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The 15 Best Hair and Scalp Oils For Your Healthiest Hair Ever
Plus, expert tips on using these gentle yet powerful formulas
When it comes to hair care priorities, our scalps often get the "out of sight, out-of-mind" treatment. That is, until the delicate area becomes itchy, starts flaking, or the hair sprouting from it shows signs of thinning. Thankfully, the best scalp oils aim to deliver just the right amount of nourishment to significantly enhance the overall health of your hair and scalp.
Whether it's one specific type of oil, like the trendy but effective rosemary oil, or a blend, there are plenty of benefits to using oils on the scalp. "Many oils are rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins that support the scalp's natural barrier, encouraging a healthy environment for hair growth," board-certified dermatologist Angela Brimhall tells Bazaar. In addition to stronger, thicker hair and a generally happier scalp, many of the best hair oils also help boost shine while minimizing existing frizz.
Shop the Best Hair and Scalp Oils
Most professionals recommend adding scalp oil to your haircare routine in the same way that you would a face oil, serum, or moisturizer. Whether you're targeting a specific concern or simply looking to have a more regular hydration routine, Brimhall says it's important to be mindful of your individual needs when regularly using one of the best scalp oils. If you're unsure of where to start on your hair journey, read on for the following expert and shopper-approved favorites worth adding to your cart.
JVN Complete Pre-Wash Scalp & Hair Treatment Oil
Pros
- Celeb-favorite
- Lightweight
Cons
- Customers say they need to double cleanse with each shampoo
Here's a top-rated pre-wash treatment that helps your hair grow stronger and thicker, thanks to key ingredients like rosemary extract, squalane, and hemisqualane. It also nicely clarifies the scalp to remove heavy dirt and product build-up.
Customer review: "So far my hair has totally looked more strong and shinier, however, I was using this to prevent hair loss, and my hair is still falling out. It's not always the solution." —alk53
Moroccanoil Dry Scalp Treatment
Pros
- Helps split ends
Cons
- Some reviewers say the bottle leaks easily
This pre-poo dry scalp treatment uses Moroccanoil's coveted Argan oil to gently clarify your scalp while soothing and repairing itchy, flaky skin. Plus, we're just obsessed with the scent.
Customer review: "In the winter, I struggle with my scalp getting dry and itchy. I’ve tried a few different shampoos and conditioners but they haven’t worked as well as I’d hoped. This oil took care of the problem!" —Abbi
Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil
Pros
- Ideal for hair types 3A to 4C
Cons
- Can be too greasy for finer hair textures
You might recognize this biotin-infused scalp and hair oil from BeautyTok where it went completely viral due to its nourishing, split end-mending benefits. Along with biotin, the hair care staple also contains 30 essential oils to increase circulation and prevent dandruff.
Customer review: "I’ve only been using for one month but have noticed that my hair has grown at least two inches! I actually couldn’t believe it until my friends and family started telling me that it is long again! I’m so happy and will continue to use." —Danielle M.
Sienna Naturals Daily Elixir Scalp Oil
Pros
- Lightweight
Cons
- Some reviewers say oil doesn't absorb easily
Co-founded by actress and producer Issa Rae, this scalp re-balancing oil from Sienna Naturals combines blue tansy, coconut, and baobab oils into a blend that's lightweight enough for daily use without leaving hair greasy. It also features a pointed nozzle for easy, targeted application.
Customer review: "The daily elixir oil leaves my scalp feeling nourished and my gray hair looks so shiny and not dull looking!" —LaVertis A.
Ranavat Botanics Mighty Majesty Fortifying Hair Serum
Pros
- Ideal for fine and thinning hair
- Only contains oils no additives
Cons
- Too greasy for some hair textures
Jasmine, amla, and sunflower oil combined in this hair serum help strengthen damaged ends while boosting hair volume. And as a bonus, the product also helps guard against heat damage, and can even be used as an overnight mask.
Customer Review: "Great feeling when applied after heat styling. Ends are super soft when used after shampoo and conditioner. Awesome product." —Robyn S.
Guerlain Abeille Royale Scalp & Hair Youth Oil-in-Serum
Pros
- Not greasy
Cons
- Pricey
This lightweight hair and scalp oil-in-serum treatment helps leave hair impossibly shiny (and smelling so good) without making it look flat or greasy. It's powered by sustainably sourced honey as a main moisturizing ingredient for a texture that's as rich as oil but featherweight as water.
Customer Review: "This hair and scalp serum is making my hair so soft, full of body and shiny after blow drying and styling. I have very short hair and am massaging the serum onto my scalp after washing and towel drying. I am amazed at the results."—Lucy
Ceremonia Aceite de Moska
Pros
- Easy to use
- Helps manage frizz
Cons
"In some instances, overuse of oil can actually dry the scalp by pulling moisture from the deeper layers of the skin up to the surface," says Brimhall. Dry and congested scalps are partly to blame for the lack of overall hair growth—that's where this popular oil comes in. Ceremonia's Aceite de Moska removes build-up, controls oil production, nourishes hair, and helps seal its cuticles.
Customer review: "Love this product! I use it before I take a shower and definitely see a difference. My scalp also feels so much healthier." —Flora
Crown Affair The Oil
Pros
- Fights frizz
Cons
- Bottle is on the smaller side
This versatile hair oil works for all hair types and can be used pre-shampoo as a hydrating treatment or daily on ends to prevent dryness. It also boasts a refreshing scent of bergamot, yuzu, lemongrass, and amber.
Customer review: "My hair has grown thicker and longer due to this hair oil. For years I've been trying to grow my hair out, and finally with this, my hair is growing with no breakage!" —Souzoo
Pattern by Tracee Ellis Ross Jojoba Oil Hair Serum
Pros
- Color-safe
Cons
- Not moisturizing enough for thicker textured hair
Designed specifically for curls and coils by actress Tracee Ellis Ross, Pattern's cocktail of oils—including jojoba, safflower, and rosehip—can be massaged into the scalp to soothe any itchiness. Brimhall points out that jojoba specifically, mimics the scalp's natural sebum, making it an excellent choice for balancing and moisturizing. Plus, this serum is super versatile, as the oil can be used on either wet or dry hair.
Customer review: "I have recommended this oil to everyone! It's the best and smells great. Great for curly, coily, and straight hair. When I have box braids in this is the only oil I use, stops the scalp from itching. Buy it now!" —Tatiana
Fable & Mane HoliRoots Hibiscus Hydrating Hair Oil Mist
Pros
- Vegan
- Easy to use spray format
Cons
- Subtle fragrance may be off-putting to some
This hibiscus oil mist adds a light dose of shine to dull hair and is especially great for fine and medium densities. The spritz format delivers all the benefits of traditional hair oil with less mess and easier application pre-styling or as a refresher.
Customer Review: "I really love this oil! It keeps my curls soft and frizz free. I use it on my kids hair too and it’s definitely worth the price." —Aragarcia95
Pros
- Lightweight and doesn't clog pores
Cons
- Bottle is small
Anablue's Treatment Oil taps the powers of Moroccan Argan oil, which Brimhall notes is ideal for hydrating and softening the scalp without clogging pores. This one is meant to be used as a weekly deep conditioning treatment that you apply, let sit, and then rinse out.
Customer review: "This product has single-handedly saved my hair! I could never get my hair to grow past my shoulders, and now it is really long, full and healthy-looking. It is an incredible product totally worth every single scent. I highly recommend it. I have turned every single friend of mine onto this product."—Anonymous
Carol's Daughter Goddess Strength 7 Oil Blend Hair & Scalp Oil
Pros
- Affordable
- Users love the scent
- Helps smooth frizz
Cons
- Some customers say the packaging leaks easily
For a scalp oil blend laced with seven different kinds of oils, this option from Carol's Daughter is incredibly lightweight. There's a combo of sunflower seed, olive, jojoba, coconut, black cumin seed, linseed, castor, and soybean oils, which work in tandem to hydrate the scalp, prevent breakage, and smooth split ends.
Customer review: "I have lost about half my hair from postpartum hair loss. My hair was brittle and dry and since using this product, my hair has more volume and smells and feels amazing! Since my hair is straight and thin, I cannot style with oil in but it is light enough to use overnight and not leave my pillow gross." —Al
Pros
- Has an anti-irritant specifically for itchiness
- Balanced scalp skin
Cons
- Pricey for the size
Gisou infuses hydrating honey into all of its products, including this leave-on scalp treatment. Use the pointed nozzle to apply the leave-on serum exactly where you need it. The blend of honey, eight different oils, and an anti-irritant helps balance your scalp's microbiome and takes down any dryness or flaking.
Customer review: "As I have aged my scalp has gotten dry and so itchy. Scalp treatments are all really that helps. I use this treatment after I wash my hair and before I use anything else. I wait several minutes while I dress and have found this to be very helpful." — Rebecca Q
Kiehl's Since 1851 Magic Elixir Scalp and Hair Oil Treatment
Pros
- Features nozzle for targeted application
- Ideal for low-porosity hair textures
Cons
- Thicker consistency may not be ideal for fine hair
A powerhouse duo of hydrating and scalp-friendly ingredients, including avocado and rosemary oils, hydrate and nourish the scalp while promoting new growth. It's a pre-shampoo treatment or you can leave it on overnight; either way, plan to wash it out.
Customer review: "This has been a lifesaver for my dry scalp! Also makes my hair super shiny and feeling healthy." —Brittany
Pros
- A little goes a long way
- Very lightweight
Cons
- May be too lightweight for very thick hair textures
A cocktail of sunflower, moringa, pomegranate, green tea, and grapeseed oils work together to both repair and rebuild fragile hair and keep it from future damage as you heat style. The blend has built-in heat protectants, and smoothes frizz with practically no added weight, even on fine hair.
Customer review: "I love this product. It works great on my hair, I thought it was just for dry or damaged hair but it works great on all hair as it has many benefits and even works as a detangler, heat protectant, and quickens drying time. The bottle doesn’t leak and the scent is really good and the product lasts forever. Definitely recommend." —Anna
Meet the experts
- Dr. Angela Brimhall is a board-certified dermatologist, Mohs surgeon, founder, and owner of Sage Dermatology.
- Helen Reavey is a celebrity hairstylist, trichologist, and the founder of Act+Acre.
How do scalp oils make hair healthier?
Many scalp oils are used as a pre-wash treatment, first massaged into the scalp to loosen debris, then shampooed out. After all, a healthy scalp sprouts fuller hair. Celebrity hairstylist and founder of Act+Acre, Helen Reavey, cites follicle-clogging buildup as a common cause of weakened hair. “Dullness, brittleness, or a lack of volume can start at the root,” she says.
What's the best method for using scalp oils?
When it comes to hair oils, these strand-centric formulas are used primarily to protect the hair and dial up the shine. Most versions are also surprisingly lightweight, helping to make locks lustrous but not lank. For best results, these blends are usually applied to clean, damp hair as you would a leave-in conditioner.
Brimhall says using hair oil one to two times a week can be very effective for dry scalps. You can apply the oil as a pre-shampoo treatment or leave it in for a few hours or overnight for deeper hydration.
For extremely dry or flaky scalps, using oil more frequently may be necessary—around two or three times a week. "Pay attention to how your scalp responds, and adjust based on your individual needs," says Brimhall. "Oil should not be a daily scalp treatment."
What are the best oils for a healthy scalp?
Brimhall breaks down which oils are best for creating and maintaining a healthy scalp. "I love oils that are gentle yet highly nourishing for both the scalp and hair," she explains.
Some of my favorites include:
- Jojoba oil: It’s structurally similar to the scalp's natural sebum, making it great for balancing oil production without clogging pores.
- Argan oil: Rich in vitamin E, it’s great for overall hydration and protecting hair from environmental damage.
- Rosemary oil: Known for its stimulating effects, rosemary can help improve circulation and promote hair growth.
- Tea tree oil: Ideal for a dry or flaky scalp, it has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can keep the scalp clean and calm.
- Coconut oil: Excellent for deep hydration, it’s especially helpful for dry and brittle hair, though it can be a bit heavy for some people.
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