13 Best Hair Oils For Healthy Hair (2023)

Having luscious, healthy hair is a universal desire, and the secret to achieving it might just lie in the bottles of the best hair oils. Your hair is your crowning glory, and keeping it vibrant, strong, and radiant requires more than just regular shampooing and conditioning. That’s where hair oils come into play.

In this comprehensive guide, we will unravel the transformative world of the best hair oils for healthy hair. Hair oils have been used for centuries, prized for their remarkable benefits. They offer a natural and holistic approach to hair care, addressing issues from hair loss to dryness and damage.

As we delve into the world of hair oils, we will explore their myriad benefits, how to select the perfect oil for your hair type, and unveil the top 13 hair oils that have garnered a reputation for promoting hair health. Additionally, we’ll share DIY recipes, dispel common myths, and provide real-life success stories to inspire your hair journey.

Get ready to embark on a path towards hair that turns heads and boosts your confidence. It’s time to discover the best hair oils for healthy, gorgeous locks.

Is Oiling Healthy for Hair?

Indeed, incorporating oils into your hair care routine can offer a multitude of benefits for your hair and scalp. This time-tested practice has been known to contribute significantly to overall hair health in various ways.

Firstly, oiling helps in the nourishment and hydration of your scalp. By applying natural botanical oils to your scalp, you provide it with essential moisture and nutrients. This, in turn, creates a healthier environment for hair follicles to thrive, potentially boosting hair growth and minimizing issues like dryness and flakiness.

Moreover, the botanical oils commonly used for hair oiling are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids that are vital for hair strength. These nutrients can fortify the hair shaft, making it more resilient and less prone to breakage. Additionally, these oils can impart a natural shine to your hair, leaving it looking vibrant and glossy.

Beyond the surface benefits, the act of massaging your scalp while applying oil serves as a therapeutic practice. It stimulates blood circulation to the scalp, ensuring that hair follicles receive an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients. This improved blood flow can have a positive impact on hair growth and overall scalp health.

In summary, regular hair oiling, when done correctly with the appropriate oils and techniques, can be a valuable addition to your hair care regimen. It nurtures both your scalp and hair, fostering an environment conducive to strong, healthy, and lustrous locks.

What Science Says About Hair Oil

Sebum, a natural oil produced by the sebaceous glands in our scalp, plays a vital role in maintaining the health of our hair. Its primary function is to act as a natural conditioner, moisturizing and lubricating the hair. However, the balance of sebum production varies among individuals, and when it’s not produced in the right amounts, it can lead to either excessively greasy or excessively dry and flaky hair. This is where the practice of hair oiling comes into play.

Hair oiling involves using a high-quality hair oil that mimics the effects of natural sebum. Since everyone produces sebum to some extent, hair oiling can benefit all hair types. When you apply hair oil to your strands, it functions as a protective barrier, sealing in moisture and preventing it from evaporating. This sealing effect ensures that both the hair strands and the scalp receive the nourishment they need, penetrating deep within to maintain optimal hair and scalp health.

In essence, hair oiling serves as a valuable tool for individuals with varying sebum production levels, helping them achieve balanced and well-nourished hair. Whether your hair tends to be excessively oily or dry, the right hair oil can contribute to healthier, more manageable locks.

Quick Link: Ten Hair Mistakes to Avoid & Tips to Grow Thinning & Aging Hair

Best Hair Oils For Healthy Hair

Healthy hair is not just a matter of genetics; it also depends on how well you nurture and care for your hair. Hair oils play a crucial role in achieving and maintaining healthy locks. In this section, we will explore the best hair oils for promoting hair health.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a versatile and popular choice for hair care. It deeply penetrates the hair shaft, reducing protein loss and preventing damage. This natural oil is particularly effective for moisturizing and promoting hair growth. 

Its nourishing properties make it beneficial for dry, damaged, and frizzy hair. Simply apply a small amount to your hair, leave it on for a while (even overnight), and then shampoo it out. 

Coconut oil’s ability to strengthen hair and reduce breakage makes it a go-to option for many looking to maintain healthy and shiny locks.

8 Best Beauty Benefits Of Coconut Oil (2023)

From nourishing hair to pampering skin, coconut oil boasts an array of advantages that make it a staple in many beauty routines. Its deep moisturizing properties penetrate the skin and hair follicles, leaving them rejuvenated and hydrated.

Moisturizer

Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer known for its hydrating properties. It’s rich in fatty acids that lock in moisture, leaving your skin soft and supple. Apply a small amount to your body face for a refreshing, non-greasy feel. It’s particularly beneficial for dry or rough skin. Use it daily to maintain skin hydration and promote a healthy glow.

Makeup Remover

Coconut oil is a gentle and effective makeup remover. Its natural oils dissolve makeup, even waterproof mascara, without harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin. Apply a small amount to a cotton pad or your fingertips and gently massage it onto your face, focusing on areas with makeup. 

Then, wipe away the makeup, revealing clean and hydrated skin underneath. Rinse with warm water and follow with your regular skincare routine. Coconut oil not only removes makeup but also leaves your skin moisturized and refreshed, making it a versatile and cost-effective choice for makeup removal.

Lip Balm

Coconut oil serves as an excellent natural lip balm. Its rich texture and moisturizing properties help soothe and hydrate dry, chapped lips. Simply apply a small amount to your lips, and it will create a protective barrier that locks in moisture, preventing further dryness or cracking. 

Coconut oil is particularly beneficial for harsh weather conditions, like cold winters or hot summers, which can take a toll on your lips. Its nourishing benefits can leave your lips soft, smooth, and kissably plump. Plus, it’s an affordable and chemical-free alternative to commercial lip balms, making it a go-to choice for natural lip care.

Hair Conditioner

Coconut oil is a versatile and natural hair conditioner. Its unique fatty acid composition allows it to penetrate hair strands, providing deep hydration and nourishment. 

To use it as a conditioner, warm a small amount of coconut oil in your hands, then apply it evenly to your hair, focusing on the ends and avoiding the scalp if you have oily hair. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes, or for an intensive treatment, leave it overnight with a shower cap. 

Then, wash and rinse thoroughly with shampoo. Regular use of coconut oil as a conditioner can help improve hair strength, add shine, reduce frizz, and promote overall hair health, making it a valuable addition to your hair care routine.

Hair Styling

Coconut oil can serve as a natural and effective hair styling product. It tames frizz and flyaways, making it a great alternative to commercial hair serums and gels. To use, take a small amount of coconut oil in your palms and rub them together to melt it slightly. 

Then, run your hands through your hair, focusing on the areas that need control. You can also apply it to the ends of your hair to add shine and manage split ends. The oil provides a light hold without the stiffness or chemicals found in many styling products. 

Whether you want to achieve a sleek look or a natural, tousled texture, coconut oil can help you style your hair while keeping it healthy and nourished.

Dandruff Treatment

Coconut oil is a natural remedy for dandruff. Its antifungal properties can help combat the underlying causes of dandruff, such as an overgrowth of yeast on the scalp. To use coconut oil for dandruff treatment, warm a small amount and apply it to your scalp, gently massaging it in. 

Leave it on for at least 30 minutes or overnight for a more intensive treatment, then shampoo as usual. Regular use can reduce itching, flakiness, and the appearance of dandruff. 

Additionally, coconut oil’s moisturizing benefits can help prevent dryness and soothe an irritated scalp. It’s a gentle and cost-effective way to address dandruff while promoting healthier, dandruff-free hair and scalp.

Cuticle Oil

Coconut oil makes an excellent natural cuticle oil. Its nourishing properties can help maintain healthy nails and cuticles. To use, simply apply a small amount of coconut oil to your cuticles and nails. Gently massage it in to improve blood circulation and promote nail growth. 

Coconut oil’s moisturizing effect can prevent dryness, reduce the risk of hangnails, and soften the cuticles, making them easier to manage. Regular application can contribute to stronger and more attractive nails. Plus, its natural composition means you’re avoiding the potentially harmful chemicals found in some commercial cuticle oils. 

Keep coconut oil handy as a simple and affordable solution for maintaining well-groomed and healthy nails.

Stretch Mark Prevention

Coconut oil is often used for stretch mark prevention. Its hydrating properties can help keep the skin elastic and less prone to developing stretch marks, especially during pregnancy or periods of rapid weight gain. 

Apply a generous amount of coconut oil to the areas where you’re prone to stretch marks, such as the abdomen, thighs, and breasts. Massage it gently in circular motions to enhance absorption. Regular application can improve skin elasticity and minimize the appearance of stretch marks over time. 

While coconut oil may not completely eliminate existing stretch marks, it can be an effective and natural way to reduce their severity and prevent new ones from forming, leaving your skin looking and feeling healthier.

Argan Oil

Argan oil, often called “liquid gold,” is a highly prized oil for hair care. It’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it excellent for repairing damaged hair and preventing frizz. This lightweight oil is particularly well-suited for dry and frizzy hair types. 

It helps to hydrate and soften hair, leaving it silky and manageable. Argan oil’s natural properties can also protect hair from heat damage caused by styling tools. Just a few drops applied to your hair can work wonders in improving its overall health and appearance. 

Whether used as a leave-in conditioner or a pre-styling treatment, argan oil is a valuable addition to any hair care routine, promoting shine, strength, and manageability.

Jojoba Oil 

Jojoba oil is a versatile and natural hair care remedy. Its composition closely resembles the scalp’s natural oils, making it an excellent moisturizer. It helps to hydrate hair without leaving a greasy residue, making it suitable for all hair types, including oily scalps. 

Jojoba oil is effective in reducing dandruff and promoting a healthy, balanced scalp. It can also strengthen hair, reduce breakage, and encourage hair growth. 

You can apply it as a leave-in conditioner, mix it with other oils, or use it as a hot oil treatment. Jojoba oil is a gentle yet effective option for maintaining soft, shiny, and nourished hair while supporting a healthy scalp.

Find Here: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Foods for Hair Growth

Olive Oil

Olive oil, a kitchen staple, also offers remarkable benefits for hair care. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, it’s an excellent choice for moisturizing and strengthening hair. Olive oil can help repair and prevent damage, leaving hair softer and more manageable. 

It’s particularly beneficial for dry, brittle hair, as it locks in moisture and provides a protective barrier. You can use it as a deep conditioning treatment by applying warm olive oil to your hair, covering it with a shower cap, and leaving it for 30 minutes before shampooing. 

This natural remedy promotes shine, minimizes frizz, and supports overall hair health, making it a cost-effective and accessible addition to your hair care routine.

Almond Oil

Almond oil is a nourishing elixir for hair care. Packed with vitamins and minerals, it strengthens and hydrates hair, reducing breakage and promoting shine. Its lightweight nature makes it suitable for all hair types, and it won’t leave hair feeling greasy. 

Almond oil is especially beneficial for dry, damaged, or frizzy hair, as it smoothens and softens strands. Additionally, it can soothe an itchy scalp and reduce dandruff. 

To use almond oil, apply a small amount to your hair, focusing on the ends, and leave it in as a leave-in conditioner or use it as a pre-shampoo treatment. This natural oil is an excellent choice for improving the overall health and appearance of your hair.

Castor Oil

Castor oil is renowned for its hair-strengthening and growth-promoting properties. Rich in fatty acids and nutrients, it nourishes hair follicles, reducing hair loss and increasing thickness. It’s particularly effective for those with thinning or damaged hair. 

Castor oil’s viscosity can also help protect hair from external damage, such as split ends and breakage. When applied to the scalp, it improves blood circulation, stimulating hair growth. For best results, apply warm castor oil to your scalp and hair, leave it on for several hours or overnight, and then shampoo it out. 

Regular use can lead to stronger, thicker, and healthier hair. Castor oil is a natural remedy that’s widely trusted for enhancing hair quality and promoting growth.

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is a nutrient-rich oil that provides numerous benefits for hair. Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, it deeply nourishes and moisturizes hair, making it an excellent choice for dry or damaged locks. Its lightweight texture won’t leave your hair feeling greasy. 

Avocado oil helps strengthen hair, reducing breakage and promoting overall hair health. It can also add a natural shine to your hair. As a scalp treatment, it can soothe irritation and reduce dandruff. 

Whether used as a leave-in conditioner or a pre-shampoo treatment, avocado oil is a versatile option for achieving softer, smoother, and more manageable hair. Its natural properties make it a valuable addition to your hair care routine.

Rosemary Oil

Rosemary oil is a fragrant essential oil known for its hair-enhancing benefits. It stimulates hair follicles, promoting hair growth and thickness. By improving scalp circulation, it can also prevent hair loss and premature graying. 

Rosemary oil’s antioxidants help protect hair from damage caused by free radicals, making it an excellent choice for maintaining healthy, strong locks. Its antimicrobial properties can address scalp issues, like dandruff and itching. You can add a few drops of rosemary oil to your shampoo, conditioner, or carrier oil for a revitalizing scalp massage. 

Regular use can lead to improved hair texture, reduced hair loss, and a healthy, shiny appearance. Rosemary oil is a natural solution for hair that’s both therapeutic and effective.

Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is a versatile essential oil with various benefits for hair care. Its calming aroma can reduce stress and anxiety, potentially preventing hair loss associated with stress. 

Lavender oil also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help maintain a healthy scalp and reduce dandruff or itching. By improving blood circulation to hair follicles, it promotes hair growth and thickness.

Adding a few drops of lavender oil to your shampoo or conditioner can improve your hair’s overall health and provide a soothing sensory experience. 

Additionally, you can blend it with a carrier oil for a relaxing scalp massage. Lavender oil is a holistic approach to hair care, contributing to a healthier scalp and potentially preventing hair loss related to stress factors.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil, derived from the leaves of the tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), is renowned for its powerful antifungal, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties. It’s a potent remedy for various scalp and hair issues. 

Tea tree oil effectively treats dandruff and alleviates an itchy, flaky scalp by combating the underlying causes, such as fungal infections. It can also help with conditions like seborrheic dermatitis and head lice.

To use tea tree oil for hair care, dilute a few drops in a carrier oil (like coconut or jojoba) and massage it into your scalp. Alternatively, look for shampoos or conditioners containing tea tree oil. Regular use can maintain a healthy scalp, reduce dandruff, and contribute to overall hair health. 

However, remember to use it sparingly, as excessive use can lead to skin irritation. Tea tree oil is a natural solution for addressing various scalp concerns and maintaining a clean, healthy scalp.

Grapeseed Oil

Grapeseed oil is a lightweight and versatile oil that offers numerous benefits for hair care. It’s rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids that help moisturize and condition the hair without leaving a heavy, greasy feeling. 

Grapeseed oil can strengthen hair, reduce frizz, and promote shine, making it suitable for all hair types, especially fine or oily hair. Its emollient properties also protect hair from heat and environmental damage. 

You can use it as a leave-in conditioner, apply it before styling to prevent heat damage, or include it in hair masks. Grapeseed oil is an excellent choice for those seeking a non-greasy, natural option to enhance hair health and appearance.

Moringa Oil

Moringa oil is a versatile and nutrient-rich oil extracted from the seeds of the Moringa oleifera tree. These seeds are a treasure trove of various nutritional compounds, making the oil a valuable addition to hair care routines. The oil is typically obtained through industrial techniques like cold-pressing, ensuring the preservation of its essential properties.

Benefits of Using Moringa Oil on Hair:

• Nourishing and Moisturizing: Moringa oil is a powerhouse of essential nutrients, boasting vitamins A, E, and C, along with beneficial fatty acids. These components work together to provide deep nourishment and hydration to your hair strands. This not only combats dryness but also contributes to overall hair health, leaving your hair feeling soft and well-moisturized.

• Strengthening: The protein content found in moringa oil plays a pivotal role in fortifying hair strands. Regular use of moringa oil can significantly reduce breakage and brittleness. It forms a protective barrier around each hair strand, acting as a shield against external damage caused by environmental pollutants, UV radiation, and heat-styling tools.

• Scalp Health: A healthy scalp is the foundation for good hair development. Moringa oil possesses antimicrobial properties that can help alleviate scalp issues like dandruff, itching, and irritation. It promotes a clean and balanced scalp environment, crucial for the optimal growth of your hair.

• Hair Growth: Moringa oil has the potential to stimulate hair growth by nourishing the hair follicles and creating an environment conducive to healthy hair growth. Its rich vitamin and mineral content improves blood circulation to the scalp, ensuring efficient nutrient delivery to the hair roots, which is essential for encouraging hair growth.

• Adds Shine and Manageability: Moringa oil boasts a lightweight texture that allows it to be readily absorbed by the hair without leaving behind a greasy residue. It works to smooth the hair cuticles, reducing frizz and imparting a natural shine to your locks. This results in hair that is not only more manageable but also visibly shinier.

• Natural Detangler: Moringa oil serves as a natural detangler, making it easier to comb through and manage tangled or knotted hair. It helps reduce the formation of knots and enhances the overall texture of your hair, leading to smoother, more manageable locks.

Incorporating moringa oil into your hair care routine can offer a wide array of benefits, from improving hair strength and texture to promoting healthy scalp conditions and encouraging hair growth. Its natural properties make it a valuable ingredient in various hair care products, contributing to overall hair health and vitality.

Looking for: Top 10 Hair Straightening Treatments: A Comprehensive Guide

Bhringraj Oil

Bhringraj oil, derived from a plant commonly known as “false daisy,” is sourced from an herb belonging to the sunflower family. This herb thrives in moist environments, notably in regions like Thailand, India, and Brazil.

To create Bhringraj oil, the leaves of the Bhringraj plant are typically gathered, mixed, and heated with a carrier oil. Alternatively, Bhringraj is available in other forms such as capsules or powders.

Within the realm of Ayurveda, an ancient Indian tradition focused on achieving balance and healing through dietary and lifestyle practices, Bhringraj holds a prominent place. It is believed to have several hair-related benefits, including promoting hair growth, strengthening hair, and preventing issues like premature graying and dandruff.

Furthermore, scientific research has lent support to these traditional claims. A study conducted in 2011 revealed that extracts from Eclipta alba, which is the scientific name for Bhringraj, demonstrated effectiveness in combatting bacteria and fungi. This suggests that Bhringraj oil and extracts may have the potential to treat certain bacterial infections, adding to its versatility and potential therapeutic uses.

Amla Oil

Amla oil is derived from the fruit of the amla tree. It has been traditionally believed to possess properties that strengthen hair and promote its growth, although there is currently insufficient scientific evidence to fully support these claims. The need for more extensive clinical trials involving human subjects is apparent to establish the efficacy of amla oil for these purposes.

Amla oil is readily available and can be purchased online or in stores that specialize in Ayurvedic products, given its association with traditional Indian medicine. However, when seeking a suitable product, it’s essential to exercise caution and read the label carefully. It’s worth noting that amla oil, like many dietary supplements, falls under limited regulation by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). 

As a result, it is crucial to communicate with your healthcare provider if you are contemplating the use of amla oil for any health-related purpose. Discussing such choices with a healthcare professional ensures that you receive proper guidance and that the product aligns with your individual health needs and goals.

Benefits of oiling hair

The advantages of incorporating hair oiling into your hair care routine are numerous and appealing, making it a practice worth trying.

Hydrating and Nourishing the Hair 

One of the foremost benefits of hair oiling lies in the exceptional moisture and hydration it provides to your hair. When you apply hair oil, it creates a protective shield around each hair shaft, effectively sealing in moisture and preventing it from evaporating. This process also locks in vital nutrients present in the oil, enriching your hair from root to tip.

Stimulating Hair Growth

Massaging hair oil into your scalp not only allows nutrients to penetrate deeply but also stimulates hair growth. Scalp massages enhance blood circulation to the hair follicles, promoting regeneration and the growth of strong, healthy hair strands.

Strengthening Hair Strands

The nutrients present in hair oil serve as a protective coating for your strands, reducing the likelihood of breakage. Additionally, when new strands emerging from the scalp are well-moisturized and enriched with nutrients, they grow out with increased strength.

Managing Split Ends and Breakage

Effective management of split ends and breakage is pivotal for maintaining strong and healthy hair. When the lower portions of hair strands are coated with oil, they become more resistant to breakage. A Quality hair oil can penetrate all three layers of the hair strand, fortifying it from within.

Improved Scalp Health and Reduced Dandruff

Despite the initial notion, applying oil to a dandruff-prone scalp can lead to improved scalp health. A well-moisturized and nourished scalp is less prone to flaking, fostering a healthy environment for your hair’s roots.

Protecting Hair from Environmental Damage

Environmental factors like wind, low humidity, and sun exposure can lead to moisture loss and damage to your hair. Hair oiling acts as a protective barrier, shielding your hair from these external elements that tend to dry it out. This protective layer helps retain essential moisture and keeps your hair looking its best.

Click Here: 7 Smooth and Silky Effortless Facial Hair Removal at Home

The Right Steps to Oil Your Hair

Massaging oil into the scalp offers the additional benefit of enhancing blood circulation, potentially stimulating improved hair growth. Moreover, this practice of applying the oil directly to the scalp has the potential to prevent dandruff as well.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to trying out hair oiling for yourself:

• Application of Oil: Start by applying the chosen oil directly to your scalp. Use your fingertips to gently massage the oil into your scalp, employing a circular motion. This massaging action not only helps evenly distribute the oil but also stimulates blood flow to the hair follicles.

• Distribution Through Hair: After thoroughly massaging the oil into your scalp, use any remaining oil on your palms to apply it to the lengths of your hair. This ensures that your hair strands also benefit from the nourishing properties of the oil.

• Cover and Wait: To maximize the effectiveness of the oil treatment, cover your hair with a towel or shower cap and leave it on overnight. This extended period allows the oil to deeply penetrate your hair and scalp, providing ample time for absorption and nourishment.

• Shampooing the Next Day: The following day, it’s time to shampoo your hair while it’s still dry. Make sure to use a gentle shampoo and thoroughly rinse your hair to remove the oil residue.

• Conditioning: Proceed with your regular conditioning routine. Additionally, you can utilize coconut oil as a natural conditioner, applying it as needed to maintain your hair’s softness and manageability.

By following these steps, you can harness the potential benefits of hair oiling, which include improved circulation, reduced dandruff risk, and the overall nourishment and health of your hair and scalp.

Final Words

Achieving and maintaining healthy hair is a goal shared by many, and the right hair oils can play a crucial role in this journey. In this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored the 13 best hair oils for healthy hair in 2023. Each of these oils offers unique benefits, whether it’s promoting growth, reducing damage, enhancing shine, or addressing specific hair concerns. Incorporating the right hair oil into your routine can be a game-changer for your locks. Remember to choose the one that aligns with your hair type and needs, and be consistent in your application for the best results.

FAQs

How often should I apply hair oil for optimal results?

The frequency of hair oil application depends on your hair type and its specific needs. However, most people find that applying oil 1-2 times a week provides excellent results without making the hair overly greasy.

Can I leave hair oil on overnight, or is it better to wash it off after a few hours?

Leaving hair oil on overnight is a common practice and can be beneficial for deep nourishment. However, it’s essential to choose the right oil for your hair type and wash it off in the morning to avoid excessive greasiness.

Are there any hair oils suitable for oily or greasy hair types?

Yes, some hair oils, like jojoba oil or argan oil, are lighter and can be suitable for oily or greasy hair types. These oils provide hydration without weighing the hair down.

Do hair oils help with hair growth and reducing hair loss?

Some hair oils, such as castor oil and rosemary oil, are believed to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss. However, results may vary from person to person, and consistent use is typically required.

Can I mix different hair oils together for added benefits?

Yes, you can create custom oil blends by mixing different hair oils to address specific concerns. However, it’s essential to ensure that the oils you choose complement each other and are suitable for your hair type to avoid any adverse effects.