Unveiling the Best Natural Hair Serum for Healthy Tresses [August, 2024]

Smooth, shiny, frizz-free hair is what we all aspire for. But achieving that perfect hair can be difficult with all the styling, heating, and environmental damage that hair goes through regularly. This is where a good hair serum comes in.

Hair serums are gel-based hair products that can help nourish, repair, and protect your hair. They contain various oils, nutrients, and ingredients that can deeply condition hair and make it look smoother, softer and shinier. Natural hair serums in particular use plant-based ingredients to achieve these benefits without harsh chemicals.

With so many options available, choosing the best natural hair serum for your specific hair needs can be confusing. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find your perfect match.

How to Choose the Best Natural Hair Serum

With a wide variety of natural hair serums in the market, keep these key factors in mind when picking one:

1. Hair Type and Concerns

• Dry and damaged hair: Look for serums with nourishing oils like argan, olive, almond, etc. along with repairing ingredients like keratin, shea butter, etc.
• Frizzy and dull hair: Serums containing oils like argan, coconut, marula, etc. along with anti-humectants help tame frizz and add shine.
• Thin and limp hair: Choose lightweight serums with proteins and volumizing ingredients to add body and bounce.
• Chemically treated hair: Opt for serums with repairing oils like argan, macadamia, etc. along with damage reversal components.
• Oily hair and scalp: Use serums that control excess sebum production. Avoid mineral oils.

2. Ingredients

Ensure the serum contains natural, hair-healthy components like:

• Essential oils – Argan, jojoba, olive, almond, coconut, etc. for moisturizing hair.
• Carrier oils – Coconut, grapeseed, sweet almond, etc. to dilute and enhance absorption of essential oils.
• Extracts and vitamins – Aloe vera, green tea, biotin, etc. to strengthen and protect hair.
• Antioxidants – Vitamin E, polyphenols, etc. to minimize oxidative damage.
• Natural proteins – Silk amino acids, wheat protein, etc. to reinforce hair structure.
• Plant butters – Shea, cocoa, mango seed, etc. to condition and soften hair.

Avoid ingredients like sulfates, parabens, silicones, mineral oils, phthalates, etc. that can do more harm than good.

3. Hair Growth Formulas

Look for these proven hair-boosting ingredients if you want to combat hair loss and thinning:

• Redensyl – Helps improve hair density and growth.
• Procapil – Reduces hair fall by supporting follicles.
• Baicapil – Stimulates dormant follicles to grow new hair.
• Biotin – Essential vitamin to strengthen hair strands.
• Pea sprouts – Contains vital amino acids, proteins and molybdenum.
• Pumpkin seed oil – Rich in zinc, iron, vitamins A and E to nourish hair.

4. Texture and Finish

Consider the texture and finish you want from the serum:

• Greasy serums provide intense hydration but can look oily.
• Water-based serums get absorbed quickly without residue. Better for oily scalps.
• Leave-in serums are lighter and can be kept in hair. Rinse-out serums require washing after application.
• Glossy finish makes hair look sleek and shiny. Good for straightened styles.
• Matte finish leaves no greasy residue. Ideal for volumized hairstyles.

5. Fragrance

Check if the serum is scented or fragrance-free based on personal preference. Avoid serums with synthetic fragrances.

6. Packaging

Look for serums in air-tight pump bottles or tubes to prevent oxidation and contamination. Dark amber bottles help block UV rays.

7. Brand Reputation

Choose reputed brands with positive customer reviews and transparency about ingredients used.

8. Budget

Natural hair serums can range anywhere between ₹100 to ₹2000 based on the ingredients, formulation, brand, quantity etc. Set a budget and look for value for money.

The Top 9 Best Natural Hair Serum

After extensive research, testing and reviews, here are the top 10 best natural hair serum currently available in India:

1. Pilgrim Argan Hair Serum

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Key features:

• Contains Moroccan argan oil, almond oil, jojoba oil
• Deeply conditions, repairs damage
• Controls frizz for up to 24 hours
• Lightweight non-greasy formula
• Suitable for all hair types

One of the most popular argan hair serums, the Pilgrim Argan Hair Serum is designed to tame frizz and condition dry, damaged hair. The combination of argan, almond and jojoba oils deeply nourishes hair making it softer, smoother and more manageable. It adds shine without leaving hair oily or weighed down. The serum controls frizz for 24 hours even in humidity. Users report visible improvements in hair texture with continued use. It is light enough for all hair types and safe for color treated hair too. An affordable option for daily frizz control and nourishment and our top pick for Best Natural Hair Serum.

2. Livon Serum

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Key features:

• Enriched with argan oil & almond oil
• Fights frizz and flyaways
• Protects against heat damage
• Adds smoothness and shine
• Safe for color treated hair

This bestselling hair serum from Livon has a cult following for its ability to tame the most stubborn frizz. Enriched with argan oil and almond oil, it nourishes each hair strand and forms a protective layer to shield against humidity and heat styling. The oil composition is perfectly balanced to condition hair without weighing it down. It also contains vitamin E to prevent oxidative damage. Users report noticeably smooth, shiny hair with reduced flyaways and frizz even in high humidity after regular use. It works well on straight and curly hair textures leaving them touchably soft. A budget-friendly Best Natural Hair Serum for daily anti-frizz care.

3. WOW Skin Science Onion Hair Serum

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Key features:

• Contains red onion seed oil, jojoba oil, castor oil
• Boosts new hair growth
• Minimizes hair loss and thinning
• Adds strength & shine
• Sulphate-free, silicone-free

This hair serum from WOW Skin Science is powered by the goodness of red onion seed oil, black seed oil, jojoba oil and castor oil to deliver multiple benefits. The natural proteins and antioxidants boost hair growth, reduce breakage and minimize thinning over time. It strengthens weak, damaged hair and nourishes it deeply to make it shinier and voluminous. The serum is quickly absorbed and suitable for all hair types. It does not contain sulphates, parabens, silicones, mineral oils or carcinogens. Users report significant reduction in hair fall and improvement in volume and texture with patient, regular usage. A good value for money Natural Hair Serum.

4. Mamaearth Onion Hair Serum

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Key features:

• Contains onion oil, onion juice, biotin
• Reduces hair fall and boosts regrowth
• Makes hair silkier and smoother
• Suitable for men and women
• Paraben-free, mineral oil-free

Mamaearth’s onion hair serum is enriched with the strength of onions to control hair fall and promote hair growth. Onion oil, onion juice and biotin work together to nourish follicles, reduce breakage and improve hair health. It adds shine and silkiness to make hair appear naturally smooth, soft and frizz-free. The mild onion scent disappears after application. This serum helps strengthen hair and improves volume and thickness when used regularly. It is light, non-greasy and works well on both men and women with any hair type. A budget hair serum with all-natural ingredients.

5. Biotique Mountain Ebony Hair Serum

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Key features:

• Contains bhringraj oil, japya khus, jatamansi
• Prevents hair loss, premature greying
• Nourishes and strengthens hair
• Soothes irritated scalp
• 100% botanical formulation

This ayurvedic hair serum from Biotique is infused with the goodness of bhringraj, known as the ‘ruler of hair’ in Ayurveda. It helps prevent hair loss, greying and thinning when used regularly. The bhringraj oil combines with herbs like jatamansi, japya and khus to deliver deep nourishment to roots, improve scalp health and strengthen strands from within. It soothes irritation and inflammation that can cause dandruff and hair fall when massaged on scalp. The light serum absorbs well without greasy residue. Users report renewed hair growth, reduced greying and manageable, conditioned hair with regular use. A safe, herbal serum for hair rejuvenation.

6. Khadi Natural Hair Serum

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Key features:

• Enriched with 18 herbs and essential oils
• Reduces hair loss and boosts volume
• Adds natural shine and smoothness
• Prevents dandruff and dryness
• Free of parabens and mineral oils

This herbal hair serum from Khadi Natural combines the power of 18 herbs and essential oils to deliver multiple hair benefits. It helps reduce hair fall by strengthening follicles and increasing blood circulation to the scalp. With regular use, it boosts hair volume and density. The oils add smoothness, shine and silkiness to hair making it bouncy and frizz-free. It also prevents dandruff and dryness while soothing an itchy, irritated scalp. The serum is lightweight and non-greasy. Users really like its fresh botanical fragrance. It does not contain mineral oils, parabens or other harsh chemicals. An effective, budget-friendly herbal serum for hair loss and conditioning.

7. St. Botanica Moroccan Argan Hair Serum

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Key features:

• Cold-pressed organic Moroccan argan oil
• Vitamin E, fatty acids and antioxidants
• Boosts hair growth and minimizes loss
• Conditions, softens and adds shine
• Lightweight, non-greasy

The St. Botanica Moroccan Argan Hair Serum is enriched with the benefits of 100% pure, cold-pressed argan oil. Grown organically in Morocco, argan oil is packed with vitamin E, fatty acids and potent antioxidants. It nourishes hair, reducing dryness, frizz and split ends. With regular usage, this serum boosts hair growth, minimizes shedding and treats hair loss. It makes hair silkier, smoother and shinier without leaving any oily residue. The subtle, fresh fragrance makes it pleasant to use. It works as a heat protectant as well. Users find it hydrates their hair well and the results get better with prolonged use. A top-quality argan oil serum for hair growth and deep conditioning.

8. Indulekha Bhringa Hair Serum

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Key features:

• Contains bhringraj oil and extracts
• Prevents hair fall and split ends
• Promotes new hair growth
• Reduces dandruff and itchy scalp
• Ayurvedic proprietary formula

This ayurvedic hair growth serum from Indulekha is formulated with the natural goodness of bhringraj oil and extracts. Bhringraj is renowned in Ayurveda for its ability to prevent hair loss, boost density and promote new hair growth. This serum penetrates the scalp to nourish hair follicles, reduce inflammation and treat conditions like dandruff that can cause shedding. With regular use, it controls hair fall, boosts volume and improves scalp health. Users report significant reduction in hair loss and improvement in hair quality and texture within 2-3 months of use. It suits all hair types and both genders. A little goes a long way with this concentrated serum. An effective ayurvedic option for hair regrowth.

9. Kesh King Ayurvedic Medicinal Hair Oil

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Key features:

• Proprietary ayurvedic formula
• 21 natural herbs and oils
• Reduces hair fall and stimulates growth
• Prevents dandruff and greying
• Safe for men, women and children

Kesh King ayurvedic hair oil has gained popularity for its ability to control hair fall, boost volume and improve scalp health. It is enriched with a combination of 21 natural herbs, essential oils and nutrients tailored to promote hair growth as per Ayurveda. Key ingredients like bhringraj, amla, gunja and kapur kachri work together to nourish the roots, treat inflammation and reduce thinning. The oil has a pleasant herbal fragrance and gets absorbed well by the scalp. With regular massage, it helps strengthen hair, prevent greying and treat dandruff. Users recommend continued usage for at least 3-4 months to see significant improvement in hair growth, texture and manageability. A good Ayurvedic hair oil serum for men and women of all ages.

Types of Natural Hair Serums

There are a few common types of natural hair serums on the market:

1. Shine Enhancing Serums

These contain oils and silicones to smooth down the hair cuticle and impart glossiness. Great for taming frizz and flyaways. Best for daily use.

Key ingredients: Argan oil, marula oil, dimethicone, etc.

Brand examples: Livon, L’Oreal Paris, The Moms Co.

2. Repairing Serums

Formulated with proteins, ceramides and polymers, these fill gaps in damaged hair and reinforce hair structure. Ideal for chemically treated hair.

Key ingredients: Hydrolyzed keratin, silk amino acids, shea butter etc.

Brand examples: Schwarzkopf, Bare Anatomy, Olaplex.

3. Anti-Frizz Serums

They contain emollients that condition hair and humectants that lock in moisture to control frizz. Great for humidity prone hair.

Key ingredients: Silicones, panthenol, glycerin, marula oil etc.

Brand examples: Tresemme, Biolage, John Frieda.

4. Volumizing Serums

These contain thickening polymers and proteins that coat hair to add body and bounce. Recommended for limp, flat hair.

Key ingredients: Hydrolyzed wheat protein, collagen, silk powder etc.

Brand examples: Bblunt, Schwarzkopf, Matrix Biolage.

5. Hair Growth Serums

Formulated with hair growth boosters like redensyl, procapil, biotin, pumpkin seed oil etc., these serums improve follicle health to reduce hair fall and boost density.

Key ingredients: Redensyl, procapil, biotin, argan oil, saw palmetto etc.

Brand examples: Pilgrim, WOW Skin Science, Traya.

How to Use a Hair Serum

Using a hair serum correctly is key to getting optimal results. Follow these steps:

• Wash and condition your hair as usual. Blot excess water with a towel. Do not rub wet hair vigorously.
• Take a small dollop of serum in your palm and rub your palms together.
• Start applying serum onto mid-lengths and ends of damp, not soaking wet hair. Avoid the roots.
• Comb serum through hair evenly focusing on damaged areas.
• Style hair as desired. Use a blowdryer on low heat setting if required.
• Use a serum once or twice a week for regular maintenance. Damaged hair may need more frequent application.
• Wash out serum thoroughly with a gentle shampoo after 1-2 days. Do not layer serum on unwashed hair.
• Store serum in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Close the bottle tightly after use.

Hair Serum Care and Maintenance Tips

• Patch test serum on a small hair section before first use to test for allergies.
• Rotate between different serums to ensure hair gets a variety of nutrients.
• Use serum sparingly. Overuse can leave hair looking greasy and limp.
• Apply serum on damp, not wet hair. Avoid roots to prevent excess oiliness.
• Wash out serum thoroughly before next use. Don’t layer it without washing hair.
• Use a clarifying shampoo once a week if hair starts feeling heavy due to product buildup.
• Look for serums with air-restrictive pumps and store in cool, dark places to prevent oxidation.
• Avoid applying serum to scalp if you have an oily scalp or dandruff problem.
• Discontinue use if serum causes irritation, itchiness, or scalp acne.

Comparison for Best Natural Hair Serum

FAQs about Best Natural Hair Serum

Q. How is a hair serum different from hair oil?

A. Hair serums have a lightweight gel-like consistency and are designed to be applied to damp hair before styling. Oils are thicker, penetrate hair more deeply and can be used for overnight treatments. Serums coat hair strands while oils nourish within.

Q. When should you apply hair serum – before or after styling?

A. For best results, apply serum to clean, damp hair before blow drying or styling. Serum helps protect hair from heat damage during styling. Applying it after styling can make hair look greasy.

Q. Can you use a hair serum everyday?

A. Hair experts recommend using a serum once or twice a week for smoothening and frizz control. Those specifically for repair or growth can be used 3-4 times a week. Avoid daily use as it can lead to oiliness and buildup.

Q. Does hair serum help with hair growth?

A. Serums formulated with hair growth boosters like redensyl, procapil, biotin, pumpkin seed oil etc. can improve follicle health, reduce hair fall and boost growth when used over time. They need to be applied regularly for a few months to see results.

Q. Does hair become dependent on serum?

A. No, hair does not become dependent or addicted to serums with regular use. However, some users may notice increased frizz initially when they stop using a serum their hair got used to. The hair will adjust within a few washes.

Q. What is the best natural hair serum?

The best natural hair serum contains beneficial plant oils, nutrients, and extracts that can help nourish, repair, and protect hair. Top-rated options include argan oil serums like Pilgrim or St. Botanica Moroccan argan hair serum, as well as hair growth serums containing hair-boosting ingredients like redensyl, procapil, biotin etc. When choosing the best natural hair serum, consider your hair type and concerns.

Q. How to use the best natural hair serum at home?

To use a natural hair serum at home, apply it to clean, damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends while avoiding the roots. Take a small amount of serum in your palms, rub hands together and distribute it evenly through strands. Let hair air dry or blow dry on low heat. Use once or twice a week for maintenance. Store serum properly in a cool, dry place.

Q. Which is the best natural hair serum for frizzy hair?

For frizzy hair, look for natural hair serums containing oils like argan, marula, almond etc. and humectants like panthenol or glycerin to control frizz. Good options include Livon Serum, Pilgrim Argan Hair Serum, St. Botanica Moroccan Argan Serum or The Moms Co Natural Hair Serum which can help smooth flyaways and condition hair.

Q. What is the best natural hair serum for hair growth?

For optimal hair growth, choose a natural serum containing proven hair-boosting ingredients like redensyl, procapil, biotin, saw palmetto etc. These can improve follicle health, nourish the scalp and stimulate growth. Some good options are Minimalist Hair Growth Serum, WOW Skin Science Onion Hair Serum or Traya Hair Growth Serum.

Q. Is natural serum good for hair?

Yes, natural hair serums containing plant oils, vitamins, proteins etc. are good for hair as they can nourish strands, reduce damage, protect from environmental aggressors and leave hair softer, smoother and shinier. They are gentler than synthetic serums. However, not all natural serums suit every hair type.

Q. Which Ayurvedic serum is best for hair?

Some top Ayurvedic hair serums for growth and thickness include Indulekha Bhringa Hair Serum containing bhringraj, Kesh King Ayurvedic Medicinal Hair Oil with 21 herbs, and Biotique Bio Bhringraj with bhringraj and jatamansi. These minimize hair fall and boost growth by nourishing follicles as per Ayurveda.

So those are the top 10 best performing natural hair serums available in India currently! Each has its own blend of premium plant-based ingredients to deliver healthy, beautiful hair. Analyze your specific hair goals and concerns, and match them with the right product from this list for the best results. Natural hair serums require patience and consistency, but can transform your hair’s health and appearance with dedicated use over time. Ready to find your perfect hair hero yet?