Whether you’re dealing with alopecia, hair thinning due to stress, or simply desire longer, stronger hair, incorporating hair growth oils into your hair care routine can be incredibly beneficial. The market is flooded with hair oils and serums promising rapid hair growth, but it’s essential to discern which ones truly deliver on their claims.
According to Dr. Jeannette Graf, a board-certified dermatologist, patience is crucial when using hair growth oils or any hair growth product. “It typically takes several months of consistent use to see noticeable results,” she advises. “Don’t get discouraged by the lack of instant changes—consistency is key.”
To help you navigate the options, we’ve compiled a list of the best hair growth oils, drawing on recommendations from Dr. Graf and board-certified trichologist Kerry E. Yates. Our selection process prioritized ingredient efficacy, intended use, texture, and overall performance to bring you the top choices for achieving longer, stronger, and thicker hair.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall: Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Oil
Best Spray: Snow Fox Skincare Hair & Scalp Serum
Best Lightweight: The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum
Best Thickening: The Nue Co. Supa Thick Scalp Serum
Best Pre-Shampoo Oil: Ceremonia Aceite de Moska Scalp Oil
Best for Men: Revivv Hair Growth Serum
Best Leave-In: Divi Divi Scalp Serum
Best Custom: Prose Hair Oil
Best Hydrating: Fable & Mane Pre-Wash Hair Treatment Oil
Best for Density: Vegamour Gro Hair Serum
Best Overall
Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Oil
PHOTO: Ulta
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Buy at Ulta
What We Like
- Contains rosemary oil, a scientifically recognized ingredient for promoting hair growth.
- Users report reduced hair fallout.
- Enriched with 30 essential oils and nutrients.
What to Consider
- Requires rinsing out after use.
Key Ingredients: Rosemary, Mint, Biotin | Size: 2 oz
Why We Chose It: The Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Oil consistently receives rave reviews for its ability to minimize hair fallout and promote stronger, healthier hair and scalp, ultimately leading to accelerated hair growth. It is designed as a scalp oil, meaning it’s intended to be rinsed out to prevent greasiness. For optimal results, apply it as a nighttime treatment and wash your hair in the morning.
Expert Insight: Dr. Graf frequently recommends this Mielle Organics oil due to its potent combination of rosemary oil and 30 other essential oils and nutrients, all working synergistically to stimulate hair growth. “The inclusion of biotin further enhances its effectiveness in encouraging hair regrowth,” she adds. Rosemary oil is known for improving circulation in the scalp, which can encourage hair follicles to grow, while biotin is a B-vitamin that plays a vital role in hair health.
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Byrdie / Caitlyn Martyn
Best Spray
Snow Fox Skincare Hair & Scalp Serum
PHOTO: Amazon
Buy at Amazon
View at Snowfoxskincare.com
What We Like
- Spray bottle for effortless application.
- Infused with caffeine and ginseng.
- Promotes a healthy scalp environment.
What to Consider
- Application might take a bit longer due to spray distribution.
Key Ingredients: Caffeine, Tetrapeptide, Ginseng | Size: 3.3 oz
Why We Chose It: Snow Fox Skincare Hair & Scalp Serum stands out with its blend of peptides, ginseng, and caffeine, all known to encourage hair growth while revitalizing and balancing the scalp. The spray bottle design is a significant advantage. Unlike traditional dropper applicators that can be messy and time-consuming, this spray serum allows for quick and even distribution across the scalp. Simply spray onto a dry scalp, massage it in, and leave it overnight before washing it out.
Expert Insight: Yates enthusiastically recommends this serum, stating, “I highly recommend and love this product on so many levels. The combination of peptides and natural active ingredients effectively supports optimal scalp health and follicle fitness.” Peptides are amino acids that can help build proteins, essential for hair growth, while ginseng and caffeine stimulate blood flow to the scalp, potentially promoting healthier hair follicles.
Best Lightweight
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density
PHOTO: Ulta
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What We Like
- Ideal for fine hair that is easily weighed down.
- Peptide-rich formula.
- Budget-friendly price point.
What to Consider
- Smaller bottle size, may run out quickly with regular use.
Key Ingredients: Redensyl, Procapil, Baicapil, Castor Oil | Size: 2 oz
Why We Chose It: If you’ve avoided hair growth oils due to a heavy or greasy feel, The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density is the solution. Its ultra-lightweight formula absorbs seamlessly into the scalp without leaving any residue. This serum offers an accessible price point, although the smaller bottle size might require more frequent repurchases for consistent users.
Expert Insight: Yates recommends this serum to her clients because it’s packed with peptides, hair-active complexes, and castor oil to boost hair density and fullness. “These ingredients work together to nourish the scalp and hair follicles, creating an optimal environment for hair growth,” she explains. Castor oil is a natural oil known for its moisturizing properties and potential to support hair growth.
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Byrdie / Tamara Staples
Best Thickening
The Nue Co. Supa Thick Scalp Serum
PHOTO: Sephora
Buy at Amazon
Buy at Sephora
Buy at Dermstore
What We Like
- Promotes new hair growth.
- Protects existing hair from damage.
- Contains probiotics for scalp health.
What to Consider
- May not be suitable for very dry scalps.
Key Ingredients: Redensyl, Probiotic, Rosemary, Clary Sage, Peppermint | Size: 4 oz
Why We Chose It: The Nue Co. Supa Thick Scalp Serum is favored by Dr. Graf for its patented follicle technology that effectively boosts hair thickness. Consistent use is expected to result in reduced shedding and noticeable new hair growth. However, some users have reported a drying effect on the scalp, so those with very dry scalps might consider other options or use a moisturizer in conjunction.
Expert Insight: Dr. Graf highlights the key ingredients, stating, “The Redensyl complex protects hair follicles and encourages new growth, while rosemary stimulates scalp circulation and supports follicle health. The added probiotics contribute to a healthy scalp microbiome, which is crucial for overall hair health.” A balanced scalp microbiome can reduce inflammation and create a better environment for hair follicles to thrive.
Best Pre-Shampoo Oil
Ceremonia Aceite de Moska Scalp Oil
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PHOTO: Ceremonia
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View at Ceremonia.com
What We Like
- Specifically designed for pre-wash application.
- Promotes hair growth and reduces scalp buildup.
- Nourishing formula with castor oil, passion fruit oil, and aloe vera.
What to Consider
- Distinct earthy scent that may not appeal to everyone.
Key Ingredients: Passion Fruit Oil, Castor Oil, Aloe Vera | Size: 2 oz
Why We Chose It: Ceremonia Aceite de Moska Scalp Oil is a rich blend of meadowfoam seed oil, chia seed oil, castor oil, and other beneficial oils. It’s formulated to not only stimulate hair growth but also to minimize product buildup and maintain a balanced and nourished scalp. This silicone-free oil is designed to be used 10-15 minutes before shampooing with your preferred hair growth shampoo. Users appreciate its effectiveness in reducing scalp itchiness and flakiness, fostering a healthier environment for hair growth.
Expert Insight: Dr. Graf notes the inclusion of castor oil, which is widely recognized for its potential hair growth benefits. However, she cautions that “castor oil may not be suitable for all hair types,” particularly those with fine or oily hair. This pre-shampoo oil is particularly well-suited for individuals with thick or curly hair seeking intense scalp nourishment.
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Byrdie / Stella Yu
Best for Men
Revivv Hair Growth Serum
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PHOTO: Amazon
Buy at Amazon
View at Revivv.co
What We Like
- User-friendly roll-on applicator.
- Non-sticky and non-greasy formula.
- Contains moisturizers and antioxidants for hair health.
What to Consider
- Requires twice-daily application for best results.
Key Ingredients: Camellia Sinensis, Caffeine, Copper Peptide, Serenoa Serrulata | Size: 1.01 oz
Why We Chose It: Revivv Hair Growth Serum is an excellent choice for men experiencing hair thinning or seeking to prevent hair loss. Formulated with a proprietary blend of moisturizers, antioxidants, and hair-nourishing compounds, this serum comes with an easy-to-use roll-on applicator for direct scalp application. It absorbs quickly without leaving any greasy or sticky residue. While effective, optimal results may require twice-daily application, which might be a commitment for some users.
Best Leave-In
Divi Divi Scalp Serum
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PHOTO: Amazon
Buy at Amazon
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Buy at Ulta
What We Like
- No-rinse, leave-in formula.
- Infused with caffeine, tea tree, peppermint, and eucalyptus oils.
- Nourishes hair follicles during use.
What to Consider
- Bottle may deplete quickly.
Key Ingredients: Tea Tree, Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Caffeine, Copper Tripeptide-1 | Size: 1 oz
Why We Chose It: Divi Divi Scalp Serum is praised by Dr. Graf for its blend of tea tree, peppermint, and eucalyptus oils, which work synergistically to promote hair growth and soothe the scalp. This leave-in serum is designed for convenience, as it doesn’t require rinsing and won’t weigh down hair or leave a greasy feel. However, the product’s volume might be considered small by some users, potentially leading to quicker repurchase needs.
Expert Insight: “This formula incorporates caffeine, an anti-inflammatory agent that can help prevent hair loss, and copper tripeptide, which may encourage thicker hair growth,” explains Dr. Graf. Tea tree, peppermint, and eucalyptus oils also have properties that can improve scalp health, further contributing to a favorable environment for hair growth.
[:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/byr-hair-oil-divi-caitlyn-martyn-01-029cfa43a74040d392d2f0977a4ff0c5.jpeg)](https://www.byrdie.com/thmb/IJd3JA-68q425PrbQmIlRvjgq4M=/750×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/byr-hair-oil-divi-caitlyn-martyn-01-029cfa43a74040d392d2f0977a4ff0c5.jpeg)
Byrdie / Caitlyn Martyn
Best Custom
Prose Hair Oil
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PHOTO: Prose
What We Like
- Fully customizable formula.
- Helps prevent damage and protect hair color.
- Free of phthalates, parabens, and sulfates.
What to Consider
- Higher price point.
Key Ingredients: Varies based on customization | Size: 1.7 oz
Why We Chose It: Prose Hair Oil is jointly recommended by Dr. Graf and Yates for its unique customization approach. Tailored to your specific hair needs, you complete a detailed questionnaire outlining your hair concerns, including hair loss, and Prose formulates a custom hair oil with ingredients to address those issues. It can be applied to both damp or dry hair, and for scalp treatments, overnight application followed by a morning wash is recommended. While a premium option, the personalized formulation justifies the cost for many users.
Expert Insight: Dr. Graf also appreciates that Prose Hair Oil avoids potentially harmful ingredients, stating, “I also like that it’s free of all the ingredients you should avoid in hair growth oil, like phthalates, parabens, and sulfates.” These ingredients can be detrimental to hair health over time, making their absence a significant advantage.
Best Hydrating
Fable & Mane Pre-Wash Hair Treatment Oil
PHOTO: Sephora
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Buy at Sephora
View at Beautybay.com
What We Like
- Rich in nourishing oils.
- Soothes irritated scalps.
- Strengthens hair roots and follicles.
What to Consider
- Scented formula, may not be suitable for fragrance-sensitive scalps.
Key Ingredients: Castor, Safflower, Olive, Jojoba, and Grapeseed Oils | Size: 0.48 oz
Why We Chose It: Fable & Mane Pre-Wash Hair Treatment Oil is a deeply hydrating serum packed with luxurious oils like castor, safflower, olive, jojoba, and grapeseed. These oils work to nourish both the hair and scalp, creating an optimal environment for hair growth. This lightweight oil can be used as a quick five-minute treatment or left on overnight for deeper conditioning. It contains ashwagandha to fortify hair roots and follicles and dashmool to soothe scalp irritation. However, its noticeable fragrance may not be ideal for those with sensitivities.
Best for Density
Vegamour Gro Hair Serum
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PHOTO: Sephora
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Buy at Vegamour.com
What We Like
- Contains biotin, turmeric, and caffeine to enhance hair density.
- Very lightweight texture.
- Concentrated formula, a small amount is sufficient.
What to Consider
- Some users have reported leakage from the bottle.
Key Ingredients: Turmeric, Biotin, Caffeine | Size: 1 oz
Why We Chose It: Vegamour Gro Hair Serum is a potent formula designed to combat hair thinning and promote density. It features a blend of effective ingredients, including turmeric, an anti-inflammatory agent known to improve hair density, mung bean, and red clover, which contribute to scalp health and hair texture. Despite its powerful effects, the serum has a lightweight texture. A common concern reported by users is potential leakage from the bottle, so ensuring it’s tightly closed after each use is advisable.
Expert Insight: Dr. Graf recommends Vegamour Gro Hair Serum to her patients, noting, “Biotin and caffeine stimulate the scalp while strengthening the hair. Turmeric adds an extra boost with its anti-inflammatory properties, creating a comprehensive approach to hair density.”
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Byrdie / Caitlyn Martyn
What to Look for in a Hair Growth Oil
- Ingredients: Kerry E. Yates suggests prioritizing hair growth oils with ingredients like rosemary oil, tea tree oil, and castor oil, known for their potential to stimulate hair growth. Dr. Graf emphasizes avoiding harmful ingredients commonly found in haircare products, such as sulfates, parabens, silicones, alcohol, phthalates, and other substances that can cause long-term hair damage.
- Usage: The most effective hair growth oil is one you’ll consistently use. Choose a formula that aligns with your lifestyle and preferences. For a leave-in option, opt for lightweight serums. If you prefer overnight treatments, hair oils that require rinsing in the morning are suitable.
- Studies: Dr. Graf advises selecting products with scientific backing. “Choose products with studies supporting their benefits, often featuring quality complexes designed for results. Ensure the product targets your specific concern and avoids counterproductive ingredients.”
FAQ
Do hair growth oils really work?
Yes, many hair growth oils contain ingredients clinically shown to support hair growth. Ingredients like rosemary oil and caffeine have been studied for their positive effects on hair follicles. However, results vary, and consistency is key.
How long does it take for hair growth oils to work?
It typically takes several months of consistent use to see noticeable results from hair growth oils. Patience is essential, as hair growth is a gradual process.
How often should you use hair growth oil?
Usage frequency depends on the specific product. Some are designed for daily leave-in use, while others are pre-shampoo treatments used a few times a week. Follow product instructions for best results.
Can hair growth oils help with hair loss?
Yes, many hair growth oils are formulated to address hair loss by stimulating hair follicles, improving scalp health, and strengthening hair strands. Look for oils with ingredients like caffeine, biotin, and rosemary oil.
Meet Our Experts
For this article, Byrdie consulted:
- Dr. Jeannette Graf, M.D., board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine.
- Kerry E. Yates, certified trichologist and founder of Colour Collective.
Why Trust Byrdie
Daley Quinn is a contributing writer for Byrdie, specializing in beauty and wellness content. For this article, she combined her experience testing hair growth oils with expert recommendations from a dermatologist and trichologist.
Edited by Caitlyn Martyn
Article Sources
Byrdie prioritizes high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to ensure the accuracy of our articles. Our editorial guidelines provide further detail on our content accuracy and reliability standards.
- Panahi Y, Taghizadeh M, Marzony ET, Sahebkar A. Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a randomized comparative trial. Skinmed. 2015;13(1):15-21.
- Patel DP, Swink SM, Castelo-Soccio L. A Review of the Use of Biotin for Hair Loss. Skin Appendage Disord. 2017 Aug;3(3):166-169. doi: 10.1159/000462981. Epub 2017 Apr 27. PMID: 28879195; PMCID: PMC5582478.
