Dermatologists Break Down The Most 'Powerful Hair Oils' To Combat Loss And Thinning This Summer

Confronting thinning hair and excessive shedding can be overwhelming, but hair oils and scalp serums are invaluable aids. While many are familiar with oils and serums that control frizz and add smoothness, they often overlook oils that benefit the scalp.

The right oil can promote hair follicle growth, nourish roots, and strengthen hair. With many options available, we consulted dermatologists, doctors, and haircare experts to highlight the benefits of oils like castor and rosemary. These oils are particularly advantageous for women with fine hair seeking fuller, healthier locks.

Read on for suggestions and insight from Dr. Yoram Harth , MD, board-certified dermatologist and Medical Director of MDhair, Dr. Mitchel P. Goldman , MD, Ph.D., board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic dermatology expert and Ghanima Abdullah , hair expert and cosmetologist at The Right Hairstyles.

4 Dermatologist-Recommended Hair Oils & Scalp Serums For More Nourished Tresses This Summer

1. MDhair Regrowth Serum ($44)

According to Harth, this serum, infused with potent DHT blockers, revitalizes both your scalp and hair. Specifically designed to enhance scalp wellness and invigorate hair follicles, this regrowth treatment transitions them from a dormant state to active growth. Packed with over 20 botanical ingredients, it promotes cellular renewal and naturally encourages fuller, stronger hair.

Key components include rosemary leaf oil , horsetail extract, saw palmetto berry extract, argan oil, tea tree oil, and more. "For beginners [to hair oiling], I recommend using a combination of plant-based scalp treatment serums like MDhair regrowth serum and another type of oil to apply often to the hair strands," Harth says.

2. MDhair Peptide Hair Repair Oil ($18)

This bond repair oil is a game-changer for those battling dry, frizzy locks ravaged by coloring, perming, or harsh chemical treatments. Harth notes that it is a lightweight, silicone-free formula that glides on effortlessly and works wonders for all hair types. Enriched with active oligopeptides, nourishing argan and avocado oils, and potent antioxidants, this elixir shields your hair from heat damage, amplifies shine and strength, and tames frizz, flyaways, and split ends.

"There are two types of hair oils. One, which is applied to the scalp skin and intended to help with scalp health and hair regrowth, is called a scalp treatment serum," Harth explains. "The other type of hair oil is applied to the hair strands and is intended to help strengthen the strands and reduce breakage and split ends," he adds.

3. Mielle Rosemary Mint Blend Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil ($9.99

Mielle's rosemary oil has garnered immense popularity on Amazon, boasting nearly 80,000 reviews. Enriched with biotin, this oil is conveniently packaged with a dropper for effortless application. According to Abdullah, rosemary oil "works against the hair loss hormone DHT," and "the hairline and crown are common areas of thinning for women with hair loss that's related to age."

She advises "adding a few drops of rosemary oil to a 4 ounce bottle of lotion." Lotion works just as well (if not better) than oil for some women with thicker textures because it "absorbs quicker into the skin," she explains.

Abdullah recommends "using this solution twice daily." She stresses not "expecting to see results overnight," as it often takes "at least six months" to see hair regrowth at the crown. "If you're not sure what type of hair loss you have, use more than one essential oil [on its own or in] your lotion," she recommends.

4. Fable & Mane Hair Oil ($38)

Ideal for all hair types, this Indian pre-wash hair oil boasts a blend of ashwagandha and dashmool oils to invigorate the scalp and stimulate healthy hair growth. Additionally, it features castor oil, a renowned natural remedy praised by experts like Goldman for its hair-enhancing properties.

“Castor oil is a popular natural remedy for hair growth,” Goldman explains. “It contains ricinoleic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help to improve scalp health and promote hair growth. Additionally, castor oil is high in omega-9 fatty acids essential for healthy hair and skin.” Goldman emphasizes the importance of conducting thorough research before selecting a bottle of castor oil. “When it comes to using castor oil, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to choose a high-quality castor oil that is free of additives or impurities,” he says.

“Secondly, use it sparingly — a little bit goes a long way. You can apply a small amount of castor oil to your scalp and massage it, leaving it on for 30 minutes to several hours before washing it.”

The more you know!