seal hair with oil

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.

15 BEST SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONERS FOR DAMAGED HAIR

Damaged hair is the obsession of many people, causing hair to become tangled, split ends, break and lose its inherent shine. Understanding that, this article will introduce to you 15 “savior” shampoos and conditioners specifically for damaged hair, helping you restore smooth and shiny hair.

OUR TOP PICKS

MONDAY HAIRCARE MOISTURE SHAMPOO + CONDITIONER SET

Monday Haircare Moisture Shampoo + Conditioner Set is a hydrating duo designed to revitalize dry, coarse, and stressed hair. Infused with nourishing ingredients like coconut oil, rice protein, shea butter, and vitamin E, this salon-quality formula gently cleanses while deeply conditioning, leaving hair soft, smooth, and manageable. Dermatologically tested and free from harsh chemicals, this set promotes healthy hair growth and thickness, while the recyclable packaging aligns with the brand’s commitment to sustainability.

AVEDA NUTRIPLENISH LIGHT MOISTURE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Aveda Nutriplenish shampoo and conditioner offer a gentle yet effective cleanse for dry hair, soothing the scalp while delivering intense hydration. Packed with nourishing superfoods like pomegranate and coconut oils, as well as mango butter and oat extract, this duo revitalizes dehydrated hair, leaving it noticeably softer and more manageable after just one use. The rich, creamy formulas are a delight to apply, resulting in hair that feels thoroughly clean without being stripped of essential moisture.

NEXXUS ULTIMATE MOISTURE THERAPPE SHAMPOO AND HUMECTRESS CONDITIONER

High-quality hair care can be expensive, but Nexxus shampoo and conditioner offer exceptional value. Priced around $30, this duo is a budget-friendly option for reviving damaged hair. Infused with green caviar and elastin protein, they nourish and repair dry, brittle strands. We noticed a visible improvement in hair health and shine with each use.

AMIKA NORMCORE HYDRATING SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Amika’s Normcore collection is a dream for those seeking healthier hair. Packed with hair-nourishing ingredients like sea buckthorn, shea butter, and coconut acid, the shampoo and conditioner duo delivers intense moisture without weighing hair down. Both products have a rich, creamy texture perfect for taming thick hair, leaving it soft, hydrated, and revitalized.

DAVINES MOMO SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Dry hair often lacks essential nutrients and moisture. To restore its health and vitality, opt for products rich in vitamins that can thicken and strengthen your hair. Davines Momo Hydrating shampoo and conditioner, featuring Cartucciaru melon packed with vitamins A, C, E, and niacin, offer a solution. These lightweight formulas not only nourish your hair but also enhance shine, softness, and manageability, transforming dry, lifeless locks into healthy, voluminous tresses.

KÉRASTASE NUTRITIVE HYDRATING SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Craving shiny, soft, and strong hair? Look no further than Kerastase’s Nutritive line. This hydrating shampoo and conditioner duo is packed with niacinamide and plant-based proteins to fortify and shield your hair from damage. They work in harmony to condition and detangle dry hair, leaving it looking and feeling its best.

LOLAVIE RESTORATIVE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Static and flyaway hair often signals dryness or damage. To restore your hair’s health, consider Lolavie’s Restorative shampoo and conditioner. This Jennifer Aniston-backed product is packed with plant-based powerhouses like vegetable ceramides, vegan keratin, and B vitamins biotin and niacinamide, working together to nourish, strengthen, and revitalize your hair.

OLAPLEX BOND MAINTENANCE NO.4 SHAMPOO AND NO.5 CONDITIONER

If you’re dealing with product buildup from daily styling, you need a powerful hair duo that cleanses without compromising moisture. Olaplex’s shampoo and conditioner offer a deep clean without drying out your hair. The shampoo lathers beautifully, leaving your hair feeling incredibly refreshed after just one wash. This cleansing power has been consistent throughout our testing period.

PUREOLOGY HYDRATE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Pureology’s sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner duo is a game-changer for color-treated hair. Enriched with green tea, sage, and plant-based proteins, this vegan formula deeply hydrates, strengthens, and protects hair color. We noticed immediate improvements in hair thickness and health after the first wash, with even more noticeable bounce and softness after consistent use. Our scalp and strands also felt revitalized thanks to the added moisture.

REDKEN ALL SOFT SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Thin, dry hair can be challenging to manage as many hydrating products tend to weigh it down. To combat this, you need a shampoo and conditioner that deeply nourish without leaving residue. We recommend Redken’s argan oil-infused duo, designed specifically for dry, brittle hair. Their creamy textures distribute easily and effectively hydrate without leaving any greasy feeling post-rinse.

SHU UEMURA URBAN MOISTURE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Dry hair doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice lightweight hair care. Shu Uemura’s Urban Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner offer a solution with their thinner yet nourishing formulas. Infused with moringa oil and red algae, these products strengthen and protect hair from damage while providing essential hydration. Additionally, the antioxidant-rich ingredients shield your hair from environmental pollutants, leaving it healthier and more vibrant.

VIRTUE LABS RECOVERY SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Scalp irritation is common with frequent hair product use, especially for those with dry hair. Virtue Labs’ shampoo and conditioner offer a gentle solution. Infused with their patented Alpha Keratin 60ku, the products repair damage while strengthening and thickening hair. Additional ingredients like quinoa, baobab, and grapefruit extract promote hair growth and overall health, all without aggravating the scalp.

ORIBE GOLD LUST REPAIR & RESTORE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Craving lustrous locks? Oribe’s shampoo and conditioner duo is a game-changer. Infused with argan and cypress oils, plus a fortifying blend of caffeine, biotin, niacinamide, and plant collagen, this pair deeply moisturizes and revitalizes hair. The shampoo strikes the perfect balance for your scalp, preventing that stripped feeling, while the conditioner seals in hydration for silky smoothness. After six weeks, we were showered with compliments on our noticeably healthier hair.

L’ORÉAL PROFESSIONNEL SERIÉ EXPERT ABSOLUT REPAIR GOLD SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Are you looking for a way to restore your dry, damaged hair? L’Oréal Professionnel Serié Expert Absolut Repair Gold shampoo and conditioner duo could be the answer for you. Formulated with Gold Quinoa and Protein, this shampoo targets broken hair bonds to mend and prevent future breakage. By creating a smoother hair surface, it reduces split ends and frizz, leaving your hair not only healthier but also with a luxurious shine.

MOROCCANOIL HYDRATING SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Are you having trouble with dry, damaged hair after dyeing or chemical treatment? Moroccanoil Moisture Restoring Shampoo and Conditioner may be the solution for you. Containing antioxidant-rich argan oil, it nourishes and strengthens hair. Keratin helps rebuild broken fibers, restoring elasticity and manageability. This shampoo doesn’t stop there – it also adds moisture and shine, making your hair noticeably stronger and healthier.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A SHAMPOO OR CONDITIONER FOR DRY HAIR

Absolutely! Here’s a summary of what to look for in a shampoo or conditioner for dry hair:

Hydrating ingredients: Look for ingredients like coconut oil, argan oil, and shea butter which will moisturize and soften your hair, while also preventing breakage.

Avoid sulfates and harsh ingredients: These ingredients can strip your hair of its natural oils, so opt for sulfate-free and gentler formulas.

FAQ

1. What are the signs of damaged hair?

Damaged hair often appears dry, brittle, frizzy, and prone to breakage. It may also lack shine and be difficult to manage.

2. How should I use shampoo and conditioner for damaged hair?

Wash your hair 2-3 times a week, don’t wash your hair too often.

Massage scalp gently when shampooing.

Use conditioner after shampooing, focusing on the length and ends of your hair.

Rinse hair with cool water.

CONCLUSION

Above are 15 popular shampoos and conditioners for damaged hair today. Each product has its own advantages and uses, suitable for different hair types and levels of damage. You should choose products that suit your needs and hair condition to achieve the best results. In addition, combining the use of shampoo and conditioner in the same set will help enhance the effectiveness of hair care. With perseverance and proper care, you will quickly regain the soft, smooth, shiny hair of your dreams.