The Best Hair Growth Oils, According to a Doctor

During my first pregnancy over 20 years ago, my hair was so luscious and thick it was as if my mane was growing in tandem with my belly. But three months post-partum and it all went awry. I started shedding more than my cat, balding around my hairline above my right brow, and my once-plump ponytail had turned limp and lifeless. Fast forward through two more pregnancies and that stubborn spot is still sparse and my ponytail has yet to regain its former glory. Treatments, potions, and supplements abound to help counteract thinning hair — but the prices and the time it takes to see results can be daunting. I’ve recently discovered the magic of hair growth oils. Many are science-backed, approved by dermatologists, and require little more than dabbing onto then lightly massaging the scalp. Here, some of the best options for a fuller head of hair.

_{Prices are accurate as of March 18, 2025. Subject to change.}

PURA D’OR Organic Rosemary Essential Oil

If you’re trying to regrow hair, start with rosemary oil. “In my experience, the best oil for hair growth — based on clinical research and what I’ve seen in patients — is rosemary oil,” explains Ross Kopelman, DO, hair transplant surgeon at Kopelman Hair Restoration in Boca Raton, Florida. “There’s solid evidence that it can be as effective as minoxidil in stimulating hair regrowth, likely due to its ability to improve blood circulation to the scalp and reduce inflammation around hair follicles.” Though he prefers combining essential oils and FDA-approved treatments like minoxidil for an even more comprehensive approach to hair regrowth, he often recommends rosemary oil as a natural option. For best results, mix a few drops into a carrier oil like coconut, castor, or jojoba oil to help absorption and reduce the risk of irritation. 

Nature Spell Rosemary Oil

This TikTok-famous oil is a pre-diluted blend that combines rosemary with almond and sunflower oils to support healthy hair growth, strengthen roots, and add shine. It can also work to fortify hair from the roots, fight dandruff, and help delay the onset of gray hair.

Now Foods Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint oil is also backed by research. Animal studies suggest it can promote hair growth by increasing blood flow and stimulating the hair follicle, says Dr. Kopelman, who has patients who swear by it. Like rosemary oil, it should be mixed with a carrier oil.

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil

What’s better than using one oil known to grow hair back? Combining it with another oil that has the same benefits, making it a solid choice for natural scalp stimulation. Dr. Kopelman says he’s seen great results with patients who have tried this rosemary peppermint oil combo.

Sky Organics Organic Castor Oil

Castor oil has a long list of supposed benefits, and one is the ability to grow thick, strong, and healthy hair (and eyelashes!). Loaded with multiple omega fatty acids, including ricinoleic fatty acid which has anti-inflammatory properties, this 100% pure, cold-pressed, organic oil naturally nourishes and conditions the scalp, roots, and strands. “The evidence for actual hair regrowth is more anecdotal than scientific, but I do think it helps with scalp hydration and overall hair health,” says Dr. Kopleman.

Aura Cacia Sandalwood Essential Oil in Jojoba Oil

One recent study found that scent receptors in the scalp might respond to sandalwood oil in a way that encourages hair growth. The researchers found a 25 to 30 percent increase in the secretion of a growth hormone in the scalp. This sandalwood oil comes mixed with jojoba oil, a carrier oil known to soothe the scalp, repair hair breakage (which makes hair look fuller), and control dandruff. If nothing else, the calming, moisturizing effect of the mix on the scalp creates an ideal environment for hair growth.

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