How the 'Wet Hair' trend has normalised going out with oily hair

For decades, young desi girls were taught to hide their oiled hair before stepping out. The glossy roots, the slick forehead, the damp lengths, what we now call the wet hair aesthetic used to spell ‘lazy’ or ‘too traditional.’ But times have changed. Fast.

What was once seen as a sign of skipping wash day is now front-row fashion. The champi aftermath that had us ducking behind scarves and buns has become the hottest beauty flex, all thanks to Gen Z’s love for cultural reclamation and a little help from Bollywood’s leading ladies.

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It started with the humble sleek bun, a red-carpet staple worn with everything from couture lehengas to power suits. Then came the mermaid waves and glassy lengths. Celebs like Janhvi Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Deepika Padukone have been turning heads with damp, oiled-up hairstyles that look intentional, luxurious and editorial-ready.

These aren’t messy ‘just showered’ looks. They’re carefully crafted to be bold yet minimal, with stylists using oils, gels, and sprays to create that coveted wet sheen. Whether it’s Alia’s centre-parted bun at a film promo or Deepika’s gelled-back ponytail at Cannes, the message is loud and clear: wet is in.

From taboo to trend: A cultural shift

There’s something quietly revolutionary about celebrating a look our mothers once begged us to hide. Growing up, oiled hair was associated with schooldays, at-home Sundays, or awkward family functions. It wasn’t cool. It wasn’t aspirational. And it certainly wasn’t stylish.

But Gen Z, always hungry to reframe identity, has flipped the narrative. In an era where authenticity and roots matter more than ever, beauty is becoming a tool for cultural pride. Slicked-back, wet hair isn’t just a trend; it’s a statement of embracing tradition with a modern twist.

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Functional, fashionable and fiercely intentional

The best part? This trend isn’t just aesthetic. It’s functional. Hair oiling is rooted in Indian wellness practices that promote scalp health, reduce breakage, and encourage growth. By glamorizing the oiled look, we’re also breaking beauty norms that make self-care feel like something to hide.

The wet hair trend is low-maintenance, humidity-proof, and versatile enough to pair with both Indian and Western wear. It’s also gender-neutral, with male celebrities and influencers jumping on the trend too.

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Hair oiling just got a glow-up

So, is the ‘wet hair look’ here to stay? Absolutely! From runways to reels, this trend is more than just a fleeting fashion moment; it’s a quiet rebellion against outdated beauty standards.

Whether it’s for a night out or a casual workday, going out with oiled or slicked hair now signals confidence, style, and cultural pride. And honestly? We’d love to see it.