Essential Oils for Hair
The typical woman does so much to damage her hair these days. Think hair dryers, curling irons, flat irons, and a myriad of products all laced with unsavory chemicals…shampoo, conditioner, mousse, and hairspray. We all want shiny, voluminous hair that makes us look our best right? Well, all of these products we are using are counterproductive to that. We can actually change the way our hair looks, grows, and feels by making a few changes in our hair care routine, changing some of our activities, and by changing the way we eat and drink.
Healthy Body – Healthy Hair
Our first bit of hair care best practices is to make sure our body is healthy. If we eat (and drink) healthy foods, rich in nutrients, fats, and good bacteria than we are providing the best building materials for new hair growth. We also need to address imbalances such as hormonal issues and thyroid problems, both of which can drastically affect your hair. Do your best to keep stress levels low and get plenty of sleep. Supplement with magnesium and Vitamin D.
Healthier Routines – Healthier Hair
Try to limit using devices that heat your hair. Too much much styling and heating damages your hair. Try different haircuts and hairstyles that allow you to go without these devices. Use a shower filter to remove or reduce fluoride, chlorine, iron oxides, harmful VOCs and other yucky contaminants that damage your locks. This one by Aquasana has great reviews on Amazon and it isn’t too pricey. Ditch chemical laden shampoos and hair products and go with more natural options.
Essential Oils – Healthy Hair
Carrot Seed Oil – Carrots are rich in carotene and antioxidants. Its aid in skin renewal and healthy hair growth.
Clary Sage – If you go for No Poo hair care than Clary Sage can help you get the right PH for your hair and scalp. No Poo is awesome but some complain about pH issues caused by the excessive use of baking soda and vinegar. It can also be used to darken grey hair.
Tea Tree – Great for getting rid of dandruff naturally.
Lavender – This soothing oil is great for soothing your hair and scalp, especially if your scalp is itchy or your hair dry. You can also use lavender for oily hair, so it is really versatile.
Rosemary – Smells divine and stimulates the sebaceous glands in the scalp to produce more oil. This oil also has a centuries old reputation for stimulating hair growth. It can you help you keep what hair you have and also aid in new growth.
Bergamot – If you want shiny locks than try this oil for instant shine and protection.
Lemongrass – Perfect for oily hair. This oil actually helps slow down scalp oil production.
Peppermint -You know how invigorating peppermint is right? Well it invigorates your scalp too and promotes growth by stimulating circulation.
Thyme – Can help with hair growth and preventing hair loss.
Myrhh – Another great one for dry hair.
How to Use the Oils
Many of these oils can be applied to your hair by adding them to a carrier oil such as coconut, avocado, or almond oil. This dilutes if need be and also “carries” the essential oils to all areas of your hair and scalp. Massage them in well. You can also add a few drops of the oils to your favorite all natural shampoo and you can make a hair rinse by mixing vinegar, a tiny bit of borax, and your preferred essential oils. A hair rinse or a hair spritz is my favorite way to incorporate the oils because I smell heavenly afterward and the oils have more time to “work” on my hair and scalp. Try the easy recipes below:
Essential Oil Hair Spritz
- Distilled water (fill half of spray bottle)
- 2 T rose water (optional)
- 1 Tablespoon Aloe Vera juice
- 1 tsp. or more vegetable glycerine
- 5-10 drops essential oil
Essential Oil Rosemary Hair Spritz
- Distilled water (heated)
- Rosemary Tea, 1-2 bags (steep in the water)
- 5 drops essential oil
- Pour into a bottle and refrigerate
Wishing you happier hair days!
