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Which Oil Is Best for Hair Growth and Thickness?
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Published on 07/01/25
(Updated on 07/21/25)
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Which Oil Is Best for Hair Growth and Thickness?

Written by
Dr. Ayush Varma
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)
Graduating with an MD in Ayurvedic Medicine from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in 2008, he brings over 15 years of expertise in integrative healthcare. Specializing in complex chronic conditions, including autoimmune disorders, metabolic syndromes, and digestive health, he uses a patient-centered approach that focuses on root causes. Certified in Panchakarma Therapy and Rasayana (rejuvenation), he is known for combining traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern diagnostics. Actively involved in research, he has contributed to studies on Ayurveda’s role in managing diabetes, stress, and immunity. A sought-after speaker at wellness conferences, he practices at a reputable Ayurvedic wellness center, dedicated to advancing Ayurveda’s role in holistic health and preventive care.
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If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Which oil is best for hair growth and thickness?”—you’re not alone. With countless options on the market and even more home remedies floating around online, picking the right hair growth oil can feel a little… overwhelming, to say the least. Some swear by castor oil for hair growth, others prefer rosemary oil or even good old olive oil. So, which one actually works? And more importantly, how do you use it for real, visible results?

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the science and tradition behind oils for hair care, explore the best oil for hair growth (and why), and share practical tips—including how to whip up effective homemade hair growth oil at home. Let’s go get those thick, shiny strands, shall we?

Why Hair Growth Slows: Ayurvedic View on Hair and Scalp

In Ayurveda, hair health is deeply connected to your overall balance—specifically the state of your doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha). When these are out of whack, your scalp might become dry, inflamed, or excessively oily—each leading to different types of hair problems like thinning, breakage, or even early graying.

From an Ayurvedic perspective, stress, poor digestion, and an imbalanced diet mess with your system and scalp health. The result? Your hair follicles go into lazy mode. They stop producing the strong, thick strands you want. That’s why applying nourishing, natural oils externally—and balancing your system internally—can work wonders.

castor oil for hair growth

Which Oil Is Best for Hair Growth and Thickness?

Castor Oil for Hair Growth and Volume

Castor oil has been a cult favorite for generations—and for good reason. It’s packed with ricinoleic acid, which boosts circulation in the scalp and provides deep nourishment to hair roots. People often notice faster regrowth in patchy areas when they use castor oil for hair growth consistently.

But here's the catch—it’s thick. Like, really thick. So it’s usually best to mix it with a lighter carrier oil (like coconut or almond oil) to help it spread better and rinse out easier. Used regularly, it’s one of the best hair oils for hair growth and thickness, especially if you’re battling thinning or weak strands.

Rosemary and Jojoba Oil for Scalp Nourishment

Rosemary oil for hair growth has exploded in popularity lately, and it’s not just TikTok hype. Studies show that rosemary essential oil can stimulate hair growth similarly to minoxidil (yes, the stuff in Rogaine) but without the nasty side effects. Pair that with jojoba oil—which mimics your scalp's natural oils—and you’ve got a powerhouse duo for calming irritation and boosting hair health.

Jojoba oil is especially useful if your scalp’s oily but your ends are dry. It balances oil production, clears up dandruff, and makes your hair feel way more manageable. Plus, it smells nice. That counts for something, right?

Almond and Mustard Oil for Strength and Shine

Almond oil for hair growth is a gentle, vitamin-rich option that suits pretty much everyone. It’s loaded with biotin, magnesium, and fatty acids that strengthen hair and reduce breakage. If you're wondering how to use almond oil for hair growth and thickness, don’t worry—we’ve got a whole section coming up on that.

Now, mustard oil? That’s an underdog. It's spicy (literally), warming, and boosts blood flow to your scalp, which can help wake up those sleepy follicles. It’s also full of omega-3s, antioxidants, and selenium—just a great all-rounder, especially in colder weather.

Fish Oil and Olive Oil for Deep Nutrition

Alright, so this might sound a bit weird at first—fish oil for hair growth? Yep, we’re going there. Fish oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, supports scalp health from the inside out. While most oils are applied externally, fish oil works best as a supplement. It reduces inflammation, strengthens hair follicles, and promotes thicker, glossier strands over time.

But if rubbing fish oil directly onto your scalp sounds...kinda gross (no judgement), you're not alone. Stick to capsules or liquid supplements unless you're really committed.

Now olive oil for hair growth? That’s a classic. Olive oil penetrates the hair shaft, moisturizing it from within and preventing split ends. It’s also rich in antioxidants and Vitamin E—basically, a perfect recipe for hair repair and long-term thickness. You can massage it into your scalp before washing or mix it into your favorite homemade hair growth oil. Either way, it’s gentle, effective, and pretty affordable.

rosemary oil for hair growth

Best Ayurvedic Oil for Hair Growth and Long-Term Results

If you're looking for the best Ayurvedic oil for hair growth, you’re spoiled for choice. Ayurveda champions herbs like bhringraj, amla, brahmi, and neem—all infused into oils for targeted hair care.

Bhringraj oil, often called the “king of herbs” for hair, is particularly famous for promoting fast hair growth and reducing hair fall. Amla (Indian gooseberry) strengthens follicles and prevents premature graying. Combine these with a sesame or coconut oil base, and you've got yourself a real winner.

These oils take time to work but offer long-term results. Think of it like a slow-burn strategy. You're not just growing hair faster—you’re improving the whole ecosystem on your head.

How to Use Almond Oil for Hair Growth and Thickness

Let’s circle back to almond oil—because knowing how to use almond oil for hair growth and thickness makes a big difference.

Here’s a simple way to do it:

  1. Warm 2–3 tablespoons of almond oil. Don’t overheat—just warm enough to open up the pores on your scalp.

  2. Massage gently into your scalp with your fingertips (use circular motion).

  3. Leave it on for at least an hour—or better yet, overnight.

  4. Wash out with a mild shampoo.

Repeat 2–3 times per week for best results. You can also mix almond oil with rosemary oil or a few drops of castor oil for an added punch.

Some people see baby hairs coming in after a month or so. Others notice their hair feels less brittle and more shiny. It's not a miracle potion, but hey, it works if you stick with it.

best oil mixture for hair growth and thickness

Homemade Hair Growth Oil Recipes

Wanna make your own homemade hair growth oil? You totally can—and it’s easier than you think.

Simple DIY Hair Growth Oil:

  • 2 tbsp coconut oil

  • 1 tbsp castor oil

  • 1 tsp almond oil

  • 5–6 drops rosemary essential oil

  • Optional: crushed curry leaves or fenugreek seeds

Heat all the ingredients together on low heat for 5 minutes. Let it cool, strain it, and store in a glass bottle. That’s it! Use this blend 2–3 times a week and massage it in real good. It’s cheap, natural, and kind of fun to make tbh.

best oil for hair growth

How Often to Use Hair Oil and Application Tips

So now that you’ve got your lineup of oils—castor, rosemary, almond, and the rest—how often should you actually use them? Good question. And honestly, the answer depends a bit on your hair type, lifestyle, and goals.

For most people, applying hair growth oil 2 to 3 times per week is the sweet spot. It gives your scalp enough time to absorb nutrients without getting greasy or clogged. But if you’ve got super dry hair or a flaky scalp, 3–4 times weekly might help rebalance things faster.

Pro Tips for Hair Oiling:

  • Warm it up: Always warm your oil slightly before use. It helps it penetrate better and feels relaxing too.

  • Scalp first: Focus on your scalp, not just your strands. That’s where the magic starts.

  • Massage gently: Don’t just dump it on and go. Use your fingertips to massage in circles—it boosts blood flow, and that stimulates those sleepy follicles.

  • Wrap it up: Cover your hair with a towel or shower cap after applying. This locks in heat and helps the oil do its job.

  • Don’t overdo it: More oil doesn’t mean better results. It just means more shampooing later.

Be consistent. That’s the trick. You won’t see miracles overnight, but with time (and patience), your hair will look and feel noticeably better.

Conclusion

So—which oil is best for hair growth and thickness?

Well, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some people swear by castor oil, while others see better results with rosemary or jojoba. What matters most is picking a few that suit your hair type and sticking to a regular routine. Whether you're into the best Ayurvedic oil for hair growth or prefer a homemade hair growth oil you whipped up in your kitchen, consistency really is key.

Try experimenting a bit. Mix and match. Find a combo that feels right for you. And don’t forget to take care of what goes inside your body too—your hair’s health is tied closely to your overall wellness. That fish oil supplement? Might not be such a bad idea after all.

If this guide helped you even a little, feel free to share it with someone else who's tired of googling fast hair growth oil and getting nowhere.

FAQs

Can oil increase hair thickness?
Yes, the right hair growth oil can improve thickness over time. Oils like castor, almond, and rosemary nourish follicles, reduce breakage, and encourage new growth.

How to grow hair within 2 days?
Sorry, but there’s no magical shortcut. You can improve your scalp health and boost circulation, but actual growth takes time. Be patient—it’s worth it.

Can rice water grow hair?
Rice water is rich in amino acids and nutrients and can help with hair strength and shine. Some people report faster growth, but results vary.

What’s the best time to apply oil to hair?
Nighttime is ideal. Apply oil before bed, leave it in overnight, and wash it off in the morning. Just be sure to protect your pillow with a towel or old t-shirt (trust us, we learned that one the hard way).

 

This article is checked by the current qualified Dr Sujal Patil and can be considered a reliable source of information for users of the site.

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Questions from users
How long does it usually take to see results from using almond oil on your hair?
Jack
24 days ago
Seeing results from using almond oil on hair can vary. Some people might notice improved shine and less brittlness in a few weeks with consistent use, like 2-3 times a week; for growth, it might take a few month. Just keep in mind, consistency is key, and everyone’s hair is different, so patience is important!
What specific oil do you recommend for improving hair thickness and reducing breakage?
David
19 days ago
Bhringraj oil is a great choice for improving hair thickness and reducing breakage. It's known in Ayurveda for nourishing the scalp, strengthening hair roots, and promoting growth. Just make sure to massage it gently into your scalp and leave it on overnight for best results. You could also look into amla oil, which is good too. But remember, consistent use is key!
How long should I massage the oils into my scalp for the best results?
Lucy
14 days ago
I'd say about 5 to 10 mins is ideal for massaging oils into your scalp. It helps stimulate blood flow and gets the oils absorbed nicely. Gently massaging in circles can really help calm irritation and spread that natural goodness! Just be careful not to overdo it, okay? You don't wanna irritate the scalp.
What are some other natural oils that can help with hair growth like olive oil?
Emma
9 days ago
Sure thing! Besides olive oil, coconut and castor oil are fantastic choices for hair growth. Coconut oil deeply nourishes, while castor oil is rich and helps thicken each hair strand—just heads up, it can be quite thick! Also, rosemary oil's awesome for promoting hair regrowth. You might wanna try different combos of these oils to see what works best for ya. 🌿
How often should I actually do the scalp massage for best results?
Dylan
4 days ago
Dr. Ayush Varma
4 days ago
Optimal frequency might vary, but generally aim for 2-3 times a week to get the best results. Ayurveda believes our scalp is connected to the nervous system, so regular massage boosts circulation and promotes hair health. Listen to how your scalp feels and adjust accordingly!
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