Loading: Longer, Stronger, Healthier Hair

Kinky, Curly, and Silk Press Certified, Of Course.

When it comes to growing healthy, beautiful hair, oils can be a true game changer. Natural oils can strengthen the strands, soothe the scalp and stimulate growth, all while keeping the hair hydrated and resilient. Since I did The Big Chop over ten years ago, I’ve tried my share of store-bought oils, DIY cocktails, you name it. One thing I can say is that not all oils are created equally— and thank God! Some are great for thick coils while others work better on finer strands. Some are heavier than others, and that’s perfect because everyone has different hair types and goals. Whether you’re looking to add some extra oomph to your Self Care Sunday conditioning routine, maintain daily shine after a silk press, or banish frizz in a braid out, the right oil can transform your hair routine

To create your perfect blend, you’ll need just a few things: a carrier oil, an essential oil, and a bottle or bowl for mixing and storing your concoction. Carrier oils are gentle, nutrient-rich oils that moisturize and seal in hydration, making them ideal for daily scalp and strand care. Essential oils are highly concentrated and used for targeted benefits like soothing irritation or boosting circulation. You should always dilute essential oils in a carrier before applying to hair or scalp.

Here are seven powerful oils— three nourishing carrier oils, three essential oil boosters and one versatile allrounder— that are sure to deliver stronger, healthier hair that grows. Keep reading for some great suggestions and shoppable links to get things going.

1. Olive Oil: Moisture on Lock

Olive oil is a timeless staple in haircare. Rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, it deeply nourishes the scalp and coats each strand, protecting against friction from brushes, combs and fabrics. Olive oil is especially great for those with thick, curly or coily textures since it helps lock in moisture, ultimately reducing breakage and split ends. This is one of the most versatile carrier oils for my coarse 4b hair. Not too heavy but certainly full of body, I find myself reaching for it weekly to add to deep conditioning treatments and to use as a base for a mid-week scalp oil cocktail when my hair is in a protective style.

Usage guide:
Warm a small amount and massage it into the scalp for a restorative pre-poo ritual. Combining olive oil with peppermint essential oil also makes for an invigorating scalp massage to boost circulation and stimulate growth.

2. Sweet Almond Oil: Weightless Hydration

Sweet almond oil is lightweight yet deeply hydrating, making it perfect for finer strands. Packed with vitamin E, proteins and magnesium, it reduces shedding and strengthens hair without weighing it down. I find that sweet almond makes a great carrier oil for treatments when I’d like a lighter-bodied mixture. Fine-haired girlies and “straight naturals” rejoice; you’ll get just as many nourishing properties without the weight of other carriers.

Usage guide:
Apply as the O in your LCO (or LOC, Gloss and Ritual is non-denominational) haircare routine.

3. Jamaican Black Castor Oil: Growth on Ten

Even if you’re new to the haircare game, you’ve probably heard of JBCO. It is legendary in textured haircare for promoting thicker, fuller hair. With its high ricinoleic acid content, it stimulates circulation to the scalp, strengthens follicles and encourages growth in thinning areas like edges and the crown. It’s the perfect carrier oil for nourishing thick curls, coils, and protective styles too, working overtime at sealing in moisture.

Usage guide:
Massage directly into the scalp 2-3 times weekly.
Mix into your deep conditioner for an intensely moisturizing treatment.

4. Rosemary Oil: The Growth Catalyst

Rosemary oil has gained attention over the past few years as a natural, comparable alternative to minoxidil (Rogaine) for hair growth. Its stimulating properties increase blood flow to the scalp, encouraging new hair growth and reducing shedding.

Usage guide:
Choosing the best carrier oil for your hair type and goals, add a few drops of rosemary essential oil and massage into the scalp regularly.

5. Amla Oil: The Internal Strengthener

Amla, or the Indian gooseberry, has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. Its oil is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, and works to strengthen roots, prevent premature graying, and reduce breakage. It’s also fantastic for boosting shine and softness in textured hair.

Usage guide:
Warm and apply by coating the hair thoroughly weekly as a hot oil treatment for softer, shinier hair.

6. Tea Tree Oil: The Scalp Refresh

Tea tree oil is the ultimate scalp clarifier. Its anti-fungal and antibacterial properties help fight dandruff, soothe irritation and keep follicles clear for healthy growth.

Usage guide:
Like rosemary, tea tree essential oil is quite strong and will cause irritation if applied on its own. Always dilute with a carrier oil before applying to the scalp.
Add 3-5 drops to shampoo for a refreshing scalp cleanse and relief from dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, or an overall itchy scalp.

7. Argan Oil: The Gold Standard

Argan oil, also known as “liquid gold,” is one of the most popular oils in haircare, and for fabulous reason. It’s rich in Vitamin E, essential fatty acids and antioxidants, it smooths frizz and protects hair from heat damage and humidity, all while adding incredible shine. Unlike heavier oils (ahem, JBCO) it is lightweight and absorbs quickly, making it perfect for use on all hair types and at any point during the styling process, especially when you want sleek, silky strands without buildup.

Usage guide:
Apply 1-2 drops to small sections of damp hair for added heat protection, then style as usual.
Smooth a few drops over dry hair after styling to lock in shine, tame flyaways and free your mane from frizz.

Before You Oil and Go…

Healthy hair doesn’t happen overnight, it happens with consistency and care. Adding oils into your haircare routine can transform your strands from dry, fragile and breaking to nourished and thriving. Start small: pick a carrier oil that fits your texture, essential oil boosters that fit your goals, and a regimen that fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re sealing in shine, growing your edges, or fighting frizz, these oils will be your best friends. Your hair will thank you with strength, softness, and stunning health.

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