What’s the Best Oil for Dry Gray Hair? 8 Great OiI-Based Products

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There are a number of oils available on the market that can help with prematurely graying hair - and also help to keep hair healthy, allowing those who suffer from dry hair to look and feel great. Here are some of the best with a few recommended products that contain these helpful oils.

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Best Oil for Dry Gray Hair

We all intend to age gracefully. There’s nothing wrong with helping that process by using great skin and hair products. However, most people recognize that as they age, their bodies will inevitably undergo some changes – one of which is graying hair.

Imagine a scenario when your hair begins to go gray when you are at the prime of life – when you are strong, vigorous, and filled with energy. That is a reality that many people face – and it can devastate their self-confidence and social life.

Graying hair can look extremely distinguished – but perhaps not so much when you are 20 years old and single and ready to mingle – it’s a look that you should grow into.

Of course, gray hair can be caused by factors such as illness and environmental factors. However, the fact remains that for many people, the appearance of gray is simply not desirable.

Fortunately, many of these products have all-natural, time-tested ingredients, so they avoid the damage to hair that is often the case with man-made treatments. Using these sorts of products avoids the extra damage that harsh chemicals can cause – which often makes the graying issue and dry, brittle hair even worse.

Hydrating Oils for Gray Hair And Some Recommended Products

So what sorts of oils will prove beneficial to those who are suffering from prematurely graying hair – and what products are available online and over the counter that will restore the youthful good looks of hair?

Let’s take a closer look.

Argan Oil 

Argan oil has been used for centuries by those searching for natural oil that can restore hair condition and combat the ever-encroaching gray tide that threatens to transform looks. It is effective due to the high concentrations of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids – as well as vitamins A, C, and E. These help the body produce melanin, a lack of which can be responsible for graying hair.

There is an enormous range of products containing Argan oil on the market, including shampoos and conditioners made for gray hair. Essential oils and other treatments that can be massaged into the scalp are also available.

Most of the products and the oil itself help to restore the natural youthful appearance of the hair and can be used by those suffering from either dry or greasy hair. It also helps to protect the hair from the damaging effects of sun exposure. 

However, Argan oil can have a yellowing effect on gray and silver hair, so it should be used sparingly.

Options: Artnaturals Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner for people who prefer more natural products, or the Argan Oil products by Herbal Essences are good as well.

Rosemary Oil

One of the most sought-after scents in the world, Rosemary oil, has developed a well-earned reputation in restoring the natural luster and health of damaged hair, as well as stimulating hair production (many studies, including one by Harvard Medical School back up this claim).

Used regularly, it can also help darken prematurely graying hair. Those with blonde hair must be aware that prolonged use of shampoos or other hair products containing Rosemary can alter their natural hair color.  

An interesting option is the all-natural Rosemary Soap Bar from the Rocky Mountain Soap Company.

Sesame Oil

Sesame oil has been hailed as one of the most effective treatments for graying hair. It darkens the hair’s natural pigment and is also great for those who suffer from dry and brittle hair.

Sesame oil contains a wealth of compounds and vitamins that aid in restoring the youthful appearance of hair. These include vitamins B, A, E, D, and K – all of which make the hair appear shiny and healthy. Minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium also play a part in restoring hair’s youthful appearance. 

Great choice: Banyan Botanicals Sesame Oil. Massaging Sesame oil into the scalp is one of the most effective delivery methods. The massaging action also helps to promote blood flow in the scalp which can assist in promoting hair growth.

Flaxseed Oil

Flaxseed oil has been hailed as a ‘hair Superfood’ due to its high concentration of proteins, minerals, vitamin E, and vitamin B. It is said to improve blood circulation to the scalp and combat the actions of free radicals, which cause premature aging.

The presence of free radicals in the body is in part elevated due to exposure to air pollution and chemicals present in various foods and products that are so much a part of our modern lifestyle. Flaxseed oil is also rich In Omega 3 Fatty Acids. These can help keep hair nourished and moisturized – making flaxseed oil products ideal for those suffering from dry or brittle hair.    

Great option: Flaxseed hair gel is one of the most popular ways to enjoy the benefits of flaxseed for those experiencing graying hair. Amazon has a variety of gels containing flaxseed oil, try Ecoco Eco Style Gel, which is made using – Black Castor Flaxseed Oil.

Coconut Oil

Many people suffer from prematurely graying hair and report that Coconut oil (often mixed with lemon juice) can significantly improve the hair’s health and appearance, restoring its youthful vibrancy.

The effectiveness of coconut oil in combating graying – and promoting the healthy growth of hair is due to the presence of lauric and other fatty acids. It also has anti-microbial properties. Add to this lemon juice which contains vitamin B, vitamin C, phosphorus, and phytonutrients, and it is a great recipe for healthy, well-nourished hair. 

Excellent choice: SheaMoisture leave-in treatment is manufactured using a combination of Extra Virgin Coconut and Shea Oils for incredible conditioning action. It also contains Argan Oil, Acacia Senegal, and Sweet Almond Oil.

Olive Oil

The benefits of olive oil for those who are suffering premature graying of hair and a myriad of other conditions that affect the appearance and health of the hair are almost too numerous to mention.

They include the fact that olive oil stimulates the production of melanin, which helps maintain a balance between Eumelanin and Pheomelanin, two pigments that keep hair looking youthful and preserve its original color, helping reduce the appearance of gray hair.

Olive oil also helps to maintain the natural Ph levels of the scalp, which aids in promoting healthy hair growth. Olive oil also protects against sun and chemical damage (often the result of using man-made hair care products with artificial ingredients), which contributes to gray hair.

Olive oil is also packed with those all-important antioxidants which help fight the signs of premature aging of the hair. The hydrating action of olive oil can also significantly contribute to reducing the appearance of gray hair. 

Best Bang for your Buck:  Fantasia ‘Hair Polisher’ Olive Moisturizing Shine Serum

If you are looking for a hair product that will not only combat the appearance of gray – but also contains a host of products that contribute to great looks and hair health then the Fantasia Hair Polisher Serum might be the product you have been searching for.

It contains olive oil extract, Moroccan oil, argan oil, and linseed extract. It also has added vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) that strengthens hair. It’s also perfect for those who suffer from dry hair.

There’s no reason to opt for harsh chemicals when reducing the appearance of graying hair and dealing with dryness. It’s essential to check the ingredients on the label (some do contain parabens), but oil-based hair care products offer a healthy and organic, natural way to restore hair to its former glory.

Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)®
Senior Home Safety Specialist (SHSS)®
Assistive Technology Professional

Scott Grant has spent more than 20 years serving seniors and the elderly in the home medical equipment industry. He has worked as a manufacturer's rep for the top medical equipment companies and a custom wheelchair specialist at a durable medical equipment (DME) provider in WV. He is father to 4 beautiful daughters and has three terrific grandkids. When not promoting better living for older adults, he enjoys outdoor activities including hiking and kayaking and early morning runs.

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2 thoughts on “What’s the Best Oil for Dry Gray Hair? 8 Great OiI-Based Products”

  1. Keep in mind that Argan oil or any oil that is yellow will turn grey hair yellow.

    • Hi Bianca – thanks for the additional information. I was able to verify your concern and added it to the article information Thanks again for bringing this to our attention!

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