We do a lot to our hair - we dye, bleach, cut, heat style, and braid it, amongst many other things. Not to mention all of the products we throw in it to try to achieve whatever styles are popular at the moment. With all of that tension, our hair can easily become damaged, so it’s important to give it a little R&R. Whether you’re looking for a DIY hair growth oil for natural hair, a hair loss helper essential oil blend, or something else, we have you covered! Read on to learn about the best essential oils for hair and hair growth, plus how you can apply them for maximum results.
Can You Use Essential Oil for Hair Growth?
In short, yes! Essential oils are extracted from plants via methods like evaporation and distillation. While they are great for aromatics, they also have a wide range of medical components. Each type of essential oil has versatile properties which can benefit us both physically and emotionally. Certain oils are particularly helpful for hair health, like shine and strength, while others are more helpful for hair growth.
Best Essential Oils for Hair
Rosemary is a popular essential oil for hair because it can improve both length and thickness. One study found that rosemary oil worked just as well as common hair growth treatment minoxidil, but caused less scalp itching. Rosemary can improve cellular generation, which is why it’s so effective.
Peppermint can aid in hair growth. It causes a tingling sensation which, when applied to the scalp, increases circulation and can promote hair growth. In one animal study, peppermint oil increased overall hair growth as well as follicle depth and number of follicles.
Known for its calming properties, lavender can reduce stress and generate the growth of cells, which can speed hair growth. Plus, it has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that can help boost scalp health. Animal studies show that lavender can help generate faster hair growth. It’s also a gentle essential oil, so it can be used more often.
- Geranium
Geranium essential oil can promote a healthy scalp, which can improve your hair’s health. In particular, it regulates the production of sebum and oil, maintaining a healthy level of moisture.
Cedarwood can slow hair loss while promoting hair growth by increasing blood circulation to stimulate hair follicles. One study found that a combination of cedarwood, rosemary, lavender, and thyme helped to treat hair loss in people with alopecia.
- Thyme
Thyme has shown to be helpful in treating alopecia, along with other essential oils. It can stimulate the scalp, promoting hair growth.
Tea tree oil is antibacterial and antimicrobial, giving it great cleansing properties. We can use it topically on the scalp to unclog hair follicles, increasing hair growth.
If you suffer from dandruff, lemongrass could be a natural treatment, providing you with a healthier scalp. One study showed that people who used lemongrass essential oil significantly reduced their dandruff in one week of use.
If you tend to have a dry, dull scalp, ylang-ylang could be a great natural treatment. It can actually stimulate sebum production, which is what reduces hair breakage and maintains a good hair texture.
10. Clary Sage
Clary sage can improve hair strength, protecting it from breakage. It also contains linalyl acetate, which is the active ingredient in lavender for hair growth.
DIY Hair Growth for Natural Hair
So, how does one apply all of these essential oils? It’s important to keep in mind that pure essential oil is strong, and applying it directly to the skin can have some adverse reactions. Instead, it should be mixed with a carrier oil or other products, like shampoo, to lessen the concentration. You can make your own blends by following along with the below recipes.
DIY hair growth oil for natural hair
In a 4-ounce spray bottle, add the following ingredients. Then close and shake to combine. Spray on hair daily, brushing thoroughly.
- 10 drops each: peppermint, rosemary, lavender, and cedarwood essential oil
- 1 teaspoon hemp seed or jojoba oil (or other carrier oil)
- 3 tablespoons of alcohol-free witch hazel
- Distilled water (filling the remainder of the bottle)
Hair loss helper essential oil blend
Make your own hair loss helper essential oil blend by mixing the following into a jar or bottle with an eyedropper lid. Massage into your scalp a few times per week.
- 5 drops each: cedarwood, thyme, lavender, and rosemary
- ⅓ cup carrier oil, like jojoba oil
Treat your hair right by offering up some essential oil therapy! Which recipe will you try first?