Stopping hair loss: My journey with the best hair growth oils
Stopping hair loss is something I’ve taken seriously, especially after noticing the first signs of thinning hair. I know how distressing it can be, whether it’s gradual thinning, patchy spots, or full-on male pattern baldness. Hair loss affects us all differently, but one thing remains true—we all want to give our hair the best possible chance to grow back healthy and strong. Over the years, I’ve tried several products, and hair growth oils are some of the most effective I’ve found.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the best hair growth oils and what you need to know before choosing one. I’ll also share some buying tips, talk about essential ingredients to look for, and even include a few myths about hair loss that you’ve probably heard.
Before you buy: What to look for in hair growth oils
If you’re like me, you’ve probably spent more time than you’d like trying to find a hair loss solution. But before you settle on an oil, there are a few things you should consider:
1. Ingredients
When I first started experimenting with hair growth oils, I quickly learned that the ingredients are key. Some oils have amazing properties that can help your hair grow, while others do very little. Here are a few to look out for:
- Castor oil: This is one of the big hitters in hair growth oils. It’s rich in omega-6 fatty acids, which are known to help accelerate hair growth. I’ve found it particularly useful in thickening and nourishing my hair.
- Jojoba oil: This oil mimics the natural oils our scalp produces and does wonders for moisturizing the hair and scalp.
- Rosemary oil: I like to use this oil when I want to stimulate hair growth at the follicle level. It’s known to increase cellular metabolism, which helps hair grow faster.
- Tea tree oil: This has been great for keeping my scalp healthy. It works as an antimicrobial and antifungal agent, making sure my scalp is clean and irritation-free.
- Argan oil and coconut oil: Both of these are staples in my hair care routine. Argan oil keeps my hair moisturized, while coconut oil is perfect for soothing an itchy scalp.
2. Hair Loss Type
Understanding why your hair is thinning or falling out is essential. There are three phases of hair growth, and if your hair loss is due to an issue in any of these phases, oils may help stimulate growth:
- Anagen phase (growing): About 85% of your hair is usually in this phase. Oils can help stimulate and prolong this stage for faster growth.
- Telogen phase (resting): If you’re shedding more hair than usual, you may have too much hair in this resting phase. Certain oils can help reactivate follicles and bring them back into the growing phase.
3. Moisturizing
One of the things I’ve learned is that a dry scalp can really mess with your hair’s ability to grow. Using a hair growth oil with moisturizing properties is key to keeping both your scalp and hair healthy.
4. Natural Ingredients
Always opt for oils with natural ingredients. I’ve found that harsh chemicals only irritate my scalp and make things worse. Oils like argan, jojoba, and coconut not only nourish but also protect your hair from breakage.
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5. Versatility
It’s always a bonus when the products I use have more than one function. Many hair growth oils can be used for other skincare needs, like moisturizing the skin or soothing irritation.
The 9 best oils for hair growth and thickness
Here’s a list of the best hair growth oils I’ve tested. These have all worked for me at different stages of my hair care journey:
1. Natural Growth Hair Oil With Caffeine
What stands out:
This oil is a powerhouse when it comes to hair growth, combining caffeine and biotin to give you noticeable results quickly. It’s great for anyone dealing with male pattern baldness (like me).
Best for:
Men suffering from male pattern baldness.
Overview:
I was surprised to find caffeine as an ingredient in this hair oil, but it works wonders. Caffeine blocks DHT, which is one of the main culprits behind male pattern baldness. This oil also includes biotin, castor oil, and other vitamins that promote hair growth and make thinning hair look fuller. After using this for a few weeks, I noticed smoother, thicker hair.
The Good:
- Repairs and regrows hair
- Natural ingredients
- Gentle enough to use multiple times per week
The Bad:
- It can feel greasier than other oils
2. Jack Black Epic Moisture MP 10 Nourishing Oil
What stands out about this hair oil:
- Contains 10 natural oils
- Addresses dry scalps and brittle hair
- Can also be used as a shaving lubricant
Best hair oil for: Men dealing with a dry scalp and brittle hair. Jack Black’s Epic Moisture MP 10 nourishes the hair and scalp at every level, giving your scalp the best chance for recovery and increased hair growth.
Overview: Jack Black’s Epic Moisture MP 10 Nourishing Oil is a great multi-tasking oil that’s not only effective for hair growth but also promotes skin health. What I love most about it is that it can be used for conditioning, styling, or as a finishing product for your hair. The key ingredient here is argan oil, but it’s also packed with other heavy hitters like plum seed, jojoba, and olive oil, which all work together to reduce frizz and boost your hair’s smoothness and shine.
What sets this oil apart is that it contains 10 natural oils that provide your hair with moisture, essential nutrients, and fatty acids. This blend includes watermelon seed oil, which restores both hair and skin, and baobab seed oil, which helps rejuvenate and repair the scalp.
Plus, it’s free from parabens, colorants, and alcohol, and all the ingredients are certified organic and dermatologist-tested. And if that’s not enough, you can also use it as a shaving oil, beard conditioner, or grooming aid for your mustache. It’s a versatile product that delivers on many fronts.
The good:
- Lightweight texture
- Provides excellent hydration
- Multi-use product
The bad:
- Some find the oil to be a bit too thin
Bottom line: Jack Black’s Epic Moisture MP 10 Nourishing Oil is a top-tier product that delivers superior hydration and promotes healthier hair. It may be on the pricier side, but with its multi-purpose functionality and high-quality ingredients, it’s definitely worth the investment.
3. Shiny Leaf Cold-Pressed Pure Castor Oil
What stands out about this hair oil:
- 100% pure castor oil, with no added ingredients
Best hair oil for: Men with sensitive skin who want to avoid complex ingredient mixes found in most cosmetics.
Overview: Shiny Leaf’s Cold-Pressed Pure Castor Oil is a simple yet highly effective product if you’re looking to harness the full benefits of castor oil for hair growth. I’ve found it to be a great all-around solution, whether you’re treating hair loss, dry skin, or even dandruff. The fact that it’s 100% pure castor oil—no chemicals, no fragrances—gives me confidence that I’m using a clean, natural product that’s gentle on my skin and hair.
I’ve also used this as a pre-shampoo treatment and even as a mask for my skin, and I can vouch for its versatility. It’s certified organic by the USDA, cruelty-free, and vegan-friendly. So, it’s not just great for your hair, but you can feel good about your purchase too.
The oil’s thickness can take some getting used to, and it has a unique smell that some people might find a bit off-putting. But once you get past that, the benefits it brings to your hair growth and overall hair health are undeniable.
The good:
- 100% pure, organic castor oil
- Certified by the USDA
- Boosts hair growth and overall hair health
The bad:
- Some find the oil too thick
- The scent may not appeal to everyone
Bottom line: Shiny Leaf’s Cold-Pressed Castor Oil is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enhance hair growth naturally without dealing with unnecessary chemicals. It’s a simple, effective product that delivers results, even if it’s a bit thicker than most oils.
4. Viva Naturals Organic Jojoba Oil
What stands out about this hair oil:
- Unrefined, organic jojoba oil
- Ideal for moisturizing both hair and skin
- Completely natural, cold-pressed formulation
Best hair oil for: Men dealing with a dry, irritated scalp in need of gentle hydration and anti-inflammatory relief.
Overview: Viva Naturals Organic Jojoba Oil is another standout in the world of hair growth products, and I’ve used it not just for my hair but also for skin care. This oil is excellent at keeping hair moisturized, which is critical when trying to prevent brittleness and breakage. What I like most about Viva Naturals is its purity—there are no additives, preservatives, or fragrances, which makes it suitable for anyone with sensitive skin or allergies.
This oil is cold-pressed, meaning all the essential fatty acids remain intact, ensuring you’re getting the full benefits of jojoba oil. The moisture it provides helps revive dry hair and prevent it from becoming brittle, and I also use it on my scalp to prevent flakiness.
The bottle comes with a spray pump, which some people might not like if they prefer a dropper, but I found it convenient to use.
The good:
- Provides essential moisture to hair and scalp
- Multi-purpose; great for skin care too
- Pure, organic ingredients
The bad:
- Some users might prefer a dropper over the spray pump
Bottom line: Viva Naturals Organic Jojoba Oil is a great all-around product that offers deep hydration and promotes healthier hair. Its versatility and purity make it one of my go-to oils for both hair and skin care.
5. Organic Hair Growth Oil by Hair Thickness Maximizer
What stands out about this hair oil:
- Multiple stimulating ingredients
- Black castor oil and cayenne help promote a healthier scalp
Best hair oil for:
Those dealing with shedding hair that’s difficult to thicken. It may also benefit those with high rates of hair breakage.
Overview:
If you’re dealing with stubbornly thinning hair, the Organic Hair Growth Oil by Hair Thickness Maximizer offers a blend of natural ingredients aimed at promoting thicker, stronger hair. This oil combines organic Jamaican black castor oil, argan oil, jojoba oil, and a range of other ingredients like cayenne and rosehip extracts that work together to stimulate the scalp and improve blood circulation.
What’s great about this product is that it focuses not just on hair growth but on nourishing and strengthening your hair follicles, giving your scalp the care it needs to prevent further hair loss. The cayenne extract, in particular, helps to increase blood flow to the scalp, which is essential for healthy hair growth.
To get the best results, apply 2-3 drops to the affected area, massaging it in, and leave it for about 30 minutes before showering. If you’re committed to using it a few times a week, you’ll likely see results over time. Plus, with the 90-day money-back guarantee, you don’t have much to lose.
The good:
- Helps reduce hair thinning
- Organic ingredients
- Nourishes and hydrates the scalp
The bad:
- Results may take time
Bottom line:
The Organic Hair Growth Oil by Hair Thickness Maximizer addresses hair thinning with a well-rounded blend of organic oils designed to promote stronger, thicker hair. While it may take some time to see visible results, it’s a solid product to incorporate into your routine.
6. Wild Growth Light Oil Moisturizer
What stands out about this hair oil:
- A mix of hydrating natural oils
- Loaded with vitamins and minerals for healthy hair growth
Best hair oil for:
Those with a lot of hair who need deep moisturizing or those looking for something to stimulate facial hair growth.
Overview:
The Wild Growth Light Oil Moisturizer may come in a small bottle, but don’t let that fool you. It packs a punch with its blend of natural oils like castor, olive, coconut, and grapeseed oils. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to moisturize their scalp, reduce breakage, and support healthy hair growth.
What I like most about this oil is how lightweight it feels. It’s not greasy, and it has a pleasant natural scent that doesn’t overpower. Plus, the oil works well for all hair types, so whether you have curly, straight, thick, or thin hair, it provides the nourishment your scalp and hair need.
Even though it comes in a smaller bottle, you only need a little bit to see the results, so it lasts a long time. It’s also great for travel.
The good:
- Lightweight formula
- Energizes the scalp
- Pleasant natural scent
The bad:
- It can take time to see results
Bottom line:
If you’re looking for a lightweight, all-natural oil that delivers excellent hydration and supports hair growth, Wild Growth Light Oil Moisturizer is a fantastic choice. It may take a while to see results, but it’s worth the patience.
7. Grow New Hair Treatment
What stands out about this hair oil:
- Packed with moisturizing and nourishing ingredients
- Soothes irritated scalps
Best hair oil for:
Men with visible hair thinning or patchy hair loss who need quick results. Many users report noticeable changes in as little as three weeks.
Overview:
The Grow New Hair Treatment oil focuses on rejuvenating and nourishing the scalp and hair follicles to prevent hair thinning and promote healthier hair growth. If your hair is visibly thinning or breaking, this oil can make a big difference.
One of the standout features is its rich blend of plant oils and herbal extracts, including pumpkin seed, flaxseed, jojoba, and sea buckthorn oil. These ingredients work together to fortify your hair, reducing breakage and adding strength to thinning strands. Additionally, it’s non-medicated, so it’s safe for everyday use.
A little bit of this oil goes a long way, and one bottle should last about three months, making it a great value for long-term hair care.
The good:
- Rejuvenates hair follicles
- A small amount goes a long way
- Packed with natural oils and vitamins
The bad:
- Results may take time
Bottom line:
With its blend of natural ingredients and proven effectiveness in reducing hair thinning, Grow New Hair Treatment offers a solid option for anyone looking to revitalize their hair and scalp.
8. Kesh King Herbal Ayurvedic Hair Oil
What stands out about this hair oil:
- Unique Ayurvedic formulation
- Deeply penetrates to nourish hair roots
Best hair oil for:
Those who experience excessive hair shedding and want an all-natural solution to help retain hair and improve scalp health.
Overview:
Kesh King Herbal Ayurvedic Hair Oil draws from the principles of Ayurvedic medicine to provide a holistic solution to hair loss. This oil uses 16 kwath herbs, commonly used in Ayurvedic treatments, that nourish hair follicles at the root to promote healthier, stronger hair growth.
What I found interesting about this oil is that it’s designed to activate matrix cells in the scalp, which helps to rejuvenate weak hair and prevent further hair loss. It’s a gentle yet effective oil, perfect for anyone looking for a natural way to combat hair thinning while improving scalp health.
Additionally, the oil is free from harsh chemicals and has no side effects, which is always a plus when dealing with sensitive scalps.
The good:
- Natural Ayurvedic formula
- Helps prevent hair shedding
- Nourishes hair follicles
The bad:
- The scent may not be for everyone
Bottom line:
If you’re looking for a natural, Ayurvedic approach to tackling hair loss, Kesh King Herbal Ayurvedic Hair Oil is a great option. It helps nourish and protect hair while reducing shedding.
9. The Mane Choice Hair Growth Oil
What stands out about this hair oil:
- Packed with vitamins and biotin
- Reduces shedding and strengthens hair
Best hair oil for:
Those looking for a multi-vitamin solution to reduce hair shedding and improve hair health.
Overview:
The Mane Choice Hair Growth Oil is loaded with essential vitamins like A, B, C, D, E, and biotin, making it a powerful multi-vitamin formula for anyone looking to stimulate hair growth from the roots. It’s designed to reduce hair shedding and strengthen hair strands to prevent breakage.
This oil nourishes and hydrates the scalp, promoting healthier hair growth over time. You can apply it to damp or dry hair, and it’s safe for daily use, making it a convenient addition to your hair care routine.
The good:
- Multi-vitamin formula
- Reduces hair shedding and breakage
- Hydrates and nourishes the scalp
The bad:
- Some users find it a bit heavy
Bottom line:
The Mane Choice Hair Growth Oil is an excellent product for those looking to reduce hair shedding and support overall hair health. With a formula packed with vitamins and biotin, it delivers noticeable results.
How to apply oil to your hair (A simple, illustrated guide)
There’s a bit more to applying oil to your hair than just slathering it on. If you want to get the most out of your hair growth oil, follow these simple steps:
1. Prepare your hair
Before oiling, make sure your hair is tangle-free. Comb or brush your hair beforehand to help with even oil distribution and to prevent a mess. Some people find that oiling on slightly greasy hair works better, while others prefer applying it on freshly washed hair. Experiment with both to see what works best for you.
2. Protect your space
Oil can get messy, so it’s best to lay down towels or paper towels to protect your surfaces. If you’re planning on leaving the oil on overnight, make sure to cover your pillow with a towel or an old pillowcase.
3. Focus on the scalp and roots
Once you’ve applied a small amount of oil to your hands, use your fingertips to gently massage it into your scalp. Focus on covering your entire scalp, using gentle circular motions to stimulate blood circulation. Be careful not to rub too hard—this could damage your hair roots.
4. Don’t overdo it
It’s tempting to use more oil than necessary, especially if your hair is longer, but stick to the recommended amount. Too much oil can weigh your hair down and create a greasy mess.
5. Warm the oil
Warming up the oil can enhance its effectiveness by helping it penetrate your scalp more deeply. You can microwave the oil for about 10 seconds—just be sure not to overheat it, as that can destroy nutrients and even burn your scalp.
6. Know your hair type
Different hair types benefit from different oils. Whether you have dry, frizzy, oily, or normal hair, it’s a good idea to find a product tailored to your needs. Oils like argan or coconut might work wonders on dry hair, while lighter oils like jojoba might suit finer hair.
7. Let the oil sit
After you’ve applied the oil, let it sit for at least 15 minutes to an hour, depending on your schedule. The longer it stays, the more time the nutrients have to penetrate your scalp and follicles.
8. Don’t forget the back of your head
It’s easy to forget the back of your head and nape, but these areas need oil, too! Ensure you cover every part of your scalp and massage it in gently.
Best types of oil for hair growth
Let’s explore some of the best oils for hair growth, breaking them down into two categories: carrier oils and essential oils.
Carrier oils
Carrier oils help deliver essential oils to your scalp and are often rich in vitamins and nutrients. They’re commonly used to moisturize and nourish hair. Examples include:
- Castor oil: Known for stimulating hair growth by reducing the hormone PGD2.
- Coconut oil: A great moisturizer with anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, perfect for scalp health.
- Argan oil: Full of antioxidants that reduce inflammation and promote skin renewal. Ideal for dry, damaged hair.
- Olive oil: Rich in vitamin E, olive oil helps nourish the scalp and reduce dandruff.
- Jojoba oil: Mimics the skin’s natural oils and is excellent for moisturizing and protecting hair.
Essential oils
Essential oils are more concentrated and need to be diluted before applying to your skin or scalp. These oils are known for their therapeutic benefits:
- Peppermint oil: Stimulates circulation and promotes hair growth during the anagen phase.
- Lavender oil: Reduces stress and encourages cell growth, promoting faster hair growth.
- Rosemary oil: Improves hair growth and thickness by boosting cellular regeneration.
- Cedarwood oil: Helps balance oil production in the scalp, preventing hair loss due to dandruff or scalp infections.
A quick word about Minoxidil
You’ve probably heard about Minoxidil (Rogaine) if you’ve looked into hair growth treatments. It’s one of only two FDA-approved treatments for hair loss. Minoxidil widens blood vessels to improve nutrient flow to hair follicles, stimulating growth.
It’s safe for daily use and comes in both liquid and foam forms. While it was initially developed for high blood pressure, its surprising side effect was promoting hair growth.
What you need to know about hair loss
Hair loss affects about 50% of men and women by the time they’re 50. For men, androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness) is the most common cause. Unfortunately, many dermatologists overlook alternative causes, leading to mistreatment.
For some, the issue might not be male pattern baldness, but rather nutritional deficiencies—biotin, zinc, or iron—or scalp conditions. Addressing these root causes can make all the difference.
Top 10 hair loss myths
Let’s clear up some common myths around hair loss:
1. Myth: Minoxidil can make hair loss worse
Minoxidil might initially cause increased hair shedding, but that’s because it’s moving hair from the resting phase to the growing phase.
2. Myth: Minoxidil only works while you use it
While long-term use maximizes results, you won’t instantly lose all the hair you gained after stopping treatment.
3. Myth: Minoxidil doesn’t work for me
Give it time—Minoxidil can take 4-6 months (or even longer) before showing results.
4. Myth: Zinc is crucial for preventing hair loss
Zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss, but supplementing with zinc won’t help if your levels are already normal.
5. Myth: Iron supplements boost hair growth
There’s little evidence that iron supplementation affects male hair growth unless you’re iron-deficient.
6. Myth: Biotin is vital to stop hair shedding
While biotin deficiencies can cause hair loss, many people have adequate biotin levels. Supplementation is most effective if you’re deficient.
7. Myth: Natural products are always better
Not all natural ingredients have been proven effective for hair loss, despite anecdotal evidence.
8. Myth: Washing your hair too much makes it fall out
You lose about 150 hairs a day, and washing simply helps them shed. It doesn’t cause additional hair loss.
9. Myth: Brushing your hair too much pulls it out
Brushing can lead to breakage, but not actual hair loss from the root.
10. Myth: Heat styling and chemicals are okay in moderation
Excessive heat and chemical treatments can severely damage hair. Once hair is damaged, it can take years to recover.
Conclusion
Have you tried any of these hair growth oils or treatments? If you have tips, experiences, or success stories, I’d love to hear from you! Let’s keep the conversation going and help each other find what works best for our hair growth journeys.
