Black Hair Care: Natural Oils For Healthy Growth (2025)

Natural oils are an essential part of any hair care routine for people with afro hair. Oils can be used to lock in moisture, protect hair follicles and maintain a healthy scalp. There are two main types of hair oils: sealing oils and moisturising oils. Sealing oils, such as castor oil, jojoba oil and grapeseed oil, coat hair strands to lock in moisture and maintain styles. Moisturising oils, such as argan oil, coconut oil and olive oil, can be applied directly to the scalp and hair and are able to penetrate the hair shaft to provide moisture from within.

Oils used by Black people on their hair

Natural oils vs synthetic oils

Natural oils are extracted from plants and are known for their purity and organic composition. These oils, like coconut, argan, and olive oil, are celebrated for their nourishing properties. They are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, which are essential for hair health. Natural oils not only moisturize the hair but also strengthen the hair follicles and promote hair growth.

Synthetic hair oils, on the other hand, are engineered in laboratories. These oils are designed to mimic the properties of natural oils, often enhanced with vitamins and minerals. They can be more consistent in texture and fragrance, offering uniform application. Synthetic oils are sometimes preferred for their ability to provide specific results, like smoothing frizz or adding shine. They are also more affordable than natural oils due to their widespread availability and lower production costs.

The choice between natural and synthetic oils depends on individual needs and preferences. Natural oils are often chosen for their purity, gentle nature, and holistic approach to nourishment. They are ideal for those with sensitive skin or specific scalp conditions. Synthetic oils, however, offer a more targeted approach, addressing common hair concerns like hair porosity and scalp health.

It's worth noting that the effectiveness of natural oils can vary depending on their source and processing methods. While natural oils are generally considered superior for their organic benefits, synthetic oils have traditionally been more popular in the black hair community.

In conclusion, both natural and synthetic oils have their advantages. Natural oils offer a pure and gentle approach to hair care, promoting overall hair health. Synthetic oils, while less pure, provide targeted solutions to specific hair concerns and are more affordable. The key is to understand your hair's needs and choose the type of oil that aligns with your personal hair care goals.

Sealing oils vs moisturising oils

Natural oils are considered a healthy option for black hair, as they provide moisture, aid hair growth, and protect hair from the elements. Textured hair is naturally drier, so using an oil coats the hair and results in a much smoother cuticle.

Sealing Oils

Sealing oils are used to seal in moisture and are often used in the LOC or LCO methods (liquid, oil, cream). The Afrocenchix Seal oil contains castor, coconut, and jojoba oil, which emulate the natural sebum produced by the scalp. It can be used on damp hair after conditioning or moisturising, starting from the roots and working down to the ends.

Moisturising Oils

Moisturising oils are used to hydrate and nourish the hair. Some popular options include coconut oil, which is rich and hydrating, and castor oil, which strengthens hair. Olive oil is also used for its shine-enhancing properties. Other natural oils that can be used to moisturise include avocado oil, argan oil, grapeseed oil, and carrot oil.

Moisturising oils can be used on dry or damp hair to reduce frizz and enhance shine. For example, the Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil has a lightweight texture that adds moisture and shine while smoothing the appearance of split ends. It also offers heat protection.

In summary, sealing oils are used to lock in moisture, while moisturising oils are used to hydrate and nourish the hair. Both are important for maintaining healthy, shiny hair and protecting it from damage.

Hot oil treatments

There are a variety of natural oils that can be used for hot oil treatments, each with its own unique benefits. For example, castor oil is known for its ability to stimulate hair growth and soothe itchy scalps, while coconut oil provides rich hydration, and olive oil adds a lustrous shine. Other natural oils that can be used include avocado oil, argan oil, hemp seed oil, and carrot oil, which is packed with vitamins A and E to promote hair growth and repair split ends.

When considering a hot oil treatment, it is important to keep in mind that the effectiveness of the treatment depends on both the technique used and the specific oil chosen. For example, some people prefer to shampoo their hair before applying the hot oil treatment, as they believe it helps the oil penetrate cleaner hair more effectively. However, others find that shampooing after the treatment ensures that any oil residue is removed, allowing other moisturizing products to be more easily absorbed by the hair.

Additionally, it is important to note that while hot oil treatments can be beneficial, using too much oil can contribute to increased dryness. Therefore, it is recommended to use hot oil treatments in moderation and to clarify and rinse the hair and scalp afterward to remove any excess oil.

Scalp oils

There are two types of hair oils: sealing oils and moisturising oils. Sealing oils, such as black castor oil, jojoba oil, and grapeseed oil, coat the hair strands to lock in moisture and maintain styles. Moisturising oils, such as argan oil, coconut oil, and olive oil, can penetrate the hair shaft and provide moisture from within. These oils can be applied directly to the scalp.

When using scalp oils, it is important to use a lightweight oil to avoid blocking the pores on the scalp, which can lead to painful bumps and infections. A gentle, sulphate-free shampoo can be used to cleanse the scalp, and oil can be applied as needed to damp hair to prevent breakage and strengthen the hair.

Some people may choose to use a hot oil treatment, which involves warming the oil and applying it to the hair and scalp. This can be an effective way to nourish and strengthen afro hair, but it is important to ensure that the oil is not too hot to avoid degrading its properties and risking scalp burns.

Overall, scalp oils can be a beneficial part of a hair care routine for people with afro hair, helping to promote healthy hair growth, lock in moisture, and protect the hair from environmental damage.

Best oils for hair growth

Natural oils are considered a superior, healthy option for hair compared to synthetic alternatives. They deliver replenishment and renewal and aid hair growth, too, while also working as a barrier against the elements.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a popular choice for hair growth. It is rich and hydrating and can be used as a hot oil treatment to make hair feel soft. It can be used in its purest form as a pre-poo treatment and left on until the next wash.

Castor Oil

Castor oil is another heavy oil that can nourish and protect hair. It is also celebrated for its ability to stimulate hair growth by encouraging blood circulation to the scalp, providing hair follicles with more nutrients and oxygen.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a natural oil that can be used to add shine to hair. It can be used as a carrier oil, with a few drops of another oil like lavender, to be applied directly to the scalp as a hair mask.

Hemp Seed Oil

Hemp seed oil is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential for promoting hair growth. It is also lightweight and will not weigh hair down, making it ideal for curls.

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is another natural oil that can be used to improve hair health and encourage growth. It can be sprayed all over the scalp and hair ends and left to air dry.

Other Oils

There are many other essential oils that can be beneficial for hair health and growth, including rosemary, carrot oil, jojoba, grapeseed, and lavender oil. Wild Growth Hair Oil is another product that has received positive reviews for promoting hair growth.

Frequently asked questions