Best Hair Oil for Healthy Hair and Scalp

The best hair oils for hair growth and scalp health vary depending on your hair type and specific needs.

If you’re here, you might be struggling with hair loss, dealing with a botched haircut, or simply looking for ways to make your hair grow faster. To find the best oil for hair growth, we first need to consider your scalp type because healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp.

In this post, we’ll categorize the best hair oils for hair growth based on scalp type so you can choose the right one for your hair.

How to Use Hair Oil for a Healthy Hair and Scalp

Before we dive into the best hair oils for different hair types, I want to share a quick guide on how to use them effectively. This is based on my personal experience and everything I’ve learned along the way in my hair care journey.

Hair oiling has been around for centuries, with deep roots in Ayurvedic practices, Ancient Egyptian rituals, and Chinese medicine. People have used natural oils to nourish their hair, promote growth, and protect the scalp from damage long before modern hair care products existed.

Carrier Oils vs. Essential Oils

There are two key components in hair oiling: carrier oils and essential oils. I like to think of essential oils as the active ingredients in a hair care routine, they deliver potent, concentrated nutrients that target specific concerns like scalp dryness, dandruff, or hair thinning. However, since they’re super strong on their own, they need to be diluted with carrier oils, which act as a base and provide their own nourishing benefits.

The best way to create a custom hair oil blend is to:

1. Choose a carrier oil based on your hair and scalp type (e.g., coconut oil for deep hydration, grapeseed oil for oily scalps).

2. Pick an essential oil that tackles your specific hair concerns (e.g., rosemary for hair growth, tea tree for dandruff).

This combination allows you to tailor your hair care routine to exactly what your hair and scalp need. Now, let’s get into the best oils for different hair types!

Where to Use Hair Oil?

There are two different ways to apply hair oil, depending on your needs. Personally, I use different oils as a pre-treatment before washing my hair, and I also choose separate oils for my scalp and hair length.

For my scalp, I prefer lighter oils because they’re easier to rinse out, and I recommend doing the same, especially if you have a naturally oily scalp or struggle with buildup.

On the other hand, for my hair length, my go-to pre-shampoo treatment is coconut oil. Since it can penetrate the hair shaft, it helps prevent moisture loss and protects my hair from the stripping effects of shampoo.

This method has made a noticeable difference in keeping my hair hydrated and reducing breakage!

Best Carrier Oils for All Hair Types

1. Coconut Oils

Coconut oil is one of the most effective natural oils for hair growth, thanks to its fatty acids and antioxidants that deeply penetrate the hair shaft, strengthening strands and preventing breakage. It also has antimicrobial properties that help reduce dandruff.

A 2003 study in the Journal of Cosmetic Science found that coconut oil significantly reduces protein loss in hair, preventing damage.

However, it can be too heavy for fine or oily hair and may cause buildup if not washed properly.

2. Jojoba Oils

 Jojoba oil is an excellent choice because it closely mimics the scalp’s natural sebum, making it ideal for balancing moisture levels.

It hydrates without feeling greasy and is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores. However, while it’s great for scalp health, it doesn’t penetrate as deeply into the hair shaft as coconut oil.

Best Carrier Oils for Dry or Damaged Hair

1. Argan Oil

For those with dry, brittle, or damaged hair, argan oil, often called “liquid gold”, is one of the best options.

Packed with vitamin E and antioxidants, it deeply conditions hair, restores shine, and protects against UV and heat damage. However, it can be expensive and may weigh down fine hair.

2. Olive Oil

Olive oil acts as a natural conditioner that locks in moisture and reduces dandruff. It strengthens hair, prevents split ends, and improves overall elasticity, but its thick consistency may be too heavy for thin hair.

3. Moringa Oil

Moringa oil is another nutrient-rich choice, as it contains high levels of oleic acid, which deeply hydrates and strengthens hair follicles.

While moringa oil is excellent for promoting hair growth and maintaining a healthy scalp, it is less widely available and can be pricey. A study published in Pharmacognosy Research (2018) highlights moringa oil’s high antioxidant content, which helps protect hair from oxidative stress.

Best Carrier Oils for Oily Scalp

1. Grapeseed Oil

If you struggle with excess oil production, grapeseed oil is a fantastic choice because it is lightweight and non-greasy, providing moisture without making hair feel greasy.

It also contains linoleic acid, which strengthens the follicles and helps regulate the production of oil. However, while it’s effective for maintaining a balanced scalp, it doesn’t offer deep conditioning benefits like heavier oils.

Research published in Dermatologic Therapy (2021) confirms that linoleic acid helps regulate sebum production, making grapeseed oil ideal for those with oily scalps. 

I also use grapeseed oil for my oily face at night. I usually apply a small amount on the T zone of my face after moisturizer. I didn’t expect anything at first, but the results have worked wonders! Try it!

Best Carrier Oils for Fine Hair

1. Sweet Almond Oil

Sweet almond oil is one of the best carrier oils for fine hair because it’s lightweight, non-greasy, and nutrient-rich. Unlike heavier oils like coconut or castor oil, which can weigh down fine hair and make it look greasy, sweet almond oil absorbs quickly and provides hydration without buildup.

While it won’t magically make your hair grow faster, its high vitamin E content helps nourish the scalp and improve blood circulation, which can promote stronger, healthier hair growth over time.

2. Grapeseed Oil

Grapeseed oil is another excellent alternative for fine hair. It is lightweight and non-greasy, providing moisture without being too much for fine hair.

Best Essential Oils for Different Hair Concerns

Essential oils are like powerful active ingredients in hair care, delivering targeted benefits depending on your specific concerns. Since they’re highly concentrated, they should always be diluted with a carrier oil before application.

1. For Hair Growth

• Rosemary Oil: Clinically shown to be as effective as minoxidil in promoting hair regrowth by increasing blood circulation to the scalp.

• Peppermint Oil: Stimulates blood flow, encourages thicker hair growth, and has a cooling effect.

2. For Dandruff & Itchy Scalp

• Tea Tree Oil: Antifungal and antibacterial properties help fight dandruff-causing bacteria.

• Lemongrass Oil Reduces scalp inflammation and targets Malassezia, the fungus responsible for dandruff.

3. For Dry & Brittle Hair

• Lavender Oil: Deeply hydrates hair, reduces breakage, and lowers stress levels.

• Sandalwood Oil Locks in moisture and prevents excessive dryness.

4. For Sensitive Scalps

• Chamomile Oil: Soothes irritation, redness, and dryness.
• Frankincense Oil: Has anti-inflammatory properties, beneficial for conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

I hope this article helps you find the right oils for your hair needs. Remember, essential oils should always be diluted in a carrier oil to ensure safe application.

Hair care is a journey, and every scalp is different, so be patient, experiment with what works best for you, and trust the process.

Consistency is key, and over time, you’ll start seeing the results you’re looking for. Good luck!