Ahead, find the scalp oils dermatologists, hairstylists, and a facial plastic surgeon recommend for various needs, from dandruff to flaking and thinning hair. Happy oiling!
Best Scalp Oil Overall: Leonor Greyl Paris L’Huile de Leonor Greyl
Why we love it: Leonor Greyl Paris L’Huile de Leonor Greyl is a go-to for Ted Gibson, a hairstylist based in Los Angeles, CA. “I love using this one because it isn’t too heavy,” he says. “It always gives optimum conditioning without weighing the hair down.” The pre-shampoo treatment nourishes dry, over-processed hair with natural, antioxidant-packed ingredients. Infused with jojoba, coconut, sunflower seed, and sesame seed oils, the product hydrates and conditions the hair; it also has strengthening vitamins and omega-6 fatty acids. To use it, run it through dry hair from the mid-lengths to the ends, rinse it out, and go merrily about your day.
Editor’s tip: If the oil solidifies, run the bottle under warm water—it will quickly liquify.
Key ingredients: organic jojoba oil, organic coconut oil, organic sunflower seed oil | Who it’s for: those with dry, over-processed hair
Best for Flakes: SheaMoisture Wig & Weave Scalp Soother
Why we love it: True to its name, SheaMoisture Wig & Weave Scalp Soother reparative treatment contains raw shea butter, a hero for reducing frizz and flooding the hair and scalp with moisturizing fatty acids. Another key ingredient is tea tree oil, an antiseptic that can soothe inflammation in the scalp, dissolve buildup, and even inhibit the growth of dandruff-causing yeast. “I recommend this product for clients with serious scalp issues, like flaking and dandruff,” Gibson says. The color-safe product can also relieve scalp discomfort caused by protective styles—and it’s easy to use. Just apply one to two drops to the scalp, leave it in, and reapply as necessary.
Editor’s tip: While tea tree oil can be irritating if used alone, SheaMoisture’s formulation mixes it with borage oil, which hydrates and soothes the scalp.
Key ingredients: tea tree oil, borage seed oil, aloe vera | Who it’s for: those with dry, flaky, or dandruff-prone scalps or synthetic hair
Best for Curls: Pattern Beauty Jojoba Oil Blend
Why we love it: The Pattern Beauty Jojoba Oil Blend is infused with nourishing ingredients to provide intensive moisture without the usual heaviness. (Cue angels singing.) “This is a very lightweight option with jojoba oil, safflower oil, olive oil, and rosehip oil,” says Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Chicago, IL. “It focuses on moisturizing the scalp so that curls grows out healthier, less brittle, and less prone to breakage. When the scalp is dry and irritated, it can lead to weakened follicles.”
