Hair oils have always been part of many women’s hair care routines, but recently, they are becoming popular for their potential benefits for thinning hair. From rosemary, castor oil, and pumpkin seed oil, different oils are being used by women hoping to improve the appearance of their hair, reduce breakage and encourage growth. Many are also adding them to their regular hair care routines as part of their scalp treatments.

However, while some hair oils are often associated with hair growth, not all of them have been clinically proven to stimulate new hair. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick, rosemary oil and pumpkin seed oil have some preliminary research supporting their potential benefits. She also notes that it is important to understand what each oil can do before adding it to a hair care routine.

Hair thinning occurs when the hair becomes less dense, making the scalp more visible or the hair appear less full than before. It can happen gradually or become noticeable over a shorter period, depending on the cause. Genetics, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, certain medical conditions and stress can all contribute to hair loss. But it is important to note that not every case of thinning is caused by a reduction in hair growth, as breakage from excessive heat styling, chemical treatments and tight hairstyles can also leave the hair looking thinner.

With that in mind, here are some hair oils that have gained attention for their benefits in terms of thinning hair.

Pumpkin Seed Oil

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Pumpkin seed oil is known for playing a key role in hair growth. It contains fatty acids and plant compounds, including beta-sitosterol, which have been studied for their possible effects on dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone associated with pattern hair loss.

Some findings suggested that pumpkin seed oil may have a role in supporting hair growth. However, the research focused on oral supplements rather than applying the oil directly to the scalp, so it remains unclear whether topical use would produce similar results.

Castor Oil

Castor oil is a popular ingredient in many hair growth mixtures and scalp treatments, particularly because of its moisturizing properties. It is rich in ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid known for its ability to help condition the skin and hair strands. According to Garshick, castor oil may help reduce dryness and breakage, which can make the hair appear thicker and healthier over time. However, she also notes that there is currently no strong scientific evidence showing that castor oil directly affects hair growth, although it can help nourish the hair and scalp.

Rosemary Oil

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Rosemary oil contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that are believed to support scalp health, while some research suggests it may help with certain forms of hair loss.

A 2015 study published in the Skinmed journal compared rosemary oil with 2% minoxidil, a commonly used hair loss treatment. The study followed 100 men with androgenetic alopecia, a common form of pattern hair loss, over six months. Both groups experienced an increase in hair count by the end of the study, with no significant difference between the two treatments. Although the findings offer some support for rosemary oil, further research is needed, particularly to understand its effectiveness in women.

Other options include argan and avocado oils, which are mostly used to improve the condition of the hair rather than directly encourage new growth. Argan oil contains vitamin E and fatty acids that help moisturise the strands and reduce dryness, while avocado oil is also used to condition dry and fragile hair. Although neither has been proven to stimulate hair growth, both can help reduce breakage and improve the appearance of the hair.

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For women experiencing thinning, this can still be beneficial. Hair that breaks easily may struggle to retain length, making it appear less full. Using conditioning products, including oils and shampoos formulated to help reduce breakage, can support the hair and help it retain more of its existing length.

It is also important to understand that hair thinning can have different causes, and the oil that works for one person may not produce the same results for another. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends seeing a dermatologist to determine the cause of hair loss, as different conditions require different treatments.

There are also a few things to consider before using hair oils. Essential oils, including rosemary oil, should be diluted with a carrier oil before being applied to the scalp, as using them undiluted can cause irritation. Some oils may also cause allergic reactions or product buildup, while certain ingredients can worsen existing scalp conditions. It is therefore important to use them as directed and pay attention to how the scalp responds.

While hair oils can be useful for moisturising the scalp, conditioning the strands and reducing breakage, their benefits depend on the ingredients and the cause of the thinning. For women looking to improve their hair’s appearance, they can be a helpful addition to a regular hair care routine, but they should not replace professional advice or treatments when hair loss is persistent.

Travelling doesn’t mean abandoning your beauty routine, but it does call for a more considered approach to what goes into your suitcase. From sun protection to multipurpose makeup, these five essentials help you maintain your routine without overpacking.

Sunscreen

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Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, whether you’re exploring a new city or spending time at the beach. Choose a broad-spectrum formula with SPF 30 or higher, and opt for a water-resistant option if you expect to swim or sweat.

Reapply as directed on the packaging, particularly after swimming or towelling off. A travel-size bottle saves space, but ensure you pack enough for the duration of your trip.

Moisturiser

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Air conditioning, dry cabin air and changes in climate can leave your skin feeling dry or tight. A moisturiser helps maintain hydration and supports the skin’s protective barrier, making it a useful addition to your travel beauty bag.

Choose a formula suited to your skin type. Lightweight lotions or gel-creams may suit oily skin, while richer creams can be more comfortable for dry skin. Packing your usual moisturiser also means you won’t need to experiment with unfamiliar products while away.

Gentle Facial Cleanser

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A facial cleanser removes sweat, excess oil, dirt and makeup accumulated throughout the day. Choose a gentle formula that suits your skin, preferably one you already use regularly.

If you wear waterproof or long-lasting makeup, you may need a separate makeup remover or cleansing balm. Micellar water is another option, depending on your skin and the products you use. A compact bottle of your regular cleanser can help save space in your luggage.

Multipurpose Makeup

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Multipurpose makeup makes it easier to create different looks without carrying a full makeup collection. A cream blush that doubles as a lip colour, for example, can work for daytime outings and evening plans.

A tinted moisturiser is another option for light coverage and hydration, although its SPF should not replace dedicated sunscreen. Choose products that complement one another and suit your itinerary rather than packing several items with similar functions.

Leave-In Conditioner or Hair Serum

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Your haircare needs may change depending on your destination, hair texture and styling routine. A leave-in conditioner can help soften hair and make detangling easier, while a hair serum may help smooth frizz and add shine.

You don’t necessarily need both. Choose the product that addresses your hair’s main needs, and if you’re travelling with heat-styling tools, check that your chosen product specifically offers heat protection.

Sunscreen, moisturiser, a gentle cleanser, multipurpose makeup and a suitable haircare product provide a practical starting point for your travel beauty bag. Choose products that suit your skin, hair and destination, and pack only what you expect to use.

Billie Eilish has traded her shoulder-length strawberry-blonde hair for a shorter, choppy bob. The singer revealed the cut in an Instagram video on October 22, showing off a chin-length style with textured ends and a light auburn shade.

In the video, Eilish sits in a car, smiling as she turns her head from side to side to show the haircut from different angles. She set the clip to Pavement’s 1994 song “Cut Your Hair” and captioned the post with a kissing-face emoji.

Photo: Instagram/@Billie Eilish

The new cut follows an earlier hair transformation she shared on October 5, when she posted photos of herself with a shoulder-length bob in a strawberry-blonde shade. The latest version is shorter, with uneven ends that fall around her chin.

Eilish has changed her hair color several times throughout her career. She became known for her black hair with neon-green roots before debuting platinum blonde hair in 2021, ahead of the release of her album Happier Than Ever. She has since worn darker shades and auburn tones, making the current look another shift from her signature styles.

Photo: Instagram/@Billie Eilish

The singer has also been working on her feature-film acting debut in The Bell Jar, an adaptation of Sylvia Plath’s 1963 novel directed by Sarah Polley. Eilish plays Esther Greenwood in the upcoming film. She was photographed with auburn hair while filming in Toronto earlier this year.

For now, Eilish’s latest Instagram post puts the focus on a shorter cut and a warmer hair color, adding another look to her history of experimenting with different styles.