13 Best Natural Oils for Hair Growth 2025, Dermatologist-Approved

After having a baby last year, I lost gobs of hair, giving me new perspective on the emotional toll of hair loss. The best natural oils for hair growth aren’t a cure-all, but they can still be effective in regrowing your strands—and confidence. That makes them an option worth considering, especially for folks wanting healthier hair, sans pharmaceuticals.

When applied to the scalp, certain natural oils can calm irritation, fight off unwanted bacteria, deliver fatty nutrients directly to the hair root, and stimulate blood flow, says William Gaunitz, WTS, a certified trichologist and founder of Advanced Trichology Products. These healing properties can help soothe several dermatological conditions that can hinder growth such as psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, cicatricial [scarring] alopecia, and overall hair loss, he says.

Our favorite overall product is The Ordinary’s Multipeptide Serum, which combines castor oil (which helps increase hair thickness, is anti-inflammatory, and cleans the scalp) with a variety of peptides that can deliver results in as few as two weeks. But there are many other oil-based hair care products worth trying for different hair types.

The best natural oils for hair growth, at a glance

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Best Overall

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density

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Best Rosemary Oil

Mielle Rosemary Mint Light Scalp & Hair Oil

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Best Avocado Oil

Kiehl’s Magic Elixir Scalp & Hair Oil Treatment

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Best Coconut Oil

Shea Moisture 100% Virgin Coconut Oil Leave-In Treatment

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Best Overall: The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density

Best for: Thicker roots, scalp health

This highly concentrated serum is packed with not just castor oil, but a variety of hair-density-boosting ingredients. “This serum combines peptides, caffeine, Redensyl [a natural, plant-based hair growth ingredient], and other actives that target multiple pathways of hair loss — from improving circulation to supporting follicle density,” says Ross Kopelman, MD, a hair transplant surgeon and hair loss expert with Kopelman Hair Restoration. “I like that it’s lightweight, easy to apply, and backed by solid ingredient science.” The formulation increases blood flow to the scalp, an essential part of healthy hair growth, as it allows for better nourishment and thicker growth. Plus, as with the brand’s other products, they’re all budget-friendly as well as clinically tested.

Some users have experienced new growth in as little as two weeks.

“As someone with very flat hair, I was excited to give this peptide serum a whirl to see if it added bounce and thickness,” says Glamour commerce writer Alanna Martine Kilkeary. “The good news: My hair actually did look thicker post-application, so much so that I put on a headband to keep it from falling toward my face. This serum also did wonders for my typically knotty hair in the winter and hydrated my roots even after just one application and blow-dry. I’ll definitely continue to use this one throughout the colder months to keep my hair looking resilient, strong, and velvety.”

How to use: Indicated as a leave-in treatment, this is meant to be applied to a clean, dry scalp and left on. The brand recommends using before bed, but it can be used any time of day. Apply a few drops daily followed by a massage for best results.

Best Rosemary Oil: Mielle Rosemary Mint Light Scalp & Hair Oil

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Mielle Rosemary Mint Light Scalp & Hair Oil

Best for: New hair growth on fine hair

Rosemary oil is a popular option because it boosts blood flow when massaged onto the scalp, which can lead to faster hair growth. Studies suggest that it can be as effective as minoxidil (a common hair-loss treatment) in triggering growth. Mielle’s top-rated version also contains biotin, an essential nutrient in the hair-growth cycle.

How to use: Gaunitzrecommends diluting rosemary oil with a carrier oil (like jojoba or coconut oil) before applying because it is highly concentrated and will irritate the scalp if applied directly. Massage the concoction gently onto your scalp, focusing on areas with hair loss or thinning. For a deeper treatment leave it on for longer than 30 minutes. Otherwise, rinse it out after about a half hour, shampoo thoroughly using a sulfate-free shampoo, then condition as you normally would.

Best Jojoba Oil: Pattern by Tracee Ellis Ross Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil Blend

Best for: Hydration; works great on braids, locs, and curly hair

Ideal for those with coily or curly hair, jojoba oil is high in essential fatty acids, which “helps soften and add sheen to hair that tends to run dry,” Kay says. This specific blend helps maintain moisture and thickens thinning hair. “I love the way it smells; it has a faint, spa-like aroma. It also has more of a serum-like dispenser and a thicker texture than a water-light oil, making it feel a bit more substantial and less runny than some others,” says Glamour contributor Lisa DeSantis.

Glamour visuals director Lauren Brown reaches for Pattern’s Argan Hair & Scalp Oil when she needs a little nourishment. “I’ve had my braids in for five weeks and my scalp gets dry and my hair starts to become brittle at this point in the process,” she says. “This oil brought a little life back. The oil itself is extremely lightweight, with a pleasant smell, and it left my roots feeling silky.”

How to use: Jojoba oil can be used on wet or dry hair as a leave-in conditioner for added moisture. Start by applying a few drops to the palm of your hand. (Remember, a little goes a long way.) Then lightly dab it onto the most parched areas of your hair. If you want to use it as a scalp treatment, apply a few drops to targeted areas around your head and massage the oil into the scalp. Pro tip: Opt for cold-pressed jojoba oil because it preserves the oil’s natural vitamins.

Best Avocado Oil: Kiehl’s Magic Elixir Scalp and Hair Oil Treatment

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Kiehls Magic Elixir Scalp and Hair Oil Treatment

Best for: Dry hair and scalp, split ends

Use this lightweight treatment as a pre-shampoo. It’s infused with avocado oil, a rich source of vitamin E, which prevents hair loss, seals the hair cuticle, dials up your natural shine, and makes your tresses extra smooth.