If your hair looks dry, frizzy, dull or rough even after shampooing and conditioning, the problem may not be that you need more products. You may simply need the right hair oil for your hair type.
The four products shown in the pin take different approaches to the same everyday problem. L’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair 10 in 1 Oil is designed around damaged hair and multiple styling benefits. OLAPLEX No.7 Bonding Oil focuses on shine, softness, frizz control and heat protection. Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil is especially interesting for medium to thick hair that needs softness and shine. Kérastase Elixir Ultime is a versatile option for smoothing, shine and styling.
Instead of buying a hair oil just because the bottle looks luxurious, I would choose based on your hair texture, how much product your hair can handle and what you actually want to fix.
Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through a link, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
My Picks at a Glance
Here is how I would match the products in the pin with different hair needs.
For straight hair: L’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair 10 in 1 Oil is worth considering when dryness, roughness and styling damage are the main problems. The brand recommends one to two pumps for fine to medium hair and two to four pumps for medium to thick hair. (L’Oréal Professionnel)
Check L’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair Oil on Amazon
For wavy hair: OLAPLEX No.7 Bonding Oil is a useful choice when your waves become frizzy or lose their shine. It can be used on damp or dry hair and provides heat protection up to 450°F. (OLAPLEX Inc.)
Check OLAPLEX No.7 Bonding Oil on Amazon
For curly hair: Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil is a good match when curls need extra softness, nourishment and shine. Gisou currently describes the Honey Infused Hair Oil as particularly suited to medium to thick hair. (Gisou EU)
Check Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil on Amazon
For Afro and coily hair: Kérastase Elixir Ultime can be useful when thicker hair needs smoothing and shine without using a large amount of oil. Kérastase says the oil can be used on all hair types and adjusted according to hair length and thickness. (Kérastase)
Check Kérastase Elixir Ultime on Amazon
Quick Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Main Reason to Buy | How Much to Start With | Heat Protection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| L’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair Oil | Straight and damaged hair | Softness, shine, detangling and damage care | 1 to 2 pumps for fine to medium hair | Up to 450°F according to brand information |
| OLAPLEX No.7 Bonding Oil | Wavy and frizzy hair | Shine, frizz control and styling protection | 2 to 3 drops | Up to 450°F |
| Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil | Curly and medium to thick hair | Softness, nourishment and shine | Start with a small amount and build | Follow current product directions |
| Kérastase Elixir Ultime | Thick, curly and coily hair | Smoothing, shine and flexible styling | 1 to 2 pumps for finishing | Up to 450°F |
The amount you need can vary considerably. Fine hair can become greasy from too much oil, while thick or very textured hair may need more product to spread through the lengths.
Why Your Hair May Still Look Dry After Conditioning
I often see the same hair care mistake. Someone uses a good shampoo, follows it with conditioner, dries the hair and then wonders why the ends still look rough.
Conditioner and hair oil do not do exactly the same job.
A hair oil can be useful as a finishing step because it can make the hair feel smoother and give the surface more shine. It can also help control the appearance of flyaways and frizz.
This becomes especially useful if you use a blow dryer, flat iron or curling tool. OLAPLEX No.7 and Kérastase Elixir Ultime both specifically provide heat protection according to their current product information. (OLAPLEX Inc.)
The important part is not to pour oil onto the hair and hope for a miracle. A small amount distributed through the lengths and ends usually makes more sense.
L’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair 10 in 1 Oil Review
Check L’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair Oil on Amazon
Best for straight hair, dry hair and hair that feels damaged from regular styling.
What makes this one different is that it is not positioned as only a shine oil. L’Oréal Professionnel describes it as a lightweight multipurpose oil with benefits that include nourishment, softness, detangling, manageability, shine and protection. The current US product page also gives specific dosing based on hair thickness. (L’Oréal Professionnel)
If your straight hair tends to look polished at the roots but dry and rough at the ends, this type of multipurpose formula makes sense because you can use it as part of styling rather than adding another complicated treatment to your routine.
Why You Need It
You may want this one if your hair:
• Feels rough after washing
• Looks dull at the ends
• Gets tangled easily
• Feels dry after blow drying
• Needs more shine without a heavy routine
Pros
• Lightweight feel according to the brand
• Helps soften and detangle hair
• Adds shine
• Designed for damaged hair
• Can be used as a leave in treatment
• Offers heat protection up to 450°F according to L’Oréal Professionnel’s US product information (L’Oréal Professionnel)
Cons
• Fine hair can look oily if too much is applied
• The formula contains silicones and fragrance
• It may be more product than you need if your hair is already healthy and naturally smooth
My Take
This is the type of oil I would look at first when the main problem is dry, damaged and difficult to manage straight hair rather than simply wanting extra shine.
OLAPLEX No.7 Bonding Oil Review
Check OLAPLEX No.7 Bonding Oil on Amazon
Best For
Best for wavy hair, frizz control and people who use heat styling tools.
This is one of those products where a little really does matter. OLAPLEX recommends applying just two to three drops to damp or dry hair. The product can be used daily, before heat styling or after styling for extra shine and smoothness. (OLAPLEX Inc.)
The current formula is described by OLAPLEX as a concentrated, lightweight styling oil. It also provides heat protection up to 450°F and is designed to tame frizz and flyaways. (OLAPLEX Inc.)
Why You Need It
I would consider this if your waves:
• Become fluffy after drying
• Lose definition because of frizz
• Look dull
• Need protection before heat styling
• Feel rough at the ends
OLAPLEX also reports its own testing results for shine, frizz control and breakage. Those are brand reported results rather than a guarantee for every person, so I would treat them as product testing information rather than a promise. (OLAPLEX Inc.)
Pros
• Very concentrated
• Only a few drops are needed
• Works on wet, damp or dry hair
• Heat protection up to 450°F
• Helps control frizz and flyaways
• Suitable for all hair types according to the brand (OLAPLEX Inc.)
Cons
• Small bottle size means you need to be careful with usage
• Too much can make fine waves look flat
• Contains silicones
• Higher price than many basic drugstore hair oils
My Take
For wavy hair, the biggest advantage is control. You do not need to soak your hair in oil. A few drops through the lengths and ends can give the hair a smoother finish while keeping the routine simple.
Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil Review
Check Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil on Amazon
Best For
Best for curly hair, medium to thick hair and anyone who wants softness with a glossy finish.
Gisou’s current information describes the Honey Infused Hair Oil as an oil designed to leave hair looking shinier, smoother and softer. The brand specifically positions this version for medium to thick hair. (Gisou EU)
The formula is associated with Mirsalehi Honey, and Gisou says the oil contains a blend including honey, coconut oil, almond oil and argan oil.
Why You Need It
Curly hair often needs a different approach from straight hair. The same amount of oil that works beautifully on thick curls can make fine hair look heavy.
This is why I like the idea of choosing the oil based on density rather than simply buying whatever is trending.
It can be useful when your curls need:
• More shine
• Softer feeling ends
• Better looking definition
• Less visible frizz
• Extra nourishment between wash days
Pros
• Particularly suited to medium to thick hair according to Gisou (Gisou EU)
• Gives hair a glossy finish
• Useful for dry looking curls
• Contains honey and several plant oils
• Can work as a finishing product
Cons
• May feel too rich for very fine hair
• Fragrance may not suit everyone
• A little product can go a long way
• Current Amazon availability and seller information can change
My Take
If your curls are thick and tend to look dry rather than greasy, this is the kind of hair oil I would consider when you want a softer, more polished finish.
Kérastase Elixir Ultime Review
Check Kérastase Elixir Ultime on Amazon
Best For
Best for thick, curly and coily hair that needs smoothing and shine.
Kérastase describes Elixir Ultime as suitable for all hair types and says the amount should be adjusted according to hair length and thickness. The current formula is designed to smooth frizz and flyaways, strengthen hair and provide heat protection up to 450°F. (Kérastase)
One thing I like about this product is its flexibility. It can be used as a finishing oil, before heat styling, as a mask enhancer and, according to Kérastase, as a pre cleansing treatment. (Kérastase)
Why You Need It
Consider it if your hair:
• Is thick or very textured
• Looks dry after styling
• Has frizz around the crown and ends
• Needs more shine
• Needs protection before heat styling
• Needs a product that can fit into several parts of a routine
Pros
• Suitable for all hair types according to Kérastase
• Multiple ways to use it
• Heat protection up to 450°F
• Helps control frizz and flyaways
• Designed to provide shine and softness (Kérastase)
Cons
• Premium price
• Easy to overapply on fine hair
• Strong fragrance may not be preferred by everyone
• The best amount depends heavily on hair density and length
My Take
For thick or highly textured hair, I like the flexibility here. You can start with a small amount and add more instead of putting a large amount on your hair all at once.
How to Choose the Right Size
When buying hair oil, bottle size is not the only thing to consider. Concentration matters too.
For example, OLAPLEX No.7 is highly concentrated and the brand recommends only two to three drops per application. It is currently offered in 30 ml and 60 ml sizes on the brand’s US website. (OLAPLEX Inc.)
Use this simple guide:
Fine or short hair: Choose a smaller bottle first. You will probably use less product each time.
Medium length hair: A medium size usually makes sense if you plan to use oil several times a week.
Long or thick hair: A larger bottle can be more practical because you may need more product per application.
Very dry or textured hair: Look at the recommended amount instead of judging the bottle size alone.
The goal is not to use as much as possible. The goal is to find the smallest amount that makes your hair feel and look better.
How to Use Hair Oil Step by Step
Step 1: Start With Clean Hair
Wash and condition your hair as usual. Gently remove excess water with a towel.
Step 2: Start With a Small Amount
This is the most important part.
For OLAPLEX No.7, the official directions recommend two to three drops. For L’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair, the current US directions recommend one to two pumps for fine to medium hair and two to four pumps for medium to thick hair. (OLAPLEX Inc.)
Step 3: Warm the Product
If your oil is designed to be warmed in your hands, spread it between your palms before applying. L’Oréal Professionnel specifically recommends warming its oil in the palms. (L’Oréal Professionnel)
Step 4: Apply From the Mid Lengths
Do not immediately put a large amount at the roots.
Start around the middle of the hair and work toward the ends.
Step 5: Concentrate on the Ends
The ends are usually where dryness and roughness are most noticeable.
Step 6: Comb or Brush Gently
If your hair is damp, distribute the product gently through the lengths.
Step 7: Style Your Hair
You can blow dry or style your hair if the specific product provides the heat protection you need. OLAPLEX No.7 and Kérastase Elixir Ultime both state heat protection up to 450°F. (OLAPLEX Inc.)
Step 8: Add a Tiny Amount After Styling
If your hair still looks frizzy, use a very small amount on the ends and flyaways.
Do not keep adding oil until the hair looks wet. That usually means you have gone too far.
Quick Buying Guide
Before buying, ask yourself these five questions.
1. Is my hair fine or thick?
Fine hair generally needs less oil. Thick hair can usually handle more.
2. Is my main problem damage or frizz?
For damaged hair, L’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair is worth considering.
For frizz and heat styling, OLAPLEX No.7 or Kérastase Elixir Ultime may fit better.
3. Do I have waves or curls?
Choose a formula and amount that will smooth the hair without flattening your natural texture.
4. Do I use heat?
If you regularly use a blow dryer, flat iron or curling iron, look specifically for a product with a stated heat protection claim.
5. Do I need shine or softness?
Almost every hair oil can make hair look shinier, but the right choice depends on how much moisture and weight your hair can handle.
Which Hair Oil Should You Buy for Your Hair Type
Straight hair: Start with L’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair 10 in 1 Oil if dryness, roughness and styling damage are your main concerns.
Wavy hair: Consider OLAPLEX No.7 Bonding Oil if frizz, flyaways and heat styling are part of your routine.
Curly hair: Consider Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil if you have medium to thick curls and want softness and shine.
Afro or coily hair: Consider Kérastase Elixir Ultime if you want a versatile oil for smoothing, shine and styling.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
| Product | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| L’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair | Multipurpose, softens, detangles, adds shine, designed for damaged hair | Can be too much for fine hair, contains fragrance and silicones |
| OLAPLEX No.7 | Concentrated, lightweight, frizz control, heat protection, works wet or dry | Easy to overapply, premium price |
| Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil | Great for medium to thick hair, softness, shine, nourishing oil blend | May feel rich on fine hair, fragrance may not suit everyone |
| Kérastase Elixir Ultime | Versatile, shine, smoothing, heat protection, multiple uses | Premium price, can weigh down fine hair if overused |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using too much: More oil does not automatically mean healthier looking hair.
Putting it directly on the roots: Unless the product specifically calls for scalp or pre cleansing use, focus on the lengths and ends.
Using oil as a replacement for conditioner: Oil and conditioner have different roles in a hair routine.
Applying too much before heat styling: Follow the product’s directions and make sure the product actually provides the heat protection you need.
Ignoring hair thickness: Fine hair and thick hair should not automatically receive the same amount.
Expecting permanent repair: Hair oils can improve the appearance, feel and manageability of hair, but they should not be treated as a permanent solution for severe hair damage.
FAQs
Can I use hair oil every day?
Some hair oils can be used daily when you use the appropriate amount. OLAPLEX says No.7 can be used daily on wet and dry hair. (OLAPLEX Inc.)
Should I put hair oil on wet or dry hair?
It depends on the product. OLAPLEX No.7 can be used on damp or dry hair, while Kérastase Elixir Ultime can also be used on dry or towel dried hair. (OLAPLEX Inc.)
Can hair oil make fine hair greasy?
Yes. The problem is usually the amount. Start with a very small amount and keep it mostly on the lengths and ends.
Is OLAPLEX No.7 good for curly hair?
It can be used on all hair types and is specifically designed to help with frizz, flyaways, shine and softness. (OLAPLEX Inc.)
Is Kérastase Elixir Ultime good for thick hair?
Kérastase says the product is suitable for all hair types and recommends adjusting the amount according to hair length and thickness. (Kérastase)
How often should I use hair oil?
Start two or three times a week and see how your hair responds. If it still feels dry, you can increase usage. If it becomes heavy or greasy, reduce the amount.
Can I use hair oil before a flat iron?
Only rely on it for heat protection when the product specifically states that it provides heat protection at the temperature you are using. OLAPLEX No.7 and Kérastase Elixir Ultime both state protection up to 450°F. (OLAPLEX Inc.)
Final Recommendation
The biggest lesson from these four hair oils is that there is no reason to use the same product or the same amount on every head of hair.
For straight and damaged hair, look at L’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair.
For wavy hair with frizz and heat styling, OLAPLEX No.7 is a practical option because it is concentrated and designed to be used in very small amounts.
For medium to thick curly hair, Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil is worth considering when softness and shine are the main goals.
For thick, curly or coily hair, Kérastase Elixir Ultime gives you several ways to use an oil while focusing on smoothness, shine and styling.
The best results will usually come from starting small, applying the oil mainly to your lengths and ends, and adjusting the amount according to how your hair responds.
Check the current Amazon listings here:
L’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair Oil
Kérastase Elixir Ultime Hair Oil
Amazon availability, sellers, sizes and prices can change, so check the current listing before purchasing.