Lavender is a plant renowned for its relaxing properties and herbal scent. The essential oil, extracted from lavender flowers and stems can be used for a multitude of purposes including aromatherapy and skincare. What some people may not be aware of is how lavender can be used as a hair product and its many benefits for the hair and scalp! We all want beautiful, thick and shiny hair but the reality is that many people suffer from common issues such as hair thinning, dandruff and dryness. Adding lavender oil into your haircare routine could be a great way to make use of the multi-purpose oil and achieve healthier hair. This article addresses the benefits of lavender oil for hair and how to incorporate it into your daily routine.
Benefits of Lavender Oil on Hair
Hair Growth
For those who suffer with thinning hair, it can sometimes feel hopeless; treatments can be expensive and often have harsh chemicals and strong, unpleasant smells. Lavender essential oil has been found to promote hair growth and has been shown to increase the number of hair follicles and hair follicle length as well as dermal thickness (thickness of the skin). This is because the oil is made up of many different compounds, some of which are responsible for cell regeneration and possess anti-bacterial properties needed for healthy hair growth.
Using the oil several times a week or even daily could help thinning hair grow faster and thicker and it’s a great natural option for those who have issues with hair growth and alopecia.
Dandruff
Dandruff is a common issue for many people and it can be caused by a number of factors including dry or irritated skin, oily skin, fungal infection or sensitivity to hair products. Anti-dandruff shampoos on the market contain active anti-microbial and anti-fungal ingredients such as pyrithione zinc and coal tar, which are ingredients used to target Malazzia; a yeast that grows on the skin, responsible for dandruff.
Lavender possesses antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties and has been shown to be effective against various bacterias and fungi, even those that are resistant to antibiotics. This makes it a possible solution to dandruff and flakey skin, it’s well worth a try!
Head-lice
Lavender oil is impressively also treatment for head-lice. It can be used to both prevent and treat existing headlice and stop any nasty eggs from hatching on the scalp. It should be diluted with a carrier oil such as olive oil, coconut oil or argan oil before massaging directly onto the scalp. Although it is not necessarily a replacement for a medical treatment, it is a natural solution particularly for prevention of head-lice and is an alternative to some of the harsh chemical products that are usually prescribed.
Fragrance
Lavender undeniably has a wonderful floral, herbal fragrance which is powerful for use in aromatherapy. The bright and delicate scent also makes it a great way to freshen up hair between washes. How to Use Lavender Oil for Hair Lavender oil can easily be incorporated into a daily haircare routine. It can be added to existing hair products or used with carrier oils for an effective and nourishing experience.
Shampoo
Squeeze out your go-to shampoo and add two drops of lavender oil to create a lavender oil blend. Wash your hair as normal and ensure to massage the mixture into the roots. Wash off and condition as normal.
Hair Mask
Mix a few drops of lavender oil with three tablespoons of carrier oil such as olive, coconut or jojoba oil and massage directly onto the scalp. Leave it to soak in for at least ten minutes or even overnight and wash off with warm water and your normal shampoo.
Hair Oil
For hair needing some extra moisture, fragrance and shine; take one drop of lavender oil and rub into the hands before using fingers to comb through the ends of the hair. Mix with 1-2 drops of Argan oil for a moisturising treatment for split ends and damaged hair.