Amy Oshier
Maybe I didn’t get the memo. We used to wash our hair nightly to avoid oily hair. Now- it seems- oiling hair is a thing? It may be having a moment now because cool-girl Alix Earle told her TikTok followers she uses it to keep her locks in tip-top form. If you believe the hype, various oils can do everything from strengthening hair, to hydrating locks, promoting growth and more.
Weightless hair oils are also used pre-shampoo to undo all the product you put on your ‘do.
The one Alix swears by is the Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Hair Oil. At last check, she had about 4.3 million followers who are ready to plop down cash for anything she says works for her.
In one of her recent GRWM (Get Ready With Me) vids, Alix shared her top 2022 Amazon purchases. On the list was Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint hair oil which she says after using it a short time, prompted “tremendous” hair growth.
Well that was enough to blow up sales. It also made people’s heads explode, figuratively. In an instant black women started commenting that it was a widely known secret within their community, and they feared legions of TikTokers would make it impossible for them to get.
Some experts say there is some truth to that. This product was part of the natural hair care marketplace, that includes products made to specifically target the needs of women of color. With this hair oil flying off the shelf, sought out by a much wider demographic, it wouldn’t come as a surprise if the price jumped to reflect demand.
So what’s in this magic elixir and how does it work?
Here’s how it’s described on the Mielle website. Where it goes for just under $10!
“Our Rosemary Mint scalp and hair oil is a nutrient-rich, intensive formula meant to help you address your hair concerns. From nourishing hair follicles, smoothing split ends and help with dry scalp, this hair oil uses natural, organic ingredients and essential oils to provide the care your hair deserves. Use it on protective styles, including braids and weaves, and enjoy its fresh, invigorating scent during your next hot oil treatment.”
In reality, there are many hair oils circulating that offer a variety of benefits. Castor oil, for one, has been used for years to naturally promote hair growth.
Fort Myers, Florida stylist Aimee Handy, of Thairapy by Aimee, says rosemary has been tested and proven to aid in hair regrowth. She also says there are many good options that target hair needs. “Apple cider vinegar is another hot ingredient that aids in scalp care,” Aimee says. “And there are several products in oil form.”
Aimee products, styling and medication tend to dry out our hair- and topically applied oils can moisture and “leave the hair feeling soft and supple. Instead of stripped.”
Many of today’s popular hair oils feature of blend of ingredients. The luxury brand Fable and Mayne includes Ashwagandha and Dashmool, along with Castor oil among it’s key ingredients. It claims to improve scalp health, calm the nerves and increase blood flow.
So, in TikTok speak, TILS. Today I Learned Something. That dropping oil on your scalp and hair does not leave you a greasy mess. But can actually promote good hair days!
