5 Hair Oils You Should Avoid Using in Winters

Winter is harsh on your hair.

Cold air outside and dry indoor heating strip moisture from the scalp, weaken hair strands, and increase breakage.

That’s why many people turn to hair oils during the colder months — but here’s the surprising truth:

👉 Not all hair oils are good for winter.

Some oils actually make dryness, dandruff, breakage, and hair fall worse.

To protect your hair during the cold season, it"s important to understand which oils to avoid and why.

Here are five hair oils that you should stay away from in winter, plus the science behind how they affect your hair.

1. Coconut Oil — Too Thick and Hardens in Cold Weather

Coconut oil is usually praised for hair care, but winter is the one season where it can cause more harm than good.

Why it’s a problem in winter:

Coconut oil solidifies in cold temperatures

It stiffens the hair shaft

It can make already dry hair even more brittle

It blocks moisture instead of allowing absorption

It may worsen dandruff on dry scalps

What happens to your hair:

When coconut oil hardens inside the hair strand, it reduces flexibility, causing your hair to snap easily — especially if your hair is already weak or colored.

Who should avoid it:

People with dry or frizzy hair

Anyone living in very cold climates

People with a flaky or sensitive scalp

Safe winter alternative:

Use argan oil or marula oil, which stay lightweight and hydrating.

2. Castor Oil — Too Heavy and Blocks the Scalp

Castor oil is famous for promoting hair growth, but it’s extremely thick and sticky.

During winter, when your scalp is already dry and irritated, castor oil becomes difficult to wash off and may clog pores.

Why it’s not ideal in winter:

It’s too dense to spread easily

It blocks airflow to the scalp

It traps dead skin and flakes

It can trigger scalp irritation

It causes buildup that increases dandruff

What this buildup leads to:

Itchy scalp

Increased hair fall

Heavy, greasy-looking hair

Difficulty washing products out

Who should avoid it:

People with oily scalps, dandruff, or sensitive skin.

Safer alternative:

Try grapeseed oil, which is light and soothing.

3. Olive Oil — Causes Greasiness and Attracts Dust

Olive oil is great for cooking, but not so great for winter hair care.

Why olive oil is unsuitable in cold weather:

It has large molecules that sit on top of the hair, not inside it

It attracts dust, dirt, and pollutants

It weighs your hair down

It increases scalp oiliness

It can worsen fungal dandruff

During winter, when pollution levels are often higher and hair is drier, olive oil traps impurities — making the scalp uncomfortable.

Effects on your hair:

Sticky roots

Clogged follicles

Weaker hair growth

Heavy, flat appearance

Who should avoid it:

People with oily or combination scalps.

A better alternative:

Jojoba oil, which mimics natural scalp oils, is ideal for winter.

4. Mineral Oil — Blocks Moisture and Irritates the Scalp

Mineral oil is found in many cheap hair products.

It coats the hair but does not nourish it.

Why mineral oil is harmful in winter:

It creates a barrier that blocks real moisture

It causes product buildup

It irritates sensitive scalps

It prevents oils and treatments from penetrating

It may worsen dryness

Why it’s especially bad during winter:

Your hair needs hydration during cold weather, not surface-level shine.

Mineral oil only gives a temporary glossy look — while preventing deeper nourishment.

Common signs of mineral oil damage:

Greasy roots but dry ends

More split ends

Flaking

Rough texture

A healthier option:

Look for products labeled mineral oil–free and choose sweet almond oil instead.

5. Mustard Oil — Too Strong and May Cause Scalp Burning

Mustard oil is popular in some cultures, but winter magnifies its downsides.

Why mustard oil is risky:

It has a strong, irritating smell

It may cause scalp burning or redness

It traps heat inside the scalp

It increases sensitivity in dry weather

It can trigger allergic reactions

In cold weather, your scalp becomes more fragile.

Mustard oil’s heat-producing properties may worsen dryness or inflammation.

What people often experience:

Strong odor that lasts for days

Burning sensation

Redness or rashes

Scalp sensitivity

Better alternative:

Use avocado oil, which is soothing, rich in nutrients, and perfect for winter dryness.

Bonus Tip: Always Use Lighter Oils During Winter

Because winter air is dry and cold, your hair needs oils that:

Stay liquid

Don’t block moisture

Absorb quickly

Nourish the scalp gently

The best winter-friendly oils include:

Argan oil

Jojoba oil

Almond oil

Avocado oil

Marula oil

These oils keep your hair soft, shiny, flexible, and healthy throughout the season.