Oiling a baby’s hair is an age-old practice, trusted across generations for keeping the scalp moisturised, easing dryness, and supporting healthy hair growth. But new parents often wonder: How much oil should I use? When is the right time? Which oil is safe?
This guide answers all of that — backed by expert recommendations and gentle, natural care.
Why Oil Your Baby’s Hair?
Baby scalps are thinner and more sensitive than adult skin, making moisture balance extremely important.
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According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), gentle scalp massage with suitable oils can help improve blood circulation, moisturise dry patches, and support barrier function in infants.
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A study in the International Journal of Trichology (2017) found that regular infant scalp massage with natural oils helped improve scalp hydration and reduced chances of dryness or flakiness.
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Research in Pediatric Dermatology also notes that oils like coconut, almond, and sesame support the natural lipid layer of baby skin — when used properly and in moderation.
These studies reinforce what parents have always known: gentle oiling helps maintain a baby’s natural scalp health.
Step-by-Step: How to Use Baby Hair Oil
1. Choose a Mild, Natural Baby Hair Oil
Select an oil that is:
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Organic
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Free from mineral oil, synthetic fragrance, silicones
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Dermatologically tested
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Suitable for newborn-sensitive skin
(Indimums Baby Hair Oil blends real herbs, nourishing plant oils & baby-safe botanicals.)
2. Start With a Gentle Head Massage
Use small circular motions with your fingertips.
Benefits:
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Improves blood flow
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Relaxes the baby
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Supports healthy hair roots
According to AAD, gentle scalp stimulation can help strengthen the skin barrier and promote natural moisturisation.
3. Keep It On for 20–30 Minutes
This duration is ideal for nourishment without overwhelming the scalp.
If your baby has very dry or flaky scalp, you can leave it on for longer — but avoid overnight oiling unless recommended by a pediatric dermatologist.
4. Rinse with a Mild Baby Shampoo
Use a gentle, tear-free shampoo (like Indimums Baby Shampoo with Real Herbs) to wash off excess oil.
Regular cleansing avoids buildup, cradle cap, and clogged pores.
5. Repeat 2–3 Times a Week
Dermatologists recommend moderate oiling for babies — not daily — to avoid excessive scalp moisture that may cause irritation.
Want to know when you should start oiling your baby’s hair for the first time?
Read our detailed guide here:
👉 When Can You Start Putting Oil in Baby Hair?
Why Indimums Baby Hair Oil? — Our Blend, Our Research
✔ A blend of 17 oils & herbs
We formulated our hair oil using baby-safe, cold-pressed and herbal ingredients such as
Coconut, Almond, Avocado, Amla, Bhringraj, Brahmi, Hibiscus, Saffron, Rosemary, Vetiver, Neem, Sesame and more.
✔ No mineral oil. No fragrance. No toxins.
We follow zero-toxin formulation guidelines. As a baby-first brand, we never add mineral oils, silicones, synthetic fragrance, parabens, or dyes.
✔ Lightweight & non-sticky
One of the biggest complaints parents shared with us was how “sticky” traditional oils felt.
We created a fast-absorbing formula that nourishes deeply without heaviness.
Additional Tips for Parents
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Always patch-test new oils behind the ear.
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Do not oil the scalp if the baby has active eczema, infection, or cradle cap flare-ups.
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Avoid strong fragrances or essential oils directly on the baby’s head.
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Stop oiling temporarily if you see redness or bumps after application.
FAQs
1. How to properly massage baby’s scalp with hair oil?
Massage your baby’s scalp using gentle circular motions with your fingertips, avoiding pressure on the soft spots. A light, herbal blend like Indimums Baby Hair Oil spreads easily, making the massage soothing and safe for sensitive scalps.
2. How often should you oil a baby’s hair?
Oiling 2–3 times per week is ideal for most babies. Using a nourishing formula such as Indimums Baby Hair Oil ensures you don’t need to oil daily, as it keeps the scalp moisturised for longer.
3. Is it safe to use oil on newborn baby’s hair?
Yes — as long as the oil is mild, natural, and dermatologically tested. Indimums Baby Hair Oil, made with real herbs and baby-safe botanicals, is formulated to be safe for newborns when used after a patch test.
4. Which oil is best for baby hair growth naturally?
Cold-pressed coconut, almond, and sesame oils are commonly recommended. A herbal blend like Indimums, which combines these oils with traditional botanicals, helps nourish the scalp and support natural hair growth.
5. Can baby hair oil prevent cradle cap?
Light oiling can soften flakes, but avoid heavy or daily oiling. With its gentle formula, Indimums Baby Hair Oil can help moisturise dry patches without overwhelming the scalp — when used in moderation.
