I decided to ask my dermatologist about using essential oils for hair growth and health as a natural treatment after reading about the many benefits they have to offer. She told me that essential oils can be just as effective commercial hair products which I was surprised to hear. They are also a much safer and an all-natural option being free of dangerous chemicals.
Essential oils can be added as an integral part of your hair care routine to strengthen hair, stimulate hair growth, increase hair radiance, naturally lighten hair all the while reducing stress and balancing hormones. They can even be used to naturally treat conditions such as dandruff, irritated scalps and even hair loss.
So here’s the list of essential oils for hair growth and health my dermatologist recommended I try. I’ll also include guides on how you can use them in your hair care routine.
Essential Oils for Hair Growth & Health
Each essential oil offers unique benefits so you’re able to pick and combine the oils that best suit your needs. Here are the 6 most beneficial essential oils:
Lavender
This heavenly smelling oil is proven to increase hair growth, strength and thickness which was found in this study when combined with jojoba oil. It heals dry skin and hair and also soothes the scalp treating any irritations. I personally love to add a few drops of lavender oil to my diffuser as well when I’m feeling overwhelmed. Its aroma promotes a tranquil environment, reducing stress and anxiety which also benefits hair health.
Rosemary
Rosemary oil is great for giving your hair a boost by stimulating hair growth and promoting healing. It has even been proven as an effective hair loss treatment shown in this study. I find it especially beneficial for treating dandruff and when I have a dry, itchy scalp.
Chamomile
Chamomile is another essential oil that I love to use in my diffuser when feeling stressed because of its natural calming and relaxing properties. It’s also great for hair health because it soothes your scalp and makes your hair lighter, softer and more radiant.
Cedarwood
The sweet, woody aroma of cedarwood essential oil make it a great option for men who may be opposed to the smell of other oils. Its primary use is for treating dandruff but it also increases circulation to the scalp stimulating new hair growth. Because of this it is often recommended as a natural and effective treatment for hair loss, hair thinning and baldness.
Clary Sage
Clary sage essential oil has a few unique benefits that make it great for hair health. It balance hormones and relieve stress which reduces levels of cortisol in the body. Higher levels of cortisol have been correlated with hair loss as seen in this study. It also reduces sebum production which regulates the amount of oil that builds up in your hair and stimulates hair growth.
Peppermint
The familiar and pleasant aroma of peppermint essential oil make it one of the more popular oils used in aromatherapy. Studies have proven that it promotes hair growth with thicker and deeper hair follicles making your hair more healthy and strong. It is great for a boost in energy, uplifting your mood and treating headaches and migraines too.
[td_smart_list_end]How to use Essential Oils for Hair
When using essential oils for hair make sure you always dilute them with a carrier oil before applying. The best carrier oils to use are jojoba oil, coconut oil and olive oil.
Also, always make sure you purchase high quality essential oils that are therapeutic grade because you will be applying these topically. It’s also a good idea to patch test when first trying the oil to make sure you don’t have any allergy or irritation to it.
Shampoo/Conditioning
Simply add 2-4 drops of your desired essential oil to your shampoo or conditioner and use as usual.
Scalp Massage
Using essential oils in a scalp massage is a great way to treat dandruff, scalp irritations and stimulate hair growth.
Combine your essential oil and carrier oil (a good rule of thumb is 9 drops EO to 1 oz carrier oil). Part your hair so that you can apply the oil directly to your scalp, then use your finger tips to press down firmly and massage the oil gently into your scalp. Don’t rinse the oil from your scalp for a few hours for the best results.
Healthy Scalp Hair Rinse
This rinse is great to use after you’ve washed and conditioned your hair. It helps to remove any chemical residues and also soothes your scalp promoting a healthy acid balance.
Simply mix 3 drops of lavender or rosemary essential oil with 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and massage into your hair with your final rinse.
Promote Hair Growth
This oil blend can be massaged into the scalp daily and promotes fast hair growth and strong, healthy hair.
Add 1 cup of coconut oil with 20 drops of rosemary essential oil in a glass jar and mix them well.
Treat Oily/Greasy Hair
If you suffer from oily, greasy hair you can simply combine 2-4 drops of peppermint essential oil to get rid of greasy hair.
Lighten and Soften Hair
Chamomile oil is great for softening and lightening your hair as mentioned above. You can massage 2-4 drops of chamomile essential oil into your hair each morning.
Do you use essential oils for your hair or health? Let me know in the comments below!
