18 Best Carrier Oils For Hair Growth And Thickness, Healthy Hair, Natural Hair Care, And Reduced Hair Loss

Everyone desires to have thick, healthy hair, but one of the biggest challenges to this is hair loss. Some people suffer extreme hair loss due to many different reasons, like pollution, changes in weather, extreme climatic conditions, aging, etc. To fulfill this desire, one of the great solutions is using oils.

But which oil to use is one of the greatest questions. There are a number of options available in the market. But these store-bought hair oils contain a lot of chemicals and toxins that can harm your scalp and your hair.

There is an all-natural alternate solution to the issue of your hair fall, and that is carrier oils. Carrier oils are considered to be very effective for stimulating hair growth and for a healthy scalp and hair. These carrier oils are chemical-free and are rich in many benefits.

This post aims to cover all the necessary carrier oils that promote hair growth and thickness. There are also certain essential oils that are best for your hair and scalp.

What Are Carrier Oils?

Carrier oils are plant-based oils that are made by extracting fatty acids by pressing the seeds, kernels, as well as nuts. These are called carrier oils, as they are used to deliver the benefits of essential oils to your skin and hair. Essential oils are also plant-based oils, but they are highly concentrated and can irritate your skin.

So, to reduce the concentration of essential oils, carrier oils are diluted with it before applying it to skin and hair. Carrier oils being less concentrated, can be applied directly to your skin and hair.

What Are The Best Carrier Oils For Hair Growth? | Carrier Oils That Stimulate Hair Growth

Following is the list of carrier oils for hair health that will make hair look voluminous and reduce hair loss.

1. Castor Oil 

Castor oil is an important and popular carrier oil that is derived from the castor bean plant and is known for its thick, sticky consistency. It is high in fatty acids and vitamin E, which can help increase blood flow to the scalp and promote hair growth.

It also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help keep the scalp healthy and free from infections (1). It is best to use castor oil as hot oil treatment, by heating the oil and massaging it into the scalp.

2. Jojoba oil 

Jojoba oil is derived by pressing the seeds of the jojoba plant. It is known for its light, non-greasy consistency. It is similar to the natural oil produced by the scalp, making it an excellent choice for moisturizing the hair and scalp.

Jojoba oil contains many vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E and B-complex vitamins, which can help nourish the hair and promote growth. Jojoba oil contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe an irritated scalp. Other than this, Jojoba oil is widely regarded as the best oil for cuticles due to its nourishing and moisturizing properties. (2).

3. Coconut Oil 

Coconut oil is one of the most commonly used oils derived from the meat of coconuts and is known for its thick, creamy consistency. Coconut oil contains high fatty acids and vitamins, including vitamins E and K, which can help nourish the hair and scalp, promoting growth and preventing damage (3).

It also contains antimicrobial properties that can help keep the scalp clean and free from bacteria and fungus. It is a great pre-shampoo treatment that can be used by massaging it into the scalp and hair and leaving it on for at least 30 minutes before washing out. It is one of the best oils that suit almost every hair type, that is, dry hair or oily hair. Also, Using coconut oil for ringworm may provide relief and promote healing, but it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

4. Argan Oil 

Argan oil is extracted from the kernels of the argan tree and is known for its light, non-greasy consistency. It is high in antioxidants and fatty acids, including vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help strengthen hair and prevent breakage, promoting hair growth. Argan oil is rich in anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe a dry, irritated scalp (4).

5. Sweet Almond Oil 

Sweet almond oil is derived from almonds and is known for its light, non-greasy consistency. Sweet almond oil contains vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E and magnesium, which can help nourish the hair and scalp, promoting growth and preventing damage. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe an irritated scalp (5). It helps reduce frizzy hair and keeps your hair soft and smooth. 

6. Grapeseed Oil 

Grapeseed oil is derived from grapes and is known for its light, non-greasy consistency. It is high in antioxidants and fatty acids, including vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids, which are great for hair and scalp, promoting growth and preventing damage. It is also non-comedogenic in nature, so it does not clog pores. 

7. Blackseed Oil

Blackseed oil is a popular carrier oil for hair. It is also known as black cumin seed oil or Nigella sativa oil (6). It is extracted from the seeds of the Nigella sativa plant. It has various health benefits. Blackseed oil contains fatty acids, like linoleic acid and oleic acid, as well as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

These nutrients can help to nourish the hair and scalp, promoting healthy growth and preventing hair loss. Blackseed oil is also rich in thymoquinone, a compound that has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties (7). These properties may help to soothe an irritated scalp, promoting healthy growth.

Black seed essential oil is emerging as a popular choice for those seeking the best oil to darken hair naturally. It contains potent antioxidants and essential fatty acids that nourish the hair follicles and stimulate pigment production, promoting a richer, darker hue for the hair.

Blackseed oil is also known to strengthen the hair shaft, preventing breakage and promoting hair growth. It also moisturizes the scalp and hair, making it a great oil for those with dry and damaged hai (8).

8. Pumpkin Seed Oil

Pumpkin seed oil is taken from the seeds of the pumpkin plant. It contains necessary vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that improve hair and scalp quality. It is particularly high in zinc, which is essential for healthy hair growth. The pumpkin seed oil also has a high content of fatty acids that penetrates the hair shaft and provides strength to the hair shaft leading to reduced hair loss (9). 

9. Moringa Oil

The seeds of the Moringa oleifera tree are used to extract moringa oil. It contains properties like antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that are good for hair. It contains vitamins and minerals that can help to nourish the hair and scalp. Moringa oil is also a natural hair conditioner that moisturizes the hair and prevents breakage (10).

10. Olive Oil

Olive oil is a commonly used oil for skincare and haircare and is derived from the fruit of the olive tree. It contains fatty acids and antioxidants, which can help to nourish the hair and scalp. It is particularly rich in vitamin E, therefore it is best essential oil to promote hair growth and prevent hair loss.

Olive oil is also a natural hair conditioner, thus smoothening hair and preventing breakage (11). Olive oil is one of the greatest solutions to overcome the issue of dull, thin hair. It is a lighter oil that does not make your hair look heavy and greasy.

11. Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is derived from the flesh of the avocado fruit. It is full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are great for hair and a healthy scalp. It is particularly high in vitamins A, D, and E. Vitamins are not only good for the skin but it also provides strength and shines to the hair. Avocado oil also has a high content of monounsaturated fatty acids, which can help to strengthen the hair shaft, preventing breakage and promoting hair growth.

Avocado oil is also used in many hair conditioners as it deeply penetrates the scalp and provides its benefits to hair (12).

12. Tamanu oil

Tamanu oil is extracted from the nuts of the Tamanu tree (13). It is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is also rich in fatty acids and phytosterols, which can help to nourish the hair and scalp. Tamanu oil is also known for its ability to promote the growth of new cells, which can help to promote hair growth.

13. Rosehip Oil

Rosehip oil is a commonly used oil for skin care. But few know that it also has properties to strengthen hair and increase the volume of hair. It contains fatty acids and antioxidants, which can help to nourish the hair and scalp. It is particularly high in vitamin C, which is essential for healthy hair growth.

Rosehip oil also has a high content of trans-retinoic acid, which can help to promote the growth of new cells, which can help to promote hair growth (14).

14. Apricot Oil

Apricot oil is derived from the kernels of apricot fruit. It is known for its light and non-greasy texture, making it a great option for those with oily scalps. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, as well as fatty acids, which can help to nourish the hair and scalp and promote healthy growth. It’s also high in antioxidants and lubricates the hair shaft, which can help protect hair from environmental damage.

15. Sunflower Oil

Sunflower oil is derived from the seeds of the sunflower plant. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, as well as fatty acids, and good for hair. It’s also high in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe an irritated scalp.

16. Evening Primrose Oil

Evening primrose oil is derived from the seeds of the evening primrose plant. It is known for its high content of essential fatty acids, including gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which can help to nourish the hair and scalp, and promote healthy growth (15). It’s also high in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe an irritated scalp.

17. Sesame Oil

Sesame oil is great for hair as it contains necessary vitamins and minerals that promote hair growth. It is derived from the seeds of the sesame plant (16). It’s also high in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties and serves different hair needs.

18. Hemp Seed Oil

Hemp seed oil is derived from the seeds of the hemp plant. It is known for its high content of essential fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6, which promotes hair growth. The hemp seed oil has many health benefits as well (17).

What Are The Benefits Of Using Carrier Oils For Hair Growth?

Moisturization 

Carrier oils help to moisturize the hair and scalp, which is essential for healthy hair growth. A dry and flaky scalp can lead to hair breakage and slow down hair growth. By moisturizing the hair and scalp, carrier oils can make the hair more pliable, less prone to breakage, and promote healthy growth.

Nutrients Supply 

Carrier oils are rich in vitamins and minerals that can benefit hair growth. For example, castor oil is high in fatty acids and vitamin E; jojoba oil is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E and B-complex vitamins. These nutrients can help nourish the hair and scalp, promoting growth and preventing damage.

Scalp Health 

Certain carrier oils have properties that can help keep the scalp healthy. For example, coconut oil has antimicrobial properties, which can help keep the scalp clean and free from bacteria and fungus. Also, carrier oils like castor oil and jojoba oil have anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe an irritated scalp. A healthy scalp is necessary to promote hair growth.

Strengthening 

Carrier oils like argan oil are high in antioxidants and fatty acids, which can help strengthen hair and prevent breakage. This can help promote hair growth by preventing hair loss due to breakage.

Non-comedogenic 

Some carrier oils, like grapeseed oil, are non-comedogenic, which means they won’t clog pores. This can be beneficial for people with oily scalps or acne-prone skin, as it can help keep the scalp clean and promote healthy hair growth.

How To Use Carrier Oils To Promote Hair Growth?

Hot Oil Treatment 

Head massage with hot oil is one of the most effective ways to use carrier oils for hair growth. Heating the oil and massaging it into the scalp increases blood circulation and can help increase blood flow to the scalp and promote hair growth. To do a hot oil treatment, heat the oil of your choice in a double boiler or in a glass jar placed in a pot of warm water.

Once the oil is warm, apply it to the scalp and massage gently with the help of your fingers. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes and then rinse it by using any gentle shampoo, followed by a conditioner. You can use homemade shampoo and homemade conditioner to increase the benefit of the oils. 

Pre-shampoo Treatment 

Applying the oil to the scalp and hair before washing can help nourish the hair and promote growth. To do a pre-shampoo treatment, massage the oil of your choice into the scalp and hair. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes before washing it out with mild shampoo.

Leave-in Treatment 

Applying the oil to the hair after washing can help strengthen the hair and prevent breakage. To use as a leave-in treatment, apply a small amount of oil to the hair, focusing on the ends. Avoid applying too much oil, as it can make the hair greasy.

Mix with Other Ingredients 

You can also mix carrier oils with other ingredients to promote hair growth. You can make a hair mask for stimulating hair growth by mixing castor oil with peppermint oil or mixing coconut oil with honey.

Following are some recipes that highlight how to mix essential oils for hair growth and thickness.

DIY Recipes To Boost Hair Growth

Recipe #1

Castor Oil and Peppermint Oil 

Instructions

• Mix 2 tablespoons of castor oil with 6-8 drops of peppermint oil.
• Massage the mixture into your scalp, focusing on the roots.
• Leave it on for at least 20 to 30 minutes before washing it out with mild shampoo.
• Peppermint oil can help increase blood flow to the scalp, promoting new hair growth. Castor oil also helps your hair grow faster. This recipe is best for hair growth. 

Recipe #2

Coconut Oil and Honey 

Instructions

• Mix 2 tablespoons of coconut oil with 1 tablespoon of honey.
• Massage the mixture into your scalp, focusing on the roots.
• Leave it on for at least 30 minutes before washing it off with mild shampoo. Coconut oil will moisturize and promote strength in your hair, while honey has antibacterial and nourishing properties that can help promote hair growth. This DIY hair growth recipe will help overcome the issue of dull hair. 

Recipe #3

Olive Oil and Egg 

Instructions

• Mix 2 tablespoons of olive oil with 1 beaten egg.
• Massage the mixture into your scalp, focusing on the roots.
• Leave it on for at least 20 minutes before washing it with shampoo. Olive oil is rich in vitamins and minerals that can help nourish the hair, while the egg provides protein which is essential for healthy hair growth. Olive oil is one of the best carrier oil for your hair care. 

Recipe #4

Blackseed Oil and Lavender Oil

Instructions

• Mix 2 tablespoons of blackseed oil with 6-8 drops of lavender oil.
• Massage the mixture on both roots of your hair and scalp.
• Let it stay for 15 to 20 minutes, and then rinse it with the help of a gentle shampoo. Blackseed oil and lavender oil can help soothe irritated scalp and is a great addition to your hair care routine. This recipe can offer strength to dry or damaged hair.

Recipe #5

Aloe Vera and Avocado 

Instructions

• Mix 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel with 1 mashed avocado.
• Massage the mixture into your scalp, focusing on the roots.
• Leave it on for at least 30 minutes and then wash with the help of a mild shampoo. You can also try homemade shampoo, as it will do wonders for your hair. Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the scalp, while avocado is rich in vitamins and minerals that can help protect the hair. 

Recipe #6

Apricot Seed Oil and Rosemary Oil

Instructions

• Mix 2 tablespoons of apricot seed oil with 6-8 drops of rosemary oil.
• Massage the mixture into your scalp, focusing on the roots.
• Leave it on for at least 30 minutes, and then wash your hair with shampoo. Apricot seed oil is rich in vitamins and minerals that can help nourish the hair, while rosemary oil can help increase blood flow to the scalp and promote hair growth.

*Note: Always remember essential oils must be diluted with a carrier oil of your choice to reduce the potency and concentration of essential oils. Using essential oils in hair in undiluted form can cause irritation to your scalp or can also result in any sort of allergic reaction.

Summary

In this post, some of the best carrier oils for hair care have been suggested that can be used to strengthen your hair, improve scalp health, provide nourishment to your hair, add natural shine, and increase the volume of your hair. Different carrier oils can be used instead of commercial hair care products to improve hair and scalp health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Source:

• Castor oil is an important and popular carrier oils that is derived from the castor bean plant and is known for its thick, sticky consistency.

https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=2RujCgAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PT5&dq=Castor+oil+is+an+important+and+popular+carrier+oils+that+is+derived+from+the+castor+bean+plant+and+is+known+for+its+thick,+sticky+consistency.&ots=r3YUwu5E1U&sig=raBBVhWO9fPML-kr5572G1D7_jk#v=onepage&q&f=false

• Jojoba Oil: An Updated Comprehensive Review on Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Uses, and Toxicity

https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4360/13/11/1711

• Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry  https://www.phytojournal.com/archives?year=2020&vol=9&issue=3&ArticleId=11310
• Argan Oil

https://altmedrev.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/v16-3-275.pdf

• An updated review on efficacy and benefits of sweet almond, evening primrose and jojoba oils in skin care applications.

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/ics.12758

• Distribution of Primary and Specialized Metabolites in Nigella sativa Seeds, a Spice with Vast Traditional and Historical Uses

https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/17/9/10159

• Thymoquinone: A promising anti-cancer drug from natural sources

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1357272505003614

• A Review on Some Indian Medicinal Plants useful in Hair Care

https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/ben/ctm/2023/00000009/00000002/art00014

• Herbal preparations for the treatment of hair loss

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00403-019-02003-x

• Moringa oleifera: a natural gift-A review

https://www.proquest.com/openview/a957454d42c5b806f298f9f385114dae/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=54977

• Hair Oils: Indigenous Knowledge Revisited

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9231528/

• Hair Conditioner

https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-29419-3_4

• Tamanu oil and skin active properties: from traditional to modern cosmetic uses

https://archimer.ifremer.fr/doc/00660/77218/

• Realizing the Potential of Health-Promoting Rosehips from Dogroses (Rosa sect. Caninae)

https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/ben/cbc/2017/00000013/00000001/art00004

• 4 – Specialty Oils: Functional and Nutraceutical Properties

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9781782422471000041

• Extraction and Characterization of Oil from Sesame seed

https://staff.futminna.edu.ng/ABE/content/journal/PF1311/25.pdf

• The Composition of Hemp Seed Oil and Its Potential as an Important Source of Nutrition

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1300/J133v02n04_04