Amla Oil Is the Natural Secret to Thick, Healthy, Shiny Hair—for Pennies!
Research and experts suggest amla oil, a staple in Ayurvedic medicine, can strengthen and grow hair
There’s no shortage of new ingredients and products that are touted to beautify our hair. From masks to leave-ins to oils, the options seem endless. And while many of these newer products are great for our hair, it’s always comforting to turn to ol’ reliable, and ingredients that have been proven to work for decades or even centuries. One that’s stood the test of time? Amla oil. This naturally-derived oil has been used for centuries in traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine and hair treatments for its therapeutic properties. And the beauty benefits of alma oil aren’t just for hair—it works wonders for skin too. The best part? Amla oil is inexpensive to incorporate into your routine (one of the top-rated oils is just $10 for 10 ounces—that translates into just $1 a month with the recommended use!). Below, hairstylists and dermatologists share how this potent, natural elixir can rejuvenate your hair and skin.
What is amla oil?
Also known as Indian gooseberry oil, amla oil is a natural oil derived from the fruit of the Indian gooseberry tree. Amla is a small, green fruit native to India and is celebrated for its numerous health and beauty benefits. To make amla oil, the fruit is dried and then cold pressed to extract the oil. The oil that is extracted is unusually high in vitamin C and rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, which make it a superstar ingredient to use on hair and skin. That helps explain why women in Thailand and India have been using amla oil to strengthen and grow hair for thousands of years.
The benefits of amla oil for hair
Amla oil stimulates hair growth
Scott Fabian, a hairstylist at Sally Hershberger NoMad salon in New York City, favors amla oil for hair because of its rich fatty acids that help stimulate hair growth and reduce thinning. Even though thinning hair has many causes, Michelle-Nicole Jones, a celebrity hairstylist and salon owner, agrees that amla oil can be a valuable ally in addressing this aging hair concern. “It strengthens hair follicles with its essential fatty acids,” she explains, “reducing the risk of thinning due to weakness and breakage.”
When massaged into the scalp, this increases blood flow to hair follicles and provides them with essential nutrients to grow healthier, thicker hair. Plus, amla oil “also reduces breakage and improves hair elasticity, minimizing thinning risks,” says Jones.
Amla oil for hair reduces dryness and dandruff
“Amla oil can also soothe a dry scalp and dandruff,” says Fabian. Thanks goes to the oil’s fatty acid and antioxidant content that hydrate the scalp and cut down on inflammation. Jones also notes that amla oil’s antibacterial and anti-fungal properties maintain a clean, healthy scalp, eliminating dandruff that can also cause follicles to fall out prematurely.
Amla oil helps blend in grays if you have dark hair
“This oil can also darken hair, which could be good for grays—but if you’re blonde, I would recommend only using it on the roots and not to overuse it,” Fabian notes. Fabian adds that he doesn’t recommend using it if you have a sensitive scalp. “If you have concerns, you can always do a small amount in a small area to test.” (Blonde, gray or white? Click through to learn more about sandalwood essential oil for hair.)
How to use amla oil for hair
1. To use amla oil to deep condition brittle hair
Warm amla oil by placing a bottle of oil in a bowl of warm water for 2-3 minutes (warming the oil helps it penetrate your hair better). Apply 3 drops of the warmed oil directly onto the scalp, then use fingertips to gently massage the oil in circular motions for one minute, paying close attention to the roots and any areas where you have dryness or scalp issues. Next, work the oil down the length of your hair (add more oil onto your hands as needed) and saturate the ends, which are often the most damaged part of your hair. Brush through with a wide-tooth comb to ensure the oil is evenly distributed, then cover with a shower cap and let sit 30 minutes to 1 hour; rinse thoroughly with shampoo.
2. To use amla oil to boost shine
Grab a shampoo—mild, sulfate-free shampoos work best with amla oil—and pour out a palmful amount. Then mix one drop of amla oil into your shampoo before applying to wet hair. Massage it into your scalp and hair; rinse thoroughly and finish with conditioner.
The best amla oil for hair products
Keep reading for our top amla oil hair picks to try.
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