When embarking on the quest for luscious and healthy hair, the importance of scalp care cannot be overstated. A well-nourished scalp is the bedrock of healthy hair growth, influencing everything from hair thickness to shine.
Considering this, scalp oils are the foundation of a well-cared for head of hair. The oils offer a range of benefits including nourishment, hydration, and rejuvenation thanks to the yummy nutrients and extracts they’re infused with.
Not only do scalp oils promote hair growth but they also address issues like dryness, flakiness, and sensitivity (a miracle!). So, whether you’re dealing with hair thinning, seeking to boost hair density, or simply looking to maintain a healthy scalp, there’s an oil tailored to your needs.
In this carefully curated list, we delve into some of the best scalp oils for strong, healthy hair from root to tip.
2024’s TOP 3 scalp oils
- Mielle Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil, $16.95, Amazon Australia
- Fable & Mane HoliRoots Pre-Wash Strengthening Treatment, $60, Selfridges
- Aveda Scalp Solutions Overnight Recovery Serum, $82, Adore Beauty
The best scalp oils 2024
Mielle Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil
from $16.95 at Amazon Australia
This serum went viral for a reason! The Mielle Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil is infused with over 30 essential oils and extracts, including rosemary, mint and biotin to strengthen hair from the roots and promote growth.
Key features:
- Key ingredients of rosemary oil, mint and biotin
- Encourages hair growth
- Split end care
Available at:
- $16.95 at Amazon Australia
- $23.99 from Etsy
- $21.94 from iHerb
- $22.25 from Beauty Bay
- $16.82 from eBay
Kiehl’s Magic Elixir
from $53 at Kiehl’s
This pre-wash elixir targets hair texture and scalp hydration. It’s well-suited for those seeking to stimulate hair growth. Immediate results include smoother, more manageable hair.
Key features:
- Key ingredients of rosemary oil, avocado oil and safflower oil
- Smoothes and conditions hair
- Stimulates the scalp
- Suitable for all hair and scalp types
Available at:
- $53 at Kiehl’s
Kitsch Pre-Wash Scalp & Hair Oil
from $32.71 at iHerb
Infused with rosemary and biotin, this 100 per cent plant-based pre-wash treatment is designed to nourish and prep the scalp for shampooing.
Key features:
- Scented with natural lavender
- Supports scalp health
- Strengthens hair from root to tip
- Works on all hair types to loosen build-up and nourish scalp
Available at:
- $40 from Kitsch
- $34.50 from Beauty Bay
- $32.71 from iHerb
Moroccanoil Dry No More Scalp Treatment
from $46.99 at Oz Hair & Beauty
This argan oil-based treatment is designed for dry scalps, offering hydration and relief from itchiness. It’s a pre-shampoo treatment, so all you have to do is apply before showering and let it sit for 10 minutes before continuing with your usual haircare routine. The result? A more comfortable, hydrated scalp and nourished strands.
Key features:
- Formulated with salicylic acid to exfoliate the scalp
- Soothes irritation and removes flakes
- Adds shine
- Made with argan, lavender and geranium oils
Available at:
- $47 at Sephora
- $46.99 at Oz Hair & Beauty
- $47 at Adore Beauty
- $47 at Ry
Innersense Hair Renew Scalp Oil
from $49 at One Fine Secret
With a lightweight, dry oil formula, this scalp oil is perfect for oilier scalp and hair types. The microbiome-friendly treatment is designed to calm the scalp thanks to its omega fatty acid content.
Key features:
- Key ingredients of pomegranate, sesame and sunflower seed oil
- Suitable for all hair types
- No oily residue
Available at:
- $49 from One Fine Secret
Fable & Mane HoliRoots Pre-Wash Strengthening Treatment
from $26.75 at Beauty Bay
Formulated to promote stronger hair from the roots, this pre-wash treatment is a perfect first step to healthier hair. The ashwagandha-infused serum is rooted in Ayurvedic hair traditions.
Key features:
- Key ingredients of ashwagandha, castor oil and dashmool
- Vegan and cruelty-free formula
- Colour-safe
- Suitable for all hair types
Available at:
- $29.70 from Cult Beauty
- $60 from Selfridges
- $26.75 at Beauty Bay
Centred En-Root Scalp Oil
from $68 at Sephora
This olive oil-based treatment nourishes and rejuvenates thanks to its blend of oils, salicylic acid, and tingly peppermint oil. Leave on for up to two hours pre-shower for ultimate scalp nourishment.
Key features:
- Key ingredients include jojoba oil, salicylic acid and peppermint oil
- Made from 88.5% plant-based ingredients
- Turns into a creamy liquid for easy wash-out
Available at:
- $68 from Sephora
- $68 from Selfridges
Vegamour GRO Hair Serum
from $105 at Sephora
Okay, so it’s not technically an oil, but this scalp serum is formulated with hair growth stimulation at the forefront. It’s ideal for those experiencing hair thinning and wanting to boost hair density, thanks to its caffeine content.
Key features:
- Water-based treatment
- Key ingredients of mung bean, curcumin and red clover
- Reduces signs of shedding and fallout
- Nourishes the scalp and promotes healthier, stronger hair
Available at:
Aveda Scalp Solutions Overnight Recovery Serum
from $82 at Adore Beauty
Aveda’s overnight serum is perfect for deep scalp nourishment. It works while you sleep, making it the ultimate hassle-free addition to your haircare routine. Opt for this treatment if your scalp is feeling unbalanced.
Key features:
- Key ingredients include blend of Lactobacillus ferment and Ectoin, centella asiatica and hyaluronic acid
- Made from 88.5% plant-based ingredients
- Turns into a creamy liquid for easy wash-out
Available at:
- $82 from Adore Beauty
- $82 from David Jones
- $82 from Oz Hair & Beauty
How to use scalp oils
To apply a scalp oil, start by sectioning your hair and applying the oil directly to the scalp, using either a dropper or your fingertips. Gently massage the oil in circular motions (you can use your fingers or a scalp brush), which helps to stimulate blood flow and enhance absorption.
For best results, leave the oil in for at least a few hours or overnight, allowing it to deeply nourish the scalp. Finally, wash it out with a gentle shampoo, ensuring that all oil is removed. This process, done regularly, can significantly improve scalp health and promote hair growth.
Related articles:
- How To Perfect Your Natural Curly Hair Routine
- The Ultimate Summer Hair Care Guide
- Here’s What Your Scalp Is Trying To Tell You
Main image credit: @gregoryrussellhair
Have you used a scalp oil before? What are your tips for thick, healthy hair?!
I’d be keen to try Vegamour GRO Hair Serum
I did this sort of treatment with manuka ohoney once – it looked a bit bad as I did it during the day but when I washed it out my scalp was much healthier. I haven’t tried an oil scalp product
It looks like a good idea, I might consider buying one.
I always think, OIL, oh no my hair is oily enough. I know it is silly but there you are.
I’ve never used a scalp oil before
Despite my hair being very oily, my hair feels amazing after an oil treatment (and 7 washes to get it out).
I want to try them all!
me too but the cost would hold me back.
A lot of positive review for the Mielle. Been on my list for a while.
I habe started oiling my hair for 2 months. I Have noticed a huge difference I think it works
I’ve tried argan oil, but I always avoid my oily scalp. I’m keen to try an overnight treatment that shampoos out.
I have tried Argan Oil but not tried any other products.
I have tried Argon oil too and was pleased with the results
I might need to try one of these
Some lovely hair serums
These sound amazing.
I use an argan oil which really improves the look and feel of my hair.
The Mielle one sounds nice but I don’t usually do online shopping.
I think I use these wrong. My hair is always limp and greasy after use.
These are all new to me. I didn’t know there were so many scalp oils out there.
The cost would put me off but I would love to try
You are right. The cost so maybe not.
I have strong,, thick hair
I love hair oils but i’ve never used scalp oils other than olive oil and coconut oil. But i’m super keen to try Kitsch Pre-Wash Scalp & Hair Oil thats my type of oil
I use coconut oil.
Lots of goodies here. I would particularly like to try Fable & Mane or Mielle.
just a little, they are so rich an a bottle will last me years
I feel that my hair looks limp and oily when I use oils, so I don’t. Could be my fault, of course.
I’ve never used one
I apply coconut oil on y scalp once a week.
These are pretty expensive when you can get cheaper
Inner sense oil looks great
I don’t much like hair or scalp oils. Even after washing them out my hair feels greasy.
Mine too, i have to wash 3 or 4 times
I like the idea of turning into a creamy liquid for easy wash out, as some linger on fine hair and take ages to wash out
Well, since my last comment I bought and started using the Mielle. No obvious results so far.