Experts say that natural plant oils are the ideal choice to nourish your hair and scalp. It is even better if you incorporate essential oils into your hair care routine as they have properties to not only keep hair looking and smelling great, but are also ideal for resolving many hair problems including dry scalp, dandruff, dull hair, and more.
Don’t assume that using essential oils for your hair will tax your wallet. The truth is, one bottle of essential oil will last you for a long time and you won’t need to worry about all the chemicals that can be found in some commercially available hair treatment products either.
Some essential oils for your hair and scalp health
Rosemary
Of all the essential oils, for promoting hair thickness and growth, rosemary essential oil is probably the best option. Studies have shown that its usage stimulates hair growth. This oil works on par with topical hair loss products like minoxidil. It also helps prevent baldness and fights dry scalp. It can be applied after mixing with olive oil in equal amounts.
Lavender
Like rosemary, lavender essential oil has also been shown to help in hair growth. This was the result of an animal study conducted on rodents in 2016. Lavender oil also helps deepen hair follicles. This oil is said to have antimicrobial properties as well, so it can be used to treat bacterial and fungal disorders affecting the scalp. It is also good for soothing dry scalp and hair. The scent of this oil is also useful for combating stress — a factor that often leads to hair loss.
Chamomile
Chamomile oil adds shine to hair and makes it soft. It is also known for being able to soothe an irritated scalp. Using chamomile essential oil helps lighten hair color, too. Take advantage of this property by making a paste of baking soda, sea salt, and chamomile essential oil and applying it to the scalp.
Clary sage
While not as popular as some of the other essential oils, clary sage brings manifold benefits to the scalp and hair. It has an ingredient called linalyl acetate that helps mitigate skin inflammation. Clary sage oil also doubles up as an antibacterial agent. Similar to lavender, the scent of this essential oil helps you cope with stress, which may help prevent unexpected hair thinning. You can mix it with jojoba oil and apply it to the scalp.
Cedarwood
Cedarwood essential oil increases blood circulation to scalp cells and is good for mitigating skin irritations. In addition, a study published in the Archives of Dermatology showed that when massaged into the scalp, a combination of cedarwood along with thyme, rosemary, and lavender essential oils in a carrier oil not only slowed hair thinning and balding, but actually helped stimulate the growth of new hair for people with alopecia aerate.
Lemongrass
This essential oil is known for its robust healing properties. It also works as a deodorizer. The oil, when applied properly, helps strengthen the hair follicles. It also helps soothe an irritated scalp. A 2015 study showed its application helped reduce dandruff. Mix a little of the oil with your hair conditioner before using it.
Peppermint
Peppermint oil has multiple benefits and they extend beyond the scalp and hair. Its robust antiseptic properties can help eliminate lice and dandruff. Animal studies have shown it is helpful for promoting hair growth. Applying peppermint oil induces a cooling sensation and reduces skin inflammation. Inhaling the aroma of peppermint oil also works wonders in boosting your mood and relieving headaches.
While using essential oils can be beneficial for your hair and scalp, you have to know the right ways to use them. They are quite potent, so be sure to mix them with carrier oils or add a few drops to shampoo or conditioner before applying them to your scalp or hair.
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