No matter the season, it seems that the constant temperature changes and winds are enough to damage even the healthiest of hair. In the winter, the cold and the wind tends to dry out the hair, leaving it frizzy and unmanageable. In the summer? Hair becomes brittle from the heat and can dry out and in some cases – even lighten in color when you don’t want it to. Hair care and maintenance can be extremely pricey, and some salons tend to forget what the customer wants, preferring to do what they feel is best for your hair. This is a pain in the rear end, especially when you look at the time and money spent going to the salon.
There are creams, oils, gels and sprays that can combat hair issues such as dryness and frizziness, but they can be expensive when they are used daily or weekly. Most treatments also require a significant amount before any progress is noticed which can be quite discouraging.
What if essential oils could benefit your hair? People are always raving about how essential oils help them in other areas of their lives. From reducing stress to eliminating skin issues to making organic skincare products – essential oils are gaining in popularity each and every day.
Lavender Essential Oil
The lavender essential oil can be used to promote hair growth as it has properties that promote cell growth and reduces stress. Stress is one of the leading causes of hair loss in both men and women so the use of a lavender-based hair mask can help prevent this from happening. While the use of lavender will not reverse previous hair loss, but it should be enough to stop any further damage.
The best way to use lavender in your hair care routine is to place three tablespoons into a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil, and mix together to form a mask. Coat the hair fully and let it soak for approximately 10 minutes. After that time period, wash your hair as per usual. Repeat this process several times a week to see results.
Rosemary Essential Oil
Rosemary has been proven to promote cellular growth, so when applied directly to the scalp and hair using a carrier oil; it can reduce hair loss and restore thickness. This process can be repeated twice a week for best results and rosemary also reduces itching, making this oil a must for those who suffer from dry scalp.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint essential oils have a long list of benefits and this includes hair restoration ones. The peppermint oil will promote hair growth and increase the overall health of your scalp. Its cooling menthol allows blood vessels to dilate and increases blood flow – which leads to an increase in hair growth.
Use three or four tablespoons of essential oils mixed into a carrier oil for the best results. Coat the hair and scalp; leaving it on for about ten minutes before washing and rinsing as per usual.
Cedarwood Essential Oil
Cedarwood essential oils have been proven to help combat itchy skin and add a layer of moisture to the area in which it was applied. Cedarwood essential oil mixture can also balance the oil-producing glands in the scalp, allowing for the area to heal from dry, itchy skin conditions (such as dandruff). The additional antibacterial and antifungal properties add another layer of protection against scalp skin conditions.
Mix three to four tablespoons of cedarwood essential oil into a carrier oil and apply to the scalp. Leave it on for about 10 minutes and wash your hair as per normal. Repeat a couple of times a week to see the best results.
Risks of Essential Oils
As with any new product that will be touching the skin, there is a potential for allergic reactions. Essential oils are strong when they are used directly from the bottle but the use of carrier oil, such as melted coconut oil, dilutes the strength and makes it safer for the skin. Always use a carrier oil and prevent the mixture from getting into the eyes or mouth.
If you suspect an allergic reaction to essential oils, stop using the mixture immediately and rinse it out with lukewarm water to prevent further inflammation of the skin. If the reaction is severe and the skin starts to swell, there is a shortness of breath, dizziness or loss of consciousness; contact your nearest emergency room immediately.
Conclusion
So, there are essential oils on the market that can help your hair issues – from split ends to breakage; there is an essential oil that when used properly, can reverse current damage and form a protective barrier to present more. Wondering where to find the best essential oils when there are multiple types on the market? Then you want to check out bettermindbodysoul.com for their full comprehensive list of the best essential oils.
The use of essential oils combined with a hair care routine could save you money in the long run as you will not need expensive treatments as often. Your hair will also be thankful when there is a distinct lack of chemicals used in your hair care but instead, an organic approach is used.