“What are some of the benefits of Ayurvedic hair care?”

Indian herbal oils and powders encourage scalp and hair health, giving strength, shine and softness to the hair. Shedding (hair fall), dandruff and thinning are reduced or eliminated. Growth and length retention can be achieved with proper use and a regular regimen. Regular use of the oils and powders give hair a richer, denser look and feel.

“How do I use these products?”

The basic regimen involves oiling the hair and massaging the scalp. Some brands, like Hesh, contain mineral oil, and are best used as pre-shampoo oil treatments. One way is to apply and massage the oils the night before washing. Another is to warm the oils and use as a hot oil treatment 30 minutes prior to washing.

The powders come in two basic types: cleansing and conditioning. It is known that the cleansing herbs, both in bar form and powder form, tend to be drying. Preoiling the hair is a MUST if you are planning to wash with Ayurvedic shampoo bars or cleansing herb pastes.

“If I use the bars/powders to cleanse my hair and scalp, must I also use the conditioning herbs directly afterwards?”

No. As a matter of fact, many users follow their bar/powder washes with their regular conditioning or deep conditioning regimens.

“Can I just use the oils?”

While many users just use the oils and their favorite commercial shampoos with good results, it is believed that the best possible results are seen with a combination of the oils and shampoo bars/powders. Oils like amla and bringraj (formulas without mineral oil), coconut oil and vatika oil are good choices for use as leave-in oils. These oils can also be used in mixes with your regular deep conditoners, instant conditioners and leave-ins.