Before we talk about essential oils for hair growth, let’s talk about causes of thinning hair. Over 55 million men and women struggle with hair loss everyday. And as we get older, our hair loss increases. However, age isn’t the only factor that contributes to hair loss. In fact, there are many factors that can affect hair growth and contribute to hair loss. Some of the most common ones include:
- Age
- Health
- Stress
- Hormones
- Diet
- Medications
- Genes
Hair Growth Treatments
There are many over-the-counter treatments available to promote hair growth. Most of them include minoxidil, which only works as long as the treatment is being used. As soon as treatments stop, hair growth also stops and hair loss begins again. However, did you know that there are natural treatment options available as well? It’s true! In fact, there are several essential oils that are considered beneficial in supporting hair growth.
Essential Oils for Hair Growth
Whether you’re struggling with hair loss or you simply want to encourage hair growth, essential oils can help! Let’s take a look at some of the best essential oils for hair growth.
1. Rosemary
Rosemary is one of the best essential oils for hair growth. It is beneficial for a number of issues including dandruff, lice, greasy hair, and is even considered stimulating for the scalp. A 2013 study found that mice treated with rosemary leaf extract had a significant increase in hair growth.
Another study comparing the use of minoxidil and rosemary essential oil for hair loss found that individuals in both groups had a significant increase in hair count after 6 months and that there was no significant difference between the two groups. This suggests that rosemary may be an effective natural alternative to minoxidil.
2. Lavender
Lavender is another essential oil commonly used for hair growth. Due to its versatility, this should come as no surprise! It helps support scalp health with its soothing and regenerating properties and can even help with irritation, dandruff, and lice. All of these are important when trying to promote hair growth.
Furthermore, a study conducted on mice treated with lavender essential oil showed that the mice had a significant increase in follicle count, follicle depth, and a thickened dermal layer after four weeks of treatment without any signs of toxic effects.
3. Peppermint
Peppermint essential oil is another great option to consider for a natural hair growth treatment. In fact, a study conducted in 2014 found that a 3% formulation of peppermint oil showed significant hair growth effects in mice. The research determined that it was actually the most effective formulation tested, even more so than minoxidil!
The treatment with the peppermint oil showed an increased number of follicle count, increased follicle depth, and a thickened dermal layer. Traditionally, peppermint oil has been used for digestive and respiratory issues, but due to its stimulating effects it’s also beneficial for hair growth as well!
4. Chamomile
Chamomile is known for its gentle and soothing properties and is commonly used for reducing stress and anxiety. It’s also beneficial for soothing irritated skin and is a great option to consider when looking to support hair and scalp health.
Not only can it can help soothe an inflamed and irritated scalp, but it can also help strengthen fragile hair as well. And with its delightful scent, it would be a wonderful and effective addition to your natural hair care routine.
5. Geranium
Geranium is another great option for promoting hair growth. It’s commonly used in skin care products because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its balancing effects. However, it’s also beneficial in supporting scalp health and hair growth. It is a regenerating essential oil, enabling it to help stimulate hair growth. Additionally, it can help strengthen hair and also happens to be helpful when dealing with lice.
6. Clary Sage
Clary sage is also effective when trying to promote hair growth. Although commonly used for balancing hormones and reducing stress, it is also beneficial when promoting hair growth and reducing hair loss. It is used for strengthening the hair and reducing breakage as well.
7. Tea Tree Oil
Hair growth can be directly affected by the health of the scalp. If the scalp isn’t healthy, then hair growth may be restricted. Tea tree oil is especially beneficial in supporting scalp health. Because it has effective antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, it is especially helpful when dealing with skin and scalp issues.
It can soothe an irritated scalp, unclog pores, and even be used as a treatment for lice. So, if hair growth has been restricted due to an unhealthy scalp, tea tree is a great option to consider.
Carrier Oils for Hair Growth
Jojoba Oil
Although not an essential oil, jojoba oil is a carrier oil that is beneficial for hair growth. Not only is it moisturizing and full of antioxidants, it’s also considered useful for many different types of skin issues as well. It’s similar to human sebum, enabling it to help balance out the skin and scalp. Additionally, It contains many vitamins and minerals, making it a great choice to support hair health. It is often used as a hair moisturizer and strengthener in hair preparations.
Argan Oil
Argan is another carrier oil that’s great for hair health. It’s rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It’s often used in luxury skin care products to reduce the appearance of aging, promote cell regeneration, and moisturize the skin, as well as balance skin tone. For hair care, it’s specifically used to moisturize and condition and is a great way to treat split ends
Hair Serum Recipe
Here’s a simple hair growth serum recipe you can make at home. Feel free to switch out the ingredients to suit your needs!
- 1 tablespoon jojoba oil
- 1 tablespoon argan oil
- 5 drops rosemary essential oil
- 5 drops lavender essential oil
- 3 drops peppermint essential oil
- 2 drops clary sage essential oil
Combine all of the above ingredients in a 1 oz. dropper bottle and shake well. Massage a few drops into the scalp for 3-5 minutes and then let sit for 20 minutes. Leave in or shampoo and condition as needed.
To use as a conditioner, use 1-2 tablespoons and lightly coat the hair from roots to tips. Leave on for 20 minutes and shampoo and condition as usual.
More DIY Recipes for Hair Growth
How to Use Castor Oil for Hair Growth
Nourishing Rosemary Hair Serum
Apple Cider Vinegar Scalp Scrub
9 Homemade Hair Masks for Thinning Hair
This post was medically reviewed by Dr. Holly Smith, a board certified physician in nephrology and internal medicine with a background in nutrition. Learn more about Hello Glow’s medical review board here. As always, this is not personal medical advice and we recommend that you talk with your doctor.
DIY Hair Growth Serum
Equipment
- 1 ounce dropper bottle
Materials
- 1 tablespoon jojoba oil
- 1 tablespoon argan oil
- 5 drops rosemary essential oil
- 5 drops lavender essential oil
- 3 drops peppermint essential oil
- 2 drops clary sage essential oil
Instructions
- Combine all of the above ingredients in a 1 oz. dropper bottle and shake well.
- Massage a few drops into the scalp for 3-5 minutes and then let sit for 20 minutes. Leave in or shampoo and condition as needed.
Can we use coconut