Struggling with hair loss, thinning, or slow growth can be discouraging, especially when your strands fall out prematurely and lose their natural strength. Factors like stress, pollution, poor diet, and hormonal imbalances can weaken scalp health, making it harder to achieve beautiful, luscious locks.
Many have turned to hair oils as a trusted method to stimulate follicles, regulate the growth cycle, and provide essential nutrients for stronger hair. Natural oils like black seed oil, rosemary oil, coconut oil, argan oil, and amla oil are known to improve thickness, prevent breakage, and support overall hair health. However, while some oils have beneficial properties, others can cause irritation, acute matting, or even hinder growth. Therefore, double-check the product before applying. This article has everything you need to know about the best oils for hair growth recommended by doctors. That helps you to choose the right one for stronger, healthier strands and avoid the one that does not suit you.
How Do Hair Growth Oils Work?
Hair growth oils are essential for boosting your scalp health and promoting new hair growth. They help nourish hair roots and condition hair shafts (hair fibre), leading to stronger follicles and reduced hair fall. The right oils, rich in fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, can improve blood circulation, which encourages better nutrient delivery to the hair follicles.
Furthermore, regular massaging stimulates blood flow, while the oils’ hydration properties balance the scalp, reducing dryness and flakiness. This combination of benefits results in healthier, thicker hair, less breakage, and the potential for visible growth over time.
As scientific studies show, the effectiveness of essential oils depends on their concentration and how consistently they are used to improve hair nourishment.
15 Oils For Healthy Hair Growth
When aiming for healthy, thicker hair, choosing the right oil is key. Natural oils like coconut and argan oil help strengthen hair and promote growth by nourishing the scalp and follicles. These oils are scientifically backed for their ability to improve moisture and provide essential nutrients. Over time, they can give your hair a longer, stronger, and thicker appearance. There are some doctor-recommended oils that offer the most noticeable benefits, keeping hair full of life and vitality.
- Argan oil
When it comes to hair oils that truly deliver, argan oil stands out as a game-changer. Known as liquid gold, this oil is packed with vitamin E, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids that work wonders for healthy scalp and hair growth. It transforms dry, damaged, and frizzy hair into smoother, shinier locks.
Its ability to deeply moisturise without clogging pores makes it a go-to for those with dry scalps. Plus, it’s a lifesaver for protecting hair from heat damage and UV exposure, which I always recommend to clients dealing with breakage or split ends.
The elasticity it provides is unmatched, helping hair grow longer and healthier over time. Whether used as a leave-in conditioner or for a soothing scalp massage, argan oil is a must-have for anyone aiming for thicker hair and natural hair growth.
- Coconut oil
Coconut oil stands out for its remarkable ability to penetrate the hair shaft and reduce protein loss. This versatile oil, rich in lauric acid and medium-chain fatty acids, works wonders as a natural conditioner, providing extra moisture to the hair strands while protecting against hygral fatigue damage.
When slightly warm and massaged into the scalp with gentle circular strokes for 10-15 minutes, it effectively nourishes the hair follicle, reduces scalp inflammation, and helps combat dandruff. Its powerful antifungal and antibacterial properties make it particularly effective for those dealing with flaky scalp issues, leading to visibly softer and shinier hair.
- Rosemary oil
Rosemary oil is a powerhouse for hair growth. It has gained immense popularity over the years due to its proven ability to promote hair growth. Moreover, it has stimulating properties that improve blood circulation in the scalp, ensuring that oxygen and nutrients reach the follicles, making hair thicker and healthier.
Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects help prevent issues like dandruff, itchiness, and fungal infections, which can hinder thickness. Moreover, it also aids in strengthening follicles, reducing thinning, and controlling split ends while deeply nourishing and conditioning the hair for a smoother texture. Many studies suggest that rosemary oil is as effective as 2% minoxidil but with fewer side effects, making it a safer alternative for those looking to enhance their hair health.
For best results, dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil, then massage the mixture into the scalp and leave it for a few minutes before washing with shampoo and conditioner. For a deeper treatment, add drops to a small cup, warm slightly on low flame, and apply to the hair, letting it sit for half an hour before rinsing. This can be done twice or thrice a week to maintain a healthy scalp and improve hair strength. People of any hair type can benefit from this routine, as it effectively supports growth, reduces hair fall, and ensures the hair remains smooth and manageable.
- Jojoba oil
Jojoba oil is a powerful moisturiser that closely resembles the natural sebum produced by the scalp, making it an excellent choice for both oily and dry hair types. It helps balance production without clogging pores, keeping the scalp healthy while preventing dandruff and flakiness.
Rich in vitamins, including vitamin E, B-complex, and zinc, it nourishes the hair follicles, making them hydrated, resilient, and less prone to shedding, breakage, or dryness. Moreover, this lightweight, greasy-free oil also helps restore natural shine and can be used as a carrier when mixing essential oils like rosemary for a growth-boosting treatment.
Whether applied in drops directly to the scalp or used as a pre-shampoo treatment, jojoba oil promotes a healthy environment for strong, vibrant hair.
- Olive oil
Olive oil is a powerful natural ingredient known for its ability to promote hair growth and improve scalp health. It is rich in omega-3s, fatty acids, and antioxidant benefits, which help keep hair stronger and protected from environmental debris and damage.
The deep nourishment it provides improves elasticity, prevents breakage, and adds a natural shine. Regular use can revitalise the scalp, strengthen hair roots, and reduce dandruff, making it especially beneficial for dry and damaged hair. Studies from the Department of Food and Nutrition, Yonsei University, South Korea, suggest that olive-derived ingredients may even promote anagenic hair growth. To use, warm extra virgin olive oil on a low flame, apply it directly to the scalp, and gently massage in circular strokes to ensure even distribution.
For best results, repeat twice a week to deeply hydrate, condition, and shield hair against heat damage. Some believe that olive oil may even help inhibit DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a hormone associated with hair loss, potentially helping to slow down androgenetic alopecia and improve hair retention.
- Castor oil
Because of its high ricinoleic acid content, which helps promote blood flow and circulation in the scalp. Castor oil is a truly unique remedy for hair growth. When massaging this oil, the follicles are stimulated, leading to stronger strands and better nutrient absorption at the base of the hair. Its thick consistency makes it ideal for deep conditioning treatments, helping to prevent dryness and combat tough scalp conditions like dandruff.
Packed with vitamin E, proteins, and omega-6 fatty acids, it also helps with hydration and strengthens follicles, reducing thinning and improving hair shaft structure. For best results, mix it with sesame oil in equal amounts to reduce its viscosity, warm it on a low flame, and apply it directly to the scalp and extremely dry hair. Leaving it overnight before a mild shampoo rinse and using it twice or thrice a week will ensure maximum benefit.
- Almond oil
If you want a sweet, soft-scented oil that does much more than just add shine, almond oil is an excellent choice. With high levels of vitamin E, it helps to nourish and strengthen the hair, especially when you apply it directly to the scalp. Regular use has been linked to reduced hair fall, leaving strands noticeably thicker and healthier. Rich in magnesium, fatty acids, and other powerful nutrients, this oil is fantastic for promoting growth and reducing breakage.
Many doctors recommend it for individuals struggling with thinning hair due to its ability to prevent damage and support follicle health. Beyond hair growth, it helps reduce inflammation, provides deep hydration, and keeps both the scalp and hair in optimal condition. According to the review in the Annals of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, almond seeds contain vitamins, proteins, and tocopherol, which significantly enhance hair growth activity.
This light, fast-absorbing oil penetrates the tissue effortlessly, making it one of the best choices for reducing breakage and maintaining rich, well-moisturised hair. It also protects against damage. Studies suggest that it helps treat conditions like eczema and psoriasis effectively. To use, apply a generous amount, massage it in circular motions for 10-15 minutes, and either leave it overnight or rinse with a mild shampoo the next day. For best results, use it twice or thrice a week, ideally half an hour before bedtime.
- Avocado oil
Using avocado oil in my hair care routine has made a noticeable difference, especially in managing tangled and knotted strands. Its richness in monounsaturated fats deeply nourishes and softens the hair, making it ideal for those with coarse or drier textures.
A lightweight formula with high-end ingredients like Vitamin E helps to stop hair breakage, add shine, and leave hair feeling extra smooth and soft. This oil is suitable for all hair types, strengthening hair health by repairing damage and protecting against environmental damage. It also provides protection from heat styling damage and pollution, leaving hair shinier, easier to style, and noticeably softer and smoother. Regular use restores hydration, helping to restore moisture, prevent breakage, and fix split ends.
- Grapeseed Oil
Studies show that grapeseed oil is truly a girl’s best friend when it comes to hair care. This lightweight solution works for all hair types and is rich in antioxidants that promote overall hair health. It’s a game changer, scoring 10s across the board, especially for those struggling with dehydrated hair or staticky strands in humid climates.
When applied as a leave-in conditioner, it does not make the scalp greasy but keeps the hair moisturised, preventing split ends and tackling dandruff. Extracted from grape seeds, this oil is packed with essential nutrients that are important for healthy hair growth and work to strengthen hair follicles, treating weak and brittle hair. According to studies in Hindawi, it’s an effective treatment for androgenetic alopecia, making it ideal for those looking to fight hair loss while boosting overall hair growth.
- Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree Oil is known for its calming and soothing effects, making it ideal for a healthy scalp by helping to unclog hair follicles and stimulate growth. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties that work alongside eucalyptus oil to promote circulation and improve hair thickness. Moreover, its anti-inflammatory effects help soothe an inflamed scalp, reduce hair thinning, and create a clean, balanced scalp environment that is essential for healthy hair growth.
Studies from Hindawi indicate that mixing it with minoxidil makes for an effective treatment for hair loss. However, there is limited evidence proving its effectiveness when used alone for hair growth. Those with damaged hair, seborrhoeic dermatitis, or folliculitis can apply 3-5 drops of tea tree oil to 1 small cup of base oil and leave it on for half an hour, or twice to thrice a week before a hair wash.
You can also add 2-3 drops to your shampoo or conditioner. Those dealing with dandruff, inflammation, or debris can benefit from massaging a few drops of tea tree essential oil mixed with a carrier oil like coconut oil or jojoba oil into the scalp and leaving it on for 30 minutes to an hour before washing it out with a mild shampoo.
- Peppermint Oil
I’ve always been fascinated by how peppermint oil works wonders for hair growth. Just like rosemary oil, it has stimulating effects that increase blood flow to the scalp, helping strengthen follicles and promote the anagen phase (active growth phase of hair) of growth.
It has a cooling effect that feels refreshing and can soothe irritation. Furthermore, its antimicrobial properties keep dandruff and infection away. A study on mice even showed it increased follicle depth and the number of follicles, improving growth significantly. I prefer mixing a few drops with carrier oil, warming it slightly, and massaging it gently into my scalp.
After leaving it for half an hour, I rinse with shampoo and conditioner for the best results. Regular use, at least twice a week, has made my hair feel stronger and healthier. Some even compare its effects to Minoxidil, though more scientific evidence is needed to confirm this for humans. If you have an oily or greasy scalp, this oil is a game-changer.
- Lavender Oil
Lavender oil not only supports hair growth but also helps create new skin cells for a healthier scalp. Its antibacterial properties keep the scalp clean, reducing dandruff and irritation. A study found that it enhanced and speeded up the growth process by stimulating follicles and improving circulation.
The oil also moisturises hair, making it softer and shinier and reducing frizz. To apply, I mix 10 drops with 1 cup of carrier oil, like coconut or olive oil, then massage it properly into my scalp. Leaving it overnight works best, and I wash it out the next morning with shampoo and conditioner.
Since I have an oily front and dry areas elsewhere, this routine balances sebum production and strengthens hair to prevent breakage. I use it twice a week, about half an hour before bedtime, and it also acts as a stress reliever, helping with relaxation and reducing stress-related hair loss.
Tips for Maximizing the Benefits of Hair Oils
- Choose the right oil based on your hair type and needs to achieve optimal results.
- Apply a small amount of oil to damp hair, focusing on the ends to prevent damage and keep it soft.
- Use a pre-shampoo treatment for better penetration and deeper nourishment.
- Warm the oil slightly before applying to help it absorb more effectively.
- Gently massage your scalp to stimulate blood circulation and promote growth.
- Try an overnight treatment if your care routine allows for extra hydration.
- To prevent greasiness, use only as much as your hair can absorb.
- Be consistent, as long-term benefits come with regular use.
- Apply a light layer before styling to protect your hair from heat and environmental stress.
Incorporate these tips into your routine to maximise the benefits of your oils and maintain healthy, beautiful hair.
Conclusion
The right hair oil can truly transform your hair, making it healthier, stronger, and more vibrant over time. Whether you’re dealing with thinning, dryness, breakage, or scalp issues, choosing the perfect oil and using it consistently can work wonders. Natural oils like coconut, argan, rosemary, and jojoba don’t just nourish your strands—they help stimulate growth, prevent damage, and maintain the overall health of your hair.
From personal experience, finding the perfect oil is all about understanding your hair type and needs. If your scalp feels dry and flaky, go for deeply moisturising oils like olive or castor oil. If you’re looking to stimulate hair growth, rosemary or peppermint oil can be a game-changer. And if your strands need protection from heat and styling damage, argan and almond oil are great options.
The key is to be consistent—massage the oil into your scalp, leave it for some time, and rinse it out with a gentle shampoo. Over time, you’ll notice softer, thicker, and healthier hair that looks and feels its best. Stick with it, trust the process, and enjoy the journey to stronger, shinier strands!
FAQ’s
- What essential oil is best for hair growth and thickness?
Rosemary oil is the top choice as it stimulates blood circulation, strengthens follicles, and promotes thicker hair. Studies suggest it’s as effective as 2% minoxidil for hair growth.
- What oil grows hair rapidly?
Castor oil is great for fast hair growth due to its high ricinoleic acid content, which boosts blood flow to the scalp and deeply nourishes hair follicles.
- What is the most powerful oil?
Coconut oil is the most powerful because it penetrates deep into the hair shaft, reduces protein loss, and protects against dryness, damage, and dandruff.
- What oil is best for thin, dry hair?
Jojoba oil is ideal for thin, dry hair, as it mimics natural scalp oils, hydrates without greasiness, and strengthens follicles to reduce breakage.
- How to get thickness in hair?
Use rosemary or castor oil, massage your scalp regularly, and deep condition with coconut or argan oil to strengthen follicles, reduce hair fall, and promote thickness.
