Why Carrot Oil Is the Best-Kept Secret for Healthier, Stronger, Fuller-Looking Hair
We don’t have to tell you that carrots are good for you. (Bugs Bunny took care of that ages ago.) But one thing you may not have realized is how good carrot oil is for hair health—or, more specifically, for scalp health. The vitamin-rich essential oil has quickly become an ingredient to watch, and whether you’re looking for help with dryness, dandruff, or hair loss, it might be just what you need. Below, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about carrot oil, along with insight from KEVIN.MURPHY style master and session salon manager Sarah Lund.
What Are the Benefits of Carrot Oil for Hair?
Not to get too complicated, but when we talk about carrot oil, we’re actually talking about two different ingredients. “There are two types of carrot oil that can be used in haircare,” explains Lund. One is carrot root oil, pressed from the flesh of the carrot itself, and the other is carrot seed oil, which is distilled from the—you guessed it—seeds. And each has unique benefits when it comes to our hair.
It’s full of antioxidants.
You probably already know that carrots are packed with beta-carotene, but there’s more where that came from. “Carrot root oil is an antioxidant-rich oil packed with vitamins A, B, C, D, and E,” says Lund.
It has antimicrobial properties.
In fact, research shows that it may be both antifungal and antibacterial. “Carrot seed oil is known to have antimicrobial properties, and is gentle and calming while still full of antioxidants,” explains the pro.
It’s moisturizing.
Got a dry scalp or hair? You’re in the right place. Carrot root oil “works really well to moisturize hair and skin,” says Lund.
It may help promote hair growth. Because it works at the scalp level, carrot oil may help strands grow in healthier and stronger. Plus, its nutrients and moisturizing properties can help prevent breakage and split ends, giving the appearance of fuller hair, too.
How to Use Carrot Oil for Hair
All kinds of products contain carrot oils (of both types), but Lund says they can be particularly useful in scalp and hair treatments targeted to combat dryness. “Remember that healthy hair begins with a healthy scalp, so paying attention to the condition of your scalp is vital in any hair care routine,” says Lund. “Using products with carrot in the treatment step of your routine is ideal, although most hair types can use moisture loss protection at any step in a routine.”
Plus, she adds that the ingredient is great for pretty much all hair types. “The beauty of both carrot root oil and carrot seed oil is that any hair type can benefit [from it], but it is particularly beneficial to thick or dry hair,” she says, adding that it can be especially kind to curly hair: “I also love the moisturizing benefits of carrot oil for curls to seal in moisture.”
If using pure carrot essential oil, be sure to use a carrier oil such as coconut oil, argan oil, or olive oil. The color can be quite strong and it could tint light hair colors, or even the scalp. When in doubt, use a product containing carrot oil, or dilute the oil to avoid any potential orange disasters.
The Best Carrot Oil Hair Products to Try
1. Best Carrot Oil Scalp Treatment:
KEVIN.MURPHY Scalp.Spa Treatment
This foam scalp mask is “rich in carrot root oil to moisturize and treat dry, tight scalps,” according to Lund. It also has hydrating hyaluronic acid and celery seed extract to help soothe dryness and regulate sebum production for a healthy scalp.
2. Best Carrot Oil Shampoo:
RAW SUGAR Bounce Back Shampoo
With nourishing ingredients including carrot seed oil, mango butter, and agave, this shampoo brings dry, damaged hair back to life. For even shinier, healthier-looking hair, don’t miss the conditioner either.
3. Best Basic Carrot Oil:
TYPOLOGY Organic Macerated Carrot Oil
For the minimalist, this multipurpose organic carrot root oil (in a sunflower carrier oil) can be applied as a DIY scalp oil, or even used in your skincare routine if you’re experiencing dry skin. If you’re worried about staining—or just want a more toned-down treatment—you can also add a few drops of carrot oil to your shampoo or mask for a deep-conditioning treatment.
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