The Best Hair Oils for Hair Loss: Benefits and How to Use Them
Hair loss can be caused by many factors, including stress, hormones, nutritional deficiencies, or scalp conditions. While no oil can completely prevent hair loss on its own, many natural oils are believed to help improve scalp health, strengthen hair strands, and create the right environment for healthy hair growth.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular oils for hair care, their potential benefits, and how to use them. You’ll also find links to browse hair oil collections and treatments available at McCabes Pharmacy.
1. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is one of the most widely used oils in hair care. It helps moisturise, reduce protein loss, and protect hair from everyday damage. Its lauric acid content allows it to penetrate the hair shaft more effectively than many other oils.
Benefits:
- Deeply moisturises dry hair and scalp
- Reduces breakage and protein loss
- Can add shine and softness
How to use:
Warm the oil slightly and massage into your scalp and hair. Leave on for at least 30 minutes before washing out with shampoo.
2. Castor Oil
Castor oil is rich and thick, making it ideal for moisturising. It contains ricinoleic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit scalp health.
Benefits:
- Hydrates dry hair
- May help soothe an irritated scalp
- Often used in hair masks and conditioners
How to use:
Massage into the scalp and through the lengths of your hair. Leave for 15–20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
3. Olive Oil
Used for centuries in hair and skin care, olive oil is rich in antioxidants, vitamin E, and emollients that soften and protect hair.
Benefits:
- Moisturises and adds shine
- May help reduce dandruff and scalp dryness
- Contains compounds that could support hair strength
How to use:
Massage warm olive oil into your hair and scalp. Leave for 15 minutes before rinsing well.
4. Argan Oil
Often called “liquid gold,” argan oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, making it a favourite for both hair and skincare.
Benefits:
- Provides long-lasting hydration
- Helps smooth frizz and flyaways
- Protects against styling damage
How to use:
Apply a few drops before washing for deep conditioning, or use sparingly after styling to tame frizz.
5. Essential Oils
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts. When diluted with a carrier oil (such as coconut or jojoba oil), they may help improve scalp health and stimulate hair growth.
Popular options include:
- Rosemary oil – linked to improved hair thickness
- Peppermint oil – may stimulate circulation
- Lavender oil – soothing and calming for scalp health
- Lemongrass oil – helps reduce dandruff
How to use:
Mix 5–10 drops of essential oil with 2–3 tablespoons of carrier oil. Massage into your scalp and leave for at least 10 minutes before washing.
6. Pumpkin Seed Oil
Pumpkin seed oil contains antioxidants and nutrients that may benefit hair health. Some small studies suggest it could support hair density and regrowth, particularly in cases of thinning hair.
How to use:
Can be taken orally as a supplement, or warmed and massaged directly into the scalp.
7. Emu Oil
Traditionally used in Australia, emu oil has anti-inflammatory properties and is thought to help soothe the scalp, potentially reducing irritation that may contribute to hair loss.
How to use:
Blend emu oil with other carrier oils (such as coconut or pumpkin seed oil) and apply to the scalp.
8. Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is technically a liquid wax and is highly effective at moisturising both the hair and scalp.
Benefits:
- Helps with dry scalp and dandruff
- Moisturises hair without leaving it greasy
- Can improve the absorption of other active ingredients in shampoos or treatments
How to use:
Apply a small amount to the scalp and hair, leave for 20 minutes, then wash out.
Final Thoughts
While oils are unlikely to completely stop hair loss, they can improve scalp health, strengthen strands, and support an overall healthy hair care routine. For best results, consistency is key, whether you use oils as a pre-wash treatment, scalp massage, or leave-in conditioner.
Browse our full Hair Oils & Treatments Collection at McCabes Pharmacy to find the right option for your needs.
