We’ve all seen it. The TikToks. The Reels. The heated debates. “No oils, no butters!” has become a rallying cry across the textured hair community. But what’s the truth? Let’s talk about it.
Some say oils and butters are the enemy. But cutting them out completely? That’s not the answer. When used lightly and at the right moment, oils and butters can protect and support your strands, not work against them.
So grab your spray bottle and let’s break it down. We’re sharing the facts on moisture, hydration, and why a little oil or butter can still play a helpful role in your textured hair routine.
Water is the only real moisturiser
Your strands need water. Water is the only true moisturiser. Oils and butters don’t hydrate because they aren’t water. But applied after hydration, they help slow down the loss of moisture. Think of them as your crown’s personal shield, holding in the goodness you’ve added.
The formula is simple: start with water or a water-based product, then apply a small amount of oil or butter to gently seal it in. Your hair will thank you.
How the no oils, no butters trend started
This trend started when some in our community overloaded their strands with heavy oils and butters without adding water first. The result? Dry, brittle strands that felt anything but nourished.
The problem wasn’t the products, it was skipping hydration. Oils and butters applied to dry hair only block moisture from getting in. That frustration led some to ditch oils and butters altogether. But used sparingly after hydration? They can absolutely complement your healthy hair routine.
Your textured hair loves hydration and sealing
The magic happens when hydration and sealing work together. Here’s the simple approach:
- Step 1: Hydrate – apply water or a water-based leave-in to nourish your strands.
- Step 2: Seal – if your hair calls for it, smooth on a small amount of oil or butter to help lock in that moisture.
Every crown is unique. Some strands may not need sealing every single time. Others, especially in colder climates or after wash days, may benefit from a light touch of protection. Listen to your hair, it always knows.
The benefits of using oils and butters with care
Used sparingly and intentionally, oils and butters can offer major benefits, they:
- help reduce moisture loss so your curls, coils, kinks and waves stay soft, defined and vibrant
- protect strands from breakage, friction, harsh weather, and heat styling
- nourish your scalp with light oils like jojoba or almond to calm, soothe, and add natural shine
- support overall hair health by providing a protective barrier over your strands
Listen to your hair
There’s no one-size-fits-all rulebook. Your crown tells you what it needs. No influencer, viral trend, or product knows your hair better than you. Test what works, whether that’s hydration-only or hydration with a light seal and celebrate your hair on every step of its journey.
The golden rule? Hydration first. Water comes first. Always. Then decide if a small amount of oil or butter enhances your moisture routine.
Bottom line: protect, nourish, celebrate
Oils and butters are not the villain. The no oils, no butters message? It started with good intentions, but the full picture was lost.
At CURLYTREATS, we believe in balance, love, and community. Don’t be afraid of your favourite shea butter, castor oil, or avocado oil.
Use them thoughtfully: lightly, after hydration and let your crown thrive on your terms. Every curl, coil, kink, and wave deserves to be celebrated. You are seen. You are celebrated. You are CURLYTREATS.
