There’s a dizzying array of commercial hair care products on the market—many of which have a laundry list of potentially harmful ingredients.
Whether you need to fix a specific type of issue like dandruff or hair loss, or you simply want to add thickness and shine to your hair, it’s hard to know where to turn. Warnings about potentially harmful chemicals can make it even more confusing.
Common additives to personal care products like parabens and triclosan, for instance, are endocrine disruptors that are linked to health problems. Talc can sometimes be contaminated with asbestos, and something listed as “fragrance” can be a mixture of thousands of chemicals. There are also potential links between frequent hair straightener use and cancer risk, and permanent hair dye and breast cancer.
If you’re keen to look after your hair with natural products, have you considered essential oils? These concentrated plant extracts are considered a “powerful botanical medicine” that have also been shown to boost hair growth.
Here’s how they can help your hair.
1. Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil is effective in treating androgenetic alopecia, also known as pattern baldness.
In one study, two groups were given topical applications of rosemary oil or minoxidil—you may recognize it by the brand name Rogaine—and then compared. Both groups experienced a significant increase in hair count at the six-month endpoint, with the minoxidil group suffering from itchy scalps.
The rosemary oil group likely fared better due to the anti-inflammatory properties of this essential oil, which can help reduce scalp irritation, dandruff, and itching.
Rosemary contains carnosic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These help rejuvenate damaged nerves and tissues in your body, so applying it to your scalp creates increased blood flow and nutrients so your hair can thrive. There’s even some evidence that rosemary can limit premature graying.
2. Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil has also been examined for its benefits to your locks. One study showed that peppermint oil promoted hair growth without toxic signs. Four study groups were given a different topical application for four weeks: jojoba oil, minoxidil or Rogaine, saline and peppermint essential oil.
Of the four experimental groups, the peppermint oil group showed the most prominent hair growth effects, described as a significant increase in dermal thickness, follicle number, and follicle depth. Researchers concluded peppermint essential oil could be “used for a practical agent for hair growth.”
3. Lavender Oil
Similar to the study on peppermint oil, lavender oil was examined. Those applied with minoxidil as well as two different concentrations of lavender oil showed a significantly increased number of hair follicles, deepened hair follicle depth, and thickened dermal layer.
Researchers concluded that lavender oil has “a marked hair growth-promoting effect,” and can be practically applied as a hair growth-promoting agent.
How to Use Essential Oils in Your Hair Care Routine
- Add essential oils to an existing product: We sell premium rosemary, peppermint and lavender essential oils. Add some to your existing shampoo, massage oil, or lotion before using. Check with us first to see how much to add to your product.
- Use an essential oil shampoo: Try our Lavender & Rosemary Shampoo, which partners these effective essential oils with aloe vera juice, shea oil and pro-vitamin B5 to hydrate and nourish your hair. The Peppermint & Tea Tree Shampoo offers similar benefits.
Essential oils are beneficial in many different ways, from aromatherapy to direct application. Our plant-based products are healthy for you, your family and the planet. For more information feel free to contact us at any time, and ask our friendly staff for help.
