You probably remember the feeling better than the steps. Sitting on the floor, Amma or Ajji on the bed behind you, warm oil, firm fingers on your scalp, and you trying not to fall asleep.
You can do it for yourself in about ten minutes. Here's how.
What you need
- A champi oil (we make two: Muladhara and Pranavahi)
- An old towel over your shoulders
- Ten minutes to apply, and at least 30 minutes to leave it on
Step 1: Warm the oil a little
Stand the bottle in a mug of hot water for two minutes. The oil should feel warm on your wrist, never hot.
Step 2: Section your hair
Part your dry hair down the middle, then make a few more partings on each side. You want to reach the scalp, not just the top layer of hair.
Step 3: Oil the partings
If your bottle has a comb applicator, run the tip along each parting and squeeze gently. Otherwise, pour a little into your palm and dab it along the line with your fingertips.
Step 4: Massage
This is the champi. Spread your fingers, press the pads (not your nails) into your scalp, and move in small circles. Start at the hairline and work back to the crown and the nape. Take three to five minutes. Firm, not rough.
Step 5: Do the lengths
Rub what's left on your palms down the lengths, especially the ends. Long hair can go into a loose braid or a low bun.
Step 6: Wait
Leave it on for at least 30 minutes. Both our oils can also stay on overnight; just put an old towel on your pillow.
Step 7: Wash
Shampoo twice with a mild shampoo. The first wash lifts the oil, the second cleans.
How often?
Once or twice a week is plenty. Pick the day you wash your hair anyway, usually the weekend.
Which oil?
- Muladhara is for the scalp: cold-pressed coconut and sweet almond with vetiver (khus).
- Pranavahi is for dry lengths: kalonji with coconut and almond.
Not sure which? Read Muladhara or Pranavahi: which champi oil is right for you.
Read next: What is a prewash, and why your hair needs 30 minutes before shampoo
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