Best for shine + frizz (lightweight)
- Ideal for mid-lengths to ends
- Use 1–2 drops, warm in hands first
- Great “finish” after blow-dry
Tip: avoid the scalp if your hair gets oily quickly.
Independent, blog-style reviews • UK focus
Best Hair Oils in the UK (2025)
A practical guide to choosing a hair oil that actually matches your hair goal — shine, frizz control, dry ends or scalp care. No fluff. Clear ingredient notes. Simple routines.
Quick start (30 seconds)
Pick your goal and jump straight to the routine that fits.
✨
Shine & frizz
Lightweight oil on mid-lengths → ends.
Lightweight oil on mid-lengths → ends.
💧
Dry / damaged ends
Richer oil at night + minimal heat.
Richer oil at night + minimal heat.
🌿
Scalp care
Diluted scalp oil + gentle massage.
Diluted scalp oil + gentle massage.
Note: Some links may be affiliate links. See disclosure.
Table of contents
Jump to the part you care about.
Top picks (quick overview)
Want the full list with filters? Go to Best oils.
Best for dry / damaged ends (richer finish)
- Best for thick hair, bleach damage, split ends
- Apply at night → braid → wash in the morning
- Pair with a gentle shampoo
Tip: oils don’t “repair” bonds, but they reduce breakage by smoothing + protecting.
Best for scalp care (gentle massage)
- Use small amounts + wash out properly
- Patch test essential oils
- Focus on consistency (2–3x/week)
Tip: if you get irritation, stop and simplify.
Ingredients that usually work (and why)
Not medical advice. Always patch test if you’re sensitive.
Argan & squalane
Great for shine and softness with a light feel. Good “daily driver” oils for many hair types.
Jojoba & grapeseed
Often suits fine hair (less heavy). Helps smooth frizz without making hair look greasy.
Castor & coconut
Heavier. Best for thick hair and pre-wash routines. Can feel too much for oily scalps.
3 mistakes that make hair oil “not work”
Most people use too much or put it in the wrong place.
1) Using more than you need
Start with 1 drop for fine hair, 2–3 drops for thick hair. Add later if needed.
2) Putting oil on the scalp (when you wanted shine)
For shine, apply to mid-lengths → ends. Scalp oiling is a different routine.
3) Never clarifying your goal
“Hair oil” is a category. A lightweight shine oil can be amazing — and still be wrong for a scalp routine.
How we review & rank
Transparent criteria so you know why something is recommended.
We prioritise: ingredient clarity, realistic use, finish/texture, and value. We avoid hype.
- Ingredient quality (35%) — clear, sensible formulas; fewer “filler” ingredients.
- Real-world use (30%) — easy to apply, predictable results, doesn’t weigh hair down.
- Value for money (20%) — performance relative to price and size.
- Texture & finish (15%) — lightweight vs rich; suitable for different hair types.
Some outbound links may be affiliate links. That does not change the ranking. Read affiliate disclosure.
FAQ
Quick answers to common questions.
Do hair oils help hair growth?
Hair oils can support a healthy scalp routine, reduce breakage, and improve the look/feel. Results vary widely.
How often should I use hair oil?
Shine oils can be used in tiny amounts more often. Scalp oiling is usually 2–3x/week with wash-out routines.
Can I use hair oil on wet hair?
Yes — especially as a finishing oil or to help with detangling. Use less than you think.