From rosemary to castor, these oils will help you to regrow your strands.
If you’ve traversed the tumultuous journey of hair loss, you’re probably well acquainted with the sight of hair clumps in your shower drain or excessive amounts of strands wrapped up in your brush. Either way, experiencing hair loss can be frightening. Luckily, whether you’re dealing with hair loss due to stress, hormonal changes, or even genetic conditions like alopecia, there are plenty of ways to achieve healthy-looking hair. While hair growth vitamins, thickening shampoos, and innovative devices will certainly do the trick, using the best essential oils is another alternative that shouldn’t be overlooked.
“Essential oils possess the remarkable ability to readily penetrate the scalp to nourish the deep-seated hair follicles. [These oils] deliver essential nutrients, promote hair follicle growth, moisturize the roots, fortify the strands, and effectively clear away undesired metabolites obstructing pores,”
says board-certified internal medicine physician Dr. Zion Ko Lamm. Many people prefer essential oils because they offer a holistic approach with naturally derived ingredients. So, how do you know which products are the best? We Ahead, discover a comprehensive list of the top eight essential oils that will help to bring your hair back to life.
1. BEST OVERALL ESSENTIAL OIL FOR HAIR GROWTH
Briogeo Curl Charisma™ Organic + Cold-Pressed 100% Castor Oil
Anyone on a hair growth journey has heard plenty about the powers of castor oil. Board-certified trichologist Dr. David H. Kingsley tells ELLE.com that studies have shown that castor oil may help prevent hair loss by inhibiting a certain natural body chemical called prostaglandin D2. Additionally, castor oil can improve scalp circulation to promote healthier hair. One of the most popular castor oil products on the market is Briogeo’s Curl Charisma Organic and Cold-Pressed oil, which contains a rich blend of vitamins and nutrients. Size 1.5 oz Key ingredients: Cold-pressed castor oil, vitamin E, omega fatty acids Sephora rating: 4.4/5 stars A Sephora reviewer says: “This is great for thin edges! My edges were so thin from heat damage and I’ve been able to see a huge increase in growth around my hairline since I added this castor oil into my daily routine 2 months ago! Bonus for it being scent free. Anyone who has used castor oil in the past knows that it’s typically thick and smelly. Briogeo’s is lightweight and scent free.”
2. BEST ESSENTIAL OIL FOR HAIR LOSS HIQILI Lavender Essential Oil, 100% Pure Undiluted
While citing a study from the Skin Appendage Disorders journal, Dr. Kingsley notes that lavender oil helps patients with alopecia areata to regrow their hair strands. In addition to mending hair loss, lavender oil also provides a host of other benefits. “Lavender oil stimulates cell growth, reduces stress, and boasts antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that can enhance scalp health,” adds Priscila Fadul, founder and CEO of Lendava. There are many lavender oils to choose from, but a crowd favorite is HIQILI’s lavender essential oil. Boasting nearly 28,000 reviews on Amazon, this undiluted oil has become an absolute favorite among those looking to grow thick and healthy strands. Size: 3.38 oz Key ingredients: Lavender oil Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars An Amazon reviewer says: “I purchased this to make a hair growth oil. I love that it comes with a smaller glass dropper bottle. Smells lovely and works like a charm.”
3. BEST ESSENTIAL OIL FOR 4C/TEXTURED HAIR Fable & Mane HoliRoots™ Pre-wash Hair Treatment Oil
As someone with textured hair, I’m constantly struggling with dry and brittle strands. However, I noticed that black castor oil has helped me immensely to retain moisture. One of my favorite products is Fable & Mane’s HoliRoots Pre-wash Hair Treatment Oil. Featuring a blend of castor oil, ashwagandha, and dashmool, this product effectively targets dryness, thinning, and breakage. Size: 1.8 oz Key ingredients: Castor oil, Ashwagandha, Dashmool Sephora rating: 4.4 /5 stars A Sephora reviewer says: “This is such a game changer! My roots feel stronger and my hair is so much healthier and shinier. After I use this I barely shed any hair for 2-3 days which is amazing. My baby hairs are growing like crazy.”
4. BEST ESSENTIAL OIL SCIENTIFICALLY PROVEN FOR HAIR GROWTH Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil
Whenever Dr. Lamm is asked to choose her favorite hair growth oil, she undoubtedly selects rosemary oil each time. “It stands out as one of the most remarkable essential oils in research, and its extensive benefits include the prevention of hair loss, the promotion of blood circulation, the stimulation of hair regeneration, as well as the effective control of itching and pore unclogging,” says Dr. Lamm. One of the beauty market’s most coveted rosemary oils is this Mielle Organics oil, which works as an intensive deep treatment to prevent damage and promote hair growth. This biotin-infused blend also promotes circulation in the scalp and helps to combat dandruff. However, Dr. Zion notes that pregnant women should avoid rosemary oil due to its potency. Size: 4.2 oz Key ingredients: Rosemary oil, castor oil, biotin Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars Our expert says: “Long before the TikTok craze, Mielle's Rosemary Mint oil was a mainstay in my hair routine, and still is today. At first, it was the tingling sensation that made me a returning customer. However, little did I know the minty concoction would slowly strengthen and soften my damaged strands.”—Nerisha Penrose, ELLE.com beauty commerce editor
5. BEST ESSENTIAL OIL FOR SENSITIVE SCALP PATTERN by Tracee Ellis Ross Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil Blend
For those who struggle with a sensitive scalp (and are prone to itching and flakiness), we’ve got just the product for you. Pattern’s Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil Blend soothes your scalp with a calming jojoba oil formula that provides instant relief. This carefully crafted mixture is also completely residue-free, so there’s no need to worry about excess build-up. Apply a few drops to your scalp and massage gently for best results. Keep in mind that a little goes a long way here, so there’s no need to overdo it. Size: 3.9 oz Key ingredients: Jojoba oil, lavender oil, safflower oil Sephora rating: 4.8/5 stars A Sephora reviewer says: “I bought this product to add some hydration to my very dry hair and I couldn’t be happier! I use it during styling and in between washes to maintain healthy hair.”
6. BEST ESSENTIAL OIL FOR STRONGER STRANDS Handcraft Blends Castor Oil with Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth
You simply can’t go wrong with a mixture of rosemary and castor oil. Handcraft Blend’s rich oil blend works to strengthen hair follicles by ensuring that moisture is locked into the hair shaft. This nourishing mix is also 100 percent natural and contains absolutely no added ingredients, so you can trust that you’re receiving the most potent mixture. Size: 8 oz Key ingredients: Castor oil, rosemary oil Amazon rating: 4.6 /5 stars An Amazon reviewer says: “I love this rosemary/ castor oil. It has no added ingredients and it’s all natural. It has helped my hairline grow back significantly, but you just have to be very diligent in applying it for it to work.”
7. BEST ESSENTIAL OIL WITH ANTIBACTERIAL PROPERTIES
SheaMoisture 100% Pure Oil Tea Tree Oil + Premium Blend
“Tea tree oil is a potent cleanser with antibacterial and antimicrobial properties,” says Fadul. “When applied topically, it can clear clogged hair follicles and boost hair growth.” If you’re looking to cleanse your scalp, we would recommend SheaMoisture’s 100 percent Pure Oil Tea Tree Oil + Premium Blend, as this blend instantly provides a boost of rejuvenation.
Size: 2 oz
Key ingredients: Tea tree oil, sunflower oil, castor oil
Ulta rating: 4.2/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “I have gray hair that is very porous and dries out quickly. Also my scalp was itching. I applied this tea tree oil and the itching stop within a few minutes. it keeps my hair moisturized and has reduced the breakage. I'm very happy with the product.”
8. BEST ESSENTIAL OIL FOR PROMOTING CIRCULATION Sunday || Sunday Peppermint Essential Oil
“Peppermint oil gives your scalp a refreshing, tingling sensation and improves blood circulation, which is fantastic for hair growth,” says Fadul. While using Sunday II Sunday’s Peppermint Essential Oil, you’ll notice a cooling sensation on your scalp, which is especially nice if you’re seeking a relaxing feel. In addition to promoting an invigorating sense of circulation, Dr. Kingsley adds that peppermint oil can also increase the growth phase of your hair cycle. Size: 1 oz Key ingredients: Peppermint oil, coconut oil Ulta rating: 4 /5 stars An Ulta reviewer says: “This oil truly adds sheen to my hair that lasts. The dropper is convenient and prevents me from over pouring. You only need a little to add shine. The hint of peppermint adds a nice touch.” Why are essential oils good for hair growth? Essential oils are derived from plant parts, such as rosemary sprigs, castor beans, tea tree leaves, and peppermint leaves, and contain a variety of powerful nutrients that encourage healthier hair by offering specific functions. “Essential oils work wonders for your scalp and hair— they promote hair growth and prevent hair loss by tackling inflammation and adding strength to your locks,” says Fadul. Many of these nutrients can also moisturize roots and clear clogged pores on your scalp. How do you mix essential oils for hair growth? “If I opt not to purchase a pre-formulated blend containing a carrier oil, my typical practice involves adding a few drops of essential oil directly to my final hair rinse or mixing them directly into my shampoo,” says Dr. Lamm. Fadul adds that because essential oils are highly concentrated, you might want to consider diluting them. “Essential oils are potent, so it's wise to mix them with another oil or product to prevent irritation to your skin or scalp,” explains Fadul. What is a carrier oil? “Carrier oils are added to essential oils to help dilute them for a safer level of concentration to be used on the skin and scalp,” says Dr. Kingsley. Dr. Lamm notes that it is commonly advised to dilute essential oils within a carrier oil, particularly for those with sensitive skin, given that certain essential oils have the capacity to provoke irritation. So what carrier oils should you consider? Dr. Lamm has a few suggestions. “Carrier oils like avocado, coconut, and argan oils exemplify this approach, offering a dual benefit— not only do they minimize irritation, but they also act as stabilizers, slowing down the rapid evaporation of essential oils and extending their efficacy.” What are the risks associated with using essential oils for hair growth? “Irritation of the scalp is possible if the concentration is too high,” Dr. Kingsley emphasizes. According to Dr. Lamm, common adverse effects include contact dermatitis, heightened skin sensitivity to sunlight, and various other dermal reactions. “Notably, essential oils rich in compounds such as cinnamic alcohol, aldehyde, eugenol, and baptapene carry the highest risk, potentially ranging from skin blemishes to burns,” Dr. Lamm adds. So, to ensure you’re taking necessary precautions, you’ll want to adhere to proper usage guidelines. If you're experiencing hair loss, can you solely rely on essential oils?
Essential oils can deliver remarkable results for hair growth, but sometimes, the cause of your hair loss might be due to more serious underlying issues that can’t be treated by essential oils alone. That’s why Dr. Lamm suggests consulting a healthcare professional to determine the root of your hair loss problems. “They are likely to conduct laboratory tests to rule out metabolic factors like iron deficiency, vitamin D deficiency, or thyroid disease as potential culprits,” Dr. Lamm explains. Dr. Kingsley also recommends seeking additional treatment options from a professional if you’re dealing with extreme hair loss. “I suggest essential oils to be used with other types of treatments, such as minoxidil, laser therapy, or vitamin therapy.” Overall, essential oils should be considered a supplemental component as opposed to a cure-all alternative. Article written by Lauren Tappan for elle