You run a hand through your hair one morning and it feels dry, wiry and harder to manage than it used to. If that sounds familiar, you are in the right place for the best oil for dry gray hair.

Below are hydrating oils like argan, rosemary, sesame, flaxseed, coconut and olive, with a product to try for each. I also cover essential oils (rosemary, clary sage, lavender and chamomile) and a budget-friendly serum.

Hydrating Oils for Gray Hair And Some Recommended Products

So what sorts of oils can help dry, gray hair, and what products are available online and over the counter?

Let’s take a closer look.

Argan Oil 

Argan oil has been used for centuries by people looking for a natural oil to improve the condition of their hair. It is rich in omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, as well as vitamins A, C, and E. These soften hair and add shine.

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 soften hair and can be used by those with either dry or greasy hair. It may also help protect hair from 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 is popular for adding luster to damaged hair. Some people use it hoping for fuller hair, but the research is limited.

Some people say it darkens gray hair, but there is no solid proof. Treat it as a conditioner, not a cure. 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 is often suggested for graying hair. There is no solid proof that it darkens hair, but it can soften dry and brittle hair.

Sesame oil contains vitamins B, A, E, D, and K, along with minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium. It can make hair look shiny and healthy.

Great choice: Banyan Botanicals Sesame Oil. Massaging sesame oil into the scalp is a popular way to use it. The massaging action also helps promote blood flow in the scalp.

Flaxseed Oil

Flaxseed oil is sometimes called a ‘hair superfood’ because it contains protein, minerals, vitamin E, and vitamin B.

Flaxseed oil is also rich in omega 3 fatty acids, which can help keep hair moisturized. That makes flaxseed oil products a good fit for dry or brittle hair.

Great option: Flaxseed hair gel is one of the most popular ways to use flaxseed on gray hair. Amazon has a variety of gels containing flaxseed oil, such as Ecoco Eco Style Gel, which is made with Black Castor Flaxseed Oil.

If you like the idea of a styling product but want something lighter than a gel, a mousse for gray hair that moisturizes and adds hold is worth a look too.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a popular choice for dry hair, and some people say it leaves their hair softer and healthier.

Coconut oil contains lauric and other fatty acids, and it also has anti-microbial properties. That makes it a good conditioner for dry hair. If you try any new oil, dab a little on the inside of your wrist or behind your ear and wait a day to check for a reaction.

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

Olive oil is an old standby for dry hair.

Olive oil can soften dry hair and add shine.

Olive oil may also help protect hair from sun and chemical damage, which often comes from man-made hair care products with artificial ingredients.

Olive oil also contains antioxidants. Its hydrating action can leave dry hair feeling smoother.

Essential Oils for Gray Hair: Rosemary, Clary Sage, Lavender and Chamomile

The oils above are cooking and carrier oils. Essential oils are a different thing: strong plant extracts that are used in small amounts. Four are commonly used for gray hair, and they are meant to be mixed with a carrier oil such as olive or coconut, not put on the scalp straight.

The idea behind them is that they nourish the hair follicles. Most also have properties that work against the fungi and bacteria that can lead to scalp problems. There is no solid proof that any of them darken gray hair or keep it from coming in.

Rosemary. It has a sweet, refreshing scent. Some people say it darkens gray hair, but there is no solid proof. It can be used in a scalp massage oil or a hair rinse. Anyone with blond hair should skip it, since it will darken their color.

To use it, mix a couple of drops of rosemary oil into olive or coconut oil and let it sit for about 2 hours. Then shampoo your gray hair. You can do this twice a week, and it can go on before you head to bed.

Clary sage. Its aroma is calming, and it is said to improve blood flow in the scalp.

To use it, stir three drops into your regular conditioner, or mix a tablespoon of carrier oil with it. Rub a light coat on your scalp at bedtime and rinse in the morning.

Lavender. It has a heavy floral scent and is known for easing stress.

To use it, add several drops to coconut or olive oil and rub it gently into your scalp. Leave it on for about 10 minutes before you wash. Keep this up for a few weeks to see how your hair feels.

Chamomile. It has a mild scent. Blend a couple of drops into a carrier oil, rub it gently onto your scalp, let it sit a while, then wash it out.

All four work slowly and need steady use, so expect weeks, not days. Rosemary and chamomile are the ones to be careful with if your hair is blond, and I would not count on any of them to fully reverse gray.

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

If you want a hair product that helps with dryness and shine, the Fantasia Hair Polisher Serum might be the one 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 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 gentle, natural way to soften dry hair.