hair color in a bottle

DIY HAIR GROWTH OIL FOR RAPIDLY ACHIEVING LONGER, THICKER, AND LUSCIOUS HAIR

Looking to quickly achieve longer, thicker hair? While there’s no miracle solution for instant growth, this homemade hair growth oil can help accelerate the process. Packed with herbs and essential oils, this all-natural recipe is the result of years spent experimenting with effective methods for fast hair growth. It’s simple to make and highly effective.

There are plenty of so-called “fast hair growth secrets” out there—some work, while others don’t, and I’ve likely tried most of them! My journey into natural beauty began with a desire for longer, thicker hair. Like all my DIY beauty recipes, this hair growth oil stems from my personal experiences.

As a teen, I would spend hours hunting for herbs and supplements in specialty stores, diligently reading Long Hair Care Community forums, and testing various tips and remedies to grow my hair to hip length. In retrospect, I wish I’d focused less on superficial goals, but this quest provided valuable insights into the beauty industry, helping me cultivate discernment.

Whether you’re looking to combat hair loss, encourage regrowth after stress, or simply boost your hair growth, I hope this hair oil recipe helps you reach your goals.

CAN OILS REALLY HELP GROW YOUR HAIR FASTER?

The hair growth industry is booming, with countless new, exotic “fast hair growth oils” and magic serums promising to deliver your dream of long, mermaid-like locks.

However, the reality is that most carrier oils lack any truly magical properties for hair growth. In fact, using excessive amounts of the wrong oil can lead to issues like yeast overgrowth, exacerbating hair loss and scalp problems.

Take argan oil, for example. It was once hailed as the miracle hair growth oil, but its fatty acid profile is quite ordinary, resembling that of sesame or sunflower oil—neither of which have been shown to promote hair growth. (And I say this as someone who once relied on argan oil!)

That said, a few oils do genuinely support hair growth and thickness. When combined with certain herbs and essential oils—like rosemary and peppermint—you can create a more effective homemade hair growth oil.

DIY HAIR GROWTH OIL BENEFITS + HOW IT WORKS

This homemade hair oil promotes natural hair growth in several effective ways:

  • Stimulates Scalp Blood Flow: Infused with powerful herbs and essential oils, this recipe enhances blood circulation to the scalp and hair follicles.
  • Modulates Hair Growth Phase: Castor oil activates prostaglandin pathways linked to the growth phase, accelerating hair growth.
  • Reduces Scalp Buildup: Massaging the oil into your scalp before washing helps loosen buildup that can clog hair follicles, similar to how cleansing oils keep facial pores clear.
  • Antioxidant Activity: The antioxidants in this DIY hair oil protect hair follicles and shafts from oxidative stress, supporting faster growth.
  • Antimicrobial Activity: Excess bacteria and yeast can cause issues like dandruff and scalp acne, hindering growth. The antibacterial herbs and essential oils in this recipe, such as rosemary oil, help maintain a balanced scalp environment.

Now that we’ve covered the essentials, let’s dive into how to make your own hair growth oil.

KEY HERBS FOR HAIR GROWTH

PEPPERMINT

Known for its cooling and soothing effects, peppermint oil is great for irritated scalps. Research suggests it may promote hair growth even more effectively than rosemary. Peppermint oil accelerates the hair growth phase and increases hair follicles, contributing to longer, thicker hair. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties also support scalp health.

WHITE WILLOW BARK

If you face scalp issues like dandruff or acne, white willow bark can be beneficial. It contains salicin, a natural anti-inflammatory and gentle exfoliant. While it doesn’t directly stimulate hair growth, it promotes a healthy scalp by soothing irritation, unclogging pores, and reducing buildup.

ROSEMARY

Rosemary-infused oil is a popular remedy for hair growth. Studies show it can be as effective as minoxidil without side effects. Rosemary stimulates blood flow to the scalp, nourishing hair follicles and encouraging both new and existing hair growth. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties help maintain a healthy scalp, while its antioxidants protect against oxidative stress, which can lead to hair loss.

GREEN TEA

Adding green tea leaves to your hair oil infuses it with antioxidants that support hair follicle health. Although caffeine and ECEG—key components for hair growth—are water-soluble and won’t transfer to oil, the antioxidants in green tea still provide benefits. Note that it can impart a deep green color to the oil, but it generally doesn’t stain hair.

These herbs are effective allies in your quest for longer, thicker hair, and incorporating them into your hair oil can enhance its benefits.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR HAIR GROWTH

To enhance your herbal hair growth oil, consider adding essential oils for concentrated benefits. 

Peppermint and rosemary essential oils are particularly effective for promoting hair growth, and using both can provide optimal results. You can also create a blend with cedarwood, lavender, thyme, frankincense, myrrh, palmarosa, and nettle, all known for supporting hair growth and scalp health. 

Additionally, incorporating an essential oil blend like Beauty Within can further boost scalp health with its antifungal properties, making it a great addition to your scalp treatments and hair masks.

FAST HAIR GROWTH OIL INGREDIENTS

You’ll need just a few ingredients for this DIY hair growth oil:

  • Heat-stable carrier oil for herbal infusion
  • Cold-pressed castor oil
  • Dried, organic hair growth herbs
  • Growth-boosting essential oils
  • Vitamin E oil

You can choose to make this oil with essential oils, herbal infusion, or both. I prefer using both to maximize the plant’s benefits. If you’re short on time, simply mix the carrier oils with the recommended essential oils.

INGREDIENTS

  • J MAC BOTANICALS Organic Cold-Pressed Castor Oil
  • Starwest Botanicals Organic Rosemary Leaf
  • Simply Earth Rosemary Essential Oil
  • Vitamin E Oil from Forefront Health

CARRIER OIL OPTIONS

  • MCT oil
  • Fractionated coconut oil
  • Avocado oil
  • Jojoba oil
  • Olive oil

Using a stable carrier oil is crucial. Many common oils, like sweet almond and sunflower oil, contain unstable polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) that break down with heat and light, losing their beneficial properties. Instead, opt for monounsaturated or saturated oils, which are more stable. I recommend MCT or fractionated coconut oil, especially if you have issues with yeast overgrowth, as MCT oil won’t feed Malassezia yeast.

Once you prepare the herbal-infused oil, dilute it with castor oil. Castor oil is well-regarded for hair growth due to its unique properties:

  • It mimics prostaglandins, extending the active hair growth phase and delaying the resting phase.
  • It conditions and prevents hair follicles from drying out.
  • It moisturizes and protects existing hair from breakage.
  • It has antibacterial and antifungal properties to maintain a healthy scalp.
  • It’s rich in antioxidants like vitamin E, which protect hair follicles from oxidative damage.

DIY HAIR GROWTH OIL RECIPE

INGREDIENTS

  • 47g herbal infused oil (see below for instructions)
  • 47g castor oil
  • 3.5ml peppermint essential oil
  • 3.5ml rosemary essential oil

HERBAL INFUSED OIL

  • 1 cup (200g) carrier oil (e.g., MCT, olive, or avocado oil)
  • ~3/4 cup dry herbs (e.g., rosemary, willow bark, peppermint, green tea)
  • 5ml (1 tsp) vitamin E oil

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Prepare Herbal Infused Oil:
    • Place dry herbs in a clean, heat-proof mason jar. Pour carrier oil over the herbs and add vitamin E oil. Stir gently to ensure herbs are fully submerged.
    • Seal the jar with a one-piece metal lid.
  • Infuse Oil:
    • In a slow cooker, place a hand towel at the bottom and fill with water to submerge the jar without leaking. Set to low and infuse for 8-12 hours, keeping water temperature between 50°C-71°C (120-160°F). Monitor closely to avoid overheating.
  • Strain Oil:
    • Once infused, let the oil cool. Strain out the herbs using cheesecloth or a sieve, pressing gently to extract all the oil. Be cautious of sharp herb pieces.
  • Combine Oils:
    • Mix equal parts of the herbal infused oil and castor oil. Add peppermint and rosemary essential oils, stirring well.
  • Store:
    • Transfer the final mixture to a glass dropper bottle for easy application.

Enjoy your homemade hair growth oil!

HOW TO MAKE HAIR OIL WITH ESSENTIAL OILS

Combine castor oil and a low-PUFA carrier oil (like fractionated coconut oil, jojoba oil, or olive oil) in equal parts. Add vitamin E and a hair growth essential oil blend to the mixture. Then, transfer it to a glass dropper bottle.

HOW TO USE HOMEMADE HAIR GROWTH OIL

To use the hair growth oil, apply it directly to your scalp using the dropper applicator, section by section, to ensure even coverage. After saturating your scalp, gently massage the oil in with your fingers or a jade gua sha comb to boost blood circulation to the follicles, promoting faster growth. If safe for you, you can also massage your scalp with your head upside down.

Leave the oil on for at least an hour or overnight, depending on your hair washing routine. When ready to wash it out, use conditioner first to help remove the castor oil, then follow with your regular shampoo. For added benefits, consider using a rosemary hair rinse or a pH-balancing vinegar rinse afterward.

CONCLUSION

DIY hair growth oil offers a natural and cost-effective solution for promoting hair growth and improving hair health. By combining essential oils known for their hair-nourishing properties with carrier oils that provide moisture and penetration, you can create a personalized hair treatment that addresses your specific needs. Remember to patch test the oil before applying it to your scalp to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions. Consistent use and proper application are key to achieving optimal results.

30 POPULAR MEDIUM LAYERED HAIRCUTS WITH BANGS

Medium-length layered haircuts offer the best of both worlds: the easy-going style of short hair and the graceful femininity of longer locks, with the added flexibility of being able to pull your hair into a low bun when needed. Adding bangs to your medium-length layers can create a distinctive, attention-grabbing look.

With the variety of bangs and medium-length styles available, finding the perfect combination for you can be a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry—this guide features the top medium-layered haircuts with bangs to help you make a confident decision.

MID-LENGTH CUT FOR GRAYING HAIR

Contrary to popular belief, women with gray hair don’t have to stick to short hairstyles—there are plenty of other options that can look chic and flattering. Take, for instance, this shaggy shoulder-length cut with curtain bangs, which adds a touch of flair and keeps things interesting!

SUBTLY LAYERED LOB WITH CARAMEL HIGHLIGHTS

Naturally sleek hair and a lob cut are a perfect match, wouldn’t you agree? To make your straight lob even more flattering, try adding some subtle layers. And if you’re looking for a bolder change, a wispy fringe and highlights could be just what you need!

MID-LENGTH HAIR WITH WISPY BANGS

Carefully planned layers can add amazing texture and volume to your straight hair, whether it’s thin or thick. Pairing this cut with thin, wispy bangs creates a truly flattering combination.

CHOCOLATE BROWN HAIR WITH FEATHERY LAYERS

If you have sleek, shiny straight hair, you might want to try adding subtle feathery layers for extra texture and volume. For a touch of femininity, consider pairing your style with romantic curtain bangs.

MID-LENGTH BLONDE HAIR WITH THICK BANGS

Blonde hair naturally draws attention, so all that’s left is to pick a haircut that enhances your gorgeous locks. If you’re open to adding some impressive volume, consider opting for a layered style like this one.

SHAGGY LOB WITH TEXTURED BANGS

A shaggy blonde cut is a timeless classic that never seems to go out of style. If long hair isn’t your thing, consider a length that falls just below your shoulders. Not only does a shag look fantastic and require minimal upkeep, but it also adds volume and life to flat hair.

MID-LENGTH HAIRSTYLE WITH FLIPPED ENDS

Medium-length hairstyles are a perfect choice for those with naturally wavy hair. To enhance your mid-length cut, ask your stylist to add layers. These subtle layers will lift your hair, define your waves, and create a stunning look.

LONG BOB WITH SASSY BOTTLENECK BANGS

Here’s another great example of edgy and sassy medium-length hairstyles. A textured lob with subtle layers in a dark gray shade looks fantastic, and the trendy bottleneck bangs – a shorter take on the popular curtain bangs – perfectly finish off this look.

SHOULDER LENGTH HAIR WITH FEATHERED LAYERS

If you’re looking for medium-length hairstyles with a classic, elegant vibe, consider a shoulder-length cut with feathered layers and straight bangs. This style is both timeless and easy to maintain—just use a bit of styling mousse, a round brush, and spend ten minutes blow-drying for a stunning finish.

MEDIUM HAIR WITH BANGS FOR ROUND FACE SHAPES

Medium haircuts with bangs can effectively slim round face shapes. To achieve this, incorporate face-framing layers and bangs that contour the face. Adding beachy waves can also create balanced volume on the sides, enhancing the overall look.

MEDIUM CUT FOR THIN HAIR

If you’re searching for cute and feminine medium-length hairstyles to enhance your thin hair, consider this option. A subtly layered cut adds extra volume, while a soft fringe provides a charming, feminine touch.

CURLY BOB WITH BANGS

Shoulder-length haircuts are perfect for showcasing naturally curly hair. The key is that shorter curls are lighter and more defined, enhancing your curl pattern. For added flair, consider adding playful curly bangs to your look.

MEDIUM LENGTH HAIR WITH FACE FRAMING LAYERS

This shaggy cut is defined by its edgy appeal, featuring heavy layering, thick, messy bangs, and a vibrant color. It’s the perfect choice if you want to make a bold statement and stand out from the crowd.

MEDIUM HAIR WITH LONG FACE FRAMING BANGS

If you prefer a more classic style, straight layered hair with long curtain bangs is an excellent choice. The long, subtle layers provide the flexibility to gather your hair into a low ponytail or bun, making this haircut more versatile than choppy layers.

LAYERED LOB WITH WISPY CURTAIN BANGS

Medium-layered haircuts take on a fresh look when paired with unique coloring techniques, like auburn hair with golden blonde highlights. These highlights enhance the layers, adding depth and dimension to the style.

SHOULDER LENGTH HAIR WITH CURTAIN BANGS

Rather than trying to control your thick wavy hair, embrace its natural texture with a mid-length layered hairstyle. Shaggy layers add volume while remaining light and manageable, making them easier to style.

MEDIUM HAIRCUT WITH SOFT BANGS

This medium-length haircut boasts multiple layers that enhance texture and volume. Wispy bangs add a romantic touch and make the style even more captivating.

SHAGGY BOB WITH THIN BANGS

A shaggy haircut with thin, piece-y bangs offers a fun and youthful twist on shoulder-length hair. Like other layered styles, a shaggy bob adds plenty of volume and movement, making it a great choice for both thick and thin hair.

RED LOB WITH WISPY FRINGE

Sleek medium-length haircuts with long layers complement a wispy fringe, resulting in a romantic look. Plus, long layers offer versatility, giving you a broader range of styling options.

WAVY LOB WITH BANGS

Layered hairstyles can highlight your hair’s natural waves, making them more defined. Short layers on top add extra volume, while blunt bangs complete the look perfectly.

CHERRY RED MID-LENGTH HAIRCUT WITH BANGS

Medium-length hair may seem ordinary, but it can be anything but. Elevate your medium-length locks with flattering layers, stylish curtain bangs, and a vibrant hair color, such as this striking cherry red.

LAYERED BOB WITH SIDE BANGS

For those looking to manage thick hair, a heavily layered shoulder-length bob is a great option. It reduces excess thickness and makes your hair more manageable, often requiring just a quick five-minute session with a flat iron to achieve a sleek look.

SHOULDER LENGTH HAIR WITH WISPY BANGS

This shoulder-length bob, featuring choppy layers and thin bangs, exudes youthfulness and charm. It’s an ideal choice if you want to give your fine hair a fuller, more voluminous appearance.

LAYERED HAIRCUT WITH SIDE SWEPT BANGS

If you’re ready to stand out and attract admiring glances, consider a mid-length layered haircut with long side bangs. The long layers and bangs deliver a dramatic flair, while a vibrant copper shade adds the finishing touch to this eye-catching look.

LONG BOB WITH TEXTURED BANGS

The long bob has consistently been a favorite medium-length hairstyle among women worldwide. Not only is it universally flattering, but it’s also highly versatile. To give your long bob a unique and edgy twist, consider incorporating shaggy layers and choppy bangs.

MEDIUM LAYERED HAIR WITH THICK BANGS

Bangs can be a game-changer for balancing different face shapes. For instance, thick straight bangs are an excellent choice for women with an elongated face, as they effectively conceal a high forehead and shift the focus to other facial features.

STRAWBERRY BLONDE MID-LENGTH HAIR WITH FEATHERED LAYERS

This layered haircut is stunning with its numerous layers and elegant strawberry blonde color. Feathery face-framing layers paired with curtain bangs create a head-turning look that’s both stylish and eye-catching.

CURLY LAYERS AND BANGS

Curls and layers are a perfect match! Layers enhance the definition and bounce of curls, so if you’re a curly girl looking for a beautiful transformation, consider this style. Medium-length curly hair paired with short bangs creates an adorable combination you’ll definitely want to try!

STRAIGHT HAIR WITH CURTAIN BANGS

A mid-length layered haircut can transform straight, flat hair by adding movement and incredible volume. Curtain bangs that blend effortlessly with the layers provide a stylish, dramatic touch, making the look even more chic.

MID-LENGTH WAVY HAIR WITH CHOPPY BANGS

If you have thin hair, try a wavy perm with medium-length layered cuts. The combination of waves and layers will boost volume, while short choppy bangs add an intriguing and dynamic element to your look.

CONCLUSION

Medium layered haircuts with bangs offer a versatile and stylish solution for women seeking to refresh their look. With countless variations in layer length, bang style, and hair texture, there’s a perfect combination to suit every face shape, hair type, and personal style. From effortlessly chic to bold and daring, these haircuts can elevate your overall appearance and boost your confidence. Whether you prefer soft, feathery layers or dramatic, choppy cuts, the possibilities are endless. Embrace the transformative power of medium layered hair with bangs and discover a new you!