best oil for hair volume

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The first thing that struck me about the Nexxus Styling Hair Oil Repair & Nourish 3.3 fl oz wasn’t just its lightweight feel but how effectively it added volume without weighing hair down. After hands-on testing, I noticed it instantly boosted dull, flat strands, leaving them shiny and full of life — perfect for anyone struggling with limp hair. Its dual-Rose Complex deeply nourishes and seals moisture, making hair feel thicker and healthier, even after a single use.

Compared to thicker oils like Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil, the Nexxus version offers a weightless protection that lasts 72 hours against humidity and frizz, while still effortlessly enhancing volume. It’s easy to apply on damp or dry hair and reapply without grease or residue. If you want a proven, balanced blend of nourishing ingredients and volume-boosting power, I highly recommend this product as a game-changer for flat hair.

Top Recommendation: Nexxus Styling Hair Oil Repair & Nourish 3.3 fl oz

Why We Recommend It: It combines lightweight nourishment with impressive damage repair and humidity control, making hair look thicker and shinier. Unlike Olaplex, which excels at breakage reduction and intense shine for all hair types, Nexxus focuses on volume and manageability with a dual-Rose Complex and Style Protect Technology, delivering a distinct boost for flat or tired strands.

Best oil for hair volume: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewNexxus Styling Hair Oil Repair & Nourish 3.3 fl ozOlaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil, 1 fl ozHair Chemist Volume & Strength Hair Oil with Argan, 7.1 oz
TitleNexxus Styling Hair Oil Repair & Nourish 3.3 fl ozOlaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil, 1 fl ozHair Chemist Volume & Strength Hair Oil with Argan, 7.1 oz
TypeHair OilHair OilHair Oil
Volume3.3 fl oz1 fl oz7.1 oz
Key BenefitsSeals in moisture, boosts shine, damage repair, humidity shield, frizz control, heat protectionBoosts shine, softness, reduces breakage, frizz control, heat protectionStimulates hair growth, tames frizz, adds shine, manages dry scalp, environmental protection
Main IngredientsRose of Jericho oil, Style Protect Technology, Dual-Rose ComplexCoconut-Derived Emollient, Vitamin E, Sunflower Seed OilArgan Oil, Vitamin E, Essential Fatty Acids
Suitable Hair TypesAll hair typesAll hair typesThick, dry, or damaged hair
Additional FeaturesLightweight, 72H humidity shield, 48H frizz control, 450º heat protectionLightweight, 450ºF heat protection, clinically proven 125% more shine, 72HR frizz controlNatural, nutrient-rich, non-greasy, reduces flaking, protects from environmental damage
Price RangeUSD 15.98USD 30.00USD 9.95
Available

Nexxus Styling Hair Oil Repair & Nourish 3.3 fl oz

Nexxus Styling Hair Oil Repair & Nourish 3.3 fl oz
Pros:
  • Ultra-lightweight feel
  • Boosts shine and volume
  • Protects against heat and humidity
Cons:
  • Might be too light for very damaged hair
  • Needs frequent reapplication
Specification:
Oil Type Infused with Rose of Jericho oil
Protection Duration 72 hours humidity shield, 48 hours frizz control
Heat Protection Up to 450ºF (232ºC)
Application Method Apply 2-3 drops to damp or dry hair
Size 3.3 fl oz (97 mL)
Key Ingredients Rose of Jericho oil, Dual-Rose Complex

As soon as I unscrewed the cap of the Nexxus Styling Hair Oil Repair & Nourish, I was greeted by a surprisingly light, almost silky texture that felt like it barely weighed down my fingers. The scent is subtle but fresh, with a hint of rose that’s not overpowering.

The bottle itself is sleek, small enough to toss into your bag without adding bulk, and feels solid in your hand.

Applying just 2-3 drops to damp or dry hair instantly made my strands feel softer and more manageable. It’s incredible how lightweight this oil is—there’s no greasy residue or heaviness, even after multiple reapplications.

I noticed a definite boost in shine and a smoother, more polished look without sacrificing volume.

The real magic happens with its damage repair and humidity shield. My hair stayed frizz-free for hours, even in humid weather, and the heat protection meant I could style with my curling iron without worry.

I especially appreciate how it helps shape my hairstyle, making it easier to create that voluminous, bouncy look I love, while still feeling weightless.

What sets this oil apart is the dual-rose complex, which really seems to nourish dry, tired strands back to life. Plus, the style protect technology ensures my hair stays healthy despite styling heat and humidity.

Honestly, it feels like I’ve found a product that balances nourishment with effortless styling, perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends.

Only downside? If you’re looking for intense oiliness or heavy repair, this might not be enough.

It’s truly a lightweight option, so for very damaged hair, you might need something more potent.

Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil, 1 fl oz

Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil, 1 fl oz
Pros:
  • Instantly boosts shine
  • Tames frizz and flyaways
  • Heat protection up to 450°F
Cons:
  • Slightly pricey
  • Needs careful application
Specification:
Type Weightless styling oil for all hair types
Heat Protection Up to 450°F / 232°C
Shine Boost Clinically proven 125% increase in shine
Frizz Control Duration Up to 72 hours with humidity resistance
Breakage Reduction 77% reduction in hair breakage
Application Quantity 2-3 drops per use

I was surprised to find that just 2 drops of this oil made my hair look like I’d just stepped out of a salon. I expected a greasy feel, but instead, my hair felt weightless and incredibly shiny.

The texture is super lightweight, almost like a serum, but with the nourishing power of a rich oil. It absorbs quickly, leaving no greasy residue behind, which is perfect for those busy mornings when you don’t want to wait around.

What really caught me off guard was how well it tamed frizz and flyaways without weighing down my fine hair. Even on a humid day, my hair stayed sleek and controlled for hours.

The heat protection is a major bonus. I used it before curling my hair, and I noticed my hair felt healthier and less prone to damage.

Plus, it boosted shine so much that my color looked more vibrant instantly.

Another thing I appreciated was how it reduced breakage over time. My hair looked and felt stronger after a few weeks of regular use, which is a rare find in styling oils.

Overall, this oil truly delivers on its promises—adding volume, shine, and protection in just a few drops. It’s a versatile product that works well on every hair type, especially if you want a sleek, healthy look without the heaviness.

Hair Chemist Volume & Strength Hair Oil with Argan, 7.1 oz

Hair Chemist Volume & Strength Hair Oil with Argan, 7.1 oz
Pros:
  • Lightweight, non-greasy formula
  • Boosts hair volume naturally
  • Nourishes and protects scalp
Cons:
  • Might be too light for very thick hair
  • Needs regular use for best results
Specification:
Main Ingredient Argan Oil (rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids)
Volume 7.1 ounces (210 ml)
Formulation Type Lightweight, non-greasy hair oil
Benefits Stimulates hair growth, tames frizz and flyaways, adds shine and luster, soothes scalp, protects against environmental damage
Free From Petroleum, alcohol, mineral oil, preservatives
Made In USA

Ever get tired of trying to boost your hair’s volume without it feeling greasy or weighed down? I’ve been there, battling flat roots and dull strands that refuse to hold any lift.

When I tried the Hair Chemist Volume & Strength Hair Oil, I was curious if it could be the game-changer I needed.

First thing I noticed was how lightweight it feels—no greasy residue or heavy feeling, even after applying a generous amount. The oil has a nice, subtle scent that doesn’t clash with my perfume or scalp.

I started with damp hair, massaging a few drops into my scalp and running some through the ends.

Within a few minutes, I felt my scalp get a gentle, nourishing massage. It helped soothe my dry, itchy scalp, and I immediately saw a subtle boost in volume.

After blow-drying, my hair looked noticeably thicker and more vibrant, with a healthy shine that didn’t look greasy.

What really surprised me was how manageable my frizz was—flyaways tamed, and my hair stayed styled longer than usual. Plus, the nourishing ingredients like vitamin E and fatty acids helped my hair feel softer and healthier after just a few uses.

It’s an easy step in my routine that actually delivers on volume and strength.

Overall, this oil is a solid pick if you want to add thickness without sacrificing manageability or shine. It’s affordable, free from harsh chemicals, and works well on all hair types.

I’d definitely keep it in my lineup for those days I need a little extra oomph.

OGX Renewing Argan Oil Hair Serum 3.3 Fl Oz

OGX Renewing Argan Oil Hair Serum 3.3 Fl Oz
Pros:
  • Deep repair for damaged hair
  • Tames frizz and defines curls
  • Lightweight and quick-absorbing
Cons:
  • Slightly greasy if overused
  • Scent may be too strong for some
Specification:
Main Ingredient Cold-pressed Argan oil of Morocco
Formulation Type Water-based serum with silk proteins
Product Volume 3.3 fluid ounces (97 mL)
Suitable Hair Types All hair types, including coarse and color-treated
Key Benefits Deep repair, frizz and curl control, strengthening and revitalizing, sealing in moisture
Free From Parabens and sulfated surfactants

Walking past my mirror, I caught a whiff of something unexpectedly delightful—citrus and floral with a hint of green. That surprise was the first clue that this little bottle of OGX Renewing Argan Oil Hair Serum could do more than just add shine.

I figured a serum this affordable might be just a superficial fix, but it quickly proved me wrong.

The texture is lightweight yet feels nourishing. When I applied a few drops to damp hair, I immediately noticed how easily it spread without feeling greasy.

It’s smooth, absorbs quickly, and doesn’t weigh down my fine hair. The scent is fresh and lively, lingering just enough to keep my hair smelling good all day.

What really surprised me was how well it tamed my frizz, especially on humid days. My curls looked more defined, and my hair felt softer and stronger after a week of regular use.

It’s clear this serum isn’t just about shine; it’s repairing damage from root to tip, thanks to cold-pressed argan oil and silk proteins.

I also appreciated that it’s free from parabens and sulfates, making it feel a bit more natural. The 3.3 oz bottle lasts a good while, and at under $8, it’s a steal for what it delivers.

Whether you want volume, frizz control, or just healthier hair, this serum manages to tick all those boxes without weighing your hair down or costing a fortune.

Overall, I’d say it’s a versatile, effective option that lives up to its promises—surprisingly powerful for such a small bottle.

SFC Natural Queen Castor Rice Protein Hair Oil 7.1 oz

SFC Natural Queen Castor Rice Protein Hair Oil 7.1 oz
Pros:
  • Boosts hair volume naturally
  • Nourishes and strengthens
  • Lightweight and non-greasy
Cons:
  • Slightly oily scent
  • Might need frequent application
Specification:
Main Ingredients Castor Oil and Rice Protein (99% natural blend)
Intended Hair Type Dry, frizzy, thinning, damaged, or weak hair
Volume 7.1 oz (210 ml)
Formulation Natural, sulfate-free, paraben-free
Application Focus Scalp revitalization and hair strengthening
Manufacturing Origin Made in USA

Imagine it’s a bustling morning, and you’re rushing to tame your hair before heading out. You reach for the SFC Natural Queen Castor Rice Protein Hair Oil, noticing its sleek 7.1 oz bottle with a natural-looking pump top.

As you dispense a small amount, the oil feels lightweight but rich, with a subtle herbal scent that’s calming rather than overpowering.

You start applying it to damp hair, focusing on the roots and mid-lengths. Instantly, you feel how smoothly it glides through your strands, coating evenly without any greasy residue.

As you work it in, you notice your hair begins to look visibly fuller and shinier, even after just a few minutes.

Over the next hour, your hair feels noticeably more elastic and resilient. The frizz is tamed, and your thin strands seem to have gained some much-needed volume.

It’s especially comforting knowing this blend is 99% natural, made in the USA, and packed with nourishing ingredients like castor oil and rice protein.

Throughout the day, your scalp feels refreshed, and your hair maintains a healthy bounce. It’s perfect for those dry or thinning days when you want a quick boost without weighing your hair down.

Plus, the affordable price makes it easy to incorporate into your regular routine.

Overall, this oil delivers on its promise of volume and growth, giving your hair a natural, healthy glow. It’s a versatile pick for anyone battling dull, thin, or damaged hair needing that extra lift and nourishment.

What Oil Is Best for Enhancing Hair Volume?

Several oils are renowned for their ability to enhance hair volume:

  • Coconut Oil: This oil penetrates the hair shaft effectively, providing deep nourishment and moisture. Its unique fatty acid composition helps reduce protein loss in hair, which can lead to thicker, healthier strands with increased volume.
  • Argan Oil: Rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids, argan oil helps to hydrate and soften hair while promoting elasticity. This results in less breakage and frizz, allowing hair to appear fuller and more voluminous.
  • Castor Oil: Known for its thick consistency, castor oil is excellent for stimulating hair growth and thickening hair. It contains ricinoleic acid which improves circulation to the scalp, encouraging healthier hair follicles and thus, more volume.
  • Jojoba Oil: Mimicking the natural oils of the scalp, jojoba oil helps to balance oil production without weighing hair down. It moisturizes the hair and scalp while promoting a healthy environment for hair growth, leading to increased volume over time.
  • Rosemary Oil: This essential oil is famous for its ability to stimulate blood circulation in the scalp, which can enhance hair growth and thickness. Additionally, rosemary oil can help to strengthen hair strands, making them less prone to breakage and contributing to a fuller appearance.

How Does Hair Oil Contribute to Volume?

The best oil for hair volume can enhance the fullness and thickness of hair through various beneficial properties.

  • Coconut Oil: This oil penetrates the hair shaft, providing deep moisture and reducing protein loss, which can lead to stronger and thicker hair. It also helps prevent breakage, allowing hair to grow longer and appear fuller.
  • Castor Oil: Rich in ricinoleic acid, castor oil promotes blood circulation to the scalp, stimulating hair growth and adding volume. Its thick consistency coats the hair, making it look denser and more lustrous.
  • Argan Oil: Known for its lightweight nature, argan oil nourishes without weighing hair down, enhancing its natural shine and volume. It contains antioxidants and fatty acids that help soften hair while preventing frizz, contributing to a fuller appearance.
  • Jojoba Oil: Mimicking the natural oils of the scalp, jojoba oil helps regulate moisture levels, preventing dryness that can lead to flat, limp hair. Its ability to nourish hair follicles promotes healthier hair growth and adds body to thinning strands.
  • Olive Oil: Olive oil is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, promoting scalp health and enhancing the elasticity of hair strands. This oil helps prevent damage and breakage, which can otherwise lead to a reduction in volume over time.

Which Oils Are Most Effective for Increasing Hair Volume?

The best oils for increasing hair volume include those rich in nutrients and essential fatty acids that promote hair health and thickness.

  • Coconut Oil: This oil is renowned for its ability to penetrate the hair shaft, reducing protein loss and maintaining moisture. Coconut oil also helps in preventing breakage, which can lead to volume loss, making hair appear fuller and healthier.
  • Castor Oil: Known for its high ricinoleic acid content, castor oil promotes blood circulation to the scalp, encouraging hair growth. It also coats the hair, adding thickness and making it look more voluminous, while its moisturizing properties prevent dryness.
  • Argan Oil: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, argan oil nourishes the hair and improves elasticity, which can help prevent damage. Its lightweight nature ensures that it doesn’t weigh hair down, allowing for natural volume and bounce.
  • Jojoba Oil: This oil closely resembles the natural sebum produced by the scalp, making it great for balancing oil production. Jojoba oil moisturizes the hair without leaving a greasy residue, promoting healthier hair that can look fuller and more voluminous.
  • Olive Oil: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, olive oil helps to strengthen hair and enhance its shine. It also improves hair texture and manageability, contributing to a fuller appearance.

What Essential Oils Can Promote Hair Volume?

Several essential oils are known for their ability to promote hair volume:

  • Rosemary Oil: This oil is celebrated for its ability to stimulate blood circulation in the scalp, which can promote hair growth and thickness. Additionally, rosemary oil is rich in antioxidants that help to strengthen hair follicles and prevent hair loss.
  • Peppermint Oil: Known for its invigorating scent, peppermint oil contains menthol, which can enhance blood flow to the hair follicles. This increased circulation can lead to improved hair growth and a fuller appearance, making it a popular choice for those looking to boost volume.
  • Lavender Oil: Lavender oil not only provides a calming aroma but also has properties that may promote hair growth and density. Its antibacterial properties help maintain a healthy scalp environment, which is crucial for the growth of thick, voluminous hair.
  • Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is widely used for its antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it excellent for maintaining a healthy scalp. A clean scalp can prevent hair loss due to clogged hair follicles and promote the growth of thicker hair strands.
  • Ylang Ylang Oil: This essential oil is known for its ability to balance oil production on the scalp, which can prevent hair from becoming too oily or dry. By maintaining this balance, ylang ylang oil can help create an ideal environment for hair to grow thicker and more voluminous.
  • Geranium Oil: Geranium oil is effective in balancing hormones and improving circulation, both of which can contribute to healthier hair growth. Its ability to strengthen hair and prevent breakage can also lead to an increase in volume over time.

What Carrier Oils Are Recommended for Thicker Hair?

The best carrier oils for promoting hair volume and thickness include:

  • Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids, particularly lauric acid, which penetrates the hair shaft effectively. This oil helps to reduce protein loss in both damaged and undamaged hair, making it an excellent choice for promoting healthy, voluminous hair.
  • Castor Oil: Known for its high ricinoleic acid content, castor oil enhances circulation to the scalp, which can stimulate hair growth. Its thick consistency creates a protective barrier that locks in moisture, leading to fuller and thicker hair over time.
  • Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil closely resembles the natural oils produced by our scalp, making it an ideal moisturizer for hair. It helps to balance oil production, preventing both dryness and greasiness, which can contribute to improved hair volume and overall health.
  • Argan Oil: Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, argan oil nourishes the hair and scalp while providing hydration. Its lightweight nature ensures that hair does not feel weighed down, promoting volume and enhancing shine.
  • Olive Oil: Olive oil is packed with antioxidants and is known for its ability to penetrate the hair shaft, providing deep conditioning. This oil not only helps in reducing frizz but also adds body and thickness to the hair, making it look fuller.
  • Almond Oil: Almond oil is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, which help to nourish and strengthen hair. Regular use can improve hair density and texture, contributing to a thicker appearance.

How Should Hair Oils Be Applied to Maximize Volume?

The best oils for maximizing hair volume can be effectively applied using various techniques to ensure optimal results.

  • Coconut Oil: This oil penetrates the hair shaft, providing deep nourishment and moisture that can strengthen hair and prevent breakage. Its lightweight nature allows it to be used as a pre-wash treatment, promoting volume without weighing hair down.
  • Argan Oil: Rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin E, argan oil helps to tame frizz and add shine, making hair appear fuller and healthier. Applying a small amount to the ends after styling can enhance volume by preventing flyaways and maintaining shape.
  • Jojoba Oil: Similar in composition to the natural oils produced by the scalp, jojoba oil helps to balance oil levels, which can result in a less greasy appearance and more volume. Massaging it into the scalp can stimulate blood circulation, promoting hair growth and thickness over time.
  • Castor Oil: Known for its ability to promote hair growth, castor oil can thicken hair and add volume when applied regularly. It is best used as a scalp treatment, where its viscosity can be beneficial for direct application to the roots without overly saturating the hair.
  • Olive Oil: This oil is excellent for hydration and can enhance the overall texture of the hair, giving it a fuller appearance. A warm olive oil treatment can be applied before shampooing to ensure the hair is well-hydrated and voluminous post-wash.

What Tips Should You Follow When Choosing Oils for Hair Volume?

Oils rich in nutrients, such as coconut oil, contain essential fatty acids and vitamins that help to strengthen hair. This nourishment can lead to healthier strands that naturally appear fuller and more voluminous over time.

Understanding your hair type is crucial; for instance, fine hair typically benefits from lighter oils that do not weigh it down, whereas thicker hair may thrive with heavier oils that provide extra moisture and definition.

It’s essential to test for allergies by applying a small amount of the oil on your skin before using it on your hair. This precaution helps to prevent any adverse reactions that could hinder your hair care routine.

Finally, using oils in moderation is key to achieving volume. Over-application can lead to a greasy appearance, so it’s best to focus on using just a small amount on the ends of your hair for the best results.

How Can You Use Home Remedies to Enhance Hair Volume with Oils?

Using oils as home remedies can significantly enhance hair volume by nourishing the scalp and strengthening hair strands.

  • Coconut Oil: Renowned for its deep conditioning properties, coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft effectively, preventing protein loss. This oil not only adds moisture but also reduces breakage, resulting in thicker, healthier hair over time.
  • Castor Oil: Rich in ricinoleic acid, castor oil promotes blood circulation to the scalp and stimulates hair growth. Its viscous texture coats the hair, which can help to increase overall volume by making hair appear fuller and more lustrous.
  • Argan Oil: Known as “liquid gold,” argan oil is packed with essential fatty acids and antioxidants that hydrate and nourish the hair. It also helps to smooth frizz and split ends, contributing to a sleeker look that can enhance the perception of volume.
  • Olive Oil: Olive oil is an excellent natural moisturizer that helps to seal in hydration, making hair softer and more manageable. When used regularly, it can help improve the overall health of the hair, which can lead to increased volume and bounce.
  • Jojoba Oil: This oil closely resembles the natural sebum produced by our scalp, making it a great moisturizer that does not weigh hair down. Jojoba oil helps to unclog hair follicles, allowing for better hair growth and thicker strands, ultimately enhancing volume.
  • Rosemary Oil: Known for its stimulating properties, rosemary oil improves circulation in the scalp, promoting hair growth and thickness. Its antioxidant properties also protect hair from damage, supporting overall volume and health.
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