Frequently Asked Questions

Got a question about our cold pressed oils, honey, or seeds? You’re in the right place. From “which oil is best for hair fall” to how we press, store, and ship every product, we’ve answered the questions our customers across Pakistan ask us most, no fluff, just straight answers so you can pick the right product with confidence.

COLD PRESSED OILS | FAQs

01 Which is better for hair fall — onion oil or castor oil?

Quick Answer: Both help, but in different ways. Onion Seed Oil is popular for improving scalp circulation and reducing shedding, while Castor Oil is thicker and better at reducing breakage. Many people in Pakistan use both together.

Onion seed oil is lighter and works well when hair fall is linked to a dry, under-nourished scalp — it's typically massaged in for circulation. Castor oil is much thicker and richer, and works more like a protective coat that reduces snapping and breakage rather than stimulating new growth directly. If your hair fall is from brittle, breaking strands, castor oil tends to help more. If it's from scalp dryness or thinning, onion seed oil is usually the better starting point. Using both — onion oil closer to the scalp, castor oil on lengths — is a common combination.

02 How long does castor oil take to show hair growth results?

Quick Answer: Most people notice hair feeling stronger within 6–8 weeks of consistent use. Visible improvements in thickness or length usually take 3–4 months.

Hair grows in cycles, so any change at the follicle level takes time to become visible above the scalp — typically 8–12 weeks minimum. In the early weeks, castor oil mainly helps by reducing breakage and improving scalp hydration, which makes hair look and feel healthier faster than it actually "grows." For real thickness or length changes, most people need 3 to 4 months of regular, consistent use (2–3 times a week), not daily. It works best alongside a healthy diet and shouldn't be expected to fix hair loss caused by hormonal or genetic factors on its own.

Related: Cold Pressed Castor Oil

03 How long should castor oil be left in the hair before washing?

Quick Answer: 1–2 hours is enough for most people. Overnight is fine occasionally, but not necessary for results.

Castor oil is thick, so it doesn't need as long as lighter oils to work — 1 to 2 hours gives it enough time to coat the hair shaft and soften the scalp. Leaving it on overnight can help with very dry or damaged hair, but should be covered (with a scarf or old pillowcase, since it can stain fabric) and shouldn't be left on for more than 24–48 hours, as it can attract dust and lead to buildup on the scalp. Wash it out with a mild shampoo — it usually takes two washes to fully remove.

Related: Cold Pressed Castor Oil

04 Can hair oil completely stop hair fall?

Quick Answer: No — oil can reduce breakage and support scalp health, but it can't stop hair fall caused by hormones, genetics, or medical conditions.

Hair fall usually comes from more than one cause — stress, hormonal shifts, nutritional gaps, dandruff, or genetics (pattern hair loss). Cold pressed oils like onion seed or castor oil genuinely help with the scalp-related and breakage side of things: better hydration, stronger strands, less snapping. But they don't block DHT or fix thyroid or nutritional issues. If hair fall is sudden, heavy, or in patches, oiling alone won't be enough — it's worth seeing a dermatologist alongside using natural oils as a supportive routine.

05 How many times a week should I oil my hair for best results?

Quick Answer: 2–3 times a week is ideal for most oils. Daily oiling isn't necessary and can lead to buildup.

Oiling 2 to 3 times a week gives your scalp enough nourishment without clogging follicles or attracting dust and grime — which itself can cause dandruff and hair fall. Thicker oils like castor oil especially don't need daily use; twice a week with a proper wash afterward is enough to see results over a few months. Lighter oils (like jojoba or argan) can be used slightly more often since they absorb faster and leave less residue.

06 Is it okay to leave oil on overnight, or does it cause damage?

Quick Answer: Occasional overnight oiling is fine, but doing it regularly can attract dust and clog follicles, which may actually worsen hair fall.

Leaving oil on for more than 8 hours regularly gives it time to attract dust, sweat, and environmental grime, especially in Pakistan's dustier cities — this buildup can clog follicles and lead to dandruff or scalp irritation over time, working against the very goal of reducing hair fall. If you do want to leave oil on overnight occasionally, tie your hair up and cover it, and make sure to wash it out properly the next morning. For regular routines, 1–2 hours before a wash is usually the safer, more effective choice.

07 Which oil is best for postpartum (after-delivery) hair fall?

Quick Answer: Onion Seed Oil is a gentle, popular choice for postpartum hair fall, since it supports scalp circulation without being too heavy.

Postpartum hair fall is usually driven by hormonal shifts after delivery and tends to settle on its own within 6–12 months as hormones stabilise. During this period, a lightweight, circulation-supporting oil like onion seed oil is a gentle way to keep the scalp nourished without adding extra weight to already-shedding hair. Castor oil can be added for extra strand strength, but should be used sparingly, as new mothers often already have enough on their plate without a heavy haircare routine. Diet and rest matter just as much as the oil during this phase.

Related: Cold Pressed Onion Seed Oil

08 How effective is black seed oil for hair fall and hair density?

Quick Answer: Black seed oil is well regarded for supporting scalp health and hair density, thanks to its natural antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

Black seed (kalonji) oil is rich in thymoquinone, a compound known for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that support a healthy scalp environment. Some small studies have shown improved hair density and thickness with regular use, particularly for hair thinning linked to scalp inflammation or dandruff, rather than genetic hair loss. It works best when massaged into the scalp and left for 30–60 minutes before washing, used 2–3 times a week. Like other natural oils, results build gradually over weeks, not days.

Related: Cold Pressed Black Seed Oil

09 How do I reduce the strong smell of onion oil after applying it?

Quick Answer: Mix a few drops of a lighter oil (like jojoba or argan) into your onion oil, and always wash it out with a mild, fragranced shampoo.

Pure onion seed oil has a naturally strong sulphur smell, which is actually a sign it hasn't been diluted or masked with synthetic fragrance. Blending it with a lighter carrier oil like jojoba or argan cuts the smell without reducing the benefits much. A thorough double-shampoo, followed by a light conditioner, usually removes most of the lingering smell. Adding a drop of tea tree oil to your shampoo wash can also help neutralise odour while adding its own scalp benefits.

10 Does Lahore/Karachi's humid weather make hair oiling more or less effective?

Quick Answer: Humidity doesn't reduce an oil's effectiveness, but it does mean you should use lighter amounts and wash it out sooner to avoid buildup.

In humid weather, sweat and moisture on the scalp mix with oil more easily, which can make hair feel greasier faster and attract more dust if left in too long. This doesn't reduce how well the oil works — it just means shorter oiling sessions (1–2 hours instead of overnight) and lighter oils like jojoba or argan may feel more comfortable day-to-day than heavier oils like castor. In Pakistan's drier winter months, richer oils like coconut or almond tend to work better for the extra dryness.

11 Is cold pressed oil healthier than the refined oil sold in local stores?

Quick Answer: Generally yes — cold pressed oil keeps more of its natural vitamins and antioxidants, since it's extracted without heat or chemicals.

Most refined oils sold in regular stores go through high-heat processing, bleaching, and chemical solvent extraction (often using hexane), which strips away much of the natural Vitamin E, antioxidants, and fatty acids the seed originally had. Cold pressing skips all of that — the oil is mechanically pressed at low temperature, so it retains its natural colour, aroma, and nutrition. That said, the healthiest choice also depends on the type of oil itself, not just the extraction method — a cold pressed oil from a nutrient-rich seed will always outperform a heavily refined version of the same oil.

12 Can cold pressed oil be used for daily Pakistani cooking (frying, karahi, etc.)?

Quick Answer: Some can — our cold pressed Mustard and Olive Oils are cooking-grade — but not every oil in our hair/skin range is meant for the kitchen.

Cold pressed oils vary in their smoke point (the temperature at which an oil starts to burn and lose quality), so not all of them are suited for high-heat frying. Our dedicated cold pressed cooking oils, like Mustard and Olive Oil, are extracted and bottled specifically for cooking use, and work well for daily karahi, tadka, and everyday meals while keeping more natural flavour and nutrients than refined cooking oil. Oils meant for hair and skin — like onion seed, castor, or argan — aren't intended for the kitchen.

Related: Cold Pressed Cooking Oils

13 Why is cold pressed oil more expensive than regular oil in Pakistan?

Quick Answer: Cold pressing produces less oil per batch and takes more time and better-quality seeds, which naturally makes it pricier than mass-refined oil.

Refined oil extraction uses chemical solvents to pull out almost every drop of oil from seeds quickly and cheaply, which is why it dominates supermarket shelves at low prices. Cold pressing is a slower, mechanical process that yields less oil from the same amount of seed, and requires higher-quality raw seeds to begin with since there's no chemical step to "clean up" a lower-grade batch. The price difference reflects that extra seed quantity, time, and quality — not a markup on branding.

14 What's the shelf life of cold pressed oil, and how should it be stored in Pakistan's hot climate?

Quick Answer: Most cold pressed oils last around 6–12 months if stored in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat.

Because cold pressed oils don't contain artificial preservatives, they're more sensitive to heat and light than refined oils — which matters especially during Pakistan's hot summer months. Store your bottle away from direct sunlight, stove heat, or a hot kitchen windowsill; a cupboard or pantry works best. Some oils, especially lighter ones like flax or chia seed oil, benefit from refrigeration once opened to extend freshness. Always close the cap tightly after use to limit air exposure, which speeds up oxidation.

Related: Cold Pressed Oil Collection

15 Does cold pressed oil expire or turn rancid — how can you tell?

Quick Answer: Yes, it can turn rancid over time. A sour, musty, or "off" smell and a change in colour or taste are the main signs.

Rancidity happens when the natural fats in the oil break down from exposure to air, light, or heat — this is more likely with cold pressed oils since they lack chemical preservatives. Fresh cold pressed oil should smell close to its source (nutty, earthy, or slightly sharp depending on the seed) and have a consistent colour. If it smells sour, paint-like, or bitter, or tastes noticeably different from when you bought it, it's best to discard it rather than use it on skin, hair, or in food.

Related: Cold Pressed Oil Collection

16 How does black seed (kalonji) oil benefit skin and hair?

Quick Answer: Black seed oil supports scalp health, may reduce dandruff, and helps calm irritated or acne-prone skin thanks to its antioxidant and antibacterial properties.

Black seed oil's key active compound, thymoquinone, gives it strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. On the scalp, this can help reduce dandruff and support a healthier environment for hair growth, while on skin it's often used to calm redness, acne, and irritation. It's a multi-purpose oil — some people use it topically on hair and skin, others take small amounts internally for general wellness, though a patch test is recommended before regular topical use given its strength.

Related: Cold Pressed Black Seed Oil

17 Which oil is best for dandruff and an itchy scalp?

Quick Answer: Tea Tree Oil is the most commonly recommended option — its natural purifying properties help calm an irritated, flaky scalp.

Tea tree oil has natural antifungal and antibacterial properties, which makes it especially useful for dandruff caused by scalp buildup or fungal overgrowth rather than just dryness. Since it's quite potent, it's usually mixed a few drops at a time into a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba rather than applied directly. Black seed oil is a good secondary option if the itching is linked more to inflammation than fungal buildup.

18 Which oil is best for dry, frizzy hair — common in Pakistan's dry winters?

Quick Answer: Coconut Oil is the go-to for dry, frizzy hair — it's deeply moisturising and helps tame flyaways, especially in winter.

Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid, which allows it to penetrate the hair shaft more effectively than many other oils, helping to reduce protein loss and lock in moisture. This makes it particularly useful during Pakistan's dry winter months when hair tends to lose moisture and frizz more easily. Almond oil is a good lighter alternative if coconut oil feels too heavy for your hair type, offering similar hydration with less weight.

19 Which oil is best for oily or acne-prone skin in Pakistan's summer heat?

Quick Answer: Jojoba Oil is the top pick — its texture closely mimics natural skin oil, so it hydrates without adding extra grease.

Jojoba oil is technically a liquid wax that closely resembles sebum, the oil your skin naturally produces — this makes it less likely to clog pores compared to heavier oils, even in Pakistan's humid summer heat when oily skin tends to act up more. It can actually help balance oil production over time rather than adding to it. For acne-specific concerns, a light layer of black seed oil applied to problem areas can also help calm breakouts thanks to its antibacterial properties.

20 Argan oil vs Jojoba oil — which one should I pick?

Quick Answer: Argan oil is richer and better for dry skin/hair shine, while Jojoba oil is lighter and better for oily skin or fine hair.

Both are popular lightweight facial oils, but they suit slightly different needs. Argan oil is higher in fatty acids and Vitamin E, making it better suited for adding shine to dry hair ends or deeply hydrating dry skin. Jojoba oil is closer in texture to the skin's own natural oil, so it absorbs faster, feels less greasy, and works well for oily or acne-prone skin, or fine hair that gets weighed down easily. If you're unsure, jojoba is the safer everyday pick; argan is better for targeted, richer nourishment.

21 Does almond oil help with dark circles or under-eye skin?

Quick Answer: Almond oil is commonly used under the eyes for its gentle, deeply moisturising properties, which can help skin look less dull and dry.

Almond oil is rich in Vitamin E and fatty acids, which makes it gentle enough for the thin skin around the eyes. Regularly massaging a small amount under the eyes before bed can help with dryness and give the area a slightly brighter, less tired appearance over time. It's worth noting that dark circles are often caused by genetics, pigmentation, or lack of sleep, so oil alone won't fully remove them — but it can support smoother, better-hydrated skin in that area.

Related: Cold Pressed Almond Oil

22 Why is sesame (til) oil traditionally used for body massage in South Asia?

Quick Answer: Sesame oil is warming, lightweight, and easily absorbed — qualities that have made it a staple massage oil across South Asia for generations.

In traditional desi and Ayurvedic wellness practices, sesame oil is valued for its slightly warming effect on the body and its ability to penetrate the skin quickly without feeling too heavy. It's rich in antioxidants like sesamol, which support skin health with regular use. Many households use it for full-body massage, especially in winter, both for the physical relaxation benefit and as part of a long-standing cultural wellness routine.

Related: Cold Pressed Sesame Oil

23 Which has more Omega-3 — flax seed oil or chia seed oil?

Quick Answer: Both are excellent sources, but Flax Seed Oil generally has a slightly higher concentration of Omega-3 fatty acids per serving.

Flax seed oil is one of the richest plant-based sources of Omega-3 (specifically ALA), often used as a daily supplement for heart and skin health. Chia seed oil is close behind and offers a similar fatty acid profile, along with additional antioxidants. Both are cold pressed at low temperature specifically to preserve these delicate fats, since heat easily damages Omega-3 content. Either is a solid choice — flax if Omega-3 is your main priority, chia if you also want a slightly higher antioxidant boost.

24 Is mustard (sarson) oil good for hair, or only for cooking?

Quick Answer: Mustard oil works for both, but our hair-use Cold Pressed Mustard Oil and our cooking-grade Mustard Cooking Oil are bottled separately for each purpose.

Mustard oil has long been used in South Asian households for scalp massage, valued for boosting circulation and its natural antibacterial properties that help prevent scalp infections. It also has a long history as a cooking oil, adding a distinct pungent flavour to traditional dishes. At Desi Grains, we bottle mustard oil in two separate lines — one intended for hair and scalp use, and a dedicated cooking-grade version — so always check the product page to pick the right one for your purpose.

25 Can coconut oil cause protein overload if used too often on hair?

Quick Answer: It's possible with very frequent use on already protein-rich hair, leading to stiffness or breakage — moderate, regular use is safer.

Coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft more deeply than most oils because of its lauric acid content, which is usually a benefit — but for some hair types, especially fine or low-porosity hair, using it too often without balancing moisture can lead to a stiff, straw-like feeling known as protein overload. Using it 1–2 times a week rather than daily, and following up with a moisturising conditioner, helps avoid this. If your hair starts feeling unusually dry or brittle despite oiling, switching to a lighter oil like almond or jojoba for a few weeks usually helps it recover.

26 Can I mix two oils together, like onion oil and castor oil?

Quick Answer: Yes, mixing oils is common and often more effective — combining a lighter oil with a richer one covers more benefits at once.

Blending oils lets you combine benefits — for example, onion seed oil for scalp circulation with castor oil for strand strength, or jojoba oil to lighten the texture of a heavier oil like castor. There's no strict rule on ratios; a common approach is roughly equal parts, adjusted based on how your scalp feels. Just introduce one new oil at a time initially so you can tell if a reaction comes from a specific ingredient.

27 Does daily oiling make hair look greasy, especially in humid weather?

Quick Answer: Yes, daily oiling — especially with heavier oils — can leave hair looking greasy faster in humid weather. Lighter oils or less frequent use helps.

Heavier oils like castor or coconut sit on the hair surface longer and, combined with natural humidity and sweat, can build up and look greasy within a day. Switching to a lighter oil like jojoba or argan for regular use, and saving richer oils for a weekly deep-conditioning treatment before a wash, usually solves this. Applying oil mainly to the scalp and lengths — rather than the roots and hairline — also helps it look less oily day-to-day.

28 How can I tell if a cold pressed oil bought online in Pakistan is genuinely pure and not adulterated?

Quick Answer: Genuine cold pressed oil has a natural colour, distinct smell, and slight variation between batches — unlike refined oil, which is visually uniform and often odourless.

Adulterated or fake "cold pressed" oil is often diluted with cheaper refined oil to cut costs, which tends to result in a lighter colour, weaker smell, and unusually long shelf life. Real cold pressed oil should smell close to its raw ingredient (onion seed oil should smell like onion, mustard oil should be pungent, and so on), and its colour and consistency may vary slightly from batch to batch since nothing is standardised through chemical processing. Buying from a source that presses in small batches — rather than mass-produced stock — is the safest way to ensure purity.

Related: About Desi Grains

29 Why is a patch test important before using a new oil on skin or scalp?

Quick Answer: A patch test helps catch allergic reactions — like redness, itching, or irritation — before applying the oil to a larger area.

Even natural, chemical-free oils can trigger a reaction in some people, especially stronger oils like black seed, tea tree, or onion seed oil. To patch test, apply a small amount to your inner wrist or behind your ear and wait 24 hours, checking for redness, itching, or swelling. This is especially worth doing with a new oil for the first time, or before using it on a child, since skin sensitivity varies from person to person regardless of how "natural" the ingredient is.

Related: Cold Pressed Oil Collection

30 Which oil is best for eyelash, eyebrow, or beard growth?

Quick Answer: Castor Oil is the most popular choice — its thick, nutrient-dense texture is widely used for lashes, brows, and beard care.

Castor oil's rich consistency and ricinoleic acid content make it a favourite for grooming routines beyond scalp hair — it's commonly applied to eyelashes, eyebrows, and beards to support thicker, healthier-looking growth over time. Apply a small amount with a clean spoolie brush or cotton swab before bed, being careful to avoid direct contact with the eyes. As with scalp use, results build gradually over 6–12 weeks of consistent, light application rather than overnight.

Related: Cold Pressed Castor Oil