As summer rolls around, the humidity, scorching sun, sweat, and dust can wreak havoc on your hair, making it dry, dull, frizzy, and prone to damage. However, you can say goodbye to these hair woes by incorporating the best hair oils into your routine. Not only do these oils hydrate your scalp and enhance blood circulation, but they also strengthen hair roots, boost growth, control split ends, and add softness and gloss to your locks.
To help you navigate the best hair oils for this summer, we’ve compiled a list of the top oils and their benefits. So, continue reading to discover how you can achieve beautiful, healthy hair with these tried-and-tested natural remedies.
The Tradition of Hair Oiling
Hair oiling may be trending on TikTok, but it’s far from new. This ancient ritual, which dates back 5,000 years, remains a prominent beauty practice among many South Asian women today. In India, massaging the hair with oil is called ‘champi’ and stems from the origins of Ayurveda. Anita Kaushal, founder of Mauli, explains that Ayurveda is the practical knowledge of how to live a healthy, full life. Using oil to massage the scalp and hair not only nourishes dry skin and strands but also works to replenish the body.
“We are working on the marma points (the body’s energy points, where two types of tissue meet) which in turn heal the body, release tension, and rejuvenate,” Kaushal explains. This holistic approach underscores that our bodies are interconnected webs, and when we care for one area, we benefit all parts. Hair oiling delivers tangible benefits, such as longer and stronger hair growth, as supported by numerous studies comparing herbs like bhrami and amla to pharmaceutical hair-growth products, often yielding better results.
Hair Oils vs. Hair Serums
It’s important to distinguish between hair oils and hair serums. A high-quality hair oil should not contain silicones, which are common in hair serums. Hair oils penetrate the strands, imparting nourishing benefits to both the hair and scalp, while silicone serums mostly coat the surface, creating smoothness and shine. To identify whether you’re using an oil or a serum, check the ingredients list for chemical names ending in ‘-cone’. Both can be beneficial, but they serve different purposes in your hair care routine.
Recommended Hair Oils for Different Hair Types
1. Hair Syrup The Original Taming Pre-Wash Hair Oil 100ml
- Best for: Frizzy and unruly hair
- Why: Ideal for pre-wash treatment, this oil tames frizz, adds shine, and improves manageability, making it perfect for those with stubborn hair. Hair Syrup The Original Taming Pre-Wash Hair Oil combines the benefits of sweet almond oil, grapeseed oil, and jojoba oil to smooth and soften hair. Apply it to dry hair before washing to detangle and reduce breakage, leaving your hair silky and manageable after every wash.
Hair Syrup The Original Taming Pre-Wash Hair Oil is perfect for those with frizzy and unruly hair that needs taming. Sweet almond oil is known for its softening properties, which help to smooth the hair cuticle and reduce frizz. Grapeseed oil is a lightweight oil that provides shine without making the hair greasy. Jojoba oil closely mimics the natural oils produced by our scalp, making it excellent for adding moisture and improving hair texture. Using this oil as a pre-wash treatment ensures that the hair is well-prepared for shampooing, resulting in smoother, more manageable hair.
USD $27.50 (Shop Now)
2. KYK Hair MIST-IQUE Hair Oil 120ml
- Best for: Fine and thinning hair
- Why: This lightweight oil mist delivers hydration and shine without weighing hair down, making it ideal for finer hair types. KYK Hair MIST-IQUE Hair Oil contains a blend of botanical extracts and oils, including argan oil and marula oil, which provide deep hydration and enhance hair’s natural luster. The fine mist application ensures even distribution, leaving hair looking full and voluminous.
KYK Hair MIST-IQUE Hair Oil is specifically formulated for fine and thinning hair. Argan oil, often referred to as “liquid gold,” is rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants that nourish and hydrate hair without weighing it down. Marula oil is another lightweight oil that provides moisture and adds shine, making hair look fuller and more voluminous. The fine mist application ensures that the oil is evenly distributed, providing all the benefits without the heaviness. This oil is perfect for those looking to add hydration and shine to their hair without compromising on volume.
USD $39.95 (Shop Now)
3. Hair Syrup Grows-Mary Oil Hair Serum 100ml at Urban Outfitters
- Best for: Hair growth and strengthening
- Why: Combining the benefits of oil and serum, this product promotes hair growth and strengthens strands, ideal for those looking to boost hair density. Hair Syrup Grows-Mary Oil Hair Serum features rosemary oil, known for its ability to stimulate hair follicles and improve blood circulation to the scalp. This dual-action serum also includes castor oil, which helps thicken hair and reduce hair fall, making it perfect for anyone aiming to achieve thicker, fuller hair.
Hair Syrup Grows-Mary Oil Hair Serum is a unique blend of rosemary oil and castor oil, designed to promote hair growth and strengthen hair strands. Rosemary oil is known for its ability to stimulate hair follicles and improve blood circulation to the scalp, which can lead to increased hair growth. Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, which helps to thicken hair and reduce hair fall. This dual-action serum combines the benefits of both oils, providing a powerful solution for those looking to boost hair density and achieve thicker, fuller hair.
USD $15.50 (Shop Now)
4. Tatcha Gold Camellia Beauty Oil for Hair & Skin
- Best for: Dull and lackluster hair
- Why: Infused with camellia oil and gold leaf, this luxurious oil provides deep hydration and a radiant shine, suitable for both hair and skin. Tatcha Gold Camellia Beauty Oil is a versatile beauty elixir that can be used on hair, skin, and nails. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, delivering intense moisture and leaving hair with a brilliant shine. The addition of 23-karat gold flakes adds a touch of luxury, making it an indulgent treat for your beauty routine.
Tatcha Gold Camellia Beauty Oil is a luxurious oil that provides deep hydration and a radiant shine to dull and lackluster hair. Camellia oil is rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, which help to nourish and protect hair, leaving it soft and shiny. The addition of 23-karat gold flakes adds a touch of luxury, making this oil a true indulgence for your hair and skin. This versatile oil can be used on hair, skin, and nails, providing intense moisture and a brilliant shine. Regular use of this oil can transform dull, lifeless hair into a luscious, radiant crown.
USD $98.00 (Shop Now)
5. Institut Esthederm Sun Care Oil Body & Hair 150ml – Strong Sun
- Best for: Sun protection and hydration
- Why: This multifunctional oil protects hair from UV damage while hydrating and nourishing, perfect for summer use. Institut Esthederm Sun Care Oil is formulated with a blend of protective oils that shield hair from the harmful effects of the sun, saltwater, and chlorine. Its lightweight texture ensures that hair remains soft and manageable, while also providing a subtle sheen that enhances your natural highlights.
Institut Esthederm Sun Care Oil is a multifunctional oil that provides sun protection and hydration for both body and hair. This oil is formulated with a blend of protective oils that shield hair from the harmful effects of the sun, saltwater, and chlorine, making it perfect for summer use. Its lightweight texture ensures that hair remains soft and manageable, while also providing a subtle sheen that enhances your natural highlights. Regular use of this oil can help to prevent sun damage and keep your hair hydrated and healthy throughout the summer months.
USD $50.00 (Shop Now)
6. Hair Renew Scalp Oil
- Best for: Scalp health and hair rejuvenation
- Why: This oil focuses on scalp health, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth and rejuvenation. Hair Renew Scalp Oil combines the benefits of tea tree oil, peppermint oil, and lavender oil to soothe and invigorate the scalp. Its antifungal and antibacterial properties help maintain a healthy scalp, reducing dandruff and promoting stronger, healthier hair growth.
Hair Renew Scalp Oil is designed to promote scalp health and hair rejuvenation. Tea tree oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties that help to maintain a healthy scalp and reduce dandruff. Peppermint oil provides a cooling sensation that invigorates the scalp and improves blood circulation, promoting hair growth. Lavender oil soothes the scalp and reduces inflammation, creating a healthy environment for hair growth. This oil is perfect for those looking to improve scalp health and achieve stronger, healthier hair.
USD $30.00 (Shop Now)
7. KOBA Gold Drip Nourishing Body & Hair Oil
- Best for: Nourishing both body and hair
- Why: KOBA Gold Drip Nourishing Body & Hair Oil is a luxurious multi-purpose oil designed to hydrate and nourish both your skin and hair. This versatile oil blend combines the richness of argan oil, coconut oil, and vitamin E to deeply moisturize and enhance your beauty routine.
Infused with argan oil, known for its revitalizing properties, this oil deeply penetrates hair follicles to strengthen and add shine without weighing hair down. Coconut oil provides natural conditioning, leaving hair silky smooth and manageable. Whether used as a pre-wash treatment or as a leave-in conditioner, KOBA Gold Drip Oil transforms dull, dry hair into lustrous locks.
Pamper your skin with the enriching benefits of vitamin E and coconut oil, which moisturize and rejuvenate, leaving skin soft and supple. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, delivering long-lasting hydration without a greasy residue. Perfect for all skin types, it enhances skin elasticity and promotes a radiant complexion.
KOBA Gold Drip Nourishing Body & Hair Oil is your go-to solution for achieving healthy, radiant skin and hair. Whether you’re looking to tame frizz, add shine, or simply indulge in a luxurious self-care ritual, this multitasking oil elevates your beauty regimen with its nourishing blend. Transform your beauty routine with KOBA Gold Drip Nourishing Body & Hair Oil and experience the golden touch of hydration and rejuvenation.
USD $70.00 (Shop Now)
8. BREAD Macadamia-Oil: For Hair & Body 46ml – No Colour
- Best for: Hydrating hair and body
- Why: BREAD Macadamia-Oil is a versatile, lightweight oil blend crafted to nourish both your hair and body effortlessly. Formulated with pure macadamia oil, this multitasking elixir delivers intense hydration and a healthy glow.
Enriched with macadamia oil, renowned for its rich omega fatty acids, this oil deeply conditions and strengthens hair from root to tip. It smooths frizz, enhances shine, and promotes hair elasticity without weighing it down. Perfect for all hair types, it revitalizes strands and leaves them silky soft and manageable.
Pamper your skin with the nourishing benefits of macadamia oil, which absorbs quickly to moisturize and replenish dry, thirsty skin. It locks in moisture, improves skin texture, and leaves a non-greasy, satin finish. Ideal for daily use, it soothes and protects while promoting a radiant, healthy-looking complexion.
BREAD Macadamia-Oil is your essential companion for achieving head-to-toe hydration and revitalization. Whether you’re treating your hair to a spa-like treatment or indulging in luxurious skin care, this versatile oil elevates your beauty routine with its pure, effective formula. Transform your beauty regimen with BREAD Macadamia-Oil and discover the nourishing power of macadamia for hair and body care.
USD $50.00 (Shop Now)
9. Goldilocks Argan Oil Essence 100ml
- Best for: Silky, glossy hair without the grease
- Why: Goldilocks Argan Oil Essence offers a transformative, non-greasy formula that swiftly absorbs into hair, reducing drying time and eliminating frizz. Ideal for all hair types, this lightweight essence locks in moisture, shields against humidity, and enhances hair elasticity and shine.
Goldilocks Argan Oil Essence delivers concentrated nourishment with the power of argan oil, providing a luxurious treatment that enhances hair manageability and radiance. Whether used as a finishing touch or as part of your daily hair care routine, it revitalizes hair with a silky, glossy finish. Transform your hair care routine with Goldilocks Argan Oil Essence and experience the benefits of enriched, nourished hair.
USD $31.00 (Shop Now)
10. Curlsmith Shine Oil Travel Size 59ml – No Colour
- Best for: Enhancing shine and smoothness for all hair types
- Why: Curlsmith Shine Oil is your ultimate companion for achieving lustrous, smooth hair on the go. This travel-sized bottle is perfect for maintaining your hair’s brilliance and vitality wherever you are. Infused with a blend of nourishing oils, this lightweight formula imparts a natural, radiant shine without weighing your hair down.
Whether you have curls, waves, or straight hair, Curlsmith Shine Oil enhances your hair’s natural beauty by taming frizz and adding a glossy finish. Its non-greasy formula is quickly absorbed, leaving your hair silky and manageable. The travel-friendly size makes it easy to keep your hair looking its best, no matter where your adventures take you.
Curlsmith Shine Oil is a must-have for anyone seeking to elevate their hair care routine with a touch of luxury. Perfect for touch-ups and on-the-go maintenance, this oil ensures your hair stays smooth, shiny, and healthy-looking all day long. Elevate your hair’s radiance with Curlsmith Shine Oil Travel Size and experience the convenience of luxurious hair care wherever you are.
USD $45.00 (Shop Now)
Tips for Applying Hair Oil
To maximize the benefits of hair oils, it’s essential to apply them correctly. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your hair oil treatments:
- Choose the Right Oil for Your Hair Type: Select an oil that suits your hair type and addresses your specific hair concerns. For example, if you have dry and damaged hair, opt for an oil rich in moisturizing properties like argan oil or coconut oil.
- Apply to Dry or Damp Hair: Depending on the type of oil, you can apply it to dry or damp hair. Pre-wash treatments should be applied to dry hair, while post-wash treatments can be applied to damp hair for better absorption.
- Start with the Scalp: Gently massage the oil into your scalp using your fingertips. This helps to improve blood circulation and ensures that the oil reaches the hair roots, promoting healthy hair growth.
- Work Through the Lengths: After massaging the scalp, work the oil through the lengths of your hair, focusing on the ends. This helps to nourish and protect the hair strands, reducing frizz and split ends.
- Leave it On: Allow the oil to sit for at least 30 minutes to an hour before washing it out. For deeper conditioning, you can leave the oil on overnight and wash it out the next morning.
- Use a Mild Shampoo: When washing out the oil, use a mild shampoo that won’t strip away the natural oils from your hair. You may need to shampoo twice to ensure all the oil is removed.
- Condition as Usual: Follow up with your regular conditioner to seal in the moisture and leave your hair feeling soft and hydrated.
The Benefits of Regular Hair Oiling
Regular hair oiling offers a myriad of benefits for your hair and scalp. Here are some of the key advantages:
- Improved Scalp Health: Massaging the scalp with oil stimulates blood circulation, which can improve the health of the hair follicles and promote hair growth. It also helps to keep the scalp moisturized, preventing dryness and flakiness.
- Strengthened Hair Roots: Oils like coconut oil and castor oil penetrate deep into the hair shaft, strengthening the roots and preventing hair fall. This results in thicker, stronger hair over time.
- Enhanced Hair Growth: Regular application of oils such as rosemary oil and peppermint oil can stimulate hair follicles and promote faster hair growth. These oils are known for their ability to increase blood circulation to the scalp.
- Reduced Frizz and Split Ends: Oils like argan oil and jojoba oil help to smooth the hair cuticle, reducing frizz and preventing split ends. This leaves your hair looking sleek and polished.
- Increased Shine: Oils add a natural sheen to your hair, making it look healthy and vibrant. Regular use of oils can enhance the overall appearance of your hair, giving it a glossy finish.
- Moisturized and Hydrated Hair: Oils provide essential moisture to dry and damaged hair, helping to restore its natural hydration levels. This results in softer, more manageable hair.
- Protection from Environmental Damage: Oils form a protective barrier around the hair, shielding it from environmental factors such as UV rays, pollution, and harsh weather conditions. This helps to prevent damage and maintain the health of your hair.
Incorporating the right hair oils into your summer hair care routine can make a significant difference in maintaining healthy, beautiful locks. Whether you’re dealing with dryness, frizz, or lack of shine, there’s a hair oil that can cater to your specific needs. Remember to choose high-quality, pure oils and apply them using the proper techniques to reap the maximum benefits. Embrace the age-old tradition of hair oiling and transform your hair into a luscious, radiant crown this summer.