How To Treat Hair Loss With Essential Oils

Certain essential oils can stimulate the hair follicles and increase circulation to the scalp, which contributes to hair regrowth and may slow hair loss. One study, published in the November 1998 edition of the Archives of Dermatology, found that massaging the scalp with a combination of thyme, cedarwood, lavender and rosemary essential oils improved hair growth after several months of consistent use. Herbalists and aromatherapists have prescribed essential oils for years to treat hair loss, thinning hair and various types of alopecia. These natural treatments are well-tolerated and when used correctly, cause no harmful side effects.

Step 1

Combine the thyme, cedarwood, lavender, rosemary, jojoba and grapeseed oils in a small mixing bowl. Massage the mixture into the scalp for at least two minutes once per day until the desired results are achieved. Wrap the head in a warm towel for 30 minutes after the treatment for the best results. The jojoba and grapeseed oils act as a carrier, penetrating and carrying the essential oils into the hair follicles. This treatment resulted in success during clinical trials, with most patients experiencing regrowth of over half of their hair and a few experiencing complete regrowth.

Step 2

Stimulate circulation to the scalp by combining 6 drops each lavender and bay essentials oils with 4 ounces of warm sesame oil, then massaging the mixture into the scalp. Allow the mixture to penetrate the scalp for at least 20 minutes before shampooing. For faster results, add 3 drops bay essential oil to your shampoo before washing your hair. Rinse as usual.

Step 3

Make a nighttime hair loss treatment by combining 4 ounces apple cider vinegar with 20 drops carrot essential oil and 10 drops rosemary essential oil. Dilute 1 tbsp. of the mixture with 1 tbsp. ice-cold water and massage into the scalp before bed. Wash and rinse the hair as usual in the morning. Aromatherapist Valerie Ann Worwood, author of "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy," recommends using this treatment every night until the desired results are achieved.

Tips and Warnings

Other essential oils that reportedly stimulate hair growth include arnica, calumus, grapefruit, lemon, Roman chamomile, sage, rose, yarrow, calendula, palma rosa, birch and cypress. Massaging any of these into the scalp may help prevent or reverse hair loss. Though scientific research is lacking, there exists strong anecdotal evidence that these oils may improve hair growth. Always dilute essential oils in a vegetable-based carrier oil before applying to your hair or scalp. Jojoba, grapeseed, borage seed and evening primrose oils may benefit individuals suffering from hair loss, though any type of high-quality carrier oil will work.
Do not use rosemary essential oil if you have high blood pressure, and avoid citrus oils such as lemon and grapefruit if you have sensitive skin. They may cause slight irritation.