The benefit of using oils in your hair

There are so many benefits to using essential oils in your hair care regime it’s a wonder more people aren’t using them! The various oils have different benefits, but essentially oils can be used to nourish and strengthen hair, soothe scalp conditions, control dandruff, and stimulate hair growth – all resulting in a glorious, healthy head of hair.

Listed below are just some of the oils, and their respective benefits, that can be used in your haircare regime:

Coconut oil: The health benefits of coconut oil are endless, but for hair care, coconut oil is especially great for very dry hair as it is super-moisturising thanks to its high fatty acid and vitamin E content. These same fatty acids and vitamins also remove the sebum build-up from the hair follicles, thus encouraging your hair to grow thicker and faster.

Jojoba oil: Jojoba oil’s molecular structure is similar to that of the scalp’s natural oils and hence doesn’t interrupt the natural balance of the scalp. Not only does it offer antibacterial properties, but can penetrate the hair shaft and thus hydrates the hair from the inside. It is also a great conditioning and protective agent, leaving the hair shiny and strong.

Argan oil: Though more expensive than the other oils, Argan oil is often referred to as liquid gold and it’s easy to see why. It offers a myriad benefits including repairs damaged hair, protects hair from heat, is a natural sunscreen, aids hair growth and is an intensive conditioning treatment, leaving hair soft and silky smooth.

Lavender oil: Suitable for all hair types, lavender oil helps restore the scalp’s natural balance. Offering antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it is ideal for healing and soothing inflammatory scalp conditions and regular massage is said to reduce hair loss.

Grapeseed oil: Due to its light, non-greasy nature, grapeseed oil is often used as a carrier when combining oils. However, it is hugely beneficial in its own right, helping restore the scalp’s natural balance, and it protects and strengthens hair. Due to its high linoleic acid content (a type of omega-6 fatty acid), grapeseed oil has the ability to protect against moisture loss, making it an ideal treatment for dandruff.

Rosemary oil: Packed with antioxidants which fight the free radicals responsible for hair thinning and greying, rosemary oil is best known for its growth enhancing properties by stimulating blood flow to the scalp. It is also a treatment for an itchy, flaky scalp.

Tea tree oil: With its antibacterial properties, tea tree oil soothes and heals an itchy scalp, combats dandruff and nourishes the hair. It is also an effective, natural lice-repellent. Just add a few drops to your shampoo.

Avocado Oil. The fruit offers plenty of nutrients so it’s only natural that the oil would too. Avocado oil nourishes the hair and scalp, encouraging strong and healthy hair growth.
The above oils are just the tip of the proverbial iceberg. Chamomile, Lemon, Thyme, Sandalwood Geranium, Peppermint – the list goes on- all offer amazing benefits when used on the hair. The beauty of using oils in your hair regime, is that you don’t need much – just a drop or two – which can be added to a natural shampoo, or if you’re adventurous you can make your own by using a base shampoo and adding your required oils.