If you’re struggling with hair fall, thinning edges, or a stubborn patch where nothing grows no matter what, chances are you’ve already searched for everything from the best hair oil for hair growth to the best serum for hair growth and thickness. And somewhere in that midnight scroll, you’ve found yourself stuck in a very common question:
Should I use a serum or an oil?
It’s not a silly question. In fact, it’s one of the smartest ones to ask, because what works for your best friend with thick, curly hair may do nothing for your fine, frizzy strands. So instead of throwing money at random bottles, let’s break it down like we’re having a real chat over chai.
This guide is not generic advice. It’s a lifestyle-led, expert-backed, real-world take on what works, why it works, and how to make it work for your hair.
First Things First: Why Is Your Hair Falling?
Before we get into hair oils and hair serums, we need to figure out what’s actually happening on your scalp.
Hair fall can happen due to:
- Hormonal shifts (like PCOS, postpartum, thyroid)
- Stress (even good stress like planning a wedding!)
- Pollution and water quality (hello, hard water cities)
- Heat styling, chemical treatments, or tight hairstyles
- Poor nutrition (low iron, B12, or protein)
- Skipping oiling or scalp care for too long
In short, your scalp is either irritated, inflamed, or undernourished, and your follicles are too tired to grow.
Now, the fix isn’t just about choosing between hair oil and serum. It’s about picking what’s right for the current state of your hair and scalp.
Hair Oil: The OG Indian Hair Ritual That Still Works
Let’s start with the classics. Hair oil for hair growth isn’t a new thing. Your nani probably used it. And there’s a reason this ritual has stood the test of time.
What does hair oil actually do?
- It nourishes the scalp and roots.
- It improves blood circulation through massage.
- It adds moisture to dry, brittle hair.
- It protects the hair shaft from breakage.
- It soothes dandruff, inflammation, and itchiness.
If your hair is falling from the root, or your scalp feels dry, tight, or flaky, a nourishing hair growth oil is where you begin.
But what kind of oil?
The best hair oil for hair growth usually contains:
- Cold-pressed carrier oils like castor, coconut, sesame, or black seed oil.
- Essential oils like rosemary, lavender, tea tree, or peppermint, all clinically shown to stimulate circulation and boost follicle activity.
For example, Soulflower’s clinically tested Rosemary Lavender Hair Growth Oil uses a blend of rosemary and lavender oils in a base of nourishing plant oils. It’s designed to strengthen hair roots and reduce hair thinning.
How to use hair oil the right way
Warm 1–2 tablespoons of oil.
Massage gently into the scalp with your fingertips (not nails).
Leave it on for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible.
Wash off with a mild shampoo.
Use 2–3 times a week consistently for 2–3 months.
Oil is not just a product. It’s a practice. And it works when you make time for it.
Hair Serum: The New-Age Booster for Faster, Fuller Growth
Now, if hair oil is the nutrition your scalp needs, then hair growth serum is the smart supplement that targets hair loss from a more clinical angle.
Think of it like skincare for your scalp. Lightweight, non-greasy, and full of science-backed actives.
What does a hair serum do?
- Delivers powerful ingredients like Redensyl, Anagain, or caffeine directly to hair follicles.
- Targets dormant follicles and helps reactivate growth.
- Improves density, thickness, and scalp health over time.
- Can be used daily without needing to wash hair.
- Doesn’t feel sticky or heavy, even on fine or oily hair.
If you’re seeing visible thinning at the crown, receding hairline, or post-stress shedding, a serum for hair growth may be your game-changer.
What to look for in the best hair growth serum
- Redensyl: Promotes the hair growth cycle and reduces shedding.
- Anagain: Boosts hair density and extends the anagen (growth) phase.
- Biotin, peptides, niacinamide: Support scalp nourishment and hair fibre strength.
- Rosemary or caffeine: Stimulate the scalp naturally without irritation.
Soulflower’s Rosemary Redensyl Hair Growth Serum is a good example. It combines clinically proven Redensyl with rosemary oil, giving you the benefit of both actives and plant power in one bottle.
How to use a hair serum properly
Apply directly to clean, dry scalp using a dropper or nozzle.
Focus on thinning areas, part your hair and apply directly.
Massage gently to help absorption.
Use daily or every alternate day.
No need to rinse. Style as usual.
Consistency is key. Most people see visible results in 8 to 12 weeks when used regularly.
So Which One Is Better, Oil or Serum?
Here’s the honest truth: neither is better across the board.
It depends on your hair type, lifestyle, and how your scalp is behaving right now.
Let’s make it super clear with a breakdown.
| Situation | What You Should Use |
|---|---|
| Dry, itchy scalp | Hair oil |
| Oily scalp, fine hair | Serum |
| Chemically treated hair | Serum + occasional oil |
| Chronic dandruff | Anti-dandruff oil or tea tree oil-based blend |
| Postpartum hair loss | Serum with Redensyl |
| Breakage along strands | Oil to strengthen + serum for regrowth |
| Stress-related shedding | Calming oil with lavender + serum to stimulate growth |
| Lazy to oil hair often | Serum wins (because daily oiling may not be practical) |
Can You Use Both?
Yes. And in fact, that’s what many people do once they’ve figured out what their scalp likes.
Here’s how to do it right:
Use hair oil twice a week before your shampoo to strengthen roots and improve scalp nourishment.
Use hair serum daily after hair wash (or at night) on clean scalp to boost follicle health and regrowth.
But don’t use them together at the same time.
Oiling first, then applying serum right after, can block absorption. So give your scalp some breathing room.
Real Talk: What You Should Expect
This is where the lifestyle lens really matters. We’ve all seen “before-after” pictures on Instagram, but let’s set expectations based on biology, not just hope.
What won’t happen:
You won’t wake up with Rapunzel hair in 10 days.
Bald spots from years ago won’t magically fill up overnight.
One product won’t fix poor sleep, poor diet, and high cortisol.
What will happen (if you're consistent):
Reduced hair fall within 3–4 weeks.
Baby hair or regrowth in sparse areas within 2–3 months.
Thicker texture and more volume around 90 days in.
A calmer, more nourished scalp.
Stronger strands that break less.
Hair needs patience. But it also needs nourishment from the inside and outside. Oils and serums take care of the outside. You also need to support your body with hydration, clean food, scalp hygiene, and sleep.
Quick FAQ
Can I apply serum on oiled hair?
No. Always apply serum on clean, dry scalp for best absorption.
Can I leave hair oil in for 2–3 days?
Not recommended. It can attract dirt and clog follicles. Max: overnight or 8 hours.
Which is better for hair fall after smoothening?
Serum is better initially, especially ones with Redensyl or Anagain. Oils can come later for moisture.
Can men use these too?
Of course. Hair loss isn’t gendered. Both oils and serums work for men, especially when used early.
What about dandruff and hair fall together?
Start with a scalp balancing oil (like tea tree or rosemary blend). Follow up with a serum once the flakes are under control.
What Should You Pick?
Let’s simplify it:
If your hair feels weak and dry, but you’re not seeing bald patches, go with a nourishing oil.
If your hair looks visibly thin, or your scalp is starting to peek through, start with a powerful serum.
If you’ve already tried both, try combining, oil twice a week, serum daily.
And if you're still confused, ask your scalp. Is it craving moisture, or craving medicine?
Either way, both oil and serum are just tools. The magic is in how you use them.
Try the Soulflower Way
If you’re looking for a natural but clinically-backed option that truly respects your scalp and lifestyle, Soulflower has you covered.
- For those who love traditional oiling: try the Soulflower Rosemary Lavender Hair Growth Oil, packed with essential oils and herbs that your scalp will love.
- For science-meets-nature folks: go for the Soulflower Rosemary Redensyl Scalp Serum, light, non-sticky, and made to boost regrowth without any fuss.
Both are vegan, cruelty-free, free from silicones and parabens, and suitable for all Indian hair types.
Check out Soulflower’s full range and start your hair recovery journey with a product that fits your lifestyle.
Your best hair is just one good decision away.
