What to Know About Using Apple Seed Oil for Hair Growth, According to Experts

Ever imagined that something as simple as an apple could revolutionize your hair care routine? Good news, it can! Apple seed oil, derived from the seeds of apples, is packed with potent benefits that can breathe new life into your hair, from root to tip. "Apple seed oil is rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants and loaded with vitamins A and E, which help nourish the scalp, maintain hair health, and even prevent hair loss," says TerraRose Puncerelli, a Hairapy hair care ambassador. These nutrients not only help to moisturize the hair but also strengthen and protect strands from environmental stressors that can lead to damage.

If you’re battling common hair issues such as frizz, dryness, or dullness, this powerhouse oil could be your new go-to solution for smooth, shiny, and healthy locks. Read on to find out more about apple seed oil for hair.

Meet Our Expert

Valery Joseph, celebrity hairstylist and founder of Valery Joseph Haircare and Salons.

TerraRose Puncerelli, celebrity hairstylist and Hairapy Haircare Ambassador.

Benefits of Apple Seed Oil

Promotes Hair Growth

“Apple seed oil is rich in nutrients like B-2 and biotin, a key vitamin that helps the body produce keratin—the protein essential for healthy, strong hair,” explains Valery Joseph of Valery Joseph Haircare and Salons. These powerful nutrients boost blood circulation to the scalp, fortify hair strands, and reduce breakage, ultimately minimizing hair loss. Additionally, apple seed oil’s deep moisturizing properties help combat dryness, further preventing breakage and promoting overall hair health and length retention.

Deep Moisture

Apple seed oil is a powerhouse when it comes to its moisturizing benefits, thanks to its rich composition of essential fatty acids and vitamins. The oil is particularly high in oleic acid and linoleic acid, which are renowned for their ability to deeply nourish, our experts explain. These fatty acids help to lock in moisture, keeping your hair hydrated and preventing dryness.

Strengthens Hair

Packed with vitamins A, E, and biotin, apple seed oil fortifies hair follicles, reducing breakage and making hair stronger and healthier. “I often advise my clients to use apple seed oil as a treatment twice a week before wash day. Applying the oil to the roots and hair shaft at night and giving the hair a good wash in the morning is sure to bring your hair back to life,” says Puncerelli.

Improves Shine and Texture

Apple seed oil's ability to penetrate the hair shaft ensures that the nourishment reaches the core, providing deep conditioning and enhancing the natural shine and vitality of your hair. Whether you're dealing with frizz, split ends, or just looking to boost your hair hydration, our experts explain that apple seed oil can be a game-changer.

Lightweight Formula

“Unlike heavier oils, apple seed oil is lightweight and non-comedogenic, meaning it’s not going to clog your hair follicle and cause buildup,” explains Puncerelli.

Reduces Frizz and Split Ends

Appleseed oil helps tame frizz and smooth split ends, promoting healthier-looking hair.

How to Incorporate Apple Seed Oil Into Your Hair-Care Routine

Pre-shampoo Treatment

“I would recommend mixing apple seed oil with some coconut or olive oil and massaging it into your scalp; leave it on for 20-30 minutes,” says Joseph. Rinse thoroughly, then wash with shampoo to deeply moisturize and nourish your hair.

Leave-in Conditioner

After washing your hair, apply a small amount of apple seed oil to damp hair, concentrating on the mid-lengths and ends. This helps lock in moisture, adds shine, and reduces frizz.

Scalp Massage

Use a few drops of apple seed oil to gently massage your scalp. This can improve circulation, nourish the follicles, and potentially promote healthier hair growth. “Massaging apple seed oil into the scalp is going to be the most effective delivery method,” says Puncerelli. “If it works out with your wash schedule, I recommend applying the oil the night before and letting it soak in your hair for at least 8 hours. In the morning, rinse out the oil well and shampoo your hair.”

Frizz Control

Use a tiny amount of apple seed oil on dry hair to smooth flyaways and tame frizz. The oil adds a natural sheen without weighing the hair down.

Hair Mask

For an extra dose of hydration and nourishment, try mixing apple seed oil into your favorite hair mask or deep conditioner. Whether you're using a store-bought product or making a DIY hair treatment, this simple addition can enhance the moisturizing properties. The oil’s rich fatty acids and vitamins work in tandem with your mask or conditioner to deeply penetrate the hair shaft, providing intense nourishment, locking in moisture, and restoring vitality to dry, damaged, or frizzy hair.

Hair Type Considerations

“Apple seed oil is versatile and works well with most hair types,” says Joseph. “For those with coarse, frizzy, or dry hair, it can make strands noticeably softer, smoother, and more lustrous. Additionally, individuals with a dry scalp may experience significant improvements in scalp health.”

Risks and Safety Tips

Our experts recommend conducting a patch test on your scalp before fully incorporating apple seed oil into your hair-care routine. "If you have allergies or sensitivities to tree oils, I suggest avoiding apple seed oil altogether,” advises Joseph.

How Often Should You Use Apple Seed Oil?

"Be careful not to oversaturate your hair," says Joseph. "Oils, especially when applied to the scalp, should be used sparingly—about 2-3 times a week." Puncerelli adds that overusing apple seed oil can cause buildup, which may weigh your hair down and leave it feeling heavy.