Hair oils are one of the most overlooked products in hair care, but they are worth incorporating into your hair care routine. They help nourish and protect your hair against factors that can cause drying or brittleness, such as harsh weather, pollution, and direct sunlight. The right kind of hair oil is an easy and convenient fix for frizz and flyaways as well, and you can quickly look like you just stepped out of the salon.
To guide you in choosing the best hair oil for you, we have outlined a buying guide with some comments and tips from dermatologist Dr. Katrina Erika Habaluyas Luz. We've also laid out our top 10 recommended hair oils available in the market today. Read on to know more!
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 01-16-2023).
Table of Contents
Using hair oil not only hydrates and moisturizes your hair but can also help detangle wet hair, seal the hair cuticle down - and even be used as a heat protectant. This is because it contains fatty acids that replace the lipids in your hair when it gets really fine.
It's meant to replicate and supplement the natural oils that your body already makes. It's usually applied to the bottom part of the hair, around 2-3 inches below your scalp onwards. They smell really good, too, and are easily controlled in terms of the amount you decide to put in your hair.
Studies have shown that applying hair oil is important in protecting the hair from damage (e.g., combing damage). Some oils can penetrate the hair and reduce the amount of water absorbed in the hair, leading to a lowering of swelling. This can reduce the cycle of repeated swelling and drying, a factor that can damage hair.
Hair oils can fill the gap between the cuticle cells and prevent the penetration of aggressive substances such as surfactants into the follicle. Also, applying oil on a regular basis can enhance lubrication of the shaft and help prevent hair breakage.
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
There are 2 common types of oils used to make hair oils: botanical and mineral. In this section, we will discuss their differences and benefits for you to know which to choose depending on your needs.
They each have numerous benefits for the hair, such as vitamin E, moisturizing properties, and protecting hair against damage, hair loss, and breakage. They're also able to smoothen and soften the hair, giving you sleek and shiny hair all day long.
Botanical oils such as coconut oil or sunflower oil are commonly used as hair oils. Sunflower oil is pretty popular given its non-freezing property and its odorlessness at ambient temperature. Coconut oil is another effective choice given its high affinity for hair proteins.
Did you know that the hair's main component is protein? Daily hair-related processes such as washing, styling, dyeing, and highlighting can damage protein and in turn damage the hair. Because of its low molecular weight, coconut oil can penetrate the hair shaft. The application of coconut oil was found to reduce the protein loss of hair when used as a pre-wash and post-wash product.
Mineral oil is an odorless and colorless liquid, created as a by-product of making gasoline. It's usually used in skincare and hair care products as a moisturizing ingredient. Aside from its nourishing abilities, it's able to reduce hair damage as well by acting as a lubricant to reduce tangles and breakage.
It's also hydrophobic which means that it repels water. This is good because the less water your hair absorbs, the less it swells; repeated swelling and drying can cause damage to your hair. This is possible since mineral oil creates a barrier on the surface of your hair that water can't penetrate.
Mineral oil's main effects are its higher spreading capability on the hair surface. This equates to providing ease in combing, and fewer split ends. According to Nazir et al., mineral oil may have a film effect and adsorb to the surface of the cuticle, enhancing shine.
The texture or overall feel of a hair oil best suited for you depends on your hair volume and type. Whether your hair is thick or thin and curly or straight, there is a corresponding texture beneficial for your hair type.
Those with thick and curly hair should opt for hair oils with a sticky texture to be able to tone down the frizz that is associated with thick and curly hair, especially in humid weather. It will also be good for styling curls while giving them a little bit of shine without making them look greasy.
Those with curly hair may benefit from hair oil. Why? The small angle of the waves of curly hair makes it more prone to breakage. In general, curly hair is more challenging to comb. Applying a hair oil can minimize the rubbing and friction of the cuticle cells, thus, reducing hair damage.
Usually, people with thin and flat hair may opt to have their hair styled or blow-dried. Remember, these activities can damage protein and consequently damage the hair. Applying hair oil can reduce the protein loss of hair when used as a pre-wash and post-wash product.
In hair oils, packaging makes an impact because of the way it allows you to apply it. Check out the usual packaging hair oils come in below and choose the one most convenient for you and your routine.
Most hair oils use a liquid dispenser pump as packaging not only because it's able to contain a lot of product but also because it dispenses just the right amount that you need for your hair. It's easy to control and store too, which is why it's commonly used.
If you're someone who plans to use a hair oil every day or multiple times a week, we recommend you to get one with this packaging. If you want to be able to massage the product in your hair with your hands, this is also the best option for you.
In terms of packaging for hair oils, I think this is more of a personal preference. A liquid dispenser can be useful since when you apply the oil to the hair, you can use the excess to massage onto the rest of your hands. Dual-purpose!
Some hair oils are also packaged in spray bottles for an easier, more direct application. You can spray it directly on your hair without touching the product. This is also a more portable option for those who like to travel or for those who move back and forth from a dorm or condo to their homes.
This type of packaging is also recommended for those who have sensitive skin or for those who simply don't want to get any oil on their hands. It is definitely convenient and good for saving time for those always on the go or those who have to get up early for work.
As for the spray bottle, definitely, this would be a good choice if you're always on the go. Not to mention, if you're the type who wouldn't want that oily feeling lingering on your hands!
Even though a hair oil is different from a hair perfume, they still contain fragrance to be able to give you soft, shiny hair that feels and smells good. Most hair oils have floral scents or contain essential oils to ensure that your hair smells its best all day long.
Hair oils with fragrances are recommended for those who are always out and about and for those who can't or don't want to wear perfumes every single day. It's a good way to not only make your hair shine but also to make an impact when passing by.
When it comes to hair care products, it's almost impossible to come by a fragrance-free alternative. The choice of a fragrance purely depends on personal preference. But for people who want a fragrance-free alternative, sunflower oil is a good option.
From ₱1,698
From ₱2,500
Aveda is known for creating top-of-the-line hair products, and this hair oil is a shining example of that. Its formulation is 100% natural and is composed of a blend of 5 powerful oils-sunflower, avocado, jojoba, coconut, and argan oils. With a nourishing combination like that, there's no doubt you'll get gorgeous, healthy hair!
What's great about this hair oil is its versatility. It can be used in multiple ways. You can choose to use it as a pre-shampoo treatment, a leave-in treatment, or as an overnight oil treatment. It's also good for adding shine after you style your hair.
If that wasn't enough, you can also use this for a hydrating scalp massage. It's also free of potential irritants like silicones, sulfates, parabens, and gluten, to name a few. It might be a bit pricier than the other products on this list, but the ultimate hydration and customizable use you get makes it all worth it!
From ₱280
This Perfect Hair Serum from Mise en Scene lives up to its name with a mix of 7 selected extracts (argan, marula, olive, apricot, coconut, camellia, and jojoba oil) for optimal hair nourishment. It improves hair elasticity, moisture, and strength while addressing roughness, split ends, and tangling.
Formulated to repair dry and damaged hair, this one provides a protective barrier that strengthens the hair strand and prevents further damage. It also seals in moisture and improves elasticity, making it a great choice for those with brittle hair as well.
From ₱2,100
Are you looking to breathe life into your damaged and lifeless tresses? Look no further than this treatment oil from Percy & Reed. True to its name, it is indeed a wonder—lightweight yet intense and powerful. With a patented triple seed oil complex made up of sunflower, camellia oleifera, and macadamia oils, this one aims to restore shine and softness minus the greasy feeling.
Aside from boosting hydration, it strengthens hair strands and enhances elasticity from root to tip. This vegan hair oil is also suitable for all hair types and safe for those with sensitive skin. You can use it as a pre-shampoo treatment or as a leave-in treatment.
From ₱199
This is perfect for bringing on the beach or swimming trips as you can also use it to detangle your hair after swimming. It's also great for those with colored hair as it creates a shield that fade-proofs color while enhancing its vibrancy and shine.
From ₱451
Those with chemically treated or dry and damaged hair will enjoy its hydrating properties. User reviews love this product for its light feel, no matter how much you spray. It's also recommended for those who don't want to get any oil on their hands, as you can easily spray it directly on your hair.
From ₱1,730
This Ouai Hair Oil is multitasking, being able to smooth frizz and seal split ends for a shiny and silky finish. Formulated with African galanga root extract and nutrient-rich ama, borage, and baobab oils, it prevents hair color from fading and protects the hair against damage.
This hair oil can also be used as an overnight hair mask. It is highly recommended for those with frizzy hair and for those who have colored hair. It's great for bringing along to the beach or travels as well, as it protects hair from the harmful UV rays of the sun.
From ₱595
This hair oil from The Body Shop features a blend of Community Trade organic virgin coconut oil and soya oil from Brazil. It's 100% vegan and natural with a delicious coconut scent. It can be used before showering (massaged into the hair 5 minutes before bathing), as an overnight treatment, or applied onto clean, dry hair to nourish dry ends.
It's good for all hair types and is a great option for those who are vegan and looking for something with a sweet fragrance. It contains a lot of product as well, which is great for those who are looking to use this every day or night or multiple times a week.
From ₱189
The rich blend of oils works to deliver vitamins and antioxidants that protect hair from stressors like styling and pollution. Unlike silicone, which coats hair with shine but blocks the absorption of nutrients, the ingredients in this product are quickly and deeply absorbed into each strand. Users love how it restores hair health and brings back the softness and shine of their hair.
From ₱370
You can also apply it to your face and body as a moisturizer since it has anti-aging properties and can help address acne. Given these multiple uses at such an affordable price tag, it's truly a product that punches above its price!
Below, Dr. Katrina answers some of the web's most asked questions, so before you hit that check out button, have a read to make sure you make informed decisions!
Hair oil is not meant to be used every day. In fact, it's best to adjust based on your hair needs. Most of the time, once to twice a week is enough.
You can actually apply oils on either wet or dry hair. But it's good to identify which oils work best for those particular conditions. Applying oil on wet hair allows it to hydrate and moisturize those strands. Not to mention, it can aid in detangling your hair too!
You can, but make sure to use a wide-tooth comb and brush by sections to avoid any unnecessary tugging or cause the hair to tangle in the process.
Nowadays, it is now easier to style your hair without going to the salon. All you need are the right products! To get a new look in the comfort of your own home, check out our articles below for the best products for your hair styling needs.
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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