Summer Hair Growth Oils for Dry Scalp: Guide & DIY

Healthy hair starts at the scalp.  Dryness, sun, and sweat can weaken your roots fast in summer. You need a routine that hydrates, protects, and supports strong hair growth all season.

The right hair oils do more than moisturize. Lightweight, nutrient-rich blends help your scalp recover from heat and styling stress. You can use oils to nourish roots, reduce flakes, and encourage fuller, softer hair —no matter your hair type.

Let's look at some proven summer oils, how to choose the best one for your needs, and steps to create a simple DIY oil blend that fits your routine.

Why Use Hair Oils in Summer

Using hair oils in summer protects your scalp from dryness, heat, and UV damage . These oils form a barrier that keeps moisture in and blocks out environmental stress. When your scalp is hydrated, your hair grows stronger and breaks less .

Most people notice more itching and flaking when the weather is hot. Oils help reduce irritation, flakes, and redness by calming the skin and supporting a healthy scalp barrier. You get fewer split ends and less frizz because oils smooth the cuticle and seal in nutrients.

If your scalp feels sensitive or your hair looks dull, using the right oil can bring fast relief. Oils give instant softness and a natural shine, so your hair feels healthy and manageable in any weather.

How Hair Oils Boost Growth & Nourishment

When you use the right hair oils, your scalp gets key nutrients and a protective barrier . These oils do more than hydrate the surface—they deliver fatty acids and vitamins that reach the roots. Oils also support circulation and scalp comfort , especially in hot weather. Many people see better results when they understand how these oils work from the inside out.

Nutrient Delivery: Fatty Acids and Vitamins

The right oils deliver fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins to your scalp. These nutrients help repair dryness and restore your hair’s strength at the root. Fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6 keep each strand flexible and prevent breakage.

Vitamin E supports a balanced scalp and protects against damage from  sun and pollution . When you use oils that are rich in these nutrients, you give your hair a natural boost that helps it grow healthier and look shinier all summer.

Scalp Circulation: Blood Flow Support

Healthy circulation is essential for hair growth and a nourished scalp . Oils like rosemary, peppermint, and castor are known to increase blood flow when massaged into your roots.

This delivers more oxygen and nutrients to your follicles, which can support stronger, fuller hair . If your scalp often feels tight or looks dull, improving circulation with the right oil can make a visible difference in your hair’s strength and thickness.

Scalp Comfort: Reducing Irritation and Flakes

A dry or itchy scalp often needs more than basic moisture. Oils with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties calm your skin and help prevent flakes and redness .

Tea tree and cedarwood oils are known for keeping the scalp clear, while jojoba and coconut oils help restore comfort without heavy buildup. If you struggle with irritation or notice more flakes in summer, switching to the right oil can support a balanced, healthier scalp.

Top Oils for Dry Scalp & Growth

If you’ve ever scrolled through #hairtok in July, you know people are obsessed with finding the perfect summer hair oil. I get it—humidity, sun, and sweat can turn your scalp into a disaster zone.

What I look for (and what most stylists suggest) is an oil that feels light, keeps things hydrated, and doesn’t leave you looking greasy. You want something that supports moisture retention, hair strength, and comfort —but still washes out easily if you swim or work out.

Here’s a quick rundown of what’s out there and why you might want to grab one for your summer routine:

Choosing a Summer-Friendly Blend

Ever notice your scalp feels greasy in July, but dry in December? You’re not alone. Picking a good summer hair oil blend is honestly about keeping things simple and light. Most of my friends—and plenty of TikTok creators—swear by swapping out heavier oils when the weather heats up.

Here’s what usually works for me and most people I know:

• Start with a light base oil. Jojoba, almond, or argan are solid picks because they don’t weigh hair down or feel sticky.
• For a little extra boost, I add a couple drops of rosemary, peppermint, or tea tree oil . If you want a cooling effect or more scalp comfort, go for peppermint.
• Castor oil is popular for growth, but on its own it’s too heavy for summer. I only use a few drops mixed in, never straight.
• Don’t skip dilution—essential oils are strong! Mix them well to avoid scalp irritation.

If your hair feels greasy or hard to wash after oiling, try less product or switch up your blend. Your scalp should feel fresh and light , even on the hottest days.

DIY Hair Growth Oil Recipe

Let’s be honest—DIY hair oils sound complicated until you try it once. I started blending my own out of frustration with the usual store-bought serums that left my scalp greasy or didn’t do much at all. If you’ve got a small bottle and five minutes, you’re ready.

Here’s how I mix mine:

• I pour 2 tablespoons of a light oil like jojoba, almond, or argan into a clean glass bottle. These never leave my scalp feeling heavy.
• Next, I add 5 drops of rosemary oil and 5 drops of peppermint oil. The rosemary is all over TikTok for hair growth, and the peppermint just feels refreshing after a long day.
• If I’m battling flakes (it happens every August), I’ll squeeze in a couple of drops of tea tree oil—works better than anything I’ve bought at the drugstore.
• Cap and shake. Done.

When it’s time to use it, I part my hair with a comb, squeeze a few drops right onto the scalp, and massage it in with my fingertips. I spend at least three minutes on this, usually while catching up on texts or voice notes.

You can leave the oil on for half an hour, or overnight if you’re up for a deeper treatment, but honestly, I see a difference even after a quick session. Wash it out with your regular gentle shampoo, and you’re good.

The first time, start with less oil, especially if your scalp is sensitive or gets oily quickly. Over time, you’ll figure out what your scalp likes best. Everyone’s routine is different, and that’s the fun part.

Summer Usage Tips & Warnings

Testing oils and caring for your scalp is key in summer. Even natural ingredients can trigger a reaction if your skin is sensitive. Always start with a small test before you commit to using new oils on your scalp.

Many people experience buildup or irritation from using too much oil, especially when it's hot out. You want your scalp to feel clean and refreshed after every treatment, not weighed down.

• Test each new oil on a small area of skin for 24 hours and check for redness, itching, or bumps
• Use only a small amount of oil for each application to avoid extra oil, dirt, and sweat building up
• Wash your scalp with a gentle shampoo to keep your hair feeling light
• See a dermatologist if you notice persistent flakes, redness, or pain after oiling, or if you have open wounds

Taking these steps helps you enjoy the benefits of summer hair oils while keeping your scalp healthy and comfortable .

Healthy Habits for Summer Hair

You’ll notice a real difference in your hair if you take scalp care seriously during summer. For me, swapping heavy products for lighter oils and sticking with regular washes is what finally brought the shine back to my curls after a brutal heatwave last year.

You don’t need a complicated routine—just a little consistency. Try one change at a time and see what works for you. Over time, those small tweaks lead to stronger, softer, and healthier hair . Even if you’re starting from scratch, a few weeks of care can give you visible results.