Healthy hair is a sign of health. Environmental factors, harsh chemicals, styling products and damaging hairstyles can take a toll on hair and cause it to look dull and lifeless. Various essential and carrier oils can improve the condition of the scalp and nourish stressed-out hair. It is important to choose oils that address your hair's particular needs. Combine that with a consistent hair care routine and your hair will look and feel healthier.
Choose a Complementary Oil
A variety of essential oils can be used on the hair and scalp. Some oils are antibacterial and help prevent dandruff while other oils such as jojoba dissolve excess sebum that can build up and cause the hair to look dull and lifeless, according to CBS's Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine. For hair that is brittle or extremely dry, grapeseed oil absorbs easily into the hair coating the strands to moisturize and help stop breakage.
Pick oil that is suited for the type of treatment. Essential oils such as lavender, cedarwood and peppermint treat scalp conditions and are good for the hair when combined with carrier oils. Carrier oils, such as jojoba, grapeseed and coconut, are used for deep conditioning and all-over treatments.
Massage Oils Into Scalp and Hair
Massage is good for the hair and scalp. Massage increases circulation and blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles. Essential oils massaged into the scalp help clarify the scalp and encourage hair growth. A 1998 study by Dr. Isabelle C. Hay with the Department of Dermatology at the Aberdeen Royal Infirmary in Scotland published in the "Archives of Dermatology" concluded that a combination of lavender, rosemary, cedarwood and thyme mixed with jojoba oil help stimulate circulation in the scalp and regrow hair.
Massage is also relaxing, which can help stop hair loss caused by stress, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Monthly Hot Oil Treatments
The hair cuticle when damaged will splay out causing projections that stick out at angles to other hair strands. This makes hair rough, difficult to comb and brittle, according to the American Chemical Society. Using jojoba, coconut or grapeseed oil for monthly hot oil treatments will smooth out the cuticle and moisturize the hair and scalp. Simply heat the oil in a plastic bag immersed in hot water. Apply the oil to the scalp and hair. Place a plastic hair cap over the head and let sit for 20 minutes. Shampoo with a gentle shampoo and rinse with lukewarm water.
These oils also have fatty acids that nourish the scalp. A healthy scalp encourages hair growth and healthy hair. Hot oil treatments will remove excess sebum that can build up and monthly oil treatments return shine to hair.
Member Comments