How exactly does a deep oiling affect hair?

[HintOfMint]

Say I slather my hair in coconut or olive oil before a wash. What does this accomplish? It's not the same as putting oil on wet hair to seal in moisture, so what does the oil soak do? Is it to mitigate any harshness the shampoo may have? What on earth does it do?

[ktani]

Say I slather my hair in coconut or olive oil before a wash. What does this accomplish? It's not the same as putting oil on wet hair to seal in moisture, so what does the oil soak do? Is it to mitigate any harshness the shampoo may have? What on earth does it do?

This thread (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showthread.php?t=53786) may help. There are links to information and another thread on oils too.

[jaine]

all it does for me is make a head-sized oil stain on my bed sheets...zero effect on my hair :p