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12 Best Hair Oils, Straight from Pro Stylists

Get smooth, shiny, and soft strands with no greasy residue.

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Three hair oil products on a gradient background.

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As someone with fine hair, I’ve always been fearful that any type of hair oil would instantly make my hair greasy. Well, the joke’s on me: with all of the new types, there is actually a formula for everyone. Our beauty editors and experts put them to the test on all hair types (from super thin to thick and coarse) and in various environments, including humid, rainy weather.

Hair oils are super versatile and can be used as a pre-shampoo treatment (which is ideal for dry hair that needs a major moisture boost), a leave-in conditioner (for thick or coarse hair), or a styling product (our testers univerally agreed that Dyson’s hair oil was the best), depending on the specific type of oil and the desired results.

Our top picks:

Keep reading for our top hair oil picks for curly hair, frizz, dryness, and more, chosen by hair stylists, our beauty editors, and Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty & Personal Care Lab scientists.

Omega Hydrating Hair Oil

Pros

  • Leaves hair soft, smooth, and shiny
  • Helps create movement and body in hair
  • Doesn't leave any residue

Cons

  • No dropper included

A Good Housekeeping Beauty Award winner, this fast-absorbing hair oil from Dyson contains a blend of seven plant oils, including argan, avocado, sunflower, and more. The versatile formula can be applied to damp or dry hair and protects strands against heat, UV rays, and color fading. While it is easy to dispense straight from the bottle, some may prefer to apply it with a dropper.

WHAT TESTERS SAY: Testers gave it perfect scores for being easy to apply, making hair soft, smooth, and shiny, and not leaving any residue. The biggest surprise: some testers felt the oil actually gave hair movement and body. “I was genuinely impressed—this is one of the rare hair oils that actually adds shine without making hair feel greasy or weighed down,” a tester shared, while another called it “one of the best I have used—it gives my dry ends the moisture they desperately need.”

Key ingredientsseven plant oils
Size1.01 oz.
Best for All hair types
Coconut Miracle Oil
Now 25% Off
Credit: OGX

Pros

  • Great smell
  • A little goes a long way
  • Good value

Cons

  • Bottle gets oily easily

If you are looking to tame flyaways without breaking the bank, you've met your match. "OGX Coconut Miracle Oil is a great budget-friendly find," says Cassandra Olivia, a hair stylist and colorist in New York City. This nourishing oil is ideal for medium to coarse hair and helps soften and smooth hair. Be sure to wipe the bottle down after using; the bottle gets and can easily stay greasy if not cleaned properly.

WHAT EXPERTS SAY: "It smells amazing due to the fact that the formula is a mix of coconut oil and vanilla bean extract,” sats Olivia.

Key ingredientsCoconut oil
Size3.3 oz.
Best forMedium to coarse hair, dry hair
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3
Best Pre-Shampoo Treatment

Inde Wild Champi hair oil

Champi hair oil
3
Best Pre-Shampoo Treatment

Inde Wild Champi hair oil

Credit: Inde Wild

Pros

  • Softens strands
  • Great scent
  • Can skip conditioner after using

Cons

  • Some find the smell too strong

"A special blend of Ayurvedic botanical oils and extracts passed down by the founder’s family, this is one of the few hair oils I’ve tried that has transformative effects," says GH Senior Beauty & Style Director April Franzino. She uses it as a pre-shampoo treatment, coating her hair in the oil, wrapping it in a bun, then washing it out after about 20 minutes—no conditioner needed. It also can be used as an overnight treatment and can be warmed up for extra nourishment.

WHAT EXPERTS SAY: "The fresh jasmine scent makes it feel like an indulgence and once dry, my hair is noticeably softer and silkier,” says Franzino. Some reviewers, however, felt that the fragrance was a little too intense.

Key ingredients16 Ayurvedic oils and extracts including castor oil and coconut oil
Size1.7 oz.
Best ForAll hair types
4
Best for Dry and Damaged Hair

LEAF & FLOWER Phyto-Molecular Oil

Phyto-Molecular Oil
4
Best for Dry and Damaged Hair

LEAF & FLOWER Phyto-Molecular Oil

Credit: Leaf & Flower

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Great fragrance
  • Leaves hair soft and shiny

Cons

  • Not ideal for fine hair

This oil from Leaf & Flower is “a non-greasy formula that uses a proprietary blend of breakthrough, plant-based cannabinoid extracts to encourage internal and external restoration of hair strands,” says Olivia. The best part? It adds major shine without weighing hair down. It also has a sweet and warm (yet not overpowering) scent that users rave about. If you have fine hair, this one may be too heavy for your hair type.

WHAT EXPERTS SAY: "This oil does wonders for damaged hair," says Olivia.

Key ingredientsSqualane, plant seed oils
Size4 oz.
Best forMedium to thick hair
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BLEU Optical Illusion Smoothing Oil
Credit: R+Co

Pros

  • Doesn't weigh hair down
  • Adds shine
  • Keeps hair color vibrant

Cons

  • Strong, herbal scent

Talk about a triple threat. "This oil from R+Co is weightless, completely cuts the frizz, and hair has a glass shine finish," says Clariss Rubenstein Saraf, a celebrity hair stylist in Los Angeles, California. In addition to the brand's proprietary BLEU Molecule Complex, the oil contains sunflower seed oil to add shine and protect hair color and babassu oil to smooth down frizz and soften strands. Note: It has a strong herbal scent which may not appeal to all.

WHAT EXPERTS SAY: While it is a pricey pick, Saraf feel that the results are worth the cost.

Key ingredientsBLEU Molecule Complex, sunflower seed oil, babassu oil
Size2 oz.
Best forAll hair types, especially frizzy
6
Best for Extensions

UNITE Hair U Oil

U Oil
6
Best for Extensions

UNITE Hair U Oil

Credit: Unite

Pros

  • Super lightweight
  • Good for all hair types, including extensions
  • Reduces frizz

Cons

  • Bottle leaks

Those with extensions have to tread carefully when using hair styling products, as anything with silicone is a no-no. This light oil is safe for extensions and Saraf uses it on all hair types, including those with fine hair. Just be careful when storing or traveling with this oil; the bottle leaks easily.

WHAT EXPERTS SAY: "It does its job of reducing frizz and flyaways with no weight or residue," Saraf says. Plus, "they also make a purple one specifically for blondes."

Key ingredientsArgan oil
Size4 oz.
Best forAll hair types, including extensions
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7
Best for Fine Hair

Arrojo SHINE LUXE oil

SHINE LUXE oil
7
Best for Fine Hair

Arrojo SHINE LUXE oil

Now 11% Off
Credit: Arrojo

Pros

  • Boosts shine
  • Minimizes frizz and flyaways
  • Great scent

Cons

  • Small bottle

Danusia Wnek, a senior chemist at the GH Beauty Lab, is a big fan of Arrojo hair products in general, as she loves the scent. "I can best describe it as an elegant, clean floral but not too overpowering," she says. This hair oil really stands out due to its super light texture that doesn't weigh her hair down. FYI: It is a small bottle, so use sparingly.

WHAT EXPERTS SAY: "I don’t like a lot of product in my hair and I love that this is a multipurpose product that boosts shine, helps reduce my flyaways, and smooths my hair," Wnek says. "The best part is that it always feels weightless no matter if I use it on wet hair or on dry hair for a touch up."

Key ingredientsJojoba oil, hyaluronic acid, almond oil
Size1.7 oz.
Best forAll hair types, including fine
Scalp & Skin Care Moisturizing Oil Treatment

Pros

  • Leaves hair soft and shiny
  • Good for both hair and scalp
  • Great value

Cons

  • Some reviewers found it irritating

Curly hair generally needs a lot of nourishment. Thanks to a combo of marula and lavender oils, Design Essentials Oil Treatment nourishes both the scalp and hair strands. A few reviewers noted irritation so try a test patch first if you have a sensitive scalp.

WHAT EXPERTS SAY: "It also helps improve the elasticity that is key essential for curls and waves," says celebrity hairstylist Danielle Priano.

Key ingredientsLavender oil, marula oil
Size4 oz.
Best forWavy to coily hair
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Jojoba Oil
Credit: Kate Blanc

Pros

  • Hydrates without clogging pores
  • Good for hair and skin
  • Adds shine
  • Can help with dandruff

Cons

  • Some had issues with the dropper

Jojoba oil is known to be a true multitasker for both skin and hair, thanks to its its moisturizing and nourishing properties. It can also be super helpful for any dry scalp issues. This oil from Kate Blanc Cosmetics is 100% pure jojoba oil, with no other ingredients or additives.

WHAT EXPERTS SAY: "It's great for hydration and won't clog your pores, on your face or scalp," says Jenn Castillo, a hair stylist at Dryluxe Beauty Bar in Scarsdale, New York. "Plus, it can reduce dandruff and add shine to the hair without making it look greasy." Some have issues with the dropper releasing oil quickly so be careful when using as to not waste any product.

Key ingredientsJojoba oil
Size2 oz.
Best forDry scalps
10
Best Natural Hair Oil

SheaMoisture 100% Pure Argan Oil

100% Pure Argan Oil
10
Best Natural Hair Oil

SheaMoisture 100% Pure Argan Oil

Credit: Shea Moisture

Pros

  • Smoothes and adds shine
  • Good for hair and skin
  • Very moisturizing

Cons

  • Too heavy for fine hair

Argan oil is one of the OG hair and skincare oils that is still popular for good reason: "It contains fatty acids and vitamin E that adds moisture to hair," explains Olivia. In addition to being a great bang for your buck, this one can also be used on your face and body for instant nourishment. If you have fine hair, it may not be for you; a few reviewers noted that it was too heavy for limp strands.

WHAT EXPERTS SAY: “It's a pure and natural oil that helps smooth hair, reduce frizz, and add shine," says Olivia.

Key ingredientsArgan oil
Size1.6 oz.
Best forMedium to thick hair
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11
Best Natural Hair Oil for Curly Hair

Carol’s Daughter Born To Repair Reviving Hair Oil

On Sale
Born To Repair Reviving Hair Oil
11
Best Natural Hair Oil for Curly Hair

Carol’s Daughter Born To Repair Reviving Hair Oil

Now 21% Off

Pros

  • Super hydrating
  • Helps define curls

Cons

  • Not ideal for fine hair

Olivia loves this oil—which contains nourishing shea butter, Amazonian nut oil, and babassu oil—for naturally curly hair, as it adds instant shine and moisture. While it's ideal for curls, waves, and thicker hair types, it may be a little too heavy for those with finer strands.

WHAT EXPERTS SAY: "It’s a fine mist and is easy to apply as a spray," Olivia says. "Plus, it really helps define curls."

Key ingredientsShea butter, amazonian nut oil, babassu oil
Size4.2 oz.
Best forNaturally curly hair
12
Best Multitasking Hair Oil

Leonor Greyl Paris L'Huile Treatment Oil

L'Huile Treatment Oil
12
Best Multitasking Hair Oil

Leonor Greyl Paris L'Huile Treatment Oil

Credit: Leonor Greyl

Pros

  • Hydrates hair
  • Multi-use
  • Protects hair from water and sun damage

Cons

  • Can solidify over time

"One of the original hair oil treatments, this luxurious formula is made with nourishing plant oils like coconut, sesame, and sunflower," says Franzino. It’s known to leave hair soft and smooth after using. One thing to look out for: It can solidify over time.

WHAT EXPERTS SAY: Franzino loves that it is a true multitasker. "It can be used as a pre-shampoo deep conditioner or overnight hair mask, and applied before swimming or sun exposure to shield strands,” she notes.

Key ingredientsCoconut, sesame, and sunflower oils
Size3.2 oz.
Best forDry hair
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How we choose the best hair oils

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The Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab scientists test hundreds of the best hair products every year, from shampoos and conditioners to hair masks, leave-in conditioners, and styling products, including hair serums, mousses, hairsprays, dry shampoos, and more.

Our hair oil recommendations include formulas personally used and recommended by Beauty Lab experts and GH editors, along with picks recommended by professional hairstylists.

What to look for when shopping for the best hair oils

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Now that there are so many types of hair oils with different benefits, uses, and application methods, it's important to read the fine print and check with the pros as needed.

✔️ Focus on your hair type. "Do some research on the best hair oils for your hair type," advises Priano. "For example, coconut oil in the last few years had a huge moment, but it’s not recommended for use on everyone since it’s a heavier oil and takes intensive washing to completely get out of the hair."

✔️ Talk to a dermatologist if needed. “For hair loss or scalp concerns, it’s best to see a dermatologist who can diagnose the issue,” says GH Beauty Lab Reviews Analyst Chiara Butler. “Most scalp oils are cosmetics, not drugs, which means they’re not approved to treat issues like hair loss.”

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What are the benefits of using hair oil?

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“Hair oils can be used for many purposes including moisturizing, conditioning the hair and scalp, reducing frizz, and making hair glossy or shiny,” says Saraf.

Butler adds, “Some hair oils are used just on the ends of hair to style and condition them, while others can be used all over the hair as a hair treatment.”

What is the most effective hair oil?

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This really depends on what you’d like to achieve by applying a hair oil. “If you want to smooth and condition your ends, a hair oil with hair-sealing silicones will work great,” says Butler. “If you’re looking for a scalp oil or a pre-shower oil, a product containing plant oils is a great option.”

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Is it better to apply hair oil on wet or dry hair?

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There is no one right way to apply hair oil. "I almost always use oil on clean, damp hair," says Saraf. "It makes hair conditioned and more manageable, silky, and soft when it dries, and reduces frizz." But it can work on dry hair too, especially when it comes to taming flyaways, but only use a few drops for this purpose. However, "if you are using an oil as a treatment, put it on dry hair and use it generously," she says.

Butler adds, “Read the instructions on your product to see if it should be used on wet or dry hair. Some can be used either way.”

How often should you oil your hair?

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"I like to use oils more like a treat when I feel my hair or a client's hair needs some extra love," says Priano. "I’d advise not to use oils on a daily basis because it can definitely build up and clog the hair follicles if used in excess." Those with super curly or thick hair can typically use hair oils more often, up to a few times a week.

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Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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GH Contributing Beauty Editor Dori Price wrote the original article and has since updated it with newer product picks and details about hair oils. She interviewed stylists and the GH Beauty Lab and editors to compile this list of the best hair oils.

GH Beauty Lab Reviews Analyst Chiara Butler shared expert insights for this story including tested products and best usage.

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