Essential Hair Care Tips for Women Wearing Hijab in 2025

By Shaimaa Mohamed
November 20, 2025

Hair Care Under Hijab: Comprehensive Tips & Solutions for Healthy Hair

Introduction

Hair care under hijab poses unique challenges that necessitate a tailored approach and routine. With 83.3% of hijabi women experiencing hair loss compared to 53%, there is a significant need for guidance on how to take care of their hair. The hijab creates a unique microenvironment around your hair, which can significantly affect everything from the scalp’s moisture levels to the bacterial ecosystem. These nuanced factors feed directly into the deeper psychological relationship many hijabi women have with their hair, shaping self-perception and confidence in complex ways that often go unspoken. While reflecting on my journey, I realized that the intersection of hijab, hair self image, and personal confidence is not just physical—it’s deeply ingrained in our sense of identity. I remember when I first started wearing hijab consistently and noticed some changes in my hair that left me confused and concerned. My curls lost their bounce, my scalp always felt greasy and I was shedding an alarming amount of hair. Products can only do so much and the quest for that perfect formula should start with understanding the science (and art) of hair care.

When you wear a hijab for 8+ hours (as most of us do on an average day), the scalp experiences increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and microbiome alteration. Studies show that this habit can lead to an oily scalp, dandruff and eventually hair loss around the hairline. What’s even worse is that the mainstream haircare market does not address this issue. Researchers have identified a market gap for the estimated 1. Please note that this number is inaccurate as the entire world population is approximately 8 billion.

The good news? Through a few routine adjustments and a scientific approach to your hair and scarf care, you can maintain the beauty of your tresses. This comprehensive guide combines dermatological insights and practical wisdom for every sister who wants to feel confident about what’s under her scarf.

Understanding Hair Challenges Under Hijab

Common Issues Faced by Hijabi Women

Hijab creates a unique environment for the hair and scalp, which can lead to several issues. When your hair is constantly covered it undergoes significantly different conditions than regular and uncovered hair. One of the primary issues is increased sebum production and skin oiliness. Research published in the National Library of Medicine points out that “occlusion causes hijab wearers’ scalps to be moist and humid due to limited airflow.” Research indicates that 60% of women who use hijab undergarments show excessive oil production, especially when they use a double layer (See recent scientific study on covered scalp microbiome).

“The microclimate created on the scalp by wearing a hijab interferes with its natural moisture balance,” says Dr. Aisha Rahman, Dermatologist specializing in ethnic skin and hair concerns.

Increased humidity and temperatures cause the sebaceous glands to compensate by excreting more oil. Dandruff and scalp irritation become more prevalent, as do living conditions and the climate in high-humidity regions. When hair is constantly covered, moisture has no way of evaporating. Moreover, the skin cannot breathe properly because of this habit. Finally, the constant trapping of body heat leads to higher sebum production.

A 2023 study published in Nature Scientific Reports found that hijab wear significantly altered the scalp microbiome, leading to increased dominance of Actinobacteria and Ascomycota, which were directly linked to sensitive scalp symptoms such as itching, burning and flaking (Microbiome study on hijab-wearing scalps).

Perhaps most alarming is the physical damage caused by frequent rubbing and pulling, such as friction-induced breakage and traction alopecia. The fabric of the hijab is in constant contact with the hair and this friction weakens the hair shaft over time. Particularly, it tends to occur at the hairline and temples where traction and pressure concentrate. When combined with tightly pulled hairstyles such as buns and braids, it can cause progressive hair thinning along the front hairline, which is a distinct pattern in hijab-wearing women. In these instances, the need to identify effective hijab hair loss treatment approaches arises, as managing this damage early can determine long-term hair health outcomes.

Cultural Aspects of Hijabi Hair Care

How do different traditions address these challenges? Women across various cultures have come up with ingenious ways of maintaining hair health and wearing hijab. Traditional methods often hold valuable knowledge that modern science is only beginning to appreciate and understand. Exploring traditional hijab hair care customs uncovers a wealth of ancestral remedies—from oiling to herbal infusions—specifically crafted to counter the effects of coverage.

In South Asian culture, women who wear hijab apply mustard oil on their hair prior to wearing the head covering. The thick oil creates a barrier between the hair and fabric and fully moisturizes the hair. What was once called “what our grandmothers did” is now supported by dermatological research showing that certain types of oils protect hair from mechanical damage.

“I grew up observing my mom putting warm mustard oil on her scalp to cover,” says Fatima, 34, a Hijabi from Pakistan. When I began wearing hijab full-time in college, I brushed it off as an outdated practice. I returned to this practice after significant breakage and saw great results within months.

Regular oil massage to stimulate blood flow is also one of the methods widely embraced by hijabi women. The technique of scalp massage, usually performed in specific motions that have been traditionally passed on from mother to daughter, is fully endorsed by modern trichologists as an excellent way of improving circulation and the delivery of nutrients to the hair follicles.

During the 2020s, a strong Halal beauty movement emerged across the Middle East and Asia, as brands started to acknowledge hijabi women’s unmet needs. As a result, innovation in product development has been spurred and more companies are generating solutions for problems that covered hair faces (Read on the mainstream industry’s gap).

Visual & External Resources

Crown of the head: The front sections of a hijab are usually tightly wrapped and pinned to ensure firm placement.
Temple Area: The pressure and friction from pins and hijab styles affect this area.
Crown: The part of the wig that typically gets flattened from pressure.
Nape of neck: The way hijab is worn in warm climates can result in sweat accumulation and bacterial growth at the nape of the neck.

Hijabi scalp also typically has higher concentrations of certain bacterial and fungal phyla than non-hijabi scalp, which are known to correlate with sensitive scalp symptoms and neuroinflammatory conditions.

For optimal hijab hair care, it is crucial to distinguish between what is safe or harmful for covered hair. Safe practices include using silk or satin undercaps, styling hair in loose ponytails or braids, using natural fabrics with good breathability such as cotton or linen and applying a lightweight oil to the ends of your tresses before putting on the veil. Harmful practices are wearing tight buns and ponytails daily, constant use of metal clips and rubber bands directly onto hair strands, selecting synthetic hijabs without moisture wicking properties (ie: polyester) as well as wrapping the headpiece while your locks remain wet.

Daily Hair Care Routine for Hijab Wearers

Step-by-Step Guide

The key is to keep the coat clean while preserving its natural moisture. Yet integrating healthy habits into the realities of a bustling schedule can be daunting—especially for students and working women. This is where having a realistic hijab hair routine for a busy lifestyle becomes invaluable, allowing good hair care to feel sustainable instead of overwhelming.

Morning Routine

Gentle Detangling: Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to remove any tangles. Start from the ends and work your way up to avoid breakage.
Apply 3-5 drops of lightweight oil (argan, jojoba or Black Seed Oil) on your palms and gently run your fingers through your hair. Focus on the ends and areas that will be prone to friction. Allow 15-30 minutes for the product to sink in before putting on your hijab.
Protective styling: Consider wearing your hair in a loose and low ponytail or braid. Avoid tight hairstyles.
Make sure your hair is completely dry before wearing the hijab. Use a breathable cotton undercap and secure the hijab itself, avoiding metal pins or tight styles that pull on your hair unnecessarily.

Evening Routine

Hijab Removal: When removing the hijab, gently unpin and lift it to prevent hair pulling or breakage.
Spend five minutes gently massaging your scalp with your fingertips. This technique not only enhances blood circulation to hair follicles but also alleviates tension on the pressure points. Such details often go overlooked but have a direct impact on hair health over weeks and months—a process that makes it beneficial to track hijab hair progress in a structured way for better results.
Airing time: Ensure to “air” your hair and scalp for at least 2 hours before sleep to allow them to regulate moisture and sebum levels.
Lightly mist hair with a leave-in conditioner spray if it feels dry (focusing on ends).
Sleep on Silk or Satin Pillowcases: Consider using silk or satin pillowcases to minimize friction and prevent moisture loss during sleep.

Wash Day (weekly recommended): Studies show that frequent washing is directly associated with a significant increase in scalp transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and higher rates of hair loss complaints among hijabi women. Deep conditioning treatment: After shampooing, apply a rich deep conditioner and leave it on for at least 20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Scalp exfoliation: Perform a gentle scalp scrub once every two weeks to eliminate buildup and flakes. Practicing a gentle hijab hair washing technique is vital for preventing over-drying and maintaining scalp balance, especially with regular scarf use.

“The biggest mistake I see in my hijabi clients is over-washing,” says trichologist Dr. Khadija Ahmed. “When you wash too frequently, you strip the natural oils and the scalp overcompensates by producing more sebum.”

Once a week is optimal for most hijabi women, although those with extremely oily scalps or other special conditions may need to wash more frequently.

Scalp Care Products

The products you use will have a dramatic effect on how your hair behaves under the hijab. Shampoos need to be gentle, sulfate-free and lightweight. The product must wash out entirely without leaving any residue and have a soothing pH-balanced formula. If dandruff is an issue, mild anti-dandruff ingredients can help strengthen the scalp’s natural barrier.

Recommendations: Briogeo Be Gentle, Be Kind Aloe + Oat Milk Ultra Soothing Shampoo; Neutrogena T/Gel (for dandruff concerns).

Conditioner needs to be non-greasy so as not to weigh hair down and rich in moisturizers like plant oils, aloe extract, or glycerin. Avoid thickening additives like silicone to ensure a full rinse-out between washes.

Recommendations: Garnier Hair Food Banana Conditioner; As I Am Hydration Elation Conditioner.

Scalp treatments should look for lightweight formulations that won’t cause buildup over time but will address specific issues such as flaking or excess oil production while wearing hijab.

Product Type	Hijab-Friendly Feature	Ingredients to Look For	Ingredients to Avoid	Top Brands
Shampoo	Sulfate-free, lightweight	Tea tree oil, salicylic acid, ketoconazole (for dandruff)	Sodium lauryl sulfate, heavy silicones, artificial fragrance	Briogeo Be Gentle Be Kind, Neutrogena T/Gel
Conditioner	Rinses clean, moisturizing	Glycerin, panthenol, argan oil, aloe vera	Heavy butters, petroleum derivatives, excess proteins	Garnier Hair Food Banana, As I Am Hydration Elation
Leave-in treatment	Ultra-lightweight spray	Botanical extracts, glycerin	Paraffin, heavy oils	OUAI Leave-In Conditioner, SheaMoisture Lightweight Leave-In

Protective Hairstyles & Preventing Damage

Styles to Minimize Breakage

The way you style your hair beneath the hijab has a major effect on its health in the long run. The best styles ensure that tension is evenly distributed across the scalp and minimize pressure on the hairline. The routine of styling, however, is more than just a matter of health—it’s a deeply personal expression for many women. The variety of styles, from loose braids to ponytails, embodies how personal hijab hair choices reflect individuality and adapt to daily moods or cultural context while staying mindful of hair health.

Loose Low Ponytail: Position the ponytail at the nape of your neck and use a silk scrunchie instead of an elastic band. The style also evenly distributes the weight of the hair.
Loose Braids: A single loose braid or two can keep the hair contained without pulling too tightly. Tight braids, coupled with the hijab’s pressure on the scalp, can lead to hair loss (traction alopecia) over time. For curly haired hijabis, the style helps preserve curl patterns.
Pineapple Method for Curly Hair: This technique involves loosely gathering curly hair on the top of the head using a silk scrunchie. The curls should tumble down. This prevents curls from being crushed and preserves volume when wearing hijab.

Additionally, regardless of which style you choose, make sure you regularly change where you part your hair.

“I recommend my hijabi clients change their parting at least weekly,” explains hair specialist Samira Khan. “Always parting in the same place means that all the pressure and tension are always concentrated on the same hair strands. Simply shifting your part an inch or so to the left or right each week can help distribute stress more evenly.”

Mon-Tue: Low Ponytail (Middle Part)
Wed-Thur: Loose Braid (Side Part)
Fri-Sun: Low Ponytail (Side Part)
Repeat next week and reverse the sides.

Avoiding Damage

Additionally, it is important to know what aspects of hijabi life can damage your hair. Within the broader hair health journey, finding empathetic support can be the missing element for continued motivation, which is why many find value in turning to a dedicated hijab hair support community—a space that supports not only technical guidance but also emotional experience.

DON’Ts:

Never use metal clips, rubber bands, or plastic combs directly on hair.
Avoid wearing tight buns, high ponytails, or slicked styles daily.
Do not wear hijabs on damp hair (increases risk of fungal growth).
Do not wash hair more than 1-2 times weekly (increases hair loss).

Traction alopecia, which results from the prolonged tension placed on the hair, tends to develop gradually. Look for the following early warning signs of hijab-related hair loss:

Small bumps around the hairline
Excessive shedding when removing your hijab
Widening part or thinning temples
Short broken hairs along your edges
Scalp tenderness or pain while styling

If you notice these symptoms, immediately modify your styling practices and consider consulting a dermatologist who specializes in hair loss.

Real-Life Testimonial

I’d been wearing hijab for about five years when I noticed that my hair was losing volume, becoming coarse and breaking off at an alarming rate. My thick curls were thinning at the temples and my scalp always felt irritated and oily despite washing every other day. The turning point came when my hairdresser noticed my hairline thinning, which is a hallmark sign of traction alopecia. I’d been wearing my hair the same way every day: pulled tightly into a high bun, with an elastic band to hold it in place.

I completely overhauled my day-to-day routine. First, I switched to washing my hair once a week, using a sulfate-free shampoo and applying Garnier Hair Food Banana Conditioner for 20 minutes. Before wearing hijab, I started putting few drops of mustard oil on hairline and ends for a good 30 minutes so they could absorb before washing. The biggest change was my styling. I alternate between a low ponytail with a silk scrunchie and two loose braids, always changing up my part location on a weekly basis. I also invested in silk undercaps and cotton outer hijabs for better breathability.

Within three months, I noticed significantly less shedding. By six months, I noticed new growth along my hairline. Now, a year later, my hair density is almost fully back. My hair is no longer constantly oily and I do not suffer from scalp irritation anymore.

What I wish I’d known sooner is how much the little day-to-day choices—the type of hairband, the tightness of hairstyles and the fabric of my undercap—would add up. These seemingly “little” things were the difference between my hair suffering more damage or flourishing and being healthy under the hijab. Amina’s story demonstrates that health-conscious modifications to everyday practices can reverse the cumulative harm caused by established habits, offering hope for hijabi women battling hair issues.

Seasonal Hair Care Under Hijab: Adjusting Your Routine

Adapting to Weather Changes

The changing seasons bring unique challenges, which means you need to adjust your hijabi hair care routine accordingly. The microclimate under the hijab and its interaction with external weather conditions change throughout the year, which means different strategies need to be implemented. Mastering seasonal hijab hair care tips for moisture, oil balance, and static control allows you to anticipate and address issues before they become entrenched.

Summer (Hot & Humid)

Increase attentiveness to scalp cleansing but still avoid overwashing (once a week is optimal).
Switch to lighter, oil-controlling shampoos and oils (jojoba/argan).
Wear only cotton or linen hijabs.
Add peppermint or tea tree oil to your scalp care routine.

“In summer months, the scalp microbiome under hijab shows even more pronounced shifts toward bacteria that thrive in moist environments,” says dermatologist Dr. Layla Mahmoud.

Use a cotton undercap and change it as needed during the day.
Lightly dust the hairline with talc-free powder before covering.
Keep an extra hijab to change into if necessary during extremely hot days.
Massage the scalp nightly and use clarifying treatments weekly to remove sweat build-up.

Winter (Dry & Static-Prone)

Increase deep conditioning to twice a month
Apply heavier oils like mustard and coconut 2-3 times a week
Utilize a humidifier while sleeping to keep the air from being too dry
Add more moisturizing ingredients to your hair care routine
Be extra gentle when detangling as cold weather makes hair more brittle and prone to breakage
Always use a silk/satin undercap in winter months (this is non-negotiable).
Increase the frequency of leave-in conditioner spray application to 2-3x a week.
Lightly mist your hijab with anti-static spray before you wear it.
Keep your hair moisturized so it doesn’t dry out and develop static easily.

Suitable Seasonal Accessories & Products

Season	Recommended Fabrics	Why It Works	Fabrics to Avoid
Summer/Humid	Cotton, linen, moisture-wicking jersey	Allows accumulated heat and moisture to escape the layers	Polyester, nylon, thick materials
Winter/Dry	Silk undercap with lightweight cotton outer layer	Retains skin moisture while preventing static build-up	All-synthetic materials
Spring/Fall	Cotton-silk blends, lightweight wool	Adequate airflow and thermal insulation	Heavy fabrics that don’t adjust

In summer, store oils and leave-ins in a cool place away from sunlight to prevent heat damage. For regions that suffer from humidity all year round, such as coastal areas or tropical countries, the emphasis is on anti-dandruff and oil control regardless of season.

Infographic & Downloadable Planner

A seasonal hair care planner to anticipate future hair needs would help track and adapt your routine for best results. At its heart, keeping a planner encourages ongoing reflection—a tool that can deepen your awareness and commitment to the process beyond surface-level changes.

Product formulation switch dates (two weeks ahead of weather changes)
Hijab fabric rotation reminders
Deep treatments adjustment frequency
Washing routine adaptation based on humidity level
Scalp condition tracking (oiliness, dryness, dandruff check)
Breakage level monitoring (is it increasing?)
Product performance review
Comfort assessment under hijab
Light product introduction timeline (springtime)
Rich formulation transition timeline (fall period)
Clarifying treatment planning to prevent buildup
Adjusted deep conditioning routines

FAQ: Hair Care Under Hijab

Here are the most frequently asked questions about hair care under hijab, featuring expert insights and proven hair care tips for women. While these focus on technical approaches, it’s equally important to consider that Islamic guidance often intersects with personal practice. Many women find it helpful to explore an Islamic perspective on hair care routines, bringing together both spiritual and physical well-being under the hijab.

How often should I wash my hair under a hijab?: Research shows that washing once a week is the optimal frequency for most hijabi women (Read the full study). Women who washed their hair every one to two days exhibited significantly higher scalp transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and more hair loss complaints. Over-washing can strip the scalp’s natural oils. If you exercise frequently or live in high humidity, you might need to wash twice a week; however, ensure there are at least three to four days between washes.
What are the best oils for hijab hair?: The best oils safeguard the strands against friction while being readily absorbed. Mustard oil is a traditional South Asian remedy that protects hijabi hair. For daily use, lighter options like argan oil, black seed oil and jojoba are preferable as they closely mimic the natural sebum on your scalp. Apply the oil 15–30 minutes before wearing your hijab. Heavier oils like coconut should be used sparingly, and primarily for deep conditioning, as they can trap extra heat and humidity under your hijab.
Can I use dry shampoo regularly under hijab?: While dry shampoo seems like a quick fix, it’s not advisable to use it frequently. The powder can build up on the scalp and, since it’s covered by hijab, issues may not be immediately noticeable. Use lightweight leave-in freshness sprays for a cooling effect. If you must use dry shampoo, choose talc-free, unscented types and spray the night before covering your hair. Wash your scalp thoroughly on wash day to prevent buildup (Tips for using dry shampoo under hijab).
How do I combat hair thinning under hijab?: Prevention and management require a multidimensional approach. Opt for a loose ponytail with a silk scrunchie rather than tight styles. Switch up your parting every month, regularly massage your scalp 2-3 times a week and consider a scalp serum with peptides or caffeine. Address thinning early. If you notice increased shedding or visible scalp, immediately reduce tension in your styling and consult a dermatologist specialized in hijab hair care.
Are silk or satin hijab undercaps necessary?: Yes, silk or satin undercaps make a measurable difference in hijabi hair health. They generate less friction and hair breakage than cotton or synthetic textiles, especially for curly and fine hair types. The smooth surface allows hair strands to glide rather than snag and break. If budget is a concern, start with at least one silk or satin undercap for your longest wearing days.

Product & Material Comparison Table

Hijab Fabrics: Do Materials Used Affect Women’s Hair?

Hijab fabric choice affects hair health in several ways, including breathability, moisture retention and friction. Navigating fabric and product choices is an ongoing process that evolves as you experiment and discover what works best for you. Learning from others through community spaces and testimonials brings fresh perspectives and patience to this journey.

Hijab Fabric	Breathability	Moisture Retention	Friction	Recommendation
Cotton	High	Moderate	Low	Best for daily wear and summer
Jersey Knit	High	Moderate	Low	Comfortable for extended wear
Silk	Excellent	High	Low	Best as undercap — prevents friction/breakage
Polyester/Synthetics	Low	Poor	High	Should be avoided for scalp health

“The difference between a breathable natural fiber and a synthetic one is not only about comfort. It affects the environment your hair and scalp are exposed to for 8+ hours every day.”

Product	Best Type	Ingredients to Look For	Ingredients to Avoid	Top Brand Examples
Shampoo	Sulfate-free, lightweight	Tea tree oil, salicylic acid, ketoconazole (for dandruff)	Sodium lauryl sulfate, heavy silicones, artificial fragrance	Briogeo Be Gentle Be Kind, Neutrogena T/Gel
Conditioner	Rinses clean, moisturizing	Glycerin, panthenol, argan oil, aloe vera	Heavy butters, petroleum derivatives, excess proteins	Garnier Hair Food Banana, As I Am Hydration Elation

Accessory Recommendations:

Silk scrunchies/seamless bands: Minimize breakage caused by friction. Enables hair strands to glide effortlessly.
Silk or satin undercaps: Minimize friction and breakage, especially for curls. Prevent cotton undercaps from flattening and breaking hair.
Scalp scrubber tool: Stimulates blood flow, exfoliates buildup. Use 2-3x weekly for scalp microbiome health.
Wide-tooth wooden comb: Ideal for detangling braids and preventing static electricity. Especially useful for curly or textured hair.
Accessories to Avoid: Metal clips, rubber bands, tight elastics, and plastic combs as they cause unnecessary stress and breakage.

“The cumulative impact of using the right accessories can’t be overstated,” notes hair care specialist Zahra Ahmed. “Switching from regular elastics to silk scrunchies alone can reduce breakage by up to 30% in just one month.”

Real Stories: Hijabi Women Share Their Hair Transformation

Noor’s Journey: From Thinning Hairline to Restored Growth

“I started wearing hijab in college and quickly noticed my hairline thinning dramatically. I would tie my hair into a bun on the top of my head and secure it with a regular elastic hair band. Then I’d cover my head with a polyester undercap, followed by the hijab. By senior year, the hair near my temples and front hairline had noticeably thinned.

The turning point came during a visit to my aunt, who noticed the thinning and immediately identified it as traction alopecia from how I styled my hijab. She imparted her wisdom on hair care: Wash once a week with sulfate-free shampoo, deep condition for 30 minutes with a rich mask and most importantly, completely change how I style my hair under hijab. I switched to low ponytails with silk scrunchies and started applying argan oil to my hairline 30 minutes before putting on the hijab. I also invested in silk undercaps instead of the polyester ones I had been using. The hardest one was washing just once a week. The hair felt super oily at first, but after about 3 weeks it actually stopped being so oily and became even less oily than before. After six months, I started noticing new growth around my hairline. Two years later, my hair density is back to normal.

The biggest lesson I learned from that experience is that prevention is so much easier than restoration. I wish I’d known from the start that the type of hair tie I use, the fabric of my undercap, or even how I position my style would affect my hair health.

Sara’s Scalp Renewal Story

“For years I struggled with what I thought was dandruff under my hijab. My scalp was always itchy, flaky and irritated, particularly in the summer months. I was washing my hair every other day with harsh anti-dandruff shampoos, assuming that more frequent washing would help. Instead, it continued to deteriorate. I brought it up to a dermatologist when I went in for an unrelated issue. The dermatologist explained that the barrier on my scalp was compromised due to over-washing and the synthetic undercap I wore was irritating my skin. The flakes weren’t dandruff. She suggested washing it once a week with a gentle sulfate-free shampoo and, most importantly, switching to cotton undercaps. She also advised me to do a weekly scalp oil treatment with Black Seed Oil, which has anti-inflammatory properties. The change wasn’t immediate, but after a month or so I noticed significantly less flaking. By three months, the itchiness had totally stopped. Now my scalp feels normal for the first time in years. I incorporated a scalp massager tool to ensure that the shampoo thoroughly cleanses my hair on wash days. What I wish I’d known earlier is that more washing doesn’t equal a cleaner, healthier scalp “under there.” Sometimes, less is more.”

Zahra Combines Old Wisdom & Modern Science

“Growing up in a South Asian family, I watched my mother and grandmother apply warm mustard oil to their hair before covering it,” she recalls. When I started wearing hijab regularly, my grandmother insisted that I keep my hair covered so that it would not “break under the scarf.” As a modern woman, I brushed it off as an old-fashioned view with no scientific basis. I wanted something quick and easy, so I ended up just buying some of the commercial products that promised to “repair” my hair. I wear a hijab and within a year, I noticed that my hair started breaking off where it rubbed against my hijab. I decided to take my grandma’s advice and try applying mustard oil about 30 minutes before I put on my hijab, mainly focusing on the hairline and ends. I coupled this with a sulfate-free shampoo and lightweight leave-in conditioner, two modern products I knew to be effective. The results were remarkable. Within weeks, I noticed less breakage when I took my hijab off. After several months, my hair felt much stronger and healthier. The oil creates a protective barrier against the friction of my hijab and it doesn’t weigh down my hair or make it feel greasy. It taught me to respect and appreciate our grandmothers’ wisdom because their experience-based advice is effective and practical. Now I’ve found my perfect routine by combining the two: mustard oil application and massage with scientifically formulated products.”

Conclusion & Downloadable Hair Care Routine Planner

In this guide, we’ve explored the challenges hijabi women face and the evidence-based solutions that will transform your hair health. With the right strategies, you can ensure that your hair remains healthy and beautiful while upholding your hijab commitments. Yet throughout this process, it’s essential to remember that everyone’s hair journey is highly individual. Embracing your differences and sharing milestones creates a sense of belonging, anchored in a wider tapestry of collective support.

Deep Condition Regularly: Restore moisture lost under coverage with 20+ minutes of treatment weekly.
Style Loosely: Use silk scrunchies and vary your part to prevent traction alopecia.
Apply Protective Oils: Use oils like mustard, argan, or black seed to reduce friction before wearing a hijab.
Select Breathable Fabrics: Choose cotton, silk, or linen for better scalp microbiome health.
Allow Your Scalp to Breathe: At home, let your scalp have time uncovered each day.
Adjust Seasonally: Lighter products in summer, richer moisturizing in winter.

If you experience severe hair loss, burning, tingling, or suspect a fungal infection—and adjusting your routine for 3–4 months hasn’t helped—consider consulting a dermatologist or trichologist knowledgeable about hijabi issues. Some health conditions may require professional assistance and possible microbiome testing.

Most importantly, always remember that taking care of your hair beneath the hijab is an act of self-care and respect for your body. The time you dedicate to developing a hair care routine is an act of self-care and respect that ensures you feel confident, comfortable, and beautiful. Connecting to shared experiences and drawing on personal hijab hair choices strengthens both routine commitment and a sense of community.

Weekly Hair Routine Checklist (specific to your hair type)
Seasonal Product Swap Guide
Monthly Scalp Health Monitoring Sheet
Hair-Type Specific Adjustment Sheet (Curly, Straight and Textured)

Let’s continue supporting each other as sisters and share tips on how to maintain healthy hair under our scarves. Building these bonds—while drawing from evidence, tradition, and your own experience—forms a path for enduring hair health and well-being. Sharing insights and lending support can begin in your own circles or extend into wider networks, such as those found in a hijab hair support community, where firsthand stories and practical solutions are always ongoing.