There was a time when I believed coconut oil was the only solution for hair problems — until I looked a little closer at something that had always been right in front of me: sesame oil.
My grandmother used to massage it gently into her hair, calling it her “secret strength.” She never missed her weekly oiling routine, even when life was at its busiest.
Honestly, I didn’t think much of it back then. Sesame oil felt too thick, too traditional, too old-school — something that belonged to her generation, not mine.
But life has a funny way of bringing you back to old remedies when modern ones fail. When I started experiencing noticeable hair fall and my scalp began to feel dry and lifeless, I remembered her glowing hair and peaceful oiling sessions. So I gave sesame oil a chance.
And within weeks, something changed. My hair felt fuller. The breakage reduced. The shine returned. That one decision to trust a forgotten remedy brought life back to my strands.
In this post, I’ll share with you everything I’ve learned about using sesame oil for hair growth — from its unique benefits to how you can use it step-by-step in your routine.
If you’re tired of chemical-laden products and want something real, gentle, and powerful — this age-old oil might be just what your hair needs.
From My Grandmother’s Hands to Mine
Summer vacations always remind me of my childhood days when I used to go to the village. Even today I remember sesame oil.
My grandmother used to sit in the courtyard with petal bowls of sesame oil and would slowly separate my hair and massage them with oil. Earlier this was more of a ritual than a hair care routine.
At that time I did not give it so much importance but today I understand how nourishing and strengthening that simple application of oil was. The shine, health, and strength of my hair was the result of that regular oil massage.
Today’s modern hair care products, no matter how expensive they are, can never provide the natural care and results that were available in those oil massages.
What Is Sesame Oil?
Sesame oil is extracted from sesame seeds and comes in two main varieties:
Cold-Pressed (Light Yellow): This version is ideal for hair care and cosmetic uses.
Dark Brown: Typically used in cooking, especially for adding flavor.
For hair care, cold-pressed sesame oil has been used for generations because it’s rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and healthy fatty acids that deeply nourish and protect hair.
Top 10 Benefits of Sesame Oil for Hair
Deep Nourishment & Moisture
You’d be surprised how powerful sesame oil really is. It’s loaded with Omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids, plus magnesium and vitamin E — all the good stuff your hair craves.
These nutrients dive deep into your strands, locking in moisture and keeping dryness and tangles at bay. If your hair often feels rough or frizzy, this oil could be a total game-changer.
According to an article on WebMD, sesame oil contains sesamin and vitamin E which may be beneficial for hair health. Research is still ongoing, but traditional use strongly supports the benefits of this oil.
Boosts Hair Growth
Warm it up just a little, massage it gently into your scalp, and let sesame oil work its magic. A warm sesame oil massage does more than just feel relaxing — it gets the blood flowing and gently nudges those inactive hair roots back to life, encouraging new, healthy strands to grow naturally.
Keeps Dandruff & Scalp Issues Away
Flaky scalp? Constant itching? If your hair’s been craving some natural care, sesame oil might just be the answer it needs.
Thanks to its antibacterial and antifungal properties, it targets the root cause of dandruff — not just the surface flakes.
Regular use helps calm irritation, reduce dryness, and create a clean, healthy scalp that your hair can actually grow from.
Shields Hair from Sun & Pollution
Your hair faces a lot — UV rays, pollution, dust, you name it. “Think of sesame oil as nature’s way of wrapping your hair in a gentle, protective hug.
It forms a light protective barrier around your strands, helping to guard against daily damage from the environment.
If you’re always out and about or living in a smoggy city, sesame oil acts like a natural shield, protecting your hair from all the grime, dust, and sun exposure it faces every day.
Delays Premature Graying
Worried about those early greys showing up before their time? Sesame oil has your back. Loaded with powerful antioxidants like sesamol and sesamin, it fights oxidative stress — one of the main causes of premature graying.
With consistent use, it helps retain your hair’s natural color longer and keeps it looking youthful and vibrant.
Helps Remove Lice
Let’s be honest — no one wants to talk about lice, but it happens. The good news? Sesame oil is a gentle yet effective way to deal with it.
Its antifungal and antioxidant properties work well to suffocate lice when used with essential oils like tea tree or neem. No harsh chemicals, no scalp damage — just a clean and natural fix.
Strengthens Hair from the Roots
Strong hair starts at the roots. Sesame oil penetrates deeply into the scalp, nourishing the hair follicles and reinforcing the strands from within.
It helps reduce breakage, fight off split ends, and makes your hair more elastic and resilient. The result? Hair that looks and feels stronger every day.
Enhances Shine & Softness
Tired of dull, lifeless hair? Sesame oil can bring back the shine and bounce your strands have been missing.
It smooths down the outer layer of your hair — the cuticle — so light reflects better, giving your locks a natural, healthy shine. Plus, your hair will feel softer, silkier, and more manageable after just a few uses.
Helps Control Hair Fall Caused by Stress
If stress is messing with your hairline, you’re not alone. When stress starts taking a toll on your hair, sesame oil can help calm things down — not just for your scalp, but for your mind too.
In Ayurveda, it’s been trusted for centuries to ease tension and bring balance back to your body. A relaxing scalp massage not only nourishes your roots but also helps ease mental tension — which can indirectly help reduce stress-related hair fall.
Works Wonders as a Deep Conditioner
When your hair feels dry, frizzy, or just plain tired, sesame oil makes an amazing deep conditioning treatment. Massage it into your scalp before washing, and let it soak in for 30 to 60 minutes for the best results.
It seeps into the hair shaft, reviving dull strands, adding shine, and bringing back that soft, healthy texture your hair has been missing.
How to Use Sesame Oil for Hair Growth: Step By Step Guide
Here are a few DIY recipes I’ve personally tried, and trust me—they really work. These are some of the best ways to use sesame oil for healthy, happy hair
Warm Oil Massage (Overnight or Pre-Wash)
- Warm 2–3 tablespoons of sesame oil.
- Gently massage into your scalp in circular motions for 5–10 minutes.
- Apply through the lengths of your hair.
- Leave overnight or at least 30 minutes before washing with a mild shampoo.
Weekly Sesame Oil Hair Mask Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp aloe vera gel
- 1 tbsp honey
Blend all the ingredients thoroughly, then gently apply the mixture to your scalp and along the length of your hair. Leave for 30–45 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water and mild shampoo.
Daily Leave-In Serum (Small Amount)
Just take a few drops of sesame oil, warm it between your hands, and gently smooth it over the ends of your damp hair to tame frizz and boost shine.
With Other Oils Blend sesame oil with
- Coconut oil – for deep hydration
- Castor oil – for growth boost
- Almond oil – for softness and strength
Sesame Oil and South India: A Tradition That Still Lives On
In many South Indian households, especially in Tamil Nadu, sesame oil isn’t just another oil—it’s a tradition deeply woven into everyday life. Known locally as “Nallennai” in Tamil, this oil is cherished not just for its nourishing properties but also for its purity and versatility.
For generations, families have used sesame oil not only for hair care but also as a sacred element in religious rituals, cooking, and Ayurvedic healing.
It’s common to see babies being massaged with this oil before their baths, as it is believed to cool the body and soothe the skin. In fact, applying sesame oil to the scalp and skin is a long-standing practice to beat the heat and promote wellness.
What began as a simple tradition in South Indian homes has now found its place on the global wellness stage. As more people move toward natural, chemical-free living, age-old traditions like these are being embraced around the world.
Pro Tips to Maximize Results
- Always use cold-pressed, organic sesame oil.
- If you’re trying sesame oil for the first time, it’s a good idea to do a quick patch test—just to be safe.
- Combine internal care (diet) with external application.
- Don’t over-shampoo after oiling. Use mild, sulfate-free cleansers..
What to Know Before You Start Using Sesame Oil for Hair
Sesame oil is one of the most trusted natural oils for hair care, but just like with any remedy, a little awareness goes a long way — especially if you’re trying it for the first time.
Based on my own experience and what I’ve learned over time, here are a few gentle reminders:
- Sensitive scalp? You might feel a slight tingling or mild irritation in the beginning. It’s not common, but if it happens, don’t ignore it.
- Less is more. A heavy hand with sesame oil can leave your hair feeling sticky or greasy. A small amount truly does the job.
- The scent is natural — and strong. While some people love it, others might find it a bit too earthy. You can always mix it with a lighter oil like coconut or add a few drops of essential oil to soften the smell.
Quick Patch Test Tip:
Before applying it to your entire scalp, dab a small amount behind your ear or on your wrist. Wait for a few hours. If there’s no itching or redness, you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts: Why Sesame Oil is a Must-Have
While sesame oil may not be the only natural oil with incredible benefits, it certainly deserves a spot in your hair care routine.
It’s affordable, packed with essential nutrients, and backed by centuries of use. From reducing hair fall to enhancing shine, strengthening roots, and improving scalp health—sesame oil does it all without the harsh side effects of synthetic products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can sesame oil be used daily on hair?
Yes, in small amounts. Use as a serum for ends or a weekly deep treatment.
Q. Will sesame oil leave my hair feeling greasy or weighed down?
Only if overused. Always start with a small quantity and adjust based on hair type.
Q. Can sesame oil work for every hair type, or just a few?
Yes, especially for dry, frizzy, and damaged hair. It suits both men and women.
Q. Can I use sesame oil in summer?
Absolutely. It even protects hair from sun damage and cools the scalp.
Q. Can I mix it with essential oils?
Yes! Add a few drops of rosemary, tea tree, or lavender oil for added benefits.
Want to explore more natural hair care solutions?
👉 Check out our blog on Coconut Oil for Hair Growth
If hair fall is your main concern, you might also find these home remedies for hair fall helpful alongside sesame oil treatments.