Essential oils have been advertised as ingredients in our haircare products for decades, but do we ever really stop to think about what they are and what they do? This broad category includes a host of different individual plants, all of which can heavily impact the health and well-being of your hair or scalp.
If you’ve ever been curious about what essential oils do for your hair, how to use them, and which ones are right for you, we’ve got you covered. We spoke with hairstylist and scalp expert Mayara Macedo and board-certified dermatologist Justine Park, MD, to help you understand everything you need to know. Read on for what they shared.
Before moving forward, an important note: Essential oils are quite potent and should never be used undiluted. Instead, they should be added to carrier oils such as coconut, grapeseed, argan, or jojoba. They should be added via dropper: Do not touch them with your bare hands, as they can be heavily irritating.
The Final Takeaway
Essential oils offer a huge array of benefits for your scalp and your hair, and there are many to pick from. Try tea tree or lavender if you’re dealing with an itchy scalp. To stimulate growth, consider clary sage or rosemary. Add shine to dull curls with geranium or sandalwood. Just remember: Never, ever use essential oils straight. Always dilute them in a carrier oil.