15 Best Hair & Scalp Oils for Healthy Follicles in 2024
Oily hair is officially a good thing
Cosmetic Health
Don't miss out on the headlines from Cosmetic Health. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Our Top Picks
- Kérastase Elixir Ultime Original Hair Oil
- L’Oreal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil Treatment
- Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil
- Verb Ghost Oil
- Olaplex No. 7 Hair Perfector Bonding Oil
Hair oiling is one of the top self care trends of the moment, and there's good reason why
Applying certain hair oils to our precious locks has been shown to have vast benefits from nourishment, to heat protection, helping to make our hair stronger and healthier.
However, while hair oils might be trending, they're certainly not a new concept. Humans have been hair oiling for quite some time, but with heat styling and colouring now the norm for most of our manes, we need as much hair TLC as we can get.
From the viral K-18 Molecular Repair Hair Oil, perfect for rescuing your heat-damaged, brittle ends, to our own team's "ride or die" hair oil secret for "glass hair," these are the best hair oils to transform your precious locks right now.
OUR TOP PICKS
Best hair oils overall
Kérastase Elixir Ultime Original Hair Oil, $80 at Adore Beauty
Why we love it:
- Reliable and multi-tasking hair oil
- Can be used on wet or dry hair, and on all hair types
- Great for protecting hair from heat like straightening or blow drying
- Known for leaving hair smooth
Worth noting:
- Can be pricey for some – but a little does go a long way.
Size: 100ml | Best for: All hair types | Key ingredients: Marula oil, camellia oil and argan oils
Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer:
I’m onto my third bottle of the Kerastase Elixir Ultimate Original Hair Oil – after using it for the first time over a year ago, I haven’t looked back and my hair absolutely loves it.
The humble hair oil is the perfect pick to give you glass hair. It’s formulated with a unique blend of natural and luxurious oils to protect your locks, keep frizz at bay, add shine and a dose of heat protectant, as well as make your hair smell absolutely amazing.
I know that if my hair is dry, frizzy or just looking a little lack lustre, this hair oil is guaranteed to bring my hair back to life – it really is so reliable.
It’s a great multitasker too – I find that it works great on wet or dry hair, and I can use it everyday without my hair feeling heavy and weighed down.
And I don’t know how, but it seems like it works for every single hair type – fine hair, thick hair, curly hair, you name it. But don’t just take my word for it, it’s racked up over 12,000 five-star ratings on Google Reviews and has won countless beauty awards. Which, by a brand that recently uncovered that 72 per cent of Aussies find confidence in their hair, is likely to be expected.
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer:
This hair oil is my ride-or-die when it comes to keeping my hair soft and luscious. This powerful multitasker can be used before washing your hair (which if I’m being completely honest, I’ve never tried), as a heat protectant or as a leave-in conditioner. The fact that it can be applied to wet or dry hair is one of my favourite parts. I usually apply after towel drying my hair when it’s still fairly damp but when I forget, it’s so handy that I haven’t wasted my opportunity and instead can apply when dry too. It also helps to defrizz. As someone with fairly wavy, curly, thick locks, my hair is prone to frizz even after a blow dry but a couple of drops of this always saves the day. It’s a buy I will never stop repurchasing, literally my hair saviour.
Best affordable hair oils
L’Oreal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil Treatment, $21.99 at Priceline
Why we love it:
- Affordable drugstore hair oil and a little goes a long way
- Contains a blend of nourishing and hydrating oils
- Great to add shine to dull and dry hair
Worth noting:
- May be hard to get your hands on
Size: 100ml | Best for: All hair types | Key ingredients: Six precious flower oils including Camomile oil
Tried and Tested by Melody Teh, news.com.au checkout Acting Editor:
I have dead straight, very easy to care for hair, so I had mistakenly thought I didn’t need to put much effort into my hair care routine haircare routine. But a recent trip to the hairdressers proved me wrong. The hairdresser was aghast (okay, not really she’s lovely) at how dry the ends of my hair were and recommended frequent trims and using products in between cuts to revitalise the dry ends.
I’ve never used hair oils before as I was worried about getting oily hair, but I was determined to give my locks the love it deserves. I’ve now been using the Loreal Elvive Extraordinary Oil for the past month and I can see and feel a real difference to my hair. Every night (or every second night to be more honest), I’ll rub a little bit of oil between my palms and run through the ends of my hair. And despite concerns about greasy residue, when I wake up in the morning there’s no hint of oiliness, only shiny, soft hair. I will say I only use a small amount of product and run sparingly and quickly through the mid to end of my hair.
With a 4.9 rating out of a massive 61,000 reviews on Google, I am not the only one who thinks the L’Oreal Elvive Extraordinary Oil is a winner. My hair is looking healthier and shinier than ever! And at such a good price point for a 100ml size, this is a hair treatment oil I highly recommend.
Schwarzkopf Extra Care Daily Oil Elixir, $17 at Priceline
Why we love it:
- Super budget-friendly price point
- Easy to get your hands on
- Lightweight texture may suit finer hair also
Worth noting:
- You may prefer something without fragrance
Size: 100ml | Best for: All hair types | Key ingredients: Argan oil, sunflower seed oil and vitamin E
Tried and Tested by Harriet Amurao, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer:
This drugstore hair oil has been my go-to for keeping my hair soft, shiny and hydrated for years. It’s enriched with vitamin E and argan oil which are known for their moisturising properties. It has a pleasant scent that isn’t overpowering, and it’s a little more lightweight in texture than regular hair oil so you won’t have to worry about it weighing your hair down or making your hair feel super oily. So, if you’re after a luxurious hair oil on a budget, this is it!
Best luxury hair oil
Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil, $90 at Adore Beauty
Why we love it:
- Luxurious and nourishing
- Provides heat protection
Worth noting:
- Contains fragrance
Size: 100ml | Best for: All hair types | Key ingredients: Argan oil, olive oil, sandalwood extract
Tried and Tested by Jessica Smith, Body+Soul Health and Wellness eCommerce Writer:
I'm grateful that having split ends isn't a crime, because I wouldn't survive prison. As the daughter of a hairdresser, you would think I'd have a better handle on my damaged hair, killed by regular heat styling, but it's not the case. That is, until I started applying hair oil. This Oribe Gold Lust Hair Oil is as luxe as it sounds, and helps my hair feel softer, shinier and healthier. I love to use this hair oil for quick touch ups as you can see in the picture, taking my dry hair and turning it silky and smooth, however it can also be applied to damp hair as a pre styling oil. With olive oils, sandalwood oil and jasmine oil, this luxury treatment is designed to penetrate the hair shaft, combat dryness and split ends and may even provide some UV protection.
I use just one or two pumps of this oil and rub it through my palms before applying to my ends and mid-lengths, working through thoroughly so I don't end up with sections of oily hair. If it's close to wash day, I might also apply hair oil around the top and scalp region also..
Best hair oil for fine hair
Verb Ghost Oil, $35.29 at Amazon
Why we love it:
- Lightweight
- Hydrating and great for frizzy hair
Worth noting:
- Best suited to fine hair
Size: 60ml | Best for: Fine hair types | Key ingredients: Moringa oil
What you need to know:While many hair oils claim to contribute to healthy hair growth, this hair oil by Verb's main purpose is to add shine, hydrate and reduce frizz for those with finer hair. If you struggle with frizz in the humidity but can't find a solution that won't weigh your hair down, this ultra lightweight oil is bound to give you the hydration and shine you need without the oily hair consequence. Containing moringa oil, a lightweight oil rich in fatty acids to help smooth the hair, as well as bamboo extracts with strengthening properties, this hydrating oil is vegan and cruelty free, and bound to be your fine hair's new bestie.
Best hair oil for thick hair
Olaplex No. 7 Hair Perfector Bonding Oil, $54 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it:
- It’s a highly concentrated oil that also offers heat protection
- Free shipping
Worth noting:
- If you use too much, it might make your hair feel too oily
Size: 30ml | Best for: Especially those with thick, coarse hair. | Key ingredients: Olaplex’s patented Bond Building Chemistry.
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
This cult product needs no introduction. Beloved around the world, this best-selling hair oil will make your hair feel infinitely softer, smoother and shinier. I like to apply this one just to my ends on both wet hair and after styling too. I have thick, wavy, curly hair and find it’s super great for my frizz and really works throughout my thick hair and not just on the top. However, a lesson from my mistakes, I have noticed if I bring it further up my head, my hair will need to be washed a lot quicker than usual.
Best hair oils for damaged hair
Revlon Professional Restart Recovery Anti-Split Ends Sealing Drops, $26.95
Why we love it:
- Non-greasy and lightweight
- Leaves hair smooth but not oily
- Affordable
Worth noting:
- Contains fragrance
Size: 50ml | Best for: All hair types, damaged hair | Key ingredients: Coconut oil, camellia oil
Tried and Tested by Jessica Smith, Body+Soul Health and Wellness eCommerce Writer:
Since my discovery of hot brushes, I have become addicted to blow drying my hair after every wash, and it has taken a toll on my ends. I often turn to hair treatments to help nourish my already colour-damaged hair, and I have been loving the Revlon Anti-Split Ends Sealing Drops. I have been a huge fan of the Revlon Restart hair mask for over a year, and this hair serum is now a new staple in my hair care routine. The coconut oil in this serum helps to seal the hair cuticle and lock in moisture, protecting the hair from breakage, and the serum helps to prevent the appearance of further split ends.
This serum is a lot less oily than your average hair oil, which makes it a good one to apply regularly, as you won't feel like your hair is being weighed down or clogged up, instead, I find it leaves my hair feeling softer and nourished. What's great about this serum is that is can also be applied to damp hair or as a pre-styling treatment oil.
K-18 Molecular Repair Hair Oil, $94.95 at Adore Beauty
Why we love it:
- It’s a multi-tasking hair oil formulated with the iconic K18 peptide technology
- Protects from heat up to 232 degrees celsius
- Minimises split ends by 78 per cent
Worth noting:
- High price tag
Size: 30ml | Best for: All hair types | Key ingredients: Avocado oil, castor oil esters, squalane
What You Need To Know
Claiming to control frizz for an entire 24 hours, this viral hair oil is ideal for frizzy or damaged hair. With heat protectant powers, this hair treatment will not only nourish your hair, but safeguard it against heat styling, and what isn't there to love about a 2-in-1 product? The lightweight and non-greasy formula claims to minimise split ends by 78 per cent, as it enhances shine and prevents breakage with. You can use this hair oil on damp or dry hair, after washing or styling to reduce frizz and damage.
One reviewer on Adore Beauty writes, "Have only been using this a few weeks but feel like it's helping in conjunction with using the k18 treatment. My hair was brittle and dry after having my daughter and has made so much improvement since using these products."
Best hair oils for blonde hair
MOROCCANOIL Purple Original Oil Treatment, $56.95 at Adore Beauty
Why we love it:
- Specifically formulated to nourish your hair
- Neutralises yellow and orange hues in blonde hair
Worth noting:
- May not work as well for all hair colours.
Size: 50ml | Best for: Those with blonde hair| Key ingredients: Argan oil
Tried and Tested by Claudia Coy, news.com.au checkout Social Media Producer
Over the last ten years my hair has certainly been through the ringer. I’ve been bleached blonde, bottle-dyed black and then switched again to a more ‘lived in’ natural blonde … it’s really been a journey. During my Marilyn Monroe era I would rely on purple shampoos to tide me over between salon trips and I have vivid memories of attacking my scalp with so much purple product I almost resembled Barney The Dinosaur. However, this Moroccanoil Purple Original Oil Treatment is a far cry from my purple shampoo days.
It’s been a few months since my last salon visit and dare I say, it’ll be a few more before I’m there again. So when the opportunity came to ‘neutralise the brassiness’ and add a little life back to my blonde, I took it and ran.
The application is very straightforward, I simply applied a 20c coin amount into the palm of my hands and then worked the product from my ends to the midsection of freshly-cleaned hair. From there, I brushed the product all the way through (avoiding my roots where possible as I currently have no bleach there anyway). The best part? You don’t need to rinse the product out at all, you just apply and then go about your normal hair cycle as usual.
As for the results, the oil absorbs pretty quickly into the hair and delivers shine and softness to the hair pretty instantly. As for the colour, it’s much more subtle than a purple shampoo (in the best way possible) and takes a few applications to see a real change in your blonde. I’ve definitely noticed a certain brightness return to my locks and will be using this product to get me through the next few months before my next appointment.
Best hair oils for brittle hair
Moroccanoil, $74.95 at Adore Beauty
Why we love it:
- A cult classic that’s won countless awards
- Has tens of thousands of five-star ratings
- Smells amazing
What to consider:
- Can be pricey for some.
Size: 100ml | Best for: All hair types | Key ingredients: Argan oil
Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
When I think of hair oils, MOROCCANOIL is one of the first picks that comes to mind.
Formulated with premium argan oil, this product is set to make your hair softer, stronger, with more shine and less frizz.
One thing I love about it is just how nourishing it truly feels, and how versatile it is. I can use it on wet and on damp or dry hair either, before or after styling, thanks to the non-greasy and fast-absorbing formula.
Also handy that it features the iconic MOROCCANOIL scent – a unique blend of spicy amber and warm florals … how luxe.
Tried and Tested by Jessica Smith, Body+Soul Health and Wellness eCommerce Writer:
My hairdresser mother has ingrained in me that Moroccanoil is an absolute must after washing, drying, straightening or curling hair. A tiny bit rubbed through the palms goes a really long way to add that much-needed touch of gloss and shine, helping to achieve the coveted 'glass hair' look we all long for. Not to mention, the wonderfully-smelling hair oil helps to avoid dry ends and promote optimal hair health.
This is also one of those hair treatments that is wonderfully versatile. It can be used as a pre-shampoo treatment, a leave-in overnight hair treatment, or a styling oil to soften the ends and add that glorious shine.
System Professional LuxeOil Reconstructive Hair Treatment, $52.95 at Oz Hair And Beauty
Why we love it:
- Contains powerful blend of argan oil, almond oil and jojoba oil
- Contains UV heat protection
- Helps moisturise and protect brittle ends
- Promotes smoothness and elasticity
What to consider:
- Doesn't add lots of shine
Size: 100ml | Best for: Dry hair, brittle hair | Key ingredients: Jojoba oil, almond oil, argan oils
Tried and Tested by Jessica Smith, Body+Soul Health and Wellness eCommerce Writer:
If you want to start using a hair oil, but don't like the feeling of oily hair, this is the pick for you. More of a serum texture than an oil, this hair oil absolutely glides onto the hair and gives softness and body to the lengths and ends. I struggle with quite dry hair from the mid lengths of my hair, mainly due to colour and heat damage, but the System Professional LuxeOil helps to smoothen out my brittle hair and give it loads of nourishment. Plus, because of its less oily feel, I am able to take this through more of my hair than just the ends, something I wouldn't normally do with a classic hair oil if it was recently washed.
But this power-packed hair oil is not just to be praised for its lovely texture. Containing argan oil, jojoba oil and almond oil, this hair treatment features UV damage against heat styling, helps protect the hair's keratin structure while the almond and argan oil promote hair elasticity and prevent dryness. Jojoba oil in particular is super moisturising with fatty acids that can help nourish brittle hair.
I use this hair oil most days on my hair to soften the brittle, dry ends and it always leaves my hair feeling smooth and nourished but not heavy or oily.
Best hair oil for curly hair
Bread Beauty Supply Hair Oil Everyday Gloss, $42 at Sephora
Why we love it:
- It’s a multi-tasking, silicone-free hair oil that’s formulated specifically for those with curly locks
- Smells amazing
- Aesthetic packaging looks great on the shelf
What to consider:
- May smell too sweet for some
Size: 100ml | Best for: All hair types, curly hair types | Key ingredients: Argan oil and kakadu plum oil
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
Bread is one of the best brands out there when it comes to curly hair. Known for creating cult products that don’t weigh down your hair but instead help bring life and shine, this hair oil is no different. I use this one when doing my curly hair routine, normally after applying a gel. It helps to break down the hard cast from the gel and leaves my hair feeling soft and glossy but still allows the shape and curls from the other products to flourish. It also can be used in other ways including a pre-wash, treatment oil, in-between washes to add extra shine and post-wash wash which is what I do. Plus, it smells amazing.
Tried and Tested by Jessica Smith, Body+Soul Health and Wellness eCommerce Writer
If you want your hair to smell absolutely scrumptious, this is the best hair oil for you. I'd buy ten more bottles for the smell alone when it comes to the Bread hair oil. While I don't have curly hair, my dry hair does tend to fall into waves naturally and can become pretty wonky at the ends when it's not well moisturised. I love applying hair oils especially after blow drying my hair, and the Bread hair oil was a treat to work through my hair. Adding smoothness, shine and a sweet, sweet smell, the Bread hair oil has become a staple on my vanity for touchups in between every hair wash.
Best hair oil for frizzy hair
&Honey Deep Moist Hair Oil, $32 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it:
- It’s a J-Beauty staple, packed with super hydrating ingredients
- Affordable price point
What to consider:
- Can sometimes be hard to get your hands on
Size: 100ml | Best for: Thick and frizzy hair types | Key ingredients: Argan oil
Tried and Tested by Harriet Amurao, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
I’ve seen this hair oil all over TikTok and obviously had to snap this guy up to see what all the hype is about.
All I have to say is WOW. This J-beauty godsend is packed with three types of honeys – manuka honey, acacia honey and raw honey from Japan, as well as essential goodies like argan oil, propolis and hyaluronic acid – so it is incredibly moisturising and hydrating.
It has a luxe lightweight texture that doesn’t feel sticky or thick, and it has a beautiful floral scent that smells divine and lingers – which I love. I use it after I shower and dry my hair, and it doesn’t leave my hair feeling heavy or oily.
Although a bit pricey, it’s totally worth the price and one pump goes a long way. Believe the hype!
Best hair oil for styling hair
ghd Sleek Talker, $63.92 at Amazon
Why we love it:
- Contains heat protection
- Glides on hair without feeling oily
What to consider:
- Pricey
Size: 95ml | Best for: All hair types | Key ingredients: Argan oil
Tried and Tested by Jessica Smith, Body+Soul Health and Wellness eCommerce Writer:
I blow dry my hair after every wash now, and Sleek Talker is a must for me before any heat styling. This goes on really smoothly to my towel-dried hair, and adds a bit of a slick coating to the hair that makes it easier to blow dry and not snag my hair. I definitely notice the difference when I don't use the ghd Sleek Talker before styling my hair, as it always helps to just leave my locks that little bit smoother and glossier. What I love most about this styling oil is that it contains heat protection, so you only need to go in with one product before applying heat from a blow dryer, straightener or curler.
Best scalp oil
Mielle Rosemary Mint Scalp and Hair Strengthening Oil, $19.99 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it:
- It’s great to pop on your scalp either before you wash it, or before you go to bed at night
- Rosemary oil is known for its powerful hair benefits
What to consider:
- Some people may not enjoy the natural fragrance as it can be overpowering
Size: 59ml | Best for: All hair types | Key ingredients: Rosemary and mint oil
Tried and Tested by Claudia Coy, news.com.au checkout Social Media Lead
As soon as I opened this little glass bottle I was transported to an expensive day spa. The strong (but not overpowering) smell of rosemary makes you feel like you’re doing something really healthy, even before seeing any results.
I’ve wanted to try rosemary oil for sometime now as I’d heard whispers that it was the secret to a healthy scalp and stronger hair. The application is really straightforward, I just sectioned my hair into four different parts and applied three drops to each section. Trust me when I say a little goes a long way and it’s better to start with just a few drops and build from there. Once I’d applied the oil through the sections I simply brushed my hair all the way from the scalp to the ends to allow the oil to touch every strand.
Having now used the product for two weeks, I’ve definitely noticed a difference in my scalp health, specifically my hairline appears less dry. More than that, the simple act of applying the oil of a night, along with the smell of the rosemary, has really added to my night-time routine and makes me feel like I’m indulging in a bit of self-care right before bed.
What to look for when buying a hair oil
When it comes to buying hair oils, there are a few key things that you may want to consider to find the best hair oil for you. First, consider your budget. If you're new to hair oiling, it can be a good idea to start with something quality and affordable, such as the Schwarzkopf Extra Care Daily Oil Elixir which retails at just $17. With sunflower seed oil and argan oil this contains some of the proven ingredients to properly nourish your hair. However, if you are looking to spend a bit more, luxe hair oils such as Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil and Kérastase Elixir Ultime Original Hair Oil have the reviews to prove they're absolutely worth the spend on your hair.
Next, consider which oils are present in the hair oil you're purchasing. Some hair oils contain heat protection which can be a great bonus for your hair, especially if you're into heat styling. If you have finer hair, you may also want to consider a lighter oil that won't weigh down your hair.
Which oils are best for hair?
Studies have shown that oils such as almond, sesame and olive oil have UV and UVB protection capacities that may be good for those who do a lot of heat styling. Meanwhile, oils like coconut oil, argan oil and castor oil are great for providing loads of moisturisation and nourishment to the hair.
What oil is best for fine, thin hair?
For fine, thin hair, a light oil such as Verb Ghost Oil may be best, with lightweight moringa oil being the hero product that won't weigh down your hair.
How we chose these products
Our team of experienced writers spend hours products to include in articles. We find out what factors make a product by doing research, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews.
Originally published as 15 Best Hair & Scalp Oils for Healthy Follicles in 2024
Brightening eye cream that ‘lives up to the hype’
It's giving, 'I got eight hours of sleep'
This anti-wrinkle serum is a “miracle in a bottle”
Revive that supple skin