Applying oil makes hair grow faster: 5 common hair myths busted

Proper hair care is essential for healthy growth and to avoid problems like dandruff, hair fall, breakage, and split ends. To achieve shiny, soft, and thick hair, people spend thousands on shampoos, oils, masks, and conditioners—and try countless DIY hacks seen online. But many of these so-called “tips” are actually myths. Let’s bust a few of the most common ones.

1. Applying oil makes hair grow faster

Oiling your hair is an age-old ritual, believed to boost hair growth. However, this is a myth. Hair oils don’t directly make your hair grow faster—they simply nourish the scalp and protect it from dryness and damage. Oil keeps your hair moisturized and helps reduce breakage, which gives the illusion of healthier, thicker hair. Actual hair growth depends more on genetics, nutrition, and scalp health. Gentle scalp massage—whether during oiling or shampooing—improves blood circulation, which indirectly supports growth.

2. Plucking one white hair makes more grow

Many people believe plucking one white hair will make several more appear. That’s not true. Only one hair grows from each follicle, so plucking a single white strand won’t cause others nearby to turn white. Hair turns gray or white when pigment-producing cells stop working—due to genetics, stress, or age. Still, avoid plucking, as it can irritate the scalp or damage the follicle.

3. Dry scalp causes dandruff

This is another misconception. Dandruff doesn’t necessarily occur because of a dry scalp. In many cases, it’s caused by an overgrowth of yeast (Malassezia) on the scalp. There are two main types of dandruff—dry and oily (sticky). Applying oil to oily dandruff can actually worsen the condition. For relief, use ingredients like yogurt or lemon, or anti-dandruff shampoos with salicylic acid, selenium disulfide, or ketoconazole.

4. Split ends can be repaired

Split ends are one of the most common hair issues and make hair look dry and lifeless. While some products claim to “repair” them, the truth is that split ends can’t be fixed once they appear—they can only be trimmed off. Conditioners and serums may temporarily seal them, making hair look smoother, but the only real solution is regular trimming and preventive care.

5. Oily hair doesn’t need conditioner

Just like oily skin still needs moisturizer, oily hair also needs conditioner. Shampoos and styling products can strip away moisture, leaving even oily hair dry and dull. Use a lightweight conditioner on the lengths and ends (not the scalp) to keep hair balanced, soft, and manageable.