9 Best Natural Oils for Better Hair Health

Coconut Oil for Moisture and Repair

One of the most popular natural products for hair care, coconut oil, is loaded with lauric acid (a type of saturated fat). According to scientists, lauric acid found in coconut oil has a rare ability to penetrate inside the hair shaft and, in turn, repair damaged hair.

What’s more, the same study determined that treatment with coconut oil may help to reduce the loss of protein from hair. (Your hair’s main component, protein may be damaged by chemical processes such as dyeing and highlighting.)

Touted for all hair types, coconut oil is widely favored as a moisture-boosting hair treatment.

Olive Oil to Strengthen Hair

Like coconut oil, olive oil penetrates into your hair’s fibers in a way that few other oils can. In fact, the abundance of monounsaturated fats found in olive oil may play a key role in its deeply penetrating, hair-strengthening properties.

Because it’s so moisturizing, olive oil might help save your hair from weather-related dryness during the winter months. Scrunching a few drops of olive oil into your hair can also help keep curls smooth.

Argan Oil for Better Manageability

Argan oil comes from the kernels of a tree native to Morocco. In recent years, this oil has become a beloved treatment for many hair types, including frizzy, coarse, and brittle hair.

Praised for its conditioning effects, argan oil is packed with essential fatty acids said to leave hair more manageable.

Jojoba Oil for Softness and Shine

The seeds of the jojoba plant are high in liquid wax and essential fatty acids found to possess moisturizing properties. Long used in shampoos and conditioners, jojoba oil may help soften and restore luster to dull hair. In addition, it may help treat dry scalp and aid in dandruff control.

Avocado Oil to Prevent Hair Breakage

Like nuts and seeds, avocados are a top source of vitamin E (an antioxidant compound found to fight hair loss when taken in supplement form).

While it’s not known whether applying vitamin E-rich oil to your scalp can promote hair growth, avocado oil is often used to prevent hair breakage and repair damaged hair.

Sweet Almond Oil for Moisture and Shine

One of the lighter choices when it comes to nut oils, sweet almond oil is thought to treat dullness and dryness without weighing hair down. Many people also value sweet almond oil as a natural solution for dry scalp and dandruff.

Grapeseed Oil for Frizz and Split Ends

Another lighter option, grapeseed oil is a smart selection for people with fine hair. Along with easing frizz, this antioxidant-packed oil may help treat split ends. To prevent greasy buildup, those with especially fine hair should avoid the hair’s roots when applying grapeseed oil (or any oil type).

Macadamia Nut Oil to Combat Heat Damage

An exceptionally rich oil, macadamia is a popular remedy for dried-out but naturally thick hair. It’s also used to fight frizz and repair heat-damaged hair.

Baobab Oil for Curl Care

Although it’s one of the lesser-known oils, baobab oil is a favorite choice among those with curly hair. Sourced from the fruit of the baobab tree (a plant native to Africa), this oil is said to enhance hair’s elasticity, increase suppleness, and add a non-greasy shine.