Ah, the age-old battle between tradition and modernity. Today, we delve into the luxurious world of hair care, pitting two beloved treatments against each other: hair oiling and hair glossing. Both promise luscious locks, but which one truly reigns supreme? If you've ever wondered how influencers like Madison Beer, or celebrities like Chrissy Teigen, keep their hair looking effortlessly glossy and healthy, you’re about to uncover their secrets. Let's embark on this hair-raising journey and discover the best path to glossy locks!

What are Hair Oiling and Hair Glossing?

First, let's clear the mist (or perhaps the sheen) around these treatments.

Hair Oiling is a time-honored ritual, deeply rooted in ancient traditions, especially across the Indian subcontinent. This process involves massaging natural oils—think rosemary, argan, or castor—into the scalp and hair. The goal? To nourish the scalp, strengthen hair follicles, and impart a natural shine. The beauty of hair oiling lies in its simplicity and the ritual like connection one feels while engaging in it.

Hair Glossing, on the other hand, is a relatively modern innovation, a darling of the salon world. This treatment usually involves applying a semi-permanent gloss (often clear or tinted) to the hair. It's akin to giving your hair a top coat of nail polish—adding shine, enhancing color, and even toning down brassiness for dyed hair. Hair glossing doesn't just coat the surface; it penetrates the hair cuticle, smoothing it down and locking in that coveted glossy finish.

The Benefits

Hair Oiling: The Traditional Nourisher

  • Deep Hydration and Nourishment: Oils are packed with essential fatty acids and vitamins that penetrate deep into the hair shaft and scalp. This results in not just a shiny mane but also one that's resilient to damage and breakage.
  • Scalp Health: Regular oiling can help in balancing scalp oils and reduce issues like dandruff. It's a mini-spa treatment for your head—relaxing, invigorating, and incredibly therapeutic.
  • Versatility: Depending on the oil you choose, you can address various hair concerns. Dry scalp? Opt for rosemary oil. Looking for thickness? Castor oil is the key to increased moisture in addition to its anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal qualities. The possibilities are as vast as the oils available. (N.B. please don't use essential oils directly on hair, these need to be diluted with a carrier oil - please check out some of the pre made options at the bottom of the article.)
  • Long-term Benefits: With regular use, hair oiling can lead to thicker, stronger, and healthier hair over time.

Hair Glossing: The Modern Enhancer

  • Instant Shine: If you need a quick fix for lackluster hair, glossing delivers immediate results. It’s the beauty equivalent of a photo filter—instantaneous and dramatic.
  • Color Enhancement: For those who dye their hair, glossing can revive faded colors and add a layer of dimension, making your hues look richer and more vibrant.
  • Smoothing Effect: By sealing the hair cuticle, glossing reduces frizz and smoothens the hair, making it more manageable. This can be particularly beneficial in humid weather, where hair often has a mind of its own.
  • Low Maintenance: Unlike regular dye jobs or frequent salon visits, hair glossing can last anywhere from four to six weeks, fading gradually and gracefully.

The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

It all boils down to what you’re looking for.

If you're someone who enjoys a ritualistic approach to self-care, and you're in it for the long haul, hair oiling might just be your calling. It's a holistic treatment that not only enhances your hair but also calms the mind and soul—a beauty practice that echoes through the ages.

However, if you're in need of a quick fix or looking to enhance your hair color with minimal effort, hair glossing is your ticket to instant gratification. It’s a great way to keep your hair looking its best without committing to a lengthy salon schedule.

But why choose one when you can have the best of both worlds? Incorporating both treatments into your hair care regimen could offer a balance of deep nourishment and instant shine—a harmony of ancient wisdom and modern innovation.

In the end, whether you’re oiling up for a cozy night in or glossing up for a night out, your hair is sure to shine, reflecting your unique beauty inside and out. Shine on, you crazy diamond!

Final Thought

In the grand debate of hair oiling vs. hair glossing, remember: the true secret to great hair is confidence. Check out some of our favourite products to start your glossy hair journey below.

Nature Spell Rosemary Oil for Hair & Skin

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Kiehl's Magic Elixir

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REDKEN Acidic Colour Gloss Bundle with Glass Gloss Treatment and Conditioner

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Glaze Super Gloss Sheer Glow Clear Conditioning Hair Gloss

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