Hair oils are a natural alternative to more potent and extreme product measures some use to address signs of hair loss and thinning. It isn’t unusual to experience hair shedding, especially when you are going through perimenopause or menopause and your hormonal changes are doing a number on your physical and emotional well-being. To support healthy hair growth and thicker hair, you can turn to nourishing oils that moisturize your scalp and hair and are known for boosting circulation to your scalp and hair follicles to encourage new hair.
With so many oils on the market, where do you begin? These 11 hair oils are known as wonderful allies in your quest for healthier, stronger hair.
1. Argan Oil
Argan oil contains essential fatty acids like vitamin E and A. It deeply moisturizes your hair and scalp, and this provides better conditions to help your hair grow. Argan is also anti-inflammatory and can combat dandruff that clogs hair follicles, while encouraging blood to circulate to your scalp for hair growth.
2. Rosemary Oil
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a hormone linked to hair loss. Rosemary oil has been found to inhibit the production of DHT, which may help reduce hair thinning and prevent hair loss. It also stimulates blood circulation and, when used topically, some studies show may be as effective as minoxidil.
3. Pumpkin Seed Oil
Like rosemary oil, pumpkin seed oil is known to block DHT and is packed with nutrients like zinc, magnesium, fatty acids (like omega-3 and omega-6), and vitamins A, C, and E. Its antioxidants protect your hair and scalp against oxidative stress and it helps strengthen hair follicles.
4. Castor Oil
Castor oil is rich in nutrients and has antioxidants and antimicrobial properties. Its ricinoleic acid has been shown to strengthen hair and prevent damage and it is rich in omega-6 fatty acids. Off the bat, you’ll notice castor oil is very thick. It may work best as a pre-shampoo scalp massage treatment.
5. Coconut Oil
This deeply rich and hydrating oil contains vitamins and can improve scalp health and prevent split ends. Coconut oil is also great for helping to reduce dandruff and dryness, as well, and you can use it as a scalp massage or leave-in conditioner.
6. Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil helps balance sebum production so that your scalp maintains a healthy oil balance, and this helps promote hair growth. This oil is also good for boosting circulation to the scalp and it contains vitamin E, B vitamins, zinc, and copper to nourish your scalp and hair.
7. Olive Oil
Olive oil contains vitamins A, E, and K, as well as antioxidants. Some studies show it may inhibit DHT, and its antibacterial and antifungal properties can prevent scalp infections and keep your hair healthy.
8. Almond Oil
Almond oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and proteins that strengthen your hair. This is a great all-purpose oil for detangling, scalp massage, and to use as a leave-in conditioner to make strands silky and soft.
9. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties and is great for unclogging hair follicles. It can reduce dandruff, prevent hair loss caused by scalp infections, and reduce itching and irritation caused by dandruff).
10. Avocado Oil
Like avocado you eat, avocado oil contains a powerhouse of essential nutrients, including vitamins E, A, D, and B6, monounsaturated fatty acids, and omega-3 fatty acids. It’s excellent at moisturizing, helping with hair growth, and preventing hair breakage.
