What Are the Best Carrier Oils for Hair?

When it comes to hair care, most guys stick to the basics — shampoo, maybe conditioner. But if your hair feels dry, frizzy, or just isn’t looking its best, carrier oils might be the simple upgrade you need. 

These plant-based oils are packed with nutrients that moisturize, strengthen, and protect your hair without requiring an entire shelf of fancy products. 

Whether you want to boost shine, fight dandruff, or possibly even encourage hair growth, there’s a carrier oil that can get the job done. 

Keep reading to learn what carrier oils for hair are, how to use them, and some of the best ones depending on your needs.

A carrier oil is a plant-based oil (as in, not bacon grease) that “carries” essential oils or other nutrients to your hair and scalp. Think of it as the reliable sidekick; Batman has Robin, and your hair has carrier oils. 

Unlike essential oils straight-up, which can be too intense, carrier oils are mild, moisturizing, and packed with nutrients like fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. (You can add essential oils to carrier oils for hair if you like, though). 

Whether you're dealing with dryness, frizz, thinning hair, or just want a little extra shine, there's a carrier oil that’s got your back (or, in this case, your head).

So, you’ve got your carrier oil, and you're ready to transform your hair from dry and lifeless to healthy and thriving. 

But before you go dumping half the bottle on your head, let’s break down the right way to use these oils.

Step 1: Pick the Right Oil

Not all oils are created equal, and not all hair will respond to the same oil. If you’ve got fine hair, a heavy oil like castor might leave you looking like you haven’t showered in a week. 

If you’ve got thick, dry hair, a lightweight oil like grapeseed might not cut it. Choose wisely. (Don’t worry if you’re not sure where to start — we’ll guide you through the best oils a few sections down.)

Step 2: Use a Moderate Amount

There’s no standard measurement here, but less is more. A few drops go a long way — think dime-sized for short hair and maybe a teaspoon for longer hair. You can always add more if you need to, but you can’t really undo a heavy-handed application.

Step 3: Application Methods

Here’s a basic rundown of a few ways to use carrier oils for your hair: 

• Massage oil into your scalp and hair, leave it on for at least 30 minutes (or overnight if you’re feeling fancy), then wash it out. This is great for deep hydration and scalp health.

• Apply a tiny amount (emphasis on tiny) to damp hair, focusing on the ends to prevent dryness and frizz.

• If you’re going for that full, luscious mane, massage a few drops into your scalp a couple of times a week. 

Step 4: Rinse and Repeat (Literally)

If you’re using heavier oils like coconut or castor, don’t be surprised if you need to shampoo twice to get rid of excess oil. Otherwise, you’re going to look greasy straight out of the shower. 

Done right, carrier oils can take your hair from “meh” to “Why haven’t I been doing this sooner?” 

Oiling hair is generally a once-a-week situation, but some deviation from the rules may apply. For example, if you have very oily hair, once a week may be too much. 

If you have dry or curly hair that needs more moisture, you may want to try it a couple times a week, depending on results. And if you’re bald? Well, maybe just focus on beard oil.

Try it out, experiment with what works best for you, and give your hair the love it deserves.

There’s no shortage of oils available on the market, but how do you choose the right one for your needs? 

You don’t have to experiment with every oil on the shelf (though a little trial and error will probably help).Below are some of the best carrier oils for hair growth and health. 

1. Argan Oil: The “Liquid Gold” of Hair Care

If your hair had a VIP treatment, it would involve argan oil. 

This Moroccan treasure is packed with vitamin E, antioxidants, and fatty acids that work together to make your hair smoother, shinier, and way less frizzy. 

Basically, it offers everything you’ve ever wanted in a hair product minus the weird chemical ingredients you can’t pronounce. Plus, you can rub any leftovers on your face and skin. 

Here’s what argan oil can do for your hair: 

• Helps control sebum production that can make hair look greasy. 

• Tames frizz and flyaways while boosting elasticity. 

• Protects against heat and oxidative damage.

• Softens coarse or dry hair, making it more manageable.

As for how to use it, argan oil can have several applications: 

• Leave-in conditioner. Rub 2-3 drops between your hands and run through damp or dry hair, focusing on the ends.

• Styling aid. Smooth a drop or two over styled hair for a sleek, polished finish.

• Pre-shampoo treatment. Massage into your hair and scalp, let it sit for 30 minutes, then wash out.

If your hair feels rougher than sandpaper, argan oil might just be the upgrade it needs. It’s best for dry, frizzy, or coarse hair and men who use heat tools or spend a lot of time in the sun, but can be a nice hair health trick for anyone. 

Read more about argan oil for hair in our guide.

2. Grapeseed Oil: Lightweight and Powerful

Grapeseed oil might not get the same hype as argan or coconut oil, but don’t let that fool you — this lightweight powerhouse is packed with antioxidants, vitamin E, and omega fatty acids that are great for your hair and scalp. 

Unlike heavier oils, it absorbs quickly. Many men like grapeseed oil because it: 

• Strengthens hair and prevents breakage.

• Helps restore shine lost after shampooing. 

• Balances scalp oil production, making it great for guys with oily hair.

Here’s how to use grapeseed oil for hair: 

• Scalp massage. Warm a few drops between your hands and massage into your scalp to boost circulation and strengthen hair follicles.

• Leave-in conditioner. Apply a small amount to damp hair for a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer.

• Mix with other oils. Since it’s so light, grapeseed oil is great for diluting heavier oils like castor or coconut.

Scientifically speaking, we don’t have much to go off of for grapeseed oil on hair. 

However, an older study from 1988 found that compounds called proanthocyanidins (found in grape seeds) boosted hair follicle growth in mice cells. Intriguing, yes, but this animal study can’t be extrapolated to human hair application. 

If you want the benefits of a hair oil without the greasy aftermath, grapeseed oil is your go-to. It’s best for oily or fine hair that needs a little extra moisture with extra weight or men prone to itchy dandruff. 

3. Jojoba Oil: A Scalp’s BFF

Jojoba oil is like that one friend who just gets you — because, fun fact, it closely mimics the natural oils (sebum) your scalp already produces. It’s considered a top oil in the cosmetic industry. 

This makes it one of the best conditioning oils for keeping your hair and scalp balanced without overloading it. 

Whether you’re dealing with dryness or dandruff or just want healthier hair, jojoba oil works behind the scenes to keep everything in check.

Jojoba oil may help: 

• Moisturize and protect the scalp.

• Reduce dandruff and dryness.

• Tame frizz and smooth hair strands for a cleaner look.

• Support healthier hair by unclogging follicles.

Here are some ways you can incorporate jojoba oil into your haircare routine: 

• Scalp treatment. Massage a few drops into your scalp to regulate oil production and prevent flakiness.

• Pre-shampoo treatment. Work it into your scalp and hair, leave it on for 30 minutes, then wash it out for a hydration boost.

• Leave-in conditioner. Apply a couple of drops to damp hair to lock in moisture and control frizz.

Jojoba oil is a low maintenance, high-impact oil that helps keep things balanced, hydrated, and healthy without making a big deal about it. It’s a lightweight oil best for men with a dry or flaky scalp or who have oily hair and need to balance it out. 

4. Coconut Oil: The Heavyweight Champion of Hair Repair

Coconut oil isn’t just for cooking — it’s one of the best oils for deep hair nourishment, protection, and repair. Plus, it contains a compound called monolaurin, which has natural antibacterial properties that may help reduce dry scalp.

Unlike some lighter oils that sit on the surface, coconut oil penetrates deep into the hair shaft, strengthening from the inside out. 

It also forms a coating over the hair shaft, sealing the cuticle and keeping moisture inside. If your hair is feeling dry, damaged, or neglected, this is the oil to bring it back to life.

Pull out that jar of coconut oil from your kitchen pantry if you want some help with: 

• Preventing breakage by strengthening hair from within.

• Reducing protein loss, keeping hair stronger and more resilient.

• Protecting against UV rays and environmental damage.

• Fighting dandruff and scalp irritation with natural antifungal properties.

Using coconut oil is simple. Try these: 

• Deep conditioning mask. Apply generously to your hair and scalp, leave it on for at least 30 minutes, then wash it out thoroughly.

• Pre-shampoo treatment. Coat your hair with a light layer before showering to prevent moisture loss during washing.

• Frizz control. Rub a tiny amount between your palms and smooth over dry hair to tame flyaways.

Coconut oil is a go-to for when your hair needs serious hydration and repair. It’s a great DIY hair oil for men who have dry or damaged hair, curly hair in need of moisture, are prone to itchy dandruff, or who spend regular time in chlorine, salt water, or the sun. 

5. Castor Oil: The Thick Hair Growth Booster

If carrier oils had a bodybuilding contest, castor oil would be the heavyweight champion. While evidence is lacking, this thick, nutrient-dense oil is often talked about for its hair growth-boosting powers.

Packed with ricinoleic acid, castor oil helps nourish hair follicles and has antimicrobial properties to keep things clean up top.

Again, science has yet to verify these, but some anecdotal claims tout castor oil for its ability to:: 

• Promote hair growth by stimulating circulation to the scalp.

• Strengthen hair follicles, reducing breakage and shedding.

• Soothe dry, itchy scalps with its anti-inflammatory properties.

• Add thickness and volume to thinning hair over time.

Here are some ways castor oil can be used for your hair: 

• Scalp massage. Warm a few drops, mix with a lighter oil (like jojoba or grapeseed), and massage into the scalp.

• Deep conditioning treatment. Apply to hair and scalp, leave on for at least 30 minutes, then wash out thoroughly.

• Eyebrow and beard hair. While there’s no guarantee it works, castor oil has long been used in this way by dabbing a small amount onto thinning areas.

Castor oil is thick and not for the faint of heart — but if you’re serious about hair growth and scalp health, it may be worth a shot. Just remember to dilute it. 

6. Sweet Almond Oil: A Smooth Operator

If your hair could snack on something, it would probably choose sweet almond oil. 

This lightweight yet deeply nourishing oil is packed with vitamin E, magnesium, and fatty acids, all of which may help strengthen hair, add shine, and protect against damage. 

It’s a great all-arounder — moisturizing without being heavy, smoothing without looking greasy, and strengthening without requiring much effort.

Sweet almond oil can be a great choice for guys looking to: 

• Strengthen and soften hair strands, potentially reducing breakage and split ends.

• Boost elasticity and shine without making hair look oily.

• Protect against sun damage.

• Soothe an itchy scalp and help with mild dandruff.

How do you use sweet almond oil for hair? Here are some simple approaches: 

• Daily frizz control. Rub a few drops between your hands and smooth over dry hair.

• Leave-in conditioner. Apply to damp hair to lock in moisture and boost shine.

• Scalp massage. Work into the scalp 1-2 times a week to nourish follicles and prevent dryness.

Sweet almond oil may be strengthening, nourishing, and protecting while keeping things smooth and effortless. It’s a low-maintenance solution for guys who want healthier hair without the fuss — plus, it smells good.

7. Avocado Oil: The Deep Hydrator

If your hair is constantly dry, frizzy, or uncooperative, avocado oil might be the fix you didn’t know you needed. 

This rich, deeply penetrating oil is packed with vitamins and unsaturated fats that theoretically help moisturize, strengthen, and protect your hair from damage. 

It’s also known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that, interestingly, have been shown to protect hair cells in the ears. 

Avocado oil may be used to: 

• Moisturize dry hair and scalp, preventing flakiness.

• Strengthen hair strands to reduce breakage and split ends.

• Boost blood flow to the scalp, potentially encouraging hair growth.

• Protect hair follicles from damage at the base.

Here’s how to use it: 

• Deep conditioning treatment. Massage into hair and scalp, leave on for 30 minutes (or overnight), then wash out.

• Daily moisture boost. Apply a small amount to damp hair to lock in hydration.

• Scalp treatment. Massage a few drops in once or twice a week to reduce dryness and irritation.

Avocado oil may be a game-changer for guys who deal with dryness. If your hair feels like a brittle mess, or you’re a guy with coarse or curly hair begging for more moisture, this could be the oil to bring it back to life.

However, don’t use it if you have an avocado allergy — which can be more likely among people who also have a latex allergy.

Read more about avocado oil for hair loss in this guide.

Adding a carrier oil to your hair care routine is one of the easiest ways to boost moisture, strengthen strands, and improve scalp health — all without a complicated regimen. 

Whether your goal is shinier hair, less breakage, or even hair growth, there’s an oil that fits your needs. Here are some things to keep in mind when considering a carrier oil for hair: 

• Choose the right oil for your hair type. Consider lighter oils like grapeseed for oily hair, and richer oils like castor or coconut for dry or damaged hair.

• Less is more. A few drops go a long way, so don’t overdo it unless you want to look like you styled your hair with butter.

• Consistency is key. Using your chosen oil 1-2 times a week on a consistent basis is more likely to lead to noticeable improvements over time.

If your hair and scalp could talk, they’d probably be begging for a little extra care — so why not give them what they need? Consider the options above and see how they feel. 

For more guidance on hair and scalp health check out our men’s hair care resources. 

You can also take our free hair quiz to be connected to a licensed healthcare provider for questions about things like male pattern baldness or dry scalp.