Looking in the mirror only to find your once-vibrant locks looking thinner than before? You're not alone. Studies show that over 50% of adults experience noticeable hair thinning by age 40. Whether you're battling with postpartum shedding, stress-induced hair loss, or simply wanting to boost your hair's natural thickness, the right hair oil could be your crowning glory's best friend.
For centuries, cultures around the world have harnessed the power of natural oils to nurture luscious, strong hair.
From Ayurvedic traditions to Mediterranean beauty secrets, these liquid treasures have stood the test of time—and modern science is finally catching up to what our ancestors knew all along.
Top 10 Best Hair Oils for Growth and Thickness
We've handpicked the top 10 best hair oils for growth and thickness—based on effectiveness, ingredients, and customer reviews—to help you find the perfect formula for your hair type and goals.
| Rank | Hair Oil |
|---|---|
| 10 | Onion Oil |
| 9 | Hemp Seed Oil |
| 8 | Amla Oil |
| 7 | Sea Buckthorn Oil |
| 6 | Rice Bran Oil |
| 5 | Peppermint Oil Blend |
| 4 | Bhringraj Oil |
| 3 | Rosemary-Infused Oil |
| 2 | Argan Oil |
| 1 | Castor Oil |
10. Rice Bran Oil: The East Asian Beauty Secret
For centuries, women in Japan, China, and other East Asian countries have relied on rice bran oil for their legendary long, thick hair. This golden oil is extracted from the outer layer of rice grains and contains an impressive array of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that nourish hair from root to tip.
What sets rice bran oil apart is a compound called inositol, which penetrates deep into damaged hair shafts, repairing them from within rather than just coating the surface.
This ability to actually repair structural damage while simultaneously promoting growth makes it especially valuable for those who have been struggling with a growth plateau.
As more research emerges on this traditional remedy, it continues to validate what East Asian beauty traditions have known for generations.
- Key Ingredients: Cold-pressed rice bran oil, inositol, ferulic acid
- Why It Works: Used for centuries by women in Japan and China known for their floor-length hair, rice bran oil contains inositol that penetrates the hair shaft, repairing damage from within while promoting scalp health.
- Best For: All hair types, especially those exposed to environmental stressors or heat styling
9. Sea Buckthorn Oil: The Nutrient Powerhouse
This vibrant orange oil extracted from sea buckthorn berries represents the cutting edge of natural hair growth science. Rich in the rare omega-7 fatty acid and over 190 bioactive compounds, sea buckthorn oil offers a level of nutritional support for hair follicles that few other natural substances can match.
Particularly beneficial for aging hair or scalps exposed to environmental damage, this oil rejuvenates the skin of the scalp at a cellular level while supporting hair's natural growth cycle.
Its comprehensive vitamin profile (A, E, C, B1, B2, K) works synergistically to combat multiple causes of thinning simultaneously.
Though this newcomer commands a premium price, its concentrated formula and scientifically validated benefits make it worth the investment for those seeking serious results.
- Key Ingredients: Sea buckthorn berry oil, omega-7 fatty acids, carotenoids
- Why It Works: One of the few plant sources of rare omega-7 fatty acids, sea buckthorn oil deeply nourishes the scalp and hair follicles, supporting cellular regeneration and moisture retention.
- Best For: Those with dry, brittle hair; mature hair types; sun-damaged scalps
8. Amla Oil: The Ancient Strengthener
Amla oil comes from the Indian gooseberry, a fruit so packed with vitamin C that it contains more than 20 times that of an orange. This potent antioxidant powerhouse has been central to hair care in India for over 5,000 years, particularly for those looking to maintain strength and natural color.
What makes amla truly special is its dual action—it works on both preventing damage to existing hair while simultaneously supporting healthy new growth.
The oil strengthens hair's natural keratin structure, reducing breakage dramatically and allowing length to accumulate instead of breaking off.
For those battling both thinning and brittle strands, amla offers a time-tested solution that addresses the full spectrum of hair health concerns.
- Key Ingredients: Indian gooseberry extract, coconut oil, vitamins C and E
- Why It Works: Packed with vitamin C (one of the highest natural sources), amla strengthens hair follicles from the root while preventing premature graying and encouraging melanin production.
- Best For: Those with brittle, damaged hair; premature graying
7. Hemp Seed Oil: The Nourishing Newcomer
While hemp seed oil may be newer to the mainstream hair care scene, its exceptional nutritional profile has quickly earned it a devoted following. This emerald-green oil is pressed from the seeds of the hemp plant and offers a perfect ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that closely matches our body's natural needs.
Unlike some heavier growth oils, hemp seed oil absorbs quickly without residue, making it ideal for those with fine hair who still want thickness benefits.
Its anti-inflammatory properties are particularly beneficial for those with sensitive or reactive scalps that haven't responded well to other treatments.
As research into hemp-derived beauty products expands, this oil continues to prove itself as more than just a trendy ingredient but a legitimate hair growth ally.
- Key Ingredients: Cold-pressed hemp seed oil, omega-3, -6, and -9 fatty acids
- Why It Works: With the perfect ratio of omega fatty acids, hemp seed oil absorbs easily into the scalp to reduce inflammation and balance oil production—two key factors in creating an optimal growth environment.
- Best For: Those with sensitive or irritation-prone scalps; fine hair types
6. Onion Oil: The Unexpected Hero
Don't let its humble kitchen origins fool you—onion oil has emerged as one of the most surprisingly effective treatments for serious hair thinning and loss.
While its initial sulfurous scent may raise eyebrows, high-quality formulations have solved this issue while retaining the powerful growth-promoting compounds.
Particularly beneficial for those dealing with conditions like alopecia or significant postpartum shedding, onion oil's high sulfur content helps rebuild hair fibers from within while improving collagen production around the follicle.
The results often outperform many expensive commercial treatments, making this unassuming oil a true dark horse in the world of hair growth remedies.
- Key Ingredients: Onion extract, black seed oil, garlic extract
- Why It Works: Before you wrinkle your nose, know this—onion oil is rich in sulfur compounds that support collagen production for the hair follicle. It also has powerful antibacterial properties that combat scalp issues that may impede growth.
- Best For: Those experiencing significant thinning or excessive shedding, especially from conditions like alopecia
5. Peppermint Oil Blend: The Scalp Stimulator
For those who've struggled with limp, slow-growing hair, peppermint oil offers a refreshing approach—literally. This invigorating oil creates an unmistakable cooling sensation upon application, signaling that it's working to wake up your scalp.
Beyond just feeling good, this tingling indicates increased microcirculation to your follicles, a key factor in promoting faster and thicker hair growth.
Particularly beneficial for those with oily scalps or dandruff issues, peppermint oil helps balance sebum production while creating an environment where healthy hair can thrive.
The immediate sensory experience makes this oil particularly satisfying to use, turning your hair care routine into an energizing ritual with long-term benefits.
- Key Ingredients: Peppermint essential oil, coconut oil, vitamin E
- Why It Works: The menthol in peppermint oil creates a stimulating tingle that increases blood flow to the scalp. This improved circulation delivers more nutrients to your follicles, promoting faster and thicker growth.
- Best For: Those with oily scalps or dandruff issues who still want growth benefits
4. Bhringraj Oil: The Ayurvedic Secret
Bhringraj may not be a household name in Western markets yet, but this powerful Ayurvedic herb has been revered in India for over 3,000 years as the ultimate remedy for hair concerns.
Known as "Kesharaja" (king of hair), this botanical powerhouse addresses multiple hair issues simultaneously.
The dark-colored oil is made by infusing bhringraj leaves in a carrier oil like sesame, creating a potent elixir that works on both the hair's appearance and its growth cycle.
For those seeking an holistic approach to hair care with centuries of traditional use behind it, bhringraj oil offers a compelling alternative to modern formulations with impressive results to match its ancient reputation.
- Key Ingredients: Bhringraj extract, sesame oil, brahmi, amla
- Why It Works: Known as "the king of herbs" for hair in Ayurvedic medicine, bhringraj revitalizes dormant hair follicles and is traditionally used to prevent premature graying while encouraging growth.
- Best For: All hair types, especially those looking for a time-tested natural solution
3. Rosemary-Infused Oil: The Scientifically-Backed Wonder
What sets rosemary oil apart in the world of natural hair remedies is the impressive scientific research supporting its effectiveness. This isn't just another folk remedy—it's a clinically validated option that rivals commercial hair growth products.
The aromatic herb has been treasured in Mediterranean cultures for centuries, but modern research has finally caught up to tradition.
Rosemary oil offers a natural alternative to conventional hair growth treatments, delivering comparable results without the potential side effects.
Its stimulating properties awaken the scalp while its antioxidant content protects follicles from damage, creating the perfect environment for robust hair growth.
- Key Ingredients: Rosemary essential oil, jojoba oil base
- Why It Works: Studies have shown rosemary oil to be as effective as minoxidil (the active ingredient in Rogaine) for hair growth, but without the side effects. It stimulates cellular metabolism, encouraging follicles to grow hair more efficiently.
- Best For: Those experiencing early-stage hair thinning or receding hairlines
2. Argan Oil: The Luxurious Strengthener
Often called "liquid gold," argan oil has revolutionized hair care with its remarkable ability to transform even the most damaged strands.
Harvested from the nuts of argan trees native to Morocco, this precious oil has been used by Berber women for centuries to maintain their famously beautiful hair.
Unlike heavier oils, argan penetrates the hair shaft without weighing it down, making it ideal for those who want thickness without sacrificing bounce and movement.
Its lightweight yet deeply nourishing properties have made it a staple in high-end hair care, delivering professional-quality results at home.
- Key Ingredients: Pure Moroccan argan oil, omega fatty acids
- Why It Works: Called "liquid gold" for good reason, argan oil is packed with vitamin E and fatty acids that penetrate the hair shaft, restoring elasticity and shine without weighing hair down.
- Best For: Fine to medium hair types prone to breakage; heat-styled or color-treated hair
1. Castor Oil: The Growth Accelerator
Castor oil stands as one of the most powerful natural remedies for hair growth, particularly for those experiencing significant thinning. This thick, viscous oil derived from castor beans has gained cult status among hair care enthusiasts for good reason.
Its unique composition makes it exceptional at revitalizing dormant follicles, especially along hairlines and thinning patches that seem resistant to other treatments.
Despite its sticky consistency, many users swear by its transformative effects, making it our top recommendation for serious growth concerns.
- Key Ingredients: Cold-pressed Jamaican black castor oil, vitamin E
- Why It Works: Rich in ricinoleic acid, castor oil has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties that help clear follicles and promote healthier scalp conditions. Its thick consistency improves blood circulation through massage, encouraging hair growth.
- Best For: Those dealing with significant thinning, particularly around the edges or crown
The Science Behind Hair Oils
What makes hair oils so effective isn't just ancient wisdom—it's biology. "Hair oils work on two critical fronts," "They nourish the scalp, creating an optimal environment for hair follicles to thrive, while also coating the hair shaft to prevent moisture loss and breakage."
The right oils deliver essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants directly to your follicles, strengthening them from the root.
These nutrients stimulate blood circulation in the scalp, which in turn delivers more oxygen and nutrients to your hair follicles, encouraging growth and improving thickness over time.
Application Guide: Making the Most of Your Hair Oil
Even the best oil won't work magic if you're not using it correctly. Follow these steps for maximum benefits:
1. Start with dry hair: Oils can't penetrate wet hair effectively, so begin with dry hair for pre-wash treatments.
2. Warm it up: Rub a small amount between your palms to warm the oil, which helps it penetrate better.
3. Focus on the scalp: Using your fingertips (not nails), massage the oil directly into your scalp in small circular motions for 3-5 minutes.
4. Don't overdo it: More isn't better! Start with:
- Fine hair: 3-5 drops
- Medium hair: 5-7 drops
- Thick hair: 7-10 drops
5. Timing matters: For deep treatments, leave the oil in for at least 30 minutes or overnight (with a shower cap). For leave-in treatments, use a much smaller amount on the mid-lengths and ends only.
6. Frequency guide:
- For serious growth goals: 2-3 deep treatments weekly
- For maintenance: 1 deep treatment weekly + small amounts as a daily leave-in
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the right oil, these pitfalls can sabotage your results:
- Inconsistency: Hair growth takes time—expect to wait at least 6-8 weeks before seeing meaningful results.
- Poor scalp circulation: Simply dropping oil on your scalp isn't enough. The massage is what stimulates blood flow and helps the oil work its magic.
- Skipping clarifying treatments: Over time, oil buildup can clog follicles. Use a gentle clarifying shampoo once every two weeks.
- Forgetting internal nutrition: Even the best topical treatments can't compensate for nutritional deficiencies. Support your hair from the inside with adequate protein, iron, and vitamins.
