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When you have ever passed by a hair care section or browsed Instagram suggestions, you must have encountered two similar yet functioning quite differently products: Hair Oil vs Hair Serum. Most individuals believe that they both perform the same task, only they have different packaging. However, in reality, they are used to totally different purposes.
This difference is what can make you better take care of your hair, minimize the damage, and even make your hair grow. We shall divide this down in an easy, understandable manner.
What Exactly is Hair Oil?
One of the most ancient hair products that have been used in different cultures is hair oil. In the past, oils were prepared using coconut, castor, amla and almond. Oiling is aimed at feeding the hair internally.
Hair oil works by:
- Intrusion into the head and strands of hair.
- Strengthening the hair roots
- Moisturizing the hair
- Increasing circulation of blood when massaged.
Imagine that hair oil is food to your hair. Due to the same reason that you have to nourish your body, you also need to nourish your hair. Oils contain vital fatty acids and vitamins that help in maintaining the density and strength of the hair.
Indicatively, castor oil is associated with fatty acids which contribute to breakage reduction. Hair can be safeguarded by coconut oil. The almond oil will make the hair soft and shiny.
Therefore, when your hair is dry, splitting, breaking, or thin, then hair oil is a fortifying and rejuvenating measure.
What is Hair Serum?
Hair serum is rather an insulating coating or a finishing. It does not penetrate the foundation or cultivate. Rather it covers the outer layer of the hair strand.
Serum is used to:
- Reduce frizz
- Add shine
- Protect from pollution, heat, and humidity
- Make hair smooth and manageable
But, in case, oil is the food that your hair loves, serum is an outer jacket that will protect hair against the outside world.
Silicones and conditioning ingredients are contained in serums and produce a smooth surface. This gives a hair a healthy look at once but this is a temporary thing. It assists in styling as well as in providing a clean appearance to hair, without acting as a repairing solution to internal damage.
Hair Oil vs Hair Serum: Which One is Best for Hair Growth?
The clear answer is: Hair oil supports hair growth. Hair serum does not.
Growth happens from the roots. Oils work directly at the roots and scalp, improving nourishment. Hair serums only work on the hair length and surface.
If your goal is:
- Hair growth
- Strong roots
- Reduced hair fall
Then hair oil is essential.
However, if your goal is:
- Smooth hair
- Frizz control
- Better styling
- Shine and polish
Then hair serum is your go-to product.
The two belong to a good hair care routine. You would simply need to use them at the opportune moment.
How and When to Use Hair Oil & Hair Serum?
Hair Oil:
- Apply once or twice a week.
- Massage gently onto the scalp.
- Leave it on for at least 30 minutes (or overnight if comfortable).
- Wash with a mild shampoo.
Hair Serum:
- Apply on damp or dry hair.
- Use only a few drops (too much can make hair greasy).
- Focus on the mid-lengths and ends — never the scalp.
- Use before heat styling or while finishing a hairstyle.
Can You Use Both Together?
Yes, and in reality, both can be used to produce the best results.
A simple routine could look like:
- Oil your scalp once or twice a week to nourish and strengthen.
- Use serum after washing your hair to keep it smooth and manageable.
The two don’t replace each other — they support different needs.
Connect with Tavaki on Instagram for more tips to use and benefits.
A Quick Real-Life Example
Consider an individual who has dry hair and is frizzy every time he/she goes outside. When they apply serum only on hair, they might make the hair appear smooth, yet it might be weak inside. This can cause breakage and retarded growth.
But when oiled all over the head and followed with serum after washing the hair is strong inside and appears well on the outside. This moderated practice will sustain long-term growth as well as daily styling requirements.
Read our article to know more about the Top 10 Rosemary Oil Benefits for Hair Growth.
The Final Word: Build a Routine That Loves Your Hair
Consider your hair as a plant. The hair requires nourishment (hair oil), and the hair requires the defense (hair serum). be used with care and frequency.
The process of improving healthy hair does not occur overnight, and you need to fuel and take care of it.
When you want to have stronger, healthier hair, nourishment is the first thing to pick and then style. Your hair will reward you in the future.
