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THESE ARE 10 BEST OILS FOR CURLING HAIR: THE SECRET FOR LONG-LASTING LOOKS

For anyone with curls, you know the struggle of keeping them defined, bouncy, and frizz-free all day long. The good news is, there’s a secret weapon in your beauty arsenal: hair oil! These amazing elixirs can be the key to unlocking your hair’s full curling potential. Dive into the world of hair oils and discover the 10 best for luscious, long-lasting curls!

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BRIOGEO DON’T DESPAIR, REPAIR! STRENGTHENING TREATMENT OIL

Briogeo’s Don’t Despair, Repair! Strengthening Treatment Oil is a great option for those seeking to tame frizz and boost curl definition. This silicone-free formula is packed with repairing ceramides that target split ends and reinforce the hair cuticle. It also boasts intense moisture for a healthy shine, without weighing down your curls. A few drops applied to damp or dry hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends, can transform your curls into a smooth, bouncy, and long-lasting style.

MIZANI 25 MIRACLE NOURISHING HAIR OIL

Mizani’s 25 Miracle Nourishing Hair Oil lives up to its name by offering a multitude of benefits in one product. This lightweight, multi-tasking oil is perfect for all hair types, including curly hair. Formulated with a blend of coconut, sunflower seed, and jojoba oils, it deeply moisturizes and softens hair, leaving it manageable and frizz-free. The key here is its lightweight nature. Unlike some heavier oils that can weigh down curls, 25 Miracle Nourishing Hair Oil absorbs quickly, adding shine and definition without sacrificing bounce.

PURA D’OR ORGANIC SWEET ALMOND OIL

Pura D’Or’s Organic Sweet Almond Oil is a versatile and gentle choice for curly hair. This all-natural oil, free from harsh chemicals and additives, is a great option for those with sensitive scalps. Rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, it provides lightweight moisture that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Sweet almond oil can be used as a pre-styling treatment to tame frizz and boost shine, or as a post-styling refresher to revive curls and add definition. Its gentle nature also makes it perfect for use on dry cuticles and brittle ends, promoting overall hair health and curl manageability.

LIVING PROOF CURL MOISTURIZING SHINE OIL

Living Proof’s Curl Moisturizing Shine Oil stands out for its unique biomimetic approach. This silicone-free formula mimics the natural lipids found in healthy hair.  These natural oils work in harmony with your curls, smoothing and hydrating them for a boost of shine and frizz control.  The versatility of this oil is another plus. You can apply it before shampooing as a deep treatment, during styling to enhance definition, or even after styling to add a touch of shine and tame flyaways.  Living Proof’s Curl Moisturizing Shine Oil caters specifically to wavy, curly, and coily hair textures, making it a great choice for those seeking a curl-enhancing oil that integrates seamlessly with their hair’s natural chemistry.

OGX RENEWING + ARGAN OIL OF MOROCCO

If you’re looking for an affordable and luxurious option for your curls, OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco is a fantastic choice. This popular hair oil is enriched with nourishing Moroccan argan oil, a source of vitamin E and antioxidants. These ingredients work together to strengthen hair, improve elasticity, and combat frizz. OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco absorbs quickly, leaving your curls soft, shiny, and defined without feeling weighed down. Whether you apply it to damp hair before styling to enhance curl formation or use it on dry hair for a touch of frizz control and shine, this oil is a versatile option that can help you achieve your best curls.

PATTERN JOJOBA HAIR & SCALP OIL BLEND

Designed specifically for curly hair textures, PATTERN’s Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil Blend is a lightweight, residue-free dream. This unique formula, created by actress Tracee Ellis Ross, blends jojoba oil with safflower, rosehip, and olive oil for a cocktail of nourishing goodness. The star ingredient, jojoba oil, mimics the scalp’s natural sebum, making it readily absorbed without clogging pores. This translates to deep moisture for your hair and scalp, promoting a healthy environment for curls to thrive. PATTERN’s Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil Blend boasts additional benefits like reducing breakage and itchiness, perfect for those with low-porosity hair or a dry scalp. A few drops massaged into the scalp or smoothed through damp or dry hair can unlock your hair’s full curl potential, leaving it defined, bouncy, and beautifully hydrated.

SHEAMOISTURE 100% PURE ARGAN OIL

SheaMoisture’s 100% Pure Argan Oil offers a simple yet powerful solution for curly hair. This multi-tasking oil, derived from the Moroccan argan tree, is packed with essential fatty acids and vitamin E. These powerhouse ingredients work together to deeply nourish and soften dry, brittle curls. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, avoiding the greasy residue that can weigh down your curls. SheaMoisture’s 100% Pure Argan Oil is a versatile product that can be used on both hair and skin. Apply a few drops to damp hair to enhance curl definition and add shine, or smooth it over dry hair to tame frizz and flyaways. You can even use it on your skin for a boost of hydration and a youthful glow.

AUSSIE MIRACLE CURLS CURL-DEFINING OIL

Aussie Miracle Curls Curl-Defining Oil is a budget-friendly option that packs a punch. Infused with coconut and Australian jojoba oil, this paraben-free formula promises to quench your curls’ thirst for moisture. The key ingredients work in tandem: coconut oil provides deep conditioning and shine, while jojoba oil mimics the scalp’s natural sebum, ensuring lightweight absorption that won’t weigh down your curls. Aussie Miracle Curls Curl-Defining Oil claims to instantly absorb and seal the hair cuticle, locking in hydration to combat frizz and promote long-lasting definition. Apply a few drops to damp or dry hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends, to transform your curls into a smooth, bouncy, and manageable style.

KÉRASTASE ELIXIR ULTIME HYDRATING HAIR OIL SERUM

Kérastase’s Elixir Ultime Hydrating Hair Oil Serum is a luxurious option for those seeking a multi-benefit curl treatment. This blend of precious oils, including argan, camellia, and marula, nourishes and hydrates all hair types, with a special focus on taming frizz and boosting shine. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, avoiding greasy buildup that can weigh down curls. Kérastase’s Elixir Ultime Hydrating Hair Oil Serum offers versatility in application. You can use it on damp hair before styling to enhance curl formation and manageability, or apply it to dry hair to smooth frizz and add a touch of luminous shine. This oil prioritizes hair health alongside curl definition, making it a great choice for those seeking a product that nourishes while promoting beautiful, long-lasting curls.

OUIDAD MONGONGO CURL TREATMENT OIL

Ouidad’s Mongongo Curl Treatment Oil is a curl-loving formula designed to address multiple concerns. This fast-absorbing oil, derived from the Mongongo nut native to Africa, is rich in essential fatty acids that provide deep nourishment and strengthen hair strands. It forms a protective barrier on the hair’s surface, locking in moisture to prevent frizz and damage from heat styling or UV rays. The result? Soft, shiny, and defined curls with long-lasting bounce. Whether you apply it to damp hair before styling to enhance curl formation or use it on dry hair for a touch of frizz control, Ouidad’s Mongongo Curl Treatment Oil can be a valuable tool in your quest for healthy, beautiful curls.

HOW HAIR OILS WORK

While all oils soften and nourish hair (they’re emollients!), they don’t directly add moisture. Think of them as sealing agents. They lock in moisture provided by conditioners, leave-in products, and creams that contain water and humectants. These hydrating products are key! Oils then create a protective barrier on the hair shaft, preventing that moisture from evaporating and keeping your curls frizz-free and defined for longer.

Here’s the takeaway: for the best results, use a conditioner or leave-in with hydrating ingredients first, then follow up with a hair oil to lock it all in. This combo will give your curls the moisture they crave and the definition you desire.

3 TYPES OF HAIR OIL

PENETRATING OILS

Penetrating oils are designed to sleep deeply into the hair shaft, nourishing it from the inside out. These oils typically have smaller molecular structures that allow them to pass through the hair’s cuticle layer. Examples include coconut oil, sunflower oil, and babassu oil. These oils are particularly effective for providing deep hydration, strengthening the hair, and preventing protein loss. They are ideal for use in pre-wash treatments and deep conditioning routines.

PENETRATING AND SEALING OILS

Some oils have the dual capability of both penetrating the hair shaft and sealing the cuticle. These versatile oils include castor oil, olive oil, avocado oil, grapeseed oil, sweet almond oil, argan oil, apricot kernel oil, and macadamia oil. They offer the best of both worlds: deep hydration and a protective barrier. These oils can enhance shine, improve elasticity, and lock in moisture, making them suitable for a variety of hair care applications, from leave-in conditioners to styling products.

SEALING OILS

Sealing oils are primarily used to coat the hair’s surface, creating a barrier that locks in moisture and protects the hair from environmental damage. These oils usually have larger molecular structures that prevent them from being absorbed deeply into the hair shaft. Examples include rice bran oil and jojoba oil. Sealing oils are excellent for smoothing the hair, reducing frizz, and adding a glossy finish. They are particularly beneficial when applied to the ends of the hair to prevent split ends and breakage.

WHICH OIL IS BEST FOR YOUR HAIR TYPE?

Choosing the best oil for your hair type depends on your specific needs and hair characteristics. Here’s a guide to help you select the right one:

FINE OR OILY HAIR

For fine or oily hair types, lightweight oils are best to avoid weighing down the hair or making it look greasy. Grapeseed oil and sweet almond oil are excellent choices as they are light and easily absorbed, providing moisture and shine without excess heaviness. These oils can help balance oil production and add a subtle sheen to your locks.

DRY OR DAMAGED HAIR

Dry or damaged hair benefits from heavier, more nourishing oils that can provide intense hydration and repair. Coconut oil, olive oil, and avocado oil are rich in fatty acids and vitamins that help to strengthen and moisturize the hair. These oils penetrate deeply, making them perfect for deep conditioning treatments to restore moisture and elasticity to brittle hair.

CURLY OR COARSE HAIR

Curly or coarse hair types often require thicker oils to maintain moisture and manageability. Castor oil and argan oil are ideal for these hair types as they offer deep hydration and help to define curls while reducing frizz. These oils also provide a protective barrier that locks in moisture, keeping your curls soft and bouncy.

COLOR-TREATED OR CHEMICALLY PROCESSED HAIR

For hair that has been color-treated or chemically processed, it’s essential to use oils that can help repair damage and maintain color vibrancy. Argan oil and apricot kernel oil are excellent options as they are rich in antioxidants and vitamins that help to strengthen and protect hair. These oils nourish the hair while helping to prolong the life of your color and adding a healthy shine.

NORMAL HAIR

If you have normal hair that doesn’t fall into any specific category, versatile oils like jojoba oil and macadamia oil are great all-rounders. Jojoba oil closely mimics the natural oils produced by your scalp, making it excellent for maintaining balanced moisture levels. Macadamia oil is also lightweight and nourishing, providing a nice balance of hydration and shine without being overly heavy.

CONCLUSION

Taming frizz, defining those gorgeous spirals, and achieving long-lasting hold – that’s the dream for anyone with curls. The good news is, hair oils are your secret weapon! With the right oil for your hair’s unique needs, you can unlock your hair’s full curling potential. From budget-friendly options to luxurious blends, there’s an oil out there waiting to transform your curls into a masterpiece of definition, shine, and bounce. So, ditch the frizz and embrace your curls with the power of hair oil!

15 BEST HAIR OILS FOR CURLY HAIR YOU SHOULD KNOW

Taming those gorgeous curls can be a whole different ball game! Curly hair is undeniably beautiful, but it can also be susceptible to dryness, frizz, and breakage. In addition to using hair care products such as masks for curly hair, the good news is that hair conditioner is also a potential product. It provides intense hydration, definition and shine. Here is a list of 15 of the best hair oils specially formulated to help you achieve the best curls! We’ll explore a variety of options to meet different hair needs, from budget-friendly options to luxurious treatments. So get ready to ditch the frizz and embrace your gorgeous curls!

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GARNIER ULTIMATE BLENDS COCONUT HAIR OIL FOR FRIZZY HAIR

Garnier’s Coconut Hair Oil for Frizzy Hair is great for people with dry, damaged, or frizzy curls. It’s made with plant-based ingredients, so it’s good for the environment. Many tests show it makes hair smoother and defines curls well. Most people who tried it liked how soft it made the ends of their hair. Plus, it keeps hair hydrated and healthy. The bottle is a good size at 150ml, and it doesn’t have any harmful chemicals. If you have dry, damaged, or frizzy hair, this oil could be a good choice for you.

KÉRASTASE L’HUILE ELIXIR ULTIME HYDRATING HAIR OIL SERUM

Can’t be left out of the conversation of luxurious hair oils is Kérastase’s L’Huile Elixir Ultime Hydrating Hair Oil Serum. This multi-tasking oil is designed to be suitable for all hair types, but it truly shines for those with fine or limp curls. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly to deliver rich hydration without weighing down your strands. This oil is packed with a blend of botanical oils like marula, argan, and camellia, which work together to tame frizz, boost shine, and strengthen your curls for a healthy, bouncy look.

CHARLOTTE MENSAH MANKETTI HAIR OIL

Formulated specifically as an oil for curly hair, Charlotte Mensah Manketti Hair Oil has garnered multiple awards, making it a standout addition to your hair care routine. This luxurious blend features organic manketti nut and ximenia oils, renowned for their deeply nourishing properties. Serving as a savior for dry and dehydrated curls, it works wonders by imparting shine, taming frizz, and promoting scalp health. Whether you’re seeking a quick shine boost post-styling or opting for an overnight treatment for intensive conditioning, Charlotte Mensah Manketti Hair Oil ensures to elevate your curls, rendering them resilient, manageable, and beautifully defined.

AUSSIE MIRACLE CURLS CURL-DEFINING OIL 

Looking for a budget-friendly option that still delivers great results? Aussie Miracle Curls Curl-Defining Oil might be your new curl BFF. This drugstore favorite is infused with coconut and jojoba oil, offering a wave of hydration to quench thirsty curls. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, sealing the hair cuticle to lock in moisture and reduce frizz. This translates to softer, shinier curls with enhanced definition, all without that dreaded weighed-down feeling. Plus, it’s paraben-free, making it a good choice for those with sensitive scalps.

LIVING PROOF CURL MOISTURISING SHINE OIL

If you’re seeking a curl-loving oil that prioritizes shine and healthy hydration, Living Proof Curl Moisturizing Shine Oil is a strong contender. This silicone-free formula stands out for its unique biomimetic properties. That essentially means the oil mimics your hair’s natural lipids, seamlessly integrating with your curl structure. This allows it to deliver deep moisture without feeling greasy or heavy. The result? Smooth, hydrated curls with a radiant, healthy shine. Living Proof Curl Moisturizing Shine Oil is versatile too, working wonders before shampooing to add a protective layer, during styling to enhance definition, or even as a post-styling treatment for a touch of extra polish.

OUIDAD MONGONGO CURL TREATMENT OIL

Ouidad’s Mongongo Curl Treatment Oil is a serious contender for the title of best oil for curly hair, especially for those seeking a natural, multi-tasking treatment. This lightweight formula is packed with Mongongo Oil, rich in omega-6 fatty acids, which  nourishes and strengthens curls. It also blends in Broccoli Seed Oil and American Palm Seed Oil to further soften and add shine. Ouidad’s Mongongo Oil goes beyond just surface benefits. It forms a protective barrier to lock in moisture and shield your curls from heat styling and UV damage. The result is defined, frizz-free curls with a healthy, radiant glow. Plus, it’s free of harsh sulfates, silicones, and parabens, making it a great choice for those with sensitive scalps or who prefer a more natural approach to hair care.

PANTENE GOLD SERIES INTENSE HYDRATING HAIR OIL

Designed specifically for all hair types, Pantene’s Gold Series Intense Hydrating Hair Oil offers a compelling option for curly hair on a budget. This paraben-free, sulfate-free, and dye-free formula is infused with the goodness of argan oil, known for its lightweight yet deeply moisturizing properties. The oil absorbs quickly into hair strands, helping to repair dryness and breakage, common woes for curly hair. This translates to stronger, healthier curls with a noticeable boost in shine. Whether you apply it to wet hair for enhanced manageability during styling or use it on dry hair for a touch of extra frizz control and shine, Pantene Gold Series Intense Hydrating Hair Oil promises to add a touch of luxury to your curl care routine at an affordable price.

SHEAMOISTURE 100% PURE ARGAN OIL

Known for its dedication to curly hair care, SheaMoisture offers a 100% Pure Argan Oil that’s a fantastic choice for a natural, multi-purpose treatment. This lightweight oil absorbs quickly to deliver a boost of hydration without weighing down your curls. Packed with Vitamin E and essential fatty acids, it helps to soften and smooth dry, frizzy hair.  This oil is a true multi-tasker – use it as a hair serum, hair oil treatment, or even an anti-frizz solution.  You can even apply it to your skin for an extra dose of moisture.  SheaMoisture’s 100% Pure Argan Oil is a budget-friendly option that allows you to experience the benefits of this “liquid gold” for both your hair and skin.

DEVACURL HIGH SHINE MULTI-BENEFIT CURL OIL

This oil proves to be an excellent choice for individuals with looser, wavier curl patterns, as confirmed by the positive feedback from nearly all our testers who found it effortless to apply evenly without weighing down their hair. Impressively, it excelled in our lab tests for smoothing, a sentiment echoed by the majority of our testers. While a few noted a slight heaviness, most agreed that it effectively avoided leaving greasiness on their ends, making it particularly appealing for those aiming for sleekness without unwanted oily residue. With a convenient size of 50ml and a paraben-free formulation, this oil emerges as a promising solution for managing frizzy hair, offering both easy application and effective smoothing properties.

PATTERN JOJOBA HAIR & SCALP OIL BLEND

Specifically designed for curlies, coilies, and tight textures, Pattern’s Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil Blend is a lightweight, residue-free formula that offers a touch of heaven for your hair.  This blend combines the power of jojoba oil, known for its similarity to the hair’s natural sebum, with safflower oil, rosehip oil, olive oil, and lavender oil.  Together, these oils work in beautiful harmony to deliver deep moisture without feeling greasy. This is especially beneficial for low porosity hair, helping it retain moisture and prevent breakage. Pattern’s Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil Blend goes beyond just strands, though. Massaging it into your scalp can help soothe itchiness and reduce flaking caused by dryness, promoting a healthy scalp environment for happy hair growth.

AVEDA NUTRIPLENISH BY AVEDA MULTI-USE HAIR OIL

Aveda’s Nutriplenish Multi-Use Hair Oil is a versatile option that caters to all hair types, including curly hair. This 100% naturally derived formula boasts a concentrated blend of 5 superfood power oils, including organic coconut, olive, and grape seed oil. These oils work together to deliver a powerful punch of hydration and shine, without leaving your curls greasy or weighed down. The key to its versatility lies in its multiple uses. Apply it pre-shampoo as a deep conditioning treatment for dry, thirsty curls. Use it on towel-dried hair for a leave-in treatment that boosts manageability and adds shine during styling.  Aveda’s Nutriplenish Multi-Use Hair Oil is a great choice for those looking for a natural, multi-tasking product that caters to the specific needs of curly hair.

OGX RENEWING + ARGAN OIL OF MOROCCO

If you’re searching for a budget-friendly yet effective hair oil for your curls, OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco is a strong contender. This lightweight oil is infused with argan oil, a popular choice for its moisturizing and nourishing properties. It absorbs quickly into hair strands, helping to tame frizz and boost shine without leaving a greasy residue. This oil is designed to renew and strengthen hair, promoting elasticity and manageability for your curls. OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco is also paraben and sulfate-free, making it a good option for those with sensitive scalps or who prefer a more gentle hair care routine.

IMBUE CURL WORSHIPPING SHINE OIL

Specifically designed for curly hair, Imbue Curl Worshipping Shine Oil promises to be a curl-loving hero in your hair care routine. This vegan and “Curly Girl Method”-friendly formula is free of ingredients that can weigh down curls, like sulfates, silicones, and drying alcohols. Instead, it boasts a lightweight cocktail of plant-powered oils like avocado, coconut, cupuaçu, and grapeseed oil. This nourishing blend works wonders on dry, frizzy curls, delivering deep hydration to quench thirst and smooth frizz. Imbue Curl Worshipping Shine Oil is a multi-tasker. Use it on damp hair to lock in moisture and enhance definition during styling, or apply it to dry hair for a touch of extra shine and frizz control. This oil is also gentle enough to be used as an overnight treatment for deep conditioning, leaving your curls soft, manageable, and beautifully defined.

PURA D’OR ORGANIC SWEET ALMOND OIL

For those seeking a natural and affordable option, Pura D’Or Organic Sweet Almond Oil is a great choice for curly hair. This lightweight oil is readily absorbed by hair strands, delivering a dose of hydration without feeling greasy or heavy.  Packed with vitamin E, sweet almond oil helps to strengthen and nourish curls, promoting elasticity and manageability. While it might not be as intensely moisturizing as some other options on this list, it’s a versatile choice for various hair care needs. Use it as a pre-poo treatment to add moisture and soften strands, or apply a small amount to dry hair for a touch of frizz control and shine. Plus, Pura D’Or’s Organic Sweet Almond Oil is a budget-friendly option, making it a great choice for those who are new to using hair oils or want a simple, natural solution for their curly hair routine.

AUSSIE WORK THAT CURL HAIR SERUM WITH JOJOBA SEED OIL

Looking for a budget-friendly curl definer that packs a punch? Aussie Work That Curl Hair Serum with Jojoba Seed Oil might be your new go-to. This drugstore favorite is formulated specifically for curly hair, and boasts a lightweight yet effective formula. The key ingredient here is jojoba seed oil, which is similar to the hair’s natural sebum. This allows it to absorb quickly and deliver targeted hydration without weighing down your curls.  Aussie Work That Curl Hair Serum promises to define your curls, tame frizz, and add a touch of shine, all at an affordable price point. Plus, it’s a vegan formula, making it a great choice for those with specific preferences.  Whether you use it as a finishing touch after styling or apply it to damp hair for enhanced definition, this Aussie serum is a convenient and wallet-friendly option to help you achieve your best curl life.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A HAIR OIL FOR CURLY HAIR

Let’s delve into some key factors to consider when choosing the perfect one for your unique curls:

  • Hair type and porosity: Curly hair comes in a spectrum of textures, from loose waves to tight coils. High porosity hair absorbs moisture quickly but can lose it just as fast, so it might benefit from thicker oils. Low porosity hair has a tighter cuticle and struggles to absorb moisture, so lightweight oils are ideal.
  • Desired benefits: Are you seeking deep hydration for dry curls? Frizz control? Definition and shine? Knowing your priorities will help narrow down your options.
  • Oil properties: Some popular oils for curly hair include argan oil (lightweight and moisturizing), jojoba oil (similar to hair’s natural sebum), coconut oil (deeply moisturizing but can weigh down fine hair), and avocado oil (rich in vitamins and promotes elasticity).
  • Ingredients: Curly hair can be prone to dryness, so be on the lookout for oils rich in fatty acids and vitamins. If you have a sensitive scalp, you might want to avoid products with sulfates, silicones, or drying alcohols.
  • Budget: Hair oils range in price from budget-friendly drugstore options to luxurious salon brands. There’s a great oil out there for everyone, so consider your budget and hair care needs.

By considering these factors, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect hair oil to nourish, define, and enhance your beautiful curls!

WHEN SHOULD YOU  APPLY OIL TO CURLY HAIR?

Hair oils serve as excellent aids in locking in moisture, primarily after conditioning, but they also prove beneficial when applied to dry ends between wash days or utilized as a deep conditioning treatment before shampooing.

CONCLUSION

With this arsenal of 15 of the best hair oils for curly hair at your fingertips, you’re well on your way to unlocking your hair’s full potential.  Remember, the “best” hair oil is the one that caters to your unique curl pattern, hair porosity, and desired results.  So, explore the options we’ve shared, consider the buying guide, and get ready to embrace your gorgeous, healthy curls!