The Softening

AYURVEDIC PRE-SHAMPOO HAIR OIL

$39.95

✓ Ayurvedic herbs ✓ Clinically proven actives
Less than 1% of our customers use our money-back guarantee
Powered by RootBioTec™ and Redensyl
Formulated with Ayurveda
Lightweight almond oil base

Gina says: "When life gets rough, you soften. And when your scalp's feeling parched, irritated, or just plain tired of coconut oil, you reach for The Softening."

This is your slow ritual. The calm before the glow-up.

A nourishing Ayurvedic hair oil blended with Bhringraj, Amla, Pumpkin Seed and Jatamansi alongside Rootbiotec and Redensyl. Ancient wisdom with a clinical upgrade.

Massage it in. Take your time. Let the softness do its thing.

Pairs with The Reckoning for the full ritual.

Dropper Bottle. 50ml / 1.69 fl.oz | Made in India

Allergen information: Contains Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus Dulcis), a tree nut derivative. Not suitable for those with nut allergies. Also contains Limonene and Linalool naturally occurring in Black Pepper and Kalonji Essential Oils. Patch test before use. Avoid contact with eyes.

How to Use
  • Use 2-3 droppers on the scalp by sectioning your hair. Massage well. A good 10 minute massage helps with the blood flow.
  • Use another 2-3 droppers on the strands for conditioning and shine. Massage gently with praying hands.
  • For added shine and boost, wrap a warm towel or sit in the sauna.
  • Wash as usualy after an hour or two.
What Makes This Different

The Softening is an Ayurvedic hair oil that is based on Almond and Jojoba oil, so it doesn't build up like coconut oil. It also has clincally backed actives like Rootbiotec and Redensyl that may help reduce hair shedding.

Our Standards

Damn Gina products are thoroughly tested and ingredients are used at a meaningful dose that helps better the health of hair and scalp. Sulfate, Silicone and paraben free. Not tested on animals.

Allergy Info

Contains Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus Dulcis), a tree nut derivative. Not suitable for those with nut allergies. Also contains Limonene and Linalool naturally occurring in Black Pepper and Kalonji Essential Oils. Patch test before use. Avoid contact with eyes.

Packed With

Clinically Studied Actives
Antioxidants
Flavonoids
Polyphenols
Oleic Acids
Vitamins
Ayurvedic Botanicals
Soothing Actives

Key Ingredients

RootBioTec

Patented active, the first of its kind in a hair oil. Clinically shown to reduce hair shedding and stimulate hair bulb regeneration at the cellular level.

Amla

Ayurvedic cornerstone. Vitamin C-rich, strengthens the cortex, adds shine that looks like genetics.

Jatamansi

One of Ayurveda's most revered herbs. Promotes hair growth, calms scalp inflammation and a natural mood booster. Your wash day just got better.

Pumpkin Seed Oil

Delta-7 sterols and zinc. One of the few natural oils with human trial data behind it.

Sweet Almond

High in oleic acid, penetrates the hair shaft not just coats it. Doesn't solidify in cold temperatures unlike coconut oil.

Marula Oil

Rich in oleic and linoleic acid. Lightweight nourishment, lighter than coconut, more refined than most.

Bhringraj

The Ayurvedic gold standard for hair growth. Used for centuries, included here for good reason.

Saw Palmetto

Naturally inhibits DHT at the scalp level. Keeps follicles active and healthy.

How to Use

Step 1
Step 1

Brush your hair before applying the oil. Once brushed, squeeze the dropper to get a full dropper of oil.

Step 2
Step 2

Make multiple parts and use the dropper to oil these parts one by one. The whole scalp will take about 2-3 droppers. Use another dropper full of oil on the strands for conditioning.

Step 3
Step 3

Massage the scalp for 8-10 minutes to improve circulation. Tie your hair. Do not brush again. Shampoo as usual after an hour. You can keep the oil on longer but we don't recommend sleeping with it.

The Softening — lifestyle 1
The Softening — lifestyle 2
The Softening — lifestyle 3

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I use The Softening?
1 to 2 times per week on the days you wash your hair. Consistency is everything with Ayurvedic hair care.
How do I use it?
Start by dry brushing your hair to remove any knots before applying. Then apply 2 to 3 pipettes directly to the scalp and 1 to 2 pipettes through the lengths depending on your hair thickness. Massage into the scalp for 5 to 10 minutes and leave on for 2 to 3 hours before washing out. Do not brush your hair once the oil is applied.
How do I massage my scalp properly?
Use your fingertips, not your nails. Start at the base of the skull and work forward in small circular motions. Pay attention to the marma points — Adhipati at the crown, Sthapani between the brows, and Vidhura behind the ears. These are the pressure points Ayurveda has always known stimulate circulation and calm the nervous system. Take your time. This is the ritual.
Will it make my hair greasy?
It is an oil so it does oil things. Apply before washing and shampoo out as normal. Unlike coconut oil it won't solidify or sit heavily on the hair shaft.
How long until I see results?
Most people notice softer, stronger hair within 2 to 4 weeks of consistent use.
What makes this different from other Ayurvedic oils?
RootBioTec, a patented active clinically shown to reduce hair shedding and stimulate hair bulb regeneration at the cellular level. Not commonly found in Ayurvedic oils.
Full ingredient list
Prunus Dulcis (Almond Oil), Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides, Emblica Officinalis (Amla Oil), Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin Seed Oil), Ocimum Basilicum Hairy Root Culture Extract, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Eclipta Alba (Bhringraj Oil), Nardostachys Jatamansi (Jatamansi Oil), Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula Oil), Serenoa Repens (Saw Palmetto Oil), PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Tocopherol Acetate, Natural Vitamin E, Piper Nigrum (Black Pepper Essential Oil), Nigella Sativa (Kalonji Essential Oil), Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary Essential Oil), Glycerin, Aqua, Sodium Metabisulfite, Larix Europaea Wood Extract, Glycine, Zinc Chloride, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract
  • 5 stars: 13 (100%)
  • 4 stars: 0 (0%)
  • 3 stars: 0 (0%)
  • 2 stars: 0 (0%)
  • 1 star: 0 (0%)
Some of the reviews shown are from related products the merchant grouped with this one.
N
Netra (Melbourne, AU)
New hair growth at 68 years

I am writing this on behalf of my wife. She was one of the few people who received the product pre-launch and started using the Reckoning serum once every day and she wants me to tell you that she is a skeptic. But this serum surprised her and surpassed her expectations. Her hair shedding has reduced from a hair brush full of hair to 1-2 strands after first 2 weeks of use. The hair feels thicker. lots of baby hair and the scalp is no longer visible. The best part according to her is the non greasy formulation as it doesn't stain her pillowcase. Will be using this for life.

A
Abhi (Melbourne, AU)
Actually worked for my thinning spot

I had a noticeable bald patch on the top of my head. I’ve been using Hair Serum for 4 weeks, applying it daily. Also applying hair oil every week. Now the bald patch has reduced significantly! I’m really impressed with the results.

B
Brittany (Sydney, AU)
A serum that does it all

After going through a pretty rough hair loss phase. I had been trying serum after serum trying to see what would work because I felt so self-conscious about my hair. I started using the reckoning serum and it's given me confidence in my hair again, it's looking so much fuller and thicker! Would recommend!

R
Rabea N (Melbourne, AU)
Nourishment for your hair!

I've bought the set a few months ago and my hair has never looked so healthy and shiny, even throughout the cold winter in Central Victoria. Last year, e.g., my scalp was so itchy from the heated, dry indoor air. This year not once was it itchy but rather the opposite: calm and happy! I use the oil only every ten days or so, because with two young kids in the house I simly forget to apply it on days when I'm planning to shampoo my hair. It still works a treat but I can definitely tell when I've used it because my hair is just so vibrant! The serum is wonderful, too. My cowlicks (due to pregnancy related hair loss) are filling up now and my hair feels stronger. It does look like it has a bit more body (I have very fine, wavy hair) and I feel like this is due to being more nourished. I love the comeback kid and can only highly recommend it! Especially when your hair looks a bit tired and worn out, it'll do just what the name promises: a glorious come back!

A
Alexandra Carranza (Sydney, AU)
Such nice smell and texture

Such nice smell and texture. Can confirm that it didnt weight down my (fine) hair. Cant confirm that i can see its benefits already since I am still in my first month

N
Nat (Melbourne, AU)
Does exactly what it says

I bought this mostly for the hair growth serum with peptides. I'll get to that, but first I have to talk about the oil. It's incredible! I honestly don't know how to describe how beautiful it is. It's light but nourishing, and my scalp actually feels taken care of for once. This one is going to be a staple for me for a long, long time.
Now the serum. What a treat!My hair goes into shedding mode every winter, and this year I finally decided to do something about it. The ingredients looked really promising, so I bit the bullet and gave it a go. It completely lives up to the hype. I've been a fan of Damn Gina hats for years, never doubted the quality of their new launch, but these are some sophisticated formulations. I'm genuinely excited to have a shed-free winter this time around.

K
Kelly (Melbourne, AU)
I've been taking GLP1 and experiencing some hair shedding

I've been taking GLP1 and experiencing some hair shedding so I gave The Reckoning product a whirl to encourage new growth and maintain thickness. It's been several weeks and I'm definitely seeing a difference. Love that it's a non-greasy formula too!

M
Matilda (Sydney, AU)
The oil has helped my split ends!

Been using the softening oil for a few months every week and I've noticed my hair needs less washes and is noticeably softer!
I struggle with split ends, living in a coastal town and swimming a lot during summer, I usually have to cut a few inches off, but I've found the health of my hair to have improved since last summer and haven't had to do a big chop!

L
Lisa (Melbourne, AU)
Love it

After losing my Mother suddenly and then requiring surgery, the grief, stress and anaesthetic that was in my body took it's toll this year and the hair loss that came with it was overwhelming.

After much research on different shampoos and treatments, it was exhausting to learn about what we as women put on our scalps and what is being absorbed, is half the problem and I was not interested in anything toxic.

To think that a product called "The Reckoning" came across my Instagram page and had caffeine and copper tripeptide in it, two of the most important ingredients that a woman can put on her scalp pre and post menopausal and are completely non-toxic.
After one month my hair loss had stopped, the sprouting of new hair is amazing and I am so grateful to you Gina for creating such a beautiful organic hair serum that I will continue to use.

J
Jonathan A (Singapore, SG)
Worth it

I am 45 and started noticing some thinning, so I tried The Reckoning, honestly I have been impressed. It is lightweight, absorbs quickly, and doesn’t leave any greasy feel. After a few weeks, my hair felt stronger, and I noticed less shedding. It also looks a bit fuller and healthier overall. Easy to use and fits into my routine. I will come back after 6 months of use and looking forward for more changes!

C
Cara (Melbourne, AU)
Pleasantly surprised!

I'm a skeptic when it comes to hair growth serums, but I've had many positive experiences with Ayurveda, which is what prompted me to try this product.
It's been less than a month, and I've used the serum consistently every single day. The most dramatic improvement I've noticed is in hair fall. I'm losing significantly less hair.
As for actual hair growth, I'm not 100% sure if it's my imagination or genuine baby hair coming through, but I'm willing to give it a few more months before I decide.
I'll update this review with my findings. For now, 10/10, highly recommend.

A
Aksh (Singapore, SG)
Noticed baby hairs within weeks

I have been using The Reckoning hair serum for a few weeks now and really happy with it. My hair feels stronger and looks a bit fuller, with less breakage than before. I have even started noticing little baby hair coming in, which is a great sign.Going to be commited to this routine and can’t wait to see the results in 6 months. It is lightweight and not greasy at all.

S
Sophia (Melbourne, AU)
Best hair oil I’ve ever used

I am so surprised! My hair is so soft and feels so healthy even after one use. I have fine hair and it’s hard to find a oil that suits my hair without making it too oily and heavy. This is hands down the best oil I’ve used and I’m excited to see how my hair changes with consistent use overtime!