Hair oils have surged in popularity, praised by influencers and celebrities alike for their ability to smooth, protect, and promote healthy-looking hair. There is a variety of ways to use them — on the scalp or strands, wet or dry hair, and before or after styling. With many options available, selecting the right product depends on your specific hair goals.
Having tried 11 different hair oils, ranging from £9.99 to £65, I’ve identified the best options available. Whether you need a rich, nourishing oil for repairing damaged hair or a lightweight mist for adding a touch of shine, this collection will have something suited to your needs.
Summary of Top Contenders
- Best Overall Hair Oil: Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil, 50ml (£37 at Cult Beauty)
- Top Budget Choice: Hask Repair Series Hair Oil Mist, 120ml (£9.99 at Superdrug)
- Best for Damaged Hair: K18 Molecular Repair Hair Oil, 30ml (£65 at Cult Beauty)
- Best Lightweight Option: Goldwell Smooth Weightless Shine Oil, 100ml (£17 at Lookfantastic)
- Best for Smoothing: Arkive The Good Habit Hybrid Oil, 50ml (£14.68 at Amazon)
Understanding My Perspective
As a beauty journalist with a professional background in cosmetic science, I’ve spent years refining my understanding of hair care. With my long, uncut hair as the testing ground, I evaluated oils for their ability to rejuvenate tired ends. Each product’s performance was assessed based on how they hydrated and enhanced the hair’s appearance, taking consistency, scent, and price into account.
The Testing Process Explained
While testing these oils, I noticed the effects on hydration, consistency, and any greasiness they left behind. I also evaluated the scent’s longevity if present. Key ingredients were reviewed to ensure they contained nutrients vital for protecting hair from environmental damage. Additionally, price was a key factor in the evaluation, given the variations in affordability among the products.
Our Top Picks for 2026
Best Overall Hair Oil: Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil
Gisou’s honey-infused oil, at £37 for 50ml, stands out for its thick texture that deeply nourishes dry ends. The formula includes Mirsalehi honey, coconut oil, and sweet almond oil, providing a glossy shine while strengthening the hair. Although its thicker consistency might not suit every hair type, it excels in combating dryness.
Best Budget Hair Oil: Hask Repair Series Hair Oil Mist
This lightweight mist offers excellent value at £9.99 for 120ml, providing hydration and shine without weighing hair down. It includes argan oil and Hask’s RepairPro for purported damage repair. While effective, the silicones present may cause buildup if not washed properly.
Ideal for Damaged Hair: K18 Molecular Repair Hair Oil
K18’s oil features patented peptides to reinforce hair strength and elasticity, coupled with squalane and plant oils. Priced at £65 for 30ml, the oil offers extraordinary restorative properties for bleach-damaged hair, though better value may be found elsewhere for less damaged types.
Best for Lightweight Use: Goldwell Smooth Weightless Shine Oil
Perfect for fine hair, at £17 for 100ml, this thin oil provides shine without the heaviness. Sea spaghetti extract contributes to its moisturising effect, although the silicone may lead to buildup without regular cleaning.
Top Smoothing Oil: Arkive The Good Habit Hybrid Oil
Arkive’s oil, priced at £14.68 for 50ml, blends baobab and jojoba oils to effectively manage frizz and offer a gorgeous scent. Although silicones aid in smoothing, potential buildup remains a consideration.
What You Need to Know
Hair Oil: Usage and Benefits
According to trichologist Hannah Gaboardi, hair oils hydrate the hair shaft by penetrating cuticles and delivering essential vitamins and fatty acids, aiding in combating dryness and adding shine. Applied to the scalp, they can enhance circulation, benefiting follicle health, yet they need thorough cleansing post-use to avoid clogging.
Impact on Hair Growth
While hair oils cannot directly accelerate growth, they contribute to scalp health, a crucial factor among myriad influences such as age and hormones.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.