12 minute read · Craft 360
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Among the most enduring hair treatments are also some of the simplest.
Pure plant oils that are pressed from seeds, nuts, and fruits, applied directly to the hair and scalp, have been used across cultures and throughout history in ways that modern science now helps explain.
This guide covers which carrier oils are commonly cited in cosmetic and trichology literature as well-suited to different hair types, and why.
Every oil mentioned here is available through Craft360's carrier oil range and is cold-pressed and pure.
A Tradition as Old as the Land Itself
Across many cultures and throughout history, plant oils have been central to hair and scalp care traditions.
In Australia, the use of native plant materials for hair and scalp care is part of a broader tradition of First Nations plant knowledge that predates European settlement by thousands of years.
Some sources reference the use of native plant oils, including tea tree, by First Nations communities for traditional scalp and hair care practices.
These traditions are shared here respectfully and for educational context only.
Beyond Australia, ancient Egyptians documented hair oil recipes dating back thousands of years.
Ayurvedic texts describe hot oil scalp massage as a cornerstone of wellbeing, a practice that continues today.
Moroccan Berber communities have used argan oil for hair and skin for generations.
The paper by Mysore and Arghya (2022), published in the International Journal of Trichology, provides an overview of how hair oil traditions across cultures are increasingly supported by modern cosmetic science.
The Basic Science:
What Do Carrier Oils Actually Do is a series of overlapping scales that, when healthy, lie flat.
When hair is damaged, dry, or chemically treated, these scales can lift, which is associated with moisture loss, reduced shine, and increased fragility.
The scalp produces its own natural oil called sebum, which travels down the hair shaft and may help keep the cuticle conditioned.
Modern habits such as frequent washing, heat styling, colouring, and sun exposure can strip this oil faster than the scalp replaces it.
A 2003 study by Rele and Mohile, published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, found that certain carrier oils applied before washing may help reduce protein loss in both healthy and damaged hair.
The study compared coconut oil, mineral oil, and sunflower oil and among those three, coconut oil was the only one that showed evidence of penetrating inside the hair shaft.
It is worth noting this finding applies to the oils tested in that specific study; many other oils were not included in the comparison.
How fatty acids relate to hair care, a general overview:
- Small, saturated fatty acids (such as those predominant in fractionated coconut oil) are associated in cosmetic literature with the ability to penetrate the hair shaft, which may help condition it from within
- Oleic acid (omega-9), found in higher concentrations in oils such as apricot kernel, is associated with coating the outside of the hair shaft and helping smooth the cuticle , Mysore and Arghya (2022) note that oils with a high oleic acid content may improve hair elasticity by filling the gap between cuticle cells
- Linoleic acid (omega-6), found in higher concentrations in grapeseed and hemp seed oil, is noted for its lightweight texture and faster absorption. Research on plant oils applied to skin, including Lin et al. (2018), notes that linoleic acid is associated with supporting the natural lipid balance of skin and as the scalp is skin, this is considered relevant context in cosmetic literature
- Vitamins and antioxidants such as vitamin E (tocopherols) and carotenoids are associated with antioxidant and conditioning properties, and may offer some protection against environmental stressors, particularly relevant for Australian hair exposed to harsh sun, salt water, and chlorine
- Phytosterols and plant compounds are associated in cosmetic literature with supporting a healthy scalp environment. A healthy scalp is generally considered the foundation of healthy hair
How to Use Carrier Oils on Hair
Pre-wash treatment:
- Apply oil to dry hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends.
- Leave for 30 minutes to overnight, then shampoo out.
- Widely considered the most effective method for dry and damaged hair
Scalp massage:
- Work a small amount of oil directly into the scalp before washing.
- Commonly cited for dry or sensitive scalp use and for supporting scalp health
Leave-in treatment:
- Apply a very small amount to damp hair after washing and leave in.
- Best suited to lightweight oils that absorb quickly
Hot oil treatment:
- Gently warm the oil, apply to hair and scalp, wrap in a warm towel for 20–30 minutes, then wash out.
- A commonly referenced approach for very dry, damaged, or colour-treated hair
Which Carrier Oil Is Commonly Cited for Your Hair Type?
Dry, Brittle, or Damaged Hair
Dry hair is associated with a lifted cuticle and accelerated moisture loss.
Cosmetic literature commonly recommends oils that may help smooth and seal the cuticle, add flexibility to the hair shaft, and condition both hair and scalp.
Organic Fractionated Coconut MCT Oil is among the most research-referenced oils for conditioning damaged hair.
Rele and Mohile (2003) found that, among coconut, mineral, and sunflower oils, coconut oil was the only one tested that showed evidence of penetrating the hair shaft to help reduce protein loss, whether applied before or after washing.
Unlike traditional coconut oil, the fractionated version remains liquid, absorbs readily, and will not solidify in cooler temperatures.
Commonly used as a pre-wash treatment or lightweight leave-in for fine to medium dry hair.
Organic Apricot Kernel Oil is high in oleic acid.
Mysore and Arghya (2022) note that oils with this fatty acid profile may improve hair elasticity by filling the gap between cuticle cells, which is associated with hair that feels softer and more manageable.
Commonly used as a pre-wash treatment or applied in small amounts to dry ends.
Organic Rosehip Oil is noted in cosmetic literature for its carotenoid, tocopherol, and phytosterol content, which are associated with conditioning and antioxidant properties.
Commonly used at the scalp and roots, blended with apricot kernel or jojoba as a base.
Evening Primrose Oil contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid noted in cosmetic literature for its association with skin conditioning and moisture support.
It is commonly used in hair treatment blends at around 15–20% as part of a conditioning formulation, rather than on its own.
Always refer to your supplier's documentation.
Oily Hair and Oily Scalp
Choosing a lightweight oil suited to an oily scalp may help the scalp maintain its natural balance over time — a principle discussed in cosmetic literature in relation to linoleic-rich oils, which tend to absorb quickly and leave less surface residue than oleic-rich options.
Organic Grapeseed Oil is high in linoleic acid, commonly cited in a range of approximately 60–75% depending on source and grade and is noted in cosmetic literature as one of the lightest, fastest-absorbing carrier oils available.
It is commonly used as a lightweight scalp treatment or leave-in on mid-lengths and ends.
Organic Golden Jojoba Oil is technically a liquid wax rather than a true oil. Its molecular structure is noted in cosmetic literature as closely resembling the scalp's own sebum, which is associated with its suitability for supporting a healthy scalp oil balance over time.
Commonly applied in small amounts to the scalp two or three times per week as a general reference practice.
Fine or Thin Hair
Fine hair is generally better suited to lightweight oils that absorb without weighing it down.
Starting with a very small amount, a few drops and adjusting as needed is strongly recommended.
Organic Grapeseed Oil is widely cited in cosmetic literature as one of the lightest carrier oils for hair use.
A small amount through damp ends is commonly noted for contributing shine and smoothing flyaways without heaviness.
Organic Golden Jojoba Oil is noted for integrating well with the hair rather than sitting on top of it, due to its wax ester structure.
A small amount at the scalp is commonly cited as supporting hair health without affecting volume.
Australian Hemp Seed Oil is noted for its lightweight texture and balanced omega fatty acid profile.
Commonly used as a very light leave-in on the ends, or as part of a scalp treatment blend.
Thick, Coarse, or High-Porosity Hair
Thick or coarse hair and high-porosity hair, including chemically treated, heat-styled, or bleached hair are associated in trichology literature with a more open cuticle that loses moisture readily.
Cosmetic literature commonly recommends richer oils that may help smooth and seal the cuticle.
Organic Apricot Kernel Oil is widely cited for this hair type.
Mysore and Arghya (2022) note that oils rich in oleic acid may help smooth the cuticle and improve the hair's surface condition and appearance.
Commonly associated with adding softness and manageability to hair that tends to feel rough or wiry.
Australian Hemp Seed Oil is noted for its balanced omega profile, which is associated in cosmetic literature with conditioning and nourishing properties.
Commonly cited for colour-treated hair as a nourishing treatment option.
Evening Primrose Oil used at approximately 15–20% in a blend with jojoba or apricot kernel is cited in cosmetic formulation literature as a treatment option for bleached or heat-damaged hair.
Its GLA content is associated with supporting conditioning and suppleness in formulations.
Curly, Wavy, or Frizzy Hair
Curly and wavy hair is generally described in trichology literature as naturally drier than straight hair, as the natural oils from the scalp have more difficulty travelling down the curved hair shaft.
The cuticle also tends to lift more readily in humidity, which is associated with frizz.
Cosmetic literature commonly recommends deep conditioning oils that may help smooth the cuticle and support curl definition.
Organic Apricot Kernel Oil is widely cited for curly hair. Worked through damp curls after washing, it is associated with smoothing the cuticle and helping define curl pattern.
Mysore and Arghya (2022) note that oils with a high oleic acid content may improve hair elasticity by filling cuticle gaps, a property commonly referenced in the context of frizzy hair.
Organic Golden Jojoba Oil is noted in cosmetic literature for its sebum-like wax ester structure.
Curly hair is often described as lacking sebum coverage along the shaft, and jojoba is commonly cited as a well-suited option for mid-lengths and ends before styling.
Organic Rosehip Oil blended with jojoba is cited in cosmetic and hair care literature as a conditioning overnight treatment for very dry, frizzy curls.
Many users report a noticeable improvement in texture after regular use, though individual results will vary.
Apply from root to tip before bed, braid loosely, and shampoo out in the morning.
Sensitive or Flaky Scalp
A sensitive, itchy, or flaky scalp is generally best suited to gentle, well-tolerated oils that support the scalp's own conditioning and protective processes.
Always patch test before applying any new oil to the scalp.
Australian Hemp Seed Oil is widely cited for sensitive or reactive scalp use. Research on plant oils applied to skin, including Lin et al. (2018), notes that hemp seed oil's omega fatty acid profile may be associated with supporting the natural lipid balance of the skin barrier.
As the scalp is skin, this is considered relevant context in cosmetic literature.
Commonly massaged gently into the scalp before washing, two to three times per week as a general reference practice.
Organic Golden Jojoba Oil is widely described in cosmetic literature as well-tolerated across a broad range of skin and scalp types, and is commonly referenced as a gentle option. As with all ingredients, a patch test is recommended before first use.
Organic Grapeseed Oil is noted in cosmetic literature for its light texture, fast absorption, and content of plant compounds including resveratrol and proanthocyanidins, which are associated with antioxidant and conditioning properties.
Blends well with hemp seed and jojoba for a scalp treatment formulation.
Hair That Needs Extra Shine
Shine is associated in cosmetic literature with light reflecting evenly off a smooth, sealed cuticle.
Oils that smooth the cuticle are generally cited as contributing the most visible shine.
Organic Grapeseed Oil is widely cited in hair care literature for contributing shine while leaving minimal residue.
A small amount worked through dry or damp hair before styling is a commonly referenced approach.
Organic Apricot Kernel Oil is associated with a richer, satin-like finish.
Mysore and Arghya (2022) note that oils with a high oleic acid content may visibly improve the surface appearance of the hair shaft.
Particularly cited for dry or medium-thickness hair.
Quick Reference Table
|
Hair Type |
Commonly Cited Carrier Oils |
How to Use |
|
Dry and brittle |
Fractionated Coconut MCT, Apricot Kernel, Evening Primrose, Rosehip |
Pre-wash treatment or hot oil treatment |
|
Oily scalp |
Grapeseed, Jojoba |
Scalp massage, lightweight leave-in on ends |
|
Fine and thin |
Grapeseed, Jojoba, Hemp Seed |
Small amount as leave-in on ends only |
|
Thick and coarse |
Apricot Kernel, Hemp Seed, Evening Primrose |
Pre-wash treatment, overnight mask |
|
Curly and frizzy |
Apricot Kernel, Jojoba, Rosehip |
Leave-in on damp curls or overnight treatment |
|
Sensitive scalp |
Hemp Seed, Jojoba, Grapeseed |
Scalp massage before washing |
|
Colour-treated or bleached |
Evening Primrose, Hemp Seed, Apricot Kernel |
Weekly hot oil treatment |
|
Needs shine |
Grapeseed, Apricot Kernel |
Small amount on dry or damp hair before styling |
This table is a general educational guide only. Individual responses to ingredients vary. Always patch test before use and consult your supplier's documentation.
A Few Things Worth Knowing Before You Start
Less is always more with carrier oils on hair.
Starting with a few drops and adjusting as needed is strongly recommended.
Over-applying is the most common reason hair feels greasy rather than glossy.
Always do a patch test before using any new oil, particularly if you have a known sensitivity to nuts or seeds.
Cold-pressed, minimally processed oils are generally preferred in cosmetic formulation literature over refined alternatives.
The cold-pressing process is considered to help preserve the naturally occurring vitamins, antioxidants, fatty acids, and plant compounds in the oil, all of which contribute to the conditioning properties commonly associated with plant-based hair care.
It is exactly why all carrier oils in the Craft 360 range are cold-pressed.
Store your oils away from direct sunlight and heat.
Rosehip and evening primrose in particular are best kept in a cool, dark location after opening, shelf life may vary depending on the supplier, grade, and storage conditions, but a general reference of around six to nine months is commonly cited in cosmetic literature.
Always check your supplier's documentation.
Ready to find your perfect carrier oil? Browse the full Craft 360 carrier oil range and start building your ideal hair care ritual today.
Continue Reading
- Understanding Skin Barrier, Hydration and Repair: A Formulator's Guide
- Essential Oil Safety and Dermal Limits: A Beginner's Guide
- Shop Craft360's Full Carrier Oil Range
References
Mysore, V., & Arghya, A. (2022). Hair oils: Indigenous knowledge revisited. International Journal of Trichology, 14(3), 84–90. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9231528/
Rele, A. S., & Mohile, R. B. (2003). Effect of mineral oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil on prevention of hair damage. Journal of Cosmetic Science, 54(2), 175–192.
Lin, T. K., Zhong, L., & Santiago, J. L. (2018). Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 19(1), 70. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5796020/
Meier, L., Stange, R., Michalsen, A., & Uehleke, B. (2012). Clay jojoba oil facial mask for lesioned skin and mild acne: Results of a prospective, observational pilot study. Forschende Komplementärmedizin, 19(2), 75–79.
Ranzato, E., Martinotti, S., & Burlando, B. (2011). Wound healing properties of jojoba liquid wax: An in vitro study. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 134(2), 443–449.
Cecred. (2025). Understanding Hair Oiling: History, Benefits and More. https://cecred.com/en-au/blogs/cecred-space/history-of-hair-oiling
Craft 360 is an Australian supplier of raw ingredients and natural bases for DIY makers and skincare brand owners. All product claims in this article are made in accordance with Australian TGA cosmetic product guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best carrier oils for hair?
The most appropriate carrier oil for hair will depend on your hair type, scalp condition, and how you intend to use the oil.
Fractionated coconut MCT oil is among the most research-referenced options for dry and damaged hair, Rele and Mohile (2003) found that, among the oils tested in their study, coconut oil was associated with helping reduce protein loss in the hair shaft when applied before washing.
Jojoba oil and grapeseed oil are widely cited in cosmetic literature as well-suited to oily scalps and fine hair.
Apricot kernel oil is frequently referenced for curly, frizzy, or coarse hair.
This is a general educational overview and always patch test before use.
Which carrier oil is best for dry or damaged hair?
Fractionated coconut MCT oil is among the most research-supported options for dry and damaged hair, based on the findings of Rele and Mohile (2003), among the oils tested, coconut oil showed evidence of penetrating the hair shaft to help reduce protein loss.
Apricot kernel oil is also widely cited in trichology literature for its oleic acid content, which is associated with smoothing the cuticle and improving hair elasticity (Mysore & Arghya, 2022).
Rosehip oil and evening primrose oil are commonly used in conditioning treatment blends.
Always refer to your supplier's documentation and patch test before use.
Can carrier oils help with an oily scalp?
Some cosmetic literature suggests that lightweight, linoleic-rich carrier oils such as grapeseed oil may be well-suited to oily scalps, as they absorb quickly and leave minimal residue. Jojoba oil which is technically a liquid wax, is noted for its sebum-like molecular structure and is widely cited as supporting a healthy scalp oil balance over time. Carrier oils used on the scalp are cosmetic ingredients.
Claims about treating scalp conditions are outside the scope of cosmetic product claims under Australian TGA guidelines. Always consult a healthcare professional for any scalp concerns.
What is the best carrier oil for curly or frizzy hair?
Apricot kernel oil and jojoba oil are widely cited in cosmetic and trichology literature for curly and frizzy hair.
Mysore and Arghya (2022) note that oils with a high oleic acid content may help smooth the cuticle and improve hair elasticity by filling cuticle gaps, a property commonly referenced in the context of frizzy hair.
Jojoba oil's sebum-like structure is noted for its suitability for curly hair types, which often have difficulty distributing natural scalp oils down the curved hair shaft.
Individual results vary, and a patch test is always recommended.
Which carrier oil is suitable for a sensitive or flaky scalp?
Hemp seed oil and jojoba oil are most frequently cited in cosmetic literature for sensitive scalp use.
Research on plant oils applied to skin, including Lin et al. (2018), notes that hemp seed oil's omega fatty acid profile may be associated with supporting the skin's natural lipid balance and as the scalp is skin, this is considered relevant context in cosmetic formulation literature.
Jojoba oil is widely described as well-tolerated across a broad range of skin and scalp types.
Grapeseed oil is also noted for its light texture and plant compound content.
Always patch test before applying any new ingredient to the scalp. Consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for any persistent scalp concerns.
Can carrier oils be used as a leave-in hair treatment?
Some lightweight carrier oils, including grapeseed oil, jojoba oil, and hemp seed oil, are commonly cited in hair care literature as suitable for use as very light leave-in treatments on damp hair, applied to the mid-lengths and ends.
The amount used is important: starting with a few drops is strongly recommended, as over-application is the most common reason hair feels greasy rather than glossy.
Heavier oils such as apricot kernel are more commonly used as pre-wash treatments rather than leave-in applications.
This is a general educational guide , individual responses will vary.
What is the difference between fractionated coconut oil and regular coconut oil for hair?
Regular (virgin) coconut oil contains a full fatty acid profile and is solid at room temperature due to its high lauric acid content.
Fractionated coconut oil has been processed to remove longer-chain fatty acids, leaving primarily caprylic and capric acid (medium-chain saturated fatty acids), which causes it to remain liquid at all temperatures.
In terms of hair care, fractionated coconut oil is noted in cosmetic literature for its lightweight texture, ease of absorption, and stability.
For the specific finding in Rele and Mohile (2003), that coconut oil may help reduce protein loss in the hair shaft, the original study used coconut oil rather than fractionated specifically, and this distinction is worth noting when referencing that research.
How do you use carrier oils on hair?
Common application methods referenced in cosmetic and trichology literature include:
Pre-wash treatment (applied to dry hair for 30 minutes to overnight, then shampooed out);
Scalp massage (a small amount worked into the scalp before washing);
Leave-in treatment (a very small amount applied to damp hair after washing, best with lightweight oils);
Hot oil treatment (gently warmed oil applied to hair and scalp, left for 20–30 minutes under a warm towel, then washed out).
Less is generally more, starting with a few drops is advisable to avoid greasiness. Individual results will vary.
Why are cold-pressed carrier oils recommended for hair care?
Cold-pressing is a mechanical extraction process that avoids heat, which is considered in cosmetic formulation literature to help preserve the naturally occurring vitamins, antioxidants, fatty acids, and plant compounds in the oil.
These compounds are associated with the conditioning and protective properties commonly cited for plant-based carrier oils.
Refined or heat-processed oils may have a reduced concentration of some of these naturally occurring components.
All carrier oils in the Craft360 range are cold-pressed.
How should carrier oils be stored to maintain their quality?
Carrier oils should be stored in a cool, dark location away from direct sunlight and heat, in sealed amber glass or UV-protected containers.
Oils higher in polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as rosehip and hemp seed oil, are more susceptible to oxidative rancidity and are generally cited with a shorter shelf life, commonly referenced at around six to nine months once opened, though this may vary depending on the supplier, grade, and storage conditions.
Always check your supplier's documentation.
Adding a small amount of vitamin E (tocopherol) to a blend is widely cited in formulation literature as a way to help support oxidative stability.
Where can I buy carrier oils for hair in Australia?
Craft360 is an Australian supplier of cold-pressed carrier oils including fractionated coconut MCT oil, golden jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, apricot kernel oil, rosehip oil, Australian hemp seed oil, and evening primrose oil. All are available through the Craft360 carrier oil range.
When purchasing cosmetic-grade carrier oils, look for suppliers who provide cold-pressed, clearly documented oils with transparent sourcing and technical data.
