Since the 1980s, the U.S. has seen a rapid increase in excitement about aromatherapy. Everyone is talking about essential oils. They can help heal wounds, fight off germs, relieve stress, and (this might be your favorite part) they can even help with increase hair growth. Here’s how.
Aromatherapy for your hair
Many hair shampoos and other hair products contain harsh chemicals and ingredients that harm your hair. But these sweet-smelling essential oils are all-natural. They are extracted from plants through evaporation and distillation. They can have numerous health benefits, including adding strength, shine, and length to your hair.
The Egyptian queen Cleopatra, who’s often regarded as the most beautiful woman in the world, knew the benefits of using essential oils. She harnessed their natural power to help her achieve the beauty that’s still being praised today, thousands of years after her life.
Plenty of others today would agree with Cleopatra. The essential oil market was valued at 18.6 billion dollars in 2020 and is expected to keep growing. People all over the world are using these oils and loving the results.
But with hundreds of essential oils available, how do you know which ones to use? Let’s get into it.
Top 7 essential oils for hair growth
So, which essential oils are best for your hair? Let’s talk about it! Pick one from this list or try them all to find out which oils help your hair the most.
Peppermint oil increases circulation in your scalp
One study found that peppermint oil increased hair follicle depth, the number of follicles, and hair growth overall. Its cooling sensation is invigorating and helps jumpstart circulation.
Apply this oil by mixing 1 drop with 2 tablespoons of carrier oil. Let sit for only 5 minutes and wash out with shampoo. Try it twice a week.
Rosemary essential oil helps thicken hair
Caroline Schroeder, a licensed aromatherapist said, “Rosemary is a great choice for hair growth and hair thickness because the essential oil can repair, stimulate, and regulate cells. That means it can help to reduce or balance oily discharge at the hair follicles,”
You can use it by blending 3 drops with your favorite carrier oil and rubbing it into your scalp and hair. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes and wash out. Use twice a week.
Thyme oil promotes hair growth
Thyme can stop and prevent hair loss by reducing inflammation in hair follicles, and stimulating your scalp. This encourages your scalp to produce more hair.
Begin by mixing two drops of this oil with two tablespoons of a carrier and massaging it into your scalp. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then wash it out.
Geranium oil stops greasy hair
Your scalp produces an oil called sebum to help it stay healthy. Too much or too little of this oil causes a problem. Geranium can help you balance those oils for a healthy scalp and thriving hair.
Mix 1 drop of geranium oil to your normal dose of shampoo and wash your hair as usual. Use this one several times each week.
Lemongrass oil fights dandruff
Dandruff is a leading cause of hair loss. Lemongrass oil can be a highly effective treatment, with one study finding it to decrease dandruff after only one week.
This oil works best when used daily. Mix 3 drops of it into your shampoo or conditioner and wash your hair as normal.
Tea Tree oil unclogs hair follicles
Tea Tree oil is well known for its cleansing power. It can be found in many different anti-dandruff shampoos. This oil is packed full of antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties. It unclogs your hair follicles for a healthier, cleaner scalp and increased hair growth.
Mix 3 drops of this oil with 2 tablespoons of carrier oil and massage your scalp. Let sit for 15 minutes and wash out.
Lavender oil will soothe an itchy scalp
“The essential oil of lavender is beneficial for numerous applications. Mostly, it is known for its ability to heal and soothe the body and mind. Due to its special composition, it can support all kinds of skin damage and is a powerful agent for improving hair growth,” Schroeder says. “Since lavender is a very gentle oil, one can use it more often.” Lavender soothes your scalp and speeds up hair growth.
Use lavender by mixing 3 drops into a carrier oil and rubbing into your scalp. Let sit for 15 minutes and wash out.
A note on using carrier oils for your hair
Essential oils are strong. And like all good things, too much can be a problem. That is where carrier oils come into play. These oils dilute the essential oils, protecting your skin and helping to spread the wonderful properties of the oil throughout your entire scalp. They’re even great for your hair on their own. You may recognize them as ingredients you’ll find in conditioners. Their hair-helping benefits are well known. With many options available, here are some favorites.
Argan oil
This oil is packed with antioxidants such as Vitamin E. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is often used as a heat protectant. Argan oil is lightweight. It will moisturize and condition your hair without weighing it down.
Pumpkin seed oil
The pumpkin seed oil has been found to have some wonderfully positive results. It increases hair growth and is full of antioxidants, fatty acids, and minerals that give you the softness you’re looking for.
Jojoba oil
This oil is perfect for dry or flaky scalps. Its antibacterial and inflammatory properties will help heal your head and lead to healthy, stronger hair. Jojoba is a fantastic moisturizer, leaving your hair soft and shiny without making it heavy.
Bottom line: Essential oils for hair growth are amazing!
Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp. Essential oils are a powerful asset on your hair growth and strengthening journey. Our scalps know they need oil, which is why they produce sebum. Adding essential oils gives your scalp a hand. They regulate sebum and help your scalp balance its natural oils, leaving you with a clean (not greasy) scalp, wonderfully moisturized hair, and help you get the growth you’re looking for. Give them a try, your hair will thank you.