the house, oftentimes overlooking the greenery outside. Sitting down in a pair, one would part the other’s hair while working the heated oil into their scalp with as much love and tenderness as possible. This time is often remembered very fondly by women who grew up in traditional Middle Eastern and South Asian households as it was not only their introduction to haircare but also precious bonding moments spent with mothers and grandmothers.
“Our grandmother would visit us from India and massage our head and hair with handcrafted blends of plant oils. It was a haircare experience unlike any other," says Akash Mehta, co-founder of Fable & Mane. "The method she used had a particular focus on the crown chakra to alleviate stress and tension from the roots. While she massaged, she told us fables about India’s rich plant and animal kingdom.” The practice of hair-oiling has been prevalent since ancient times in the Middle East, South Asia and the Mediterranean region, passed down through generations of women. Typically done before a shower or bed, the process involves massaging the oil into the scalp and hair for hydration and nourishment. Hair-oiling symbolises beauty and femininity and carries significant cultural weight; for some, hair-oiling sessions were a time for storytelling, creating a sacred space now cherished as self-care and me-time.
Hair-oiling has experienced a surge in popularity over the past few years, and in 2025, it's widely acknowledged that this practice promotes healthier, shinier hair. Whether you prefer olive oil, coconut oil, or even date oil, these natural oils help to revitalise your hair and restore the bounce lost to heat styling and hard water.
Today, hair oils come in different forms, making it easier to find one that targets your specific needs. Here, MOJEH rounds up the hair oils to keep in your rotation.
Balance & Boost Hair & Scalp Oil, Gaudia Beauty
While those with an oily scalp often shy away from hair-oiling, Gaudia Beauty’s Balance & Boost Hair and Scalp oil is a concoction that harnesses the goodness of date extracts, peptides and Sidr extracts to stimulate hair growth, regulate sebum production and restore the scalp's skin barrier. Recently launched in Saudi Arabia, the brand has been garnering attention with its unique date-extracts formula, and is the perfect option if you’re looking to try something new. Shop Now
HoliRoots™ Hair Oil, Fable & Mane
A cult favourite, the HoliRoots™ Hair Oil is a staple for any haircare enthusiast. The root treatment uses an Ashwagandha and Amla formula to hydrate the scalp, promoting healthier, stronger hair. When complemented by a head massage, this oil is perfect for a Sunday self-care routine. What’s more, it is safe for use on colour-treated hair as well. Shop Now
The Hair Oil, Augustinus Bader
If you're looking to splurge, Augustinus Bader's The Hair Oil instantly leaves your strands frizz-free, strengthened and hydrated. Apply The Hair Oil from mid-lengths to ends on towel-dried hair; there's no need to rinse, as its lightweight formula absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. By treating damage and breathing life back into your tresses, Augustinus Bader's hair oil is a no-brainer to incorporate into your routine. Shop Now
Champi Hair Oil, Inde Wild
Inspired by founder Diipa Khosla’s mother’s champi (head massage) recipe, the Inde Wild Champi Oil is an ayurvedic treatment that deeply nourishes and revitalises hair. With an enamouring jasmine scent, the oil awakens your senses as you massage it into your scalp. This versatile oil can be used before or after washing, depending on your needs. Shop Now
Royal Oud Argan Oil, Izil Beauty
The luxurious Royal Oud Argan Oil by Izil Beauty subtly perfumes your strands, leaving a sillage in your wake. Packed with argan oil's rich source of omega fatty acids and vitamin E, it nourishes your hair, repairing damage and supporting growth. This versatile oil works on all hair types, making it an easy choice for anyone looking to try something new. Shop Now
