Essential oils have many heath benefits, but they’re especially great for hair health. Many types of oils are moisturizing and conditioning. They can remove dandruff and prevent an itchy scalp. Some oils also stimulate hair growth by reducing inflammation in the scalp and in the hair follicles, allowing the hair to grow much more freely. Using an essential oil as part of your normal hair care routine can make your hair smoother, shinier, and healthier.
Best Essential Oils for Hair
Lavender oil is one of the most popular oils for hair health, and its flowery smell makes it great for aromatherapy as well. You can massage it into your scalp to improve circulation, stimulate hair growth, and prevent hair loss. It’s also a great moisturizer, and its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties can keep your scalp and hair clean.
Chamomile oil is a great conditioner and can protect your hair from damage caused by pollutants. It can also lighten your hair color slightly. It’s anti-inflammatory and can relieve an itchy scalp from dandruff, psoriasis, or dermatitis.
Tea tree oil is one of the best home remedies for dandruff. It moisturizes the scalp, unclogs hair follicles, and removes scalp acne. The oil also has strong antimicrobial properties.
Eucalyptus oil is a popular essential oil for hair growth. It reduces inflammation and improves hair follicle health, encouraging faster hair growth. You can also combine it with olive oil to make a moisturizing conditioner.
Witch hazel oil can remove dandruff and soothe your scalp if it’s irritated from psoriasis or another condition. It has antibacterial properties, so it can be a permanent solution to dandruff and itchiness.
Frankincense oil is very moisturizing and soothing, and it can reverse hair loss and speed up hair growth.
How to Use Essential Oils for Hair Care
Hair care is one of the best essential oil uses, but you may have to try a few oils before you find the best one for you. Before putting anything all over your hair, test it out on one small piece of your hair to make sure it doesn’t cause an unwanted reaction.
You can add an essential oil to your shampoo or conditioner to get the benefits without adding anything to your routine. The oils are very concentrated and potent, though, so a few drops will be enough.
If you want to use an essential oil separately from your shampoo or conditioner, you can combine it with a carrier oil and apply it to your hair or scalp. Coconut oil is one of the best carrier oils for hair because it’s antiviral, antifungal, and antimicrobial and will clean and moisturize your scalp along with the essential oil. Olive oil is another great option as it will hydrate and soothe your skin.
