Best Oils for Hair Growth: Coconut, Argan, Castor and More for Healthier Strands

Exploring the Top Oils to Nourish Hair and Promote Growth

Hair health depends on having proper moisture and nutrients. Certain plant-based oils can provide key vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants to boost shine, strength, and growth. Using oil treatments may improve scalp circulation and conditions like dandruff that can slow growth.

While no oil is a miracle solution, some stand out for their potential hair benefits. However, more research is still needed on efficacy. This article explores the science behind 7 of the top oils for nourishing hair and what they may offer for growth.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has become massively popular in beauty routines, and for good reason. The tropical oil contains lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid that has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Using coconut oil may help fight infections and balance oil production in the scalp.

In studies on hair protein loss, coconut oil was shown to reduce protein loss from grooming by up to 39%. This strengthens and protects hair fibers. The thick oil also penetrates the hair shaft well to provide deep conditioning.

Applying a weekly coconut oil treatment, leaving it on for 30-60 minutes before washing out, is an easy way to leverage its benefits. Those with oily hair or scalps should stick to small amounts to avoid greasiness.

Argan Oil

Argan oil comes from the nut of the Moroccan argan tree. It has a fast-absorbing, non-greasy texture that makes it a multi-purpose oil for skin and hair. Argan contains oleic acid, a type of omega-9 fatty acid, along with antioxidant vitamin E.

Research indicates argan oil can help increase elasticity in hair. It also boosts shine and smoothness when used regularly. The oxidation-resistant nutrients in argan oil may help protect hair follicles and encourage growth.

Using just a few drops of argan oil after showering is an easy way to boost manageability and add silkiness. It works well even for those prone to oily hair. Just avoid overdoing it near the roots.

Jojoba Oil

Native to southern Arizona, jojoba oil mimics the natural oils, or sebum, produced by human skin and scalp. This makes it an excellent moisturizing and cleansing choice for hair. Jojoba oil contains nutrients like vitamin E and B vitamins to nourish hair.

Some small studies indicate jojoba oil may encourage hair growth more than mineral oil. Jojoba oil cleared buildup in hair follicles to remove blockages. It also helped balance scalp pH levels to create healthy growth conditions.

Add several drops of jojoba oil to deep conditioners or masks for extra moisture. You can also use pure jojoba oil to massage into the scalp and hair a few times per week. It works for all hair types.

Grapeseed Oil

Grapeseed oil has gained esteem as a lightweight, versatile hair oil. It comes from the seeds of wine grapes and contains antioxidants like vitamin E, along with linoleic acid. This essential fatty acid may promote hair elasticity and strength.

Using grapeseed oil as a hot oil treatment can boost circulation in the scalp and reduce buildup in hair follicles. It adds shine and smoothness without leaving greasy residue. Plus, grapeseed oil has antimicrobial properties to ward off dandruff.

Try massaging grapeseed oil into the scalp before showering. Rinse and follow with a nourishing shampoo and conditioner. It's suitable for all hair types but ideal if you have oily hair or scalp.

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is an ultra-rich oil pressed from the fleshy pulp of avocados. It provides deep conditioning from antioxidants like vitamin E along with oleic acid to seal moisture in hair.

Using avocado oil may prevent protein loss in hair, leading to stronger, healthier strands less prone to breakage over time. The thick oil is also able to penetrate and coat the hair shaft evenly for lasting effects.

Once a week, massage avocado oil thoroughly into hair before showering and letting it soak for at least 30 minutes. The vitamins and fatty acids will sink in to boost shine and smooth flyaways.

Castor Oil

Castor oil comes from the seeds of the castor bean plant. It contains ricinoleic acid, an omega-9 fatty acid that has anti-inflammatory benefits for the skin and scalp. Castor oil also increases circulation.

Some small studies have indicated castor oil may improve hair density and growth rate when applied topically. It seems to boost blood flow to follicles, encouraging the growth stage. The antibacterial properties of castor oil also help maintain a healthy scalp.

Apply small amounts of castor oil to the scalp and massage in using circular motions to increase absorption. Leave on for at least 30 minutes before washing out. Use weekly for the best effects.

Rosemary Oil

Rosemary is an aromatic herb used for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory compounds. In oil form, it may help increase circulation in the scalp and deliver phytonutrients to hair follicles when massaged in.

Some early research found that rosemary oil was as effective as 2% minoxidil, the active ingredient in Rogaine, for boosting hair growth over 6 months. However, more studies are still needed.

Add a few drops of rosemary oil to shampoos, conditioners, or carrier oils like jojoba before massaging into the scalp and letting sit. Don't ingest rosemary oil, as doing so can have toxic effects.

Other Beneficial Ingredients for Hair Growth

While oils help provide needed moisture and nutrients for optimal hair growth, other ingredients can also give your hair regimen a boost. Here are some other options to look out for:

Biotin

Biotin is a B-vitamin that plays a key role in the health of hair, skin and nails. Some research indicates that biotin deficiency can lead to brittle, thinning hair. Getting adequate biotin ensures hair follicles get the nutrients they need.

Keratin

Keratin protein makes up much of the structure of hair. Using products with keratin helps reinforce hair fibers to increase elasticity and strength. Damaged hair may especially benefit from added keratin.

Niacin

Like biotin, niacin or vitamin B3 is another B-vitamin that aids cell growth and circulation. Getting enough niacin helps deliver nutrients to the scalp and hair.

Pea Sprouts

Pea sprouts are an emerging hair health booster, thanks to vegetarian biotin sources and antioxidant phytonutrients. Using pea sprout extract may protect against pollution and stressors to encourage growth.

Protein

Since hair is primarily made of protein, getting adequate protein in your diet helps ensure your body has enough building blocks to grow strong, healthy hair.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C aids collagen production and iron absorption for hair growth. It also protects against breakage by fighting free radicals. Get your vitamin C from foods like citrus, peppers and broccoli.

Vitamin D

Research has linked vitamin D deficiency to hair loss. Getting adequate vitamin D ensures your scalp gets the nutrients it needs for optimal hair growth cycles.

Zinc

Zinc contributes to cell division and protein synthesis for hair growth. It also promotes a healthy scalp and repairs damage. Seafood, nuts, seeds, legumes and whole grains are good sources.

Tips for Maximizing Growth with Oils

While oils can provide key benefits for hair, keep these tips in mind for the best results:

Do a patch test first

Before trying any new oil, do a patch test on your arm to check for allergic reaction. Leave it for 24 hours before broader use.

Use sparingly on hair roots

Only apply oils sparingly to the scalp and hair roots, as too much oil can clog follicles and pores.

Don't skip shampoo

Shampoo regularly when using oils to prevent buildup in hair follicles that could impede growth.

Mix with carrier oils

For essential oils like rosemary, always mix with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba before applying to hair and scalp.

Rinse thoroughly

After massage, use lukewarm water to rinse oils out fully. Shampoo twice if needed to remove excess oil.

Let it soak in

For deeper conditioning, apply oils to damp hair after shampooing and let sit for 30-60 minutes before rinsing.

Consult a dermatologist

If hair loss persists, see a certified dermatologist to rule out underlying conditions before trying oils.

With a consistent haircare regimen that incorporates nourishing oils, you can help promote healthy hair growth as part of an overall approach to managing hair health. But be realistic in expectations, as oils cannot completely reverse hair loss on their own.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.