When people talk about making a good first impression, they often focus on a bright smile, confident words or a firm handshake. But before you get the chance to do any of those things, it’s likely your hair will be noticed first. Dry, lacklustre strands can take the shine off your look—but the fix might be simpler than you think. A weekly scalp boost of vitamin E oil could help bring back softness and strength, says board-certified dermatologist Dr Alicia Zalka.
Vitamin E is a plant-based antioxidant that’s earned its place in the beauty aisle for its healing and hydrating qualities. It’s a skincare staple for calming and moisturising the skin, and dermatologists say it can work just as well on your scalp and hair.
The benefits of using vitamin E oil for hair
Vitamin E oil is more versatile than you might expect. Applied directly to the scalp, it acts as a conditioner to hydrate and soothe dryness or flakiness. Used across the lengths of your hair, it helps enhance shine and reduce breakage, says board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon Dr Kim Nichols. Both applications can deliver noticeable results.
Here are some of the top benefits experts highlight:
- Hydration: Nourishes a dry scalp, easing itchiness and flaking.
- Shine: Boosts natural gloss for a healthier-looking finish.
- Strength: Helps protect strands from breakage and damage.
Encourages hair growth
It can be tricky to find a non-prescription product that genuinely supports hair growth, but vitamin E oil has qualities that may help. “Vitamin E oil, because it is an antioxidant, helps reduce oxidative stress in the scalp,” explains Dr Nichols. Oxidative stress makes it harder for the body to repair damage, leading hair follicle cells to break down and increasing the risk of hair loss. By nourishing the scalp and restoring healthy function, vitamin E oil can create a better environment for growth. It also promotes blood circulation to the scalp, which further supports healthy hair development.
Soothes a dry, flaky scalp
Vitamin E oil is a simple way to calm dryness and flakiness. Naturally produced by the body to protect and hydrate skin, vitamin E also works topically to condition and replenish moisture. Applied to the scalp, it softens, hydrates and rejuvenates, bringing comfort while supporting scalp health.
Strengthens the hair
Ageing, chemical products and heat styling all take a toll on hair follicles, leaving them weaker and more prone to breakage and split ends. Vitamin E oil helps to restore strength by nurturing damaged follicles, making them more resilient and healthier overall. The result: fewer breakages and smoother strands.
Adds shine
Frizz, dullness and brittleness are often caused by styling, chemical treatments or simply genetics. Vitamin E oil acts as a protective barrier, much like it does on the skin, sealing in moisture and delivering the nourishment hair needs. With regular use, it boosts lustre and leaves hair looking shinier and healthier.
How to use vitamin E oil for your hair
Dermatologists suggest starting slowly—just a few times a week—so you can check for any irritation or allergic reaction like redness, itchiness or rashes, says Dr Nichols. Because vitamin E is a heavier oil, it may not suit those with very sensitive scalps.
Step 1: Apply
Begin with a small, diluted amount (about the size of a 10-cent coin). Most ready-to-use vitamin E oils are blended with carrier oils such as coconut or lavender, which make them easier to apply. Massage gently into your scalp and work through your strands using your fingertips and palms.
You can also boost your regular shampoo or conditioner by adding a couple of drops of vitamin E oil—an easy way to ensure even coverage without an extra step in your routine.
Step 2: Let the oil sit in your hair for an hour (or overnight)
For best results, let the oil soak in for at least an hour before rinsing. If you’d like a deeper treatment, it’s safe to leave it in overnight—just remember to wash it out in the morning to avoid build-up.
Step 3: Rinse
Rinse thoroughly with warm water, making sure to remove any residue or dirt from the scalp. Once clean, dry and style your hair as you normally would.
Beyond pure vitamin E oil, you’ll also find plenty of vitamin E–infused products—like serums, conditioners and masks—that can give your hair a shine boost with less effort.
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