If you’ve ever stood in front of the hair care aisle wondering whether you need a hair oil or a hair serum… you’re not alone, bestie. They look similar, feel similar, and both promise smoother, healthier hair but they work very differently. Here’s your simple guide to what each one does, who they’re for, and how to choose the right one (plus some product picks you can grab right at Watsons!).
Hair Oil: The Deep Nourishment BFF
Hair oils are made from plant-based oils (argan, olive, coconut) that penetrate deep into the hair shaft to replenish lost moisture, strengthen the strands, and repair damage caused by colouring or heat styling. This helps to prevent breakage, smooths frizz, reduces split ends, and minimizes hair fall over time.
✨ If your hair is dry, frizzy, coarse, damaged or chemically treated, then give these a try!
- Naturals By Watsons Argan Repairing Hair Oil
- L’oreal Elseve Extraordinary Oil
- e’lioe 100% Organic Argan Oil
- Naturals By Watsons Olive Deep Moisturising Hair Oil
Hair Serum: Your Shine & Frizz Control BFF
If oils are the deep-conditioning treatment, serums are like your hair’s favourite Instagram filter—polished, smooth, and effortlessly sleek. They don’t soak in like oils but instead form a protective layer on the hair strands, adding shine, taming frizz, and protecting against heat damage. No more crispy ends, just glossy perfection!
✨ Purpose: Styling product for smooth and shiny hair
✨ Best for: Dry hair or split ends
✨ Benefits: Lightweight protection, smoothness, heat defence
✨ When to Apply: After washing and towel-drying
If hair oil nourishes from within, hair serum works on the surface of your hair. It forms a protective barrier over the hair cuticle to lock in moisture and shield your strands from heat, UV rays and pollution. Serums deliver instant shine, tame flyaway and frizz, and protect your hair from styling damage. They’re a total lifesaver if you frequently use heat tools or struggle with dull, frizzy, or puffy hair.
✨ Here are our top recommendations!
- Mise En Scene Perfect Serum Original
- & HONEY Fleur Kinmokusei & Mimosa Moist Hair Oil
- Hair System by Watsons Ultimate Rose Hair Oil
- Good Virtues Co Advanced Treatment Hair Serum
Can I Use Both?
Absolutely! Apply serum on damp hair before styling for heat protection and smoothness, then finish with a few drops of oil on the ends for extra nourishment and shine. This dream team keeps your hair looking fab while helping prevent breakage. Win-win! 🎉
