Hair oil: How to use oil in your hair for maximum shine and moisture
A good hair oil is one of the most effective products you can add to your haircare routine. When applied correctly, the oil can transform dry, frizzy lengths into shiny, soft hair, while also protecting it from everyday wear and tear.
But how much should you use, should you apply it to wet or dry hair, and what should you do if your hair becomes greasy and weighed down? In this guide, we cover everything you need to know to master the use of hair oil or solid oil serums.
Quick guide: Hair oil on damp vs. dry hair
You can use oil in two different ways, depending on the result you want to achieve. See the comparison below:
| Application | Main purpose | Result | Tips from FOAM |
|---|---|---|---|
| On damp hair (towel-dried) | Lock in moisture and protect against heat/blow-drying | Deep nourishment and easier detangling | Ideal time to use a solid oil serum |
| On completely dry hair | Tame frizz, smooth the ends and add shine | Instant finish and radiance | Use only 1 drop/a tiny amount |
How does hair oil actually work?
One of the most common misconceptions is that oil adds moisture on its own. In reality, pure plant oils act as a moisture-locking barrier (occlusion). The oil coats the hair shaft and prevents the moisture you added in the shower from evaporating.
That’s why your hair needs oil or an oil-based serum:
- Seals the cuticle: Makes the hair’s surface smooth, reflecting light and creating incredible shine.
- Prevents static electricity: Keeps flyaway hairs in place on cold or dry days.
- Creates a protective layer: Reduces mechanical friction from clothing and pillows.
Liquid hair oil vs. solid oil serum
Traditional liquid oils are often sold in plastic bottles and can be difficult to dose. It’s easy to accidentally use too much, making your hair look greasy.
At foam.nu, we have created a water-free alternative: DREAMY hair conditioner bar. It is a solid serum packed with nourishing organic coconut oil, sunflower oil and vitamin E. It melts on contact, making it easy to apply exactly the right amount of nourishment to the ends without any mess.
Step by step: How to apply oil to your hair
- Cleanse gently: Wash your hair with a mild, sulfate-free product such as our shampoo bars to keep the scalp clean and balanced.
- Warm up the product: Lightly glide your solid oil serum over damp hands or place a couple of drops of oil in your palm. Rub your hands together to warm the product’s oils.
- Focus on the ends: Apply from ear level down. Always avoid the scalp (unless you are doing a specific pre-wash scalp treatment).
- Protect your hair at night: To preserve the oil’s nourishing effect and avoid friction during the night, sleep on a smooth pillowcase from our satin products collection.
Pro tip from foam.nu: Used too much oil in your hair? Don’t apply dry shampoo straight away. Instead, apply a little of our shampoo bar to dry hair in the shower before wetting it, so the shampoo dissolves the excess oil immediately!
Summary: Shiny, healthy-looking hair
Using hair oil or solid oil serums is a simple habit that makes a big difference to your hair’s health and appearance. Adjust the amount to suit your hair type and enjoy soft, frizz-free results.
Read more about the complete routine for dry hair in our comprehensive guide to dry hair.