When it comes to using essential oils for hair growth, there are plenty of good choices. However, before you purchase essential oils for your hair, be aware of the current condition of your scalp and hair. Do you have thinning hair, severe dandruff, or is your scalp very dry or oily? Are you looking to strengthen your hair and deep clean your scalp altogether?
Unfortunately, hair thinning and conditions such as alopecia often affect our self-confidence, too. The list of contributors to hair loss is long - factors such as age, genetics, hormones, scalp infections, nutritional imbalances, and stress all add up.
While there is no magic remedy that can quickly regrow your lost hair, clinical trials have shown that certain essential oils can be beneficial for anyone looking to fight hair loss or boost hair vitality. Essential oils can be a great addition to your health and wellness routine, according to the dermatologist and Harvard-trained Dr. Michelle Henry. (Source: coveteur.com)
The good news is that even a single essential oil can help with a few hair and skin conditions. Essential oils are generally a nutritional bomb. Not to mention that essential oils are free of dangerous chemicals and are better for the environment, provided that the essential oils have been ethically and organically sourced.
1. Lavender
Studies have shown that lavender oil can stimulate hair growth. In a 2016 animal study, topical application of lavender oil significantly increased the number of hair follicles in female mice.
Lavender oil has antimicrobial effects and can help with bacterial and fungal scalp issues. Some other lavender oil benefits are its ability to soothe the scalp. Additionally, because stress is a significant factor that often contributes to thinning hair, lavender oil can work on an emotional level to de-stress your body and environment.
2. Rosemary
Rosemary essential oil is one of the first-choice essential oils for hair thickness and growth. Applied regularly, it stimulates cellular metabolism and promotes hair growth. Researches show that rosemary oil has similar effects to minoxidil, which medical doctors commonly prescribe.
When it comes to boosting your hair health and vitality, the benefits of rosemary oil also include slowing down the graying process and preventing dandruff from reoccurring.
To use rosemary oil for your hair, take five drops and mix it with one tablespoon of almond oil, and then massage the mixture into your scalp for about three minutes. Leave it for an hour, and then wash your hair thoroughly.
3. Chamomile
Chamomile oil can soften and smooths unruly hair. It can also soothe the inflamed scalp. Chamomile essential oil has antiseptic properties and can clear excess oil and dirt. Mixed with other essential oils, it helps deep clean the follicles and can promote hair growth.
Choosing a chamomile oil as a lightning agent (yes, it does this, too) will guarantee that you won't use dyeing components such as formaldehyde, which conventional hair products often contain.
Recipe: Mix 5 drops of chamomile essential oil with a tablespoon of sea salt and a pinch of baking soda. Add warm water and apply the mixture to your hair. Massage well and leave it for about an hour, then rinse.
4. Clary Sage
Clary sage essential oil reduces skin inflammation and regulates the production of oil on the skin. It also works as a natural remedy for rashes, and it is an excellent antibacterial agent.
One of the best benefits of clary sage for hair is that it helps balance the hormones in your body. Usually, hair loss occurs when stress hormones are high in your body. Because clary sage can help reduce cortisol levels, it works as a natural cure for stress-induced hair loss.
Recipe: To ease stress, you can diffuse clary sage oil at home or apply a few drops on your temples (again diluted with a base oil).
5. Hemp seed oil
If your hair is thinning and has lost its vitality, hemp seed oil is another natural remedy that can do wonders for your hair. Organic hemp oil contains ceramides – a group of lipids that support cell membranes by retaining moisture. Ceramides help prevent dehydration. Hemp seed oil is also rich in omega fatty acids and Vitamin E, which deeply nourish your scalp and hair. In this clinical trial, experts suggest that using hemp oil regularly for six months can help with conditions such as androgenetic alopecia.
It is crucial that you only buy essential oils that are 100 percent pure and organic. It’s also recommended to do a patch test with any essential oil to avoid allergic reactions Keep in mind, that essential oils need to be mixed with a carrier oil before topical application. Some beneficial carrier oils for hair include:
Coconut oil contains lauric acid and capric acid, which have potent antimicrobial and antifungal properties. These properties make coconut oil a preferred choice to treat issues like dandruff.
Almond oil encourages hair growth and moisturizes the scalp. It works as an emollient and thus soothes inflamed skin.
Olive oil is rich in vitamin E and other antioxidants. It hydrates and soothes the skin while alleviating dry skin and hair.
1. Mix 5 drops of thyme essential oil with 2 tablespoons of almond oil or coconut oil and massage the mixture onto your scalp for 3 minutes. Leave it for 20 minutes, then rinse it off thoroughly.
2. For a homemade conditioner, use 4 tablespoons of coconut or cacao butter and add 2 drops of lavender essential oil, 2 drops of chamomile essential oil, and 2 drops of rosemary oil. Mix well and store in your fridge. Apply it to your wet hair, massage for at least a couple of minutes, and rinse well.
3. If you have an oily scalp or dandruff, mix 3 drops of clary sage oil with your favorite conditioner, or you can as well dilute it with one tablespoon of hemp or sweet almond oil. Apply on your scalp and leave it for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Use it twice per week.
Incorporating essential oils into your hair-care routine improves hair health and vitality. However, keep in mind that to support hair growth, you need to maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and gradually lower your stress levels.
Furthermore, do not expect natural essential oils to work out overnight. It will take from three to six months to see results. Become consistent with your hair-care ritual.
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