Are there benefits of olive oil for hair?

A staple in most kitchens is slowly making its way onto bathroom shelves. You might have used olive oil in recipes, but have you ever thought about putting olive oil on your hair? Originating from the Mediterranean region, olive oil contains a range of nutrients and has been in haircare for centuries to moisturise, strengthen and add shine to tired locks. But does it actually work – and is it worth reaching for the bottle in your kitchen cupboard?

Olive oil is a natural oil extracted from the fruit of the olive tree – around 95% of the world’s olive oil is produced in the Mediterranean region.¹ It’s been a staple of the Mediterranean diet for thousands of years and is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, along with natural antioxidants and plant compounds that contribute to its nutritional value and many of its health benefits.² Olive oils fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamin E can also help to condition the hair by reducing moisture loss and improve softness and shine. In haircare, it's commonly used as a deep-conditioning treatment, particularly for dry, damaged or coarse hair.^3,4

Noticed your hair looks a little limp, dry or heat damaged? Extra virgin olive oil might help give it a new lease of life. As well as being a brilliant source of vitamin E, olive oil contains oleic acid, squalene and palmitic acid.⁵ These are all lipid components with emollient properties, meaning they can soften the hair and make it appear silkier.⁴ Olive oil is additionally a type of monounsaturated fat. This form of fat can help to seal the hair cuticle and reduce moisture loss.

Olive oil won't directly make your hair grow faster, as there's no strong scientific evidence that it stimulates new hair growth. However, it can support healthier-looking hair and scalp, reduce dryness and help to prevent breakage. This means your hair may appear longer and fuller over time because it's less likely to snap or become damaged. While olive oil is a great conditioning treatment, if you're concerned about ongoing hair thinning or hair loss, it's important to look at other factors such as genetics, hormones, nutrition or overall health – and speak to your GP, they’ll advise you on the best treatment.

While you’ll find lots of olive oil products on the market, you may want to try applying some in its raw form. If this is the case, follow these four easy steps:

Olive oil may not be a miracle cure for hair growth, but it could help add shine, reduce breakage and support healthier-looking hair. Used as part of your regular hair care routine, it can be a simple, natural way to keep your locks feeling soft and moisturised.

Disclaimer – This article provides informational advice and is not a substitute for medical care. Working with experts for accuracy, we take great care to ensure the information is up–to–date and relevant. However, you should always consult your GP or healthcare professional before using supplements or alternative products, particularly if you have medical conditions or are under supervision.