How Much Oil Should You Use on Your Scalp? (And How to Stop Over-Oiling)

When oil goes onto the hands and hair first, it takes a lot of it to get any onto the scalp. That's why so many routines start with a generous pour. Put the oil directly on the skin and you need far less.

This is general guidance on application, not medical advice. Follow the directions on your oil, and ask a dermatologist about anything specific to your scalp.

A starting point

About 3–5 ml covers a whole scalp for most people when it is applied along the parts rather than poured. That's roughly a teaspoon or less. The NIB COMB reservoir holds about 4 ml for exactly this reason: one fill is usually one full application.

• Short or fine hair: start at the low end, 2–3 ml.
• Thick or very dense hair: you may need the full 4–5 ml, because you will make more parts.
• Spot care (just the hairline or crown): 1–2 ml.

Signs you are using too much

• Your roots look wet or shiny straight after applying.
• Oil reaches your forehead, ears or neck within a few minutes.
• Your pillowcase or towel shows it the next morning.
• You need two shampoos to feel clean.

If any of these sound familiar, cut the amount by a third next time and see whether you can tell the difference. Usually you can't.

How to apply less without missing spots

1. Part the hair cleanly, starting at the centre.
2. Apply a thin line to the exposed skin along the part.
3. Move a finger-width over and repeat. Five or six passes across the head is usually enough.
4. Stop when you have covered the scalp, even if there is oil left over.

Our step-by-step guide covers the technique in more detail.

How often?

There is no single right answer. Many people oil once or twice a week, often before wash day; others do a lighter application more often. Pick a schedule you can keep, and adjust based on how your scalp and hair feel. If you have a scalp condition, ask a professional first.

Washing it out

• Apply shampoo to dry, oiled hair first, massage it in, then add water. Oil lifts more easily this way.
• Rinse with warm water, then shampoo again lightly if needed.
• If you used only a few millilitres, one wash is often enough.

Less oil, placed well, means less washing, less waste and fewer ruined pillowcases. That's the whole idea behind the NIB COMB.