How to Make Horsetail-Infused Hair Oil at Home (Honest Guide)
Horsetail-infused oil is a genuine, easy DIY, but let us be honest about what it does: it is a pleasant conditioning oil that can add shine and slip, and horsetail is rich in silica, but there is little solid evidence that applying it actually grows hair. Treat it as a nourishing conditioning treatment, not a proven growth remedy. With realistic expectations set, here is exactly how to make and use it, plus a couple of safety notes.
Key takeaways
- Horsetail-infused oil is a real, simple DIY conditioning oil.
- Horsetail is high in silica, but evidence that topical oil grows hair is limited, keep expectations realistic.
- It genuinely helps with shine, slip and reducing friction breakage.
- Use dried horsetail and a clean method to avoid mould; patch test before use.
- Do not drink horsetail preparations, and check with a GP if pregnant, breastfeeding or on medication.
What is horsetail oil?
It is a carrier oil (such as coconut, olive or jojoba) infused with dried horsetail (Equisetum arvense), a plant naturally rich in silica and antioxidants. The infusion draws some plant compounds into the oil, giving a lightly conditioning treatment for hair and scalp. The silica-for-strong-hair idea is popular, but the research on applying it topically is thin, so think of this as a nice conditioning oil rather than a cure for hair loss.
How to make horsetail-infused oil
What you will need
- Dried horsetail (use dried, not fresh, to avoid introducing water and mould)
- A carrier oil: coconut, olive or jojoba
- A clean, dry glass jar with a lid
- A double boiler (or a heatproof bowl over a pan) for the quick method
- A strainer or muslin/cheesecloth
- A dark glass storage bottle
Step by step
- Measure: roughly one part dried horsetail to two parts carrier oil.
- Combine: put the horsetail in the jar and cover completely with oil (any herb above the oil can go mouldy).
-
Infuse, choose one:
- Slow (best): seal and leave in a cool, dark spot for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking every few days.
- Quick: warm the jar gently in a double boiler for 2 to 3 hours on low, never letting it get hot enough to fry, and keep water in the lower pan.
- Strain: once cooled, pour through muslin and squeeze out the oil.
- Store: in a dark glass bottle, cool and out of sunlight; use within a few months and discard if it smells off.
How to use it
- Pre-wash scalp and lengths treatment: massage a few drops in, leave 30 minutes (or overnight on the lengths), then shampoo out.
- In a mask: blend with honey, yoghurt or avocado, apply, leave an hour, rinse.
- A few drops on damp ends for shine and slip.
- Once or twice a week is plenty, oils build up if overused.
If you would rather not DIY
Home infusions are rewarding but time-consuming and spoil eventually. A ready-made shampoo gives consistent everyday care without the wait.
A gentle, sulphate-free daily cleanser with biotin, argan oil, rosemary and caffeine, a consistent everyday alternative to homemade infusions.
View Grow MeWatermans is a UK family business that has sold over 5 million bottles since 2012. The range is vegan and cruelty-free.
Frequently asked questions
Does horsetail oil really grow hair?
Evidence is limited. Horsetail is rich in silica and the oil conditions hair nicely, adding shine and reducing friction breakage, but it is not a proven treatment for regrowing hair.
How often should I use it?
Once or twice a week. Oils build up if overused, leaving hair limp, so less is more.
Can I use it on all hair types?
Yes, though fine hair needs only a few drops on the ends. Patch test first.
Is horsetail safe?
Topically, for most people, yes, after a patch test. Do not drink homemade horsetail preparations, and check with a GP if pregnant, breastfeeding or on medication.
How long does the oil keep?
A few months in a dark bottle away from light and heat. Discard if it smells rancid or looks cloudy.
Horsetail-infused oil is a lovely, inexpensive conditioning treatment, just keep your expectations honest: shine and softness yes, miracle regrowth no. Patch test, use it topically only, and enjoy it as part of a gentle routine. For another simple home rinse, see our guide to rice oil versus rice water for hair.
