Tired of trying every grandma-recommended remedy and internet hack to stop hair fall and greying — especially oiling — but still seeing no results? According to renowned hairstylist Jawed Habib, your trusty bottle of hair oil might be doing more harm than good.

In a recent interview with Galatta India uploaded on March 15, Habib challenged one of India’s most widely accepted beauty habits: oiling hair. He claimed that hair oil is actually a major reason behind the country’s widespread issues of hair fall and premature greying.

“Hair Oil is Hurting, Not Helping”

During the candid conversation, Habib didn’t hold back: “Hair fall is happening in India because of one big myth — oiling.” He called hair oil a superstition and added that our bodies are already naturally equipped with the essential oils and chemicals needed for healthy hair.

“Oils are basically moisturisers,” he said. “We just need to understand how to use them. The oil that nourishes our body when used in cooking can also be used on the outside — but the application matters.”

The Real Damage Behind the Shine

Habib went on to explain how improper oiling can actually damage the scalp and hair. He pointed out that most Indian households use hard water, which strips away hair’s natural shine. While oil might temporarily restore that luster, the long-term consequences aren’t as glossy.

“When you apply oil directly to the scalp, you’re suffocating the hair follicles,” he said. “This clogs the pores and prevents the scalp from breathing, which eventually leads to hair fall and greying.”

His advice? Stop leaving oil in your hair overnight. Instead, he recommends applying oil only right before shampooing.

How to Oil Your Hair the Right Way

Habib also shared practical tips on how to use hair oil correctly to avoid damaging your strands — something he elaborates on further in the full interview.