Search Results: Sabrina Perkins
Melissa officinalis or most known as lemon balm is a perennial from the Lamiaceae or mint family. It grows up to 2 ft., and in the spring and summer clusters of small, yellow flowers grow where the leaves meet the stem. The plant can be used fresh or dried. When blooming, the lemon balm attracts scores of bees, which feed on the tiny white flowers.
The oil is steam distilled from the buds but it is quite popular as a tea as well. Most used for calming one’s nerves and senses, this plant produces an essential oil that is quite expensive because yields are low while production costs are high. Lemon scents can be replicated using cheaper citrus and lemongrass essential oils, pure lemon balm is valued for its properties in aromatherapy for calming, and in scalp and skincare for it being an anti-inflammatory.When combined with other herbs it may be used to treat indigestion and with its high degree of antibacterial activity it has been shown to inhibiting bacterial infections in the colon, intestines, kidneys, and urinary tract. This oil blends very nicely with basil, frankincense, geranium, chamomile, rose, lavender, and ylang-ylang oils.
Why is this oil great for our hair?
At the top of the list, lemon balm is perfect for curly girls suffering from excess sebum or oily hair. Yes, there are curly girls who suffer from too much oil. It is a mild astringent perfect for combating oiliness and balancing the scalp. The tannins provide an anti-inflammatory property that soothes and relieves an inflamed and irritated scalp. Lemon balm has caffeic acid and ferulic acid. The high concentration of flavonoids gives it an antioxidant effect.
Lemon balm also contains eugenol, which calms muscle spasms, numbs tissues, and kills bacteria including on the scalp. Most utilized for an oily scalp but still has some usage for hair loss, cleansing the scalp as well as treating minor scalp irritations. Below is a DIY hair rinse for an oily scalp.
Lemon balm hair rinse
- 3 tbsp. dried lemon balm
- 2 cups of boiling water
Pour boiling water over dried lemon balm and allow to steep for eight hours or overnight. Strain herbs from liquid and pour rinse over your entire head making sure to massage the infusion in your scalp and hair. Pour this over your hair after deep conditioning and do not rinse with water.
Products with lemon balm
Read more: Has Mineral Oil Gotten a Bad Rap?
Essential oils
An essential oil is a liquid that is generally distilled from the leaves, flowers, bark, roots, and stems of plants. They contain the true essence of the plant, making them highly concentrated. This is one reason they are often diluted in carrier oils and contain therapeutic benefits. Some essential oils include lavender oil, tea tree oil, and rosemary oil.
Carrier oils
A carrier oil is a vegetable oil derived from the fatty portion of a plant and usually comes from the kernels, nuts, or seeds. They are also called vegetable oils, fixed oils, and base oils. They are often referred to as carrier oils because when essential oils are diluted in them they carry the essential oil to the skin. Carrier oils can go rancid, but essential oils do not. Essential oils oxidize and lose their therapeutic benefits, but they do not go rancid. Examples of carrier oils include coconut oil, avocado oil, and olive oil.
Here are some common problems curlies suffer from and the natural oils to alleviate them.
Dandruff
According to the Mayo Clinic, dandruff is a common chronic scalp condition of flaking of the skin on the scalp. It is neither contagious nor often serious. People with dandruff produce new skin cells at a faster rate than average. Co-owner of Medical News Today Christian Nordqvist says that dandruff can also be a symptom of an underlying illness or condition like psoriasis or seborrhea dermatitis.
Since many curlies try to steer clear of the dandruff shampoos that are too harsh on our curls, here is where Mother Nature comes in.
- Tea Tree oil is a powerful antiseptic, antimicrobial, and antibacterial essential oil that will kill bacteria, yeast, and germs that can accumulate on the scalp and cause dandruff. I usually add a few drops to a handful of shampoos and wash my hair as normal. If diluted with a carrier oil, this can also make a great pre-poo scalp treatment.
- Lavender oil is another powerful essential oil with anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties that keep fungus at bay. Mix about 7 to 10 drops of lavender oil with your favorite carrier oil and massage into scalp. Leave in overnight to soothe an irritated and cleanse in the morning. Do weekly for a month for the best results.
- Coconut oil is a deep moisturizing oil that effectively treats a dry scalp and dandruff with its anti-fungal properties. Take five tablespoon. of coconut oil and add one tablespoon of lime juice. Mix together and apply to scalp while massaging gently. Allow to sit for 30 min. before washing out and styling as usual. You may need to repeat for another one or two wash days to see significant results.
Detangling & Moisturizing
A pre-poo treatment helps manage massive detangling sessions. The treatment will help to release the tangles for a smoother wash day. The pre-poo helps to keep the shampoo from stripping too much of the necessary oils from the hair and it will amp up the moisture levels. Just apply favorite oil to hair prior to cleansing, cover your hair with a plastic cap, and allow the oil to do its magic for at least 30-45 min. or longer.
- Olive oil is a top-notch oil for pre-pooing, as it seals in moisture and will release tangles.
- Castor oil is a thick oil that is great for tighter coils and curls. It is not only a great pre-poo choice but also another favorite for sealing in moisture.
- Coconut oil makes this list because it is light and non-greasy, conditions, combats hygral fatigue, and penetrates the hair shaft.
Sealing
Curly hair tends to be dryer than straight hair, so our hair no needs more moisture. Some confuse moisturizing with sealing but they are not the same. Moisturizing is adding the hydration to the strands with water or products formulated with water while sealing is retaining that moisture. The best sealants are oils and butters when applied on wet, damp, and freshly spritzed hair. You need the moisture before you seal it in, because applying oil to hair without traces of moisture will leave you with dry, greasy hair. Here are some great oils for retaining moisture in your strands.
- Sweet almond oil is a light, all-purpose that is great for all hair types. This oil works exceptionally well as a sealant on naturally curly strands. It will smooth the hair shaft while locking in your hair’s added moisture.
- Avocado oil is another lightweight oil that is easily absorbed into the hair and scalp while being chock-full of nutrients and vitamins. It is a natural humectant, so not only does it help to draw in moisture, but it also captures it and keeps it in.
- Argan oil is a natural humectant that absorbs moisture from the air and then locks it in while also acting like a natural SPF. It is great for deep conditioning and adding shine.
Combatting breakage
Breakage is a common problem that many curlies experience due to overmanipulation, too much tension, heat applications, chemical processing, various illnesses, hormonal imbalances, or stress. Hair breakage may require consulting a professional like a trichologist, dermatologist, or a physician, but if you are looking to see what Mother Nature has to offer, then you may want to try these three oils.
- Rosemary oil is effective at promoting your optimal hair growth. Its caffeic acid and rosmarinic acid can help to prevent hair loss. It stimulates hair growth by dilating blood vessels and that in turn stimulates hair follicles. This oil is also ideal for a dry and itchy scalp with its natural soothing effect.
- Lavender oil is great for treating dandruff and improving blood circulation to the scalp. Simply add a few drops of lavender oil to your favorite carrier oil and massage the mixture into your scalp.
- Jojoba oil is light oil quite close to our body’s natural sebum that moisturizes the hair follicles making them stronger and healthier.
How do you incorporate oils in your regimen?
What’s so great about coconut milk?
Coconut fat is mostly in the form of medium chain saturated fatty acids with lauric acid being the most dominant one in them. Easily absorbed by the body and a great source of dietary energy, lauric acid coconut milk contains iron, selenium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, protein, and vitamins C, E, B1, B3, B5, and B6. Unlike cow’s milk, coconut milk is lactose free and becoming increasingly popular for those suffering from lactose intolerance and this milk is a favorite among vegans. Despite the wonderful benefits of coconut milk, it does get dinged for its high fat content, sugar, and calories. What may not be so great for your body is amazing for our hair.
Benefits of coconut milk
We already love coconut oil and our hair benefits from all it has to offer from fighting frizz to being a sealant extraordinaire. Sure, but what can coconut milk do for your curls?
- Hair nourisher – Get ready for a cooling sensation when you apply coconut milk to your scalp. We are some ever-loving DIY curly girls so I know I would be remiss if I did not share how you can make your very own coconut milk at home.
- Lauric acid – This is the top reason coconut milk is a winner. It is a good and rare medium-chain fatty acid that is also found in mother’s milk. This is what gives coconut milk its anti-fungal, anti-viral, and anti-bacterial health-protecting properties. Lauric acid is a natural antiseptic that will help with dandruff, skin and scalp infections along with a dry, itchy scalp. It will soften the hair and make it smoother.
- Natural conditioner- Many commercial hair conditioners blend coconut milk and oil, which will help moisturize the hair and maintain shine. An easier and more direct way to harness that goodness is to massage coconut oil onto your hair from root to tip, apply coconut milk, and cover with a plastic cap. Wrap in a towel for a few hours or even overnight before rinsing out. No need to wash out and notice just how soft, shiny, and silky your hair feels.
Itching to try some DIY recipes with the goodness of coconut milk? I have a few below along with some hair products favorites that harness the benefits of coconut milk.
Coconut milk pre-poo
via Emily Cotton Top
- 4 tbsp. coconut milk
- 2 tbsp. honey
- 1 tbsp. of 3 of your favorite essential oils
Apply all ingredients into bowl and warm either in a bigger bowl of hot water or on the stove in a saucepan. Do not let boil. Once warm, apply to dirty hair, and cover with plastic cap and a heating cap, thermal heat turban or the like. Keep on for at least an hour and then remove in the shower to avoid messiness. Wash and style as usual.
Coconut milk +olive oil hair mask
- 1 tbsp. of coconut milk
- 1 tsp. olive oil
- Enough hot water to cover your hair.
Apply the coconut milk and olive oil into a small bowl and add enough hot water to have enough for your hair. Mix and then massage mixture into your scalp and hair from roots to tip. Leave on hair for 5-10 min. with or without a plastic cap before rinsing, cleansing, and styling as usual.
Products with coconut milk
If you prefer to get your coconut milk from a product rather than a can, try one of these:
Read more: Oleic and Linoleic Acid: The Reason You Love Oils so Much
Flaxseeds in their raw form range in color from amber–yellow to brownish red. The seeds come from the flax plant, which is an annual herb. Flaxseed can create two different yet similar oils: flaxseed oil and linseed oil. Flaxseed oil is typically processed by cold pressing the seeds. Linseed oil is also extracted by pressing the seeds but petroleum solvents are used during extraction to maximize yield. Flaxseed oil is safe for human consumption but linseed oil is not. Linseed oil is primarily used for industrial applications, most notably as an additive to paints and finishers for furniture.
Benefits of flaxseeds
Flaxseeds are rich in ALA, which is an omega-3 fatty acid that is helpful for heart disease. Just two tablespoons contains more than 100% of your recommended daily intake for those heart-healthy fats. Lignans have antioxidant qualities, and according to WebMD, flax seeds contain 75 to 800 more lignans than other plant foods. Flaxseeds also contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, but one of the features that make these little seeds a favorite of curly girls is their mucilage content.
Read more: Omega-3: The Essential Hair Secret
one of the features that make these little seeds a favorite of curly girls is their mucilage content
Benefits of flaxseed oil for hair & skin
Flaxseeds contain lignans but flaxseed oil does not. However, the oil does contain both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are both needed for health. People who are lacking in those necessary essential fatty acids may experience dry, brittle strands. Omega-3 fats nourish the hair follicles and encourage growth. They also prevent inflammation, helping to stave off hair loss, dandruff, and other hair and scalp conditions. Flaxseed oil can be found in liquid or softgel capsules. It is a sensitive oil that is best when made fresh from pressed seeds, bottled in dark containers, and processed at low temperatures in the absence of light, extreme heat or oxygen. The hair mask recipe below is worth trying if you want to receive the many benefits of flaxseed oil.
How to use flaxseeds
Flaxseed hair mask for itchy scalp
- 1 tbsp. flaxseed oil
- 2 tbsp. sugar
- 2 tbsp. ACV
- 2 cups water
- Spray bottle
- Plastic cap
Mix the flaxseed oil and sugar in a small bowl and then massage into your scalp. Cover with a plastic cap for 20 min. Get in the shower, pour the ACV and water into a spray bottle, massage mixture into your scalp well, and cover with a plastic cap. Allow to sit for up to one hour before rinsing thoroughly. No need to cleanse again and just style as usual.
DIY: Homemade natural hair gel with flaxseeds
Flaxseed gel is a favorite among naturals because it is a natural gel that will restore shine, detangle, and add moisture to your strands without leaving your hair hard and without the use of chemicals. Check out our flaxseed gel recipe below.
Have you used flaxseed on your hair? What was your experience?
Benefits of pumpkins
First off, the seeds of this mostly seasonal fruit offer an impressive cocktail of health enhancing and disease fighting compounds, vitamins, and minerals that can be consumed year-round. According to dietician Megan Ware, “Consuming one cup of cooked, canned pumpkin would provide well over 100% of your daily needs for vitamin A, 20% of the daily value for vitamin C, 10% or more for vitamin E, riboflavin, potassium, copper and manganese at least 5% for thiamin, B-6, folate, pantothenic acid, niacin, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus.” Pumpkin is great for your heart as the fiber, potassium, and vitamin C can help lower blood pressure. It has vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene, which have been shown to support eye health, prevent degenerative damage, and offer an immunity boost for the body from the powerful combination of nutrients.
Why your hair will love pumpkin seed oil
This oil contains not only massive amounts of fatty acids, but it is loaded with vitamins, proteins, dietary fibers, and minerals. The amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants allow this oil to help maintain normal cell structure and retain moisture in skin as well as the scalp and even hair. The high amounts of zinc and vitamin E help with skin renewal, which include helping wounds heal quicker. Dr. Kevin Berman says that zinc also prevents and treats flaking, irritation, and itching associated with seborrheic dermatitis. Pumpkin seed oil inhibits Dihydrotestosterone (DHT”> production, testosterone, and androgen levels so it assists in controlling hair loss. DHT blocks the hair follicles from absorbing proteins. Pumpkin seed oil is best used as an ingredient in beauty products or even a supplement rather than simply on its own like the much-coveted coconut oil. They are great side by side and even in some recipes. Here are a couple of recipes for enjoying the benefits of pumpkin.
Pumpkin seed oil deep conditioner
Recipe via Bustle
- 1 Tbsp. pumpkin seed oil
- 1/2 apple puree
- 1 tbsp. shea butter
- 1 egg
Blend or puree ½ apple then add shea butter and pumpkin seed oil. Whisk egg separately and stir into the mixture. Apply to freshly washed hair and leave in for 20 min. before rinsing out and styling as usual.
Pumpkin hair mask
- 1 cup cooked or canned pumpkin puree
- 1 Tbsp. jojoba oil
- 3 to 4 Tbsp. coconut oil
- Blender
Add all ingredients into the blender and mix for 4 to 5 min. or until you have a creamy consistency like a hair conditioner. Apply to dry hair either by brushing or massaging and make sure to coat every strand. Cover with a plastic cap for ½ hour. Rinse and cleanse as normal.
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What’s the difference in olive oils?
There is a real science to how olive oils are graded by their extraction process and the acidity of the pressed oil, according to Dr. Timothy Harlan, an assistant professor of clinical medicine at Tulane University states in an article by Gina Shaw on WebMD. Extra-virgin (EVOO“>, virgin, pure, and light are different olive oil grades that do not legally affect residents of the United States, as the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA”> is not a member of the International Olive Council. However, in October 2010 the U.S. Standard for Grades of Olive Oil and Olivek-Pomace Oil went into effect and the USDA grading of olive oil is now based on flavor, odor, absence of defects, and acidity.
Grades of Olive Oil
These are the U.S. Standards for Grades of Olive Oil, according to Medical News Today:
- U.S. extra virgin olive oil has an excellent flavor, odor, and a free fatty acid content of ≤ 0.8g per 100g (0.8%”>.
- U.S. virgin olive oil has a reasonably good flavor, odor, and a free fatty acid content of ≤ 2g per 100g (2%”>.
- U.S. virgin olive oil not fit for human consumption without further processing is a virgin oil of poor flavor and odor.
- U.S. olive oil is an oil mix of both virgin and refined oils.
- U.S. refined olive oil is an oil made from refined oils with some restrictions on the processing.
Which types of olive oils are best for hair?
EVOO and refined olive oil retain their nutritional value. Lighter formulas typically have chemical additives that can dry the hair out where as the pure olive oil is thick, provides intense moisture and shine. If you have dry or damaged hair, steering clear of the chemically altered olive oils is a must.
What are the benefits of olive oil on hair?
There are three main reasons to use EVOO on your strands: it will nourish the scalp, condition the hair, and improve the elasticity of the hair. Olive oil is the dream oil for dry and or damaged strands. It is ideal for coarse hair and for damaged, porous strands due to chemical processing. EVOO can actually penetrate the hair shaft and retain hair’s moisture because the richness of the oil is able to reach the cortex and moisturize the hair from within. This heavy oil is optimal for controlling frizz and should be used sparingly as too much can weigh the hair down and even makes it greasy.
It is perfect for the winter months where, as the hair is more prone to dryness. Olive oil will not repair split ends, but it helps smooth them and can decrease their rate at which they occur after a trim. Its primary chemical elements are oleic acid, palmitic acid, and squalene. All are emollients and have softening qualities.
Read more: Oleic and Linoleic: The Reason You Love Oils So Much
How to use olive oil on hair
Here are a couple of DIY recipes to try for optimal moisture and a few products in case you prefer OTC for your olive oil boost.
EVOO + Honey Hair Massage
- 4 Tbsp. EVOO
- ½ tsp. raw honey
- 2 bowls (one smaller than the other”>
Fill the larger bowl with boiling water. Place the mixture in the smaller bowl and place in the larger bowl to warm the mixture; this method does not destroy the benefits of the oil from direct heat. Allow to warm before applying to scalp in circular motions. Allow to sit on the scalp for 20 min. before washing and styling as usual.
EVOO Pre-Poo Dandruff Fighter
- 2 Tbsp. EVOO
- 2 Tbsp. pure lemon juice
- 2 Tbsp. water
Mix ingredients together before massaging into scalp. Leave on for 20 min. before rinsing and shampooing. Style as usual. This mixture can be used weekly to free up the flakes and moisturize the new, exfoliated layer of skin underneath.
Products with olive oil
- Curl Junkie Beauticurls Argan & Olive Oil Daily Hair Conditioner
- Organic Root Stimulator Creamy Aloe Shampoo
- Organic Root Stimulator Olive Oil Cream
- Carol’s Daughter Olive Oil Infusion At-Home Hair Treatment
- SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen Grow & Restore Treatment Masque
- Giovanni 2chic Ultra-Moist Deep Deep Moisture Hair Mask Avocado & Olive Oil
- Nubian Heritage Evoo & Moringa Repair & Extend Hair Butter
How does hair grow?
Hair, which is made of keratin and has three layers, begins growing from the root (papilla”> at the base of a hair follicle. The inner layer is the medulla, the second layer is the cortex and the outer layer is the cuticle. The roots are made up of protein cells and blood. The blood vessels in the scalp feed the root to create more cells and make the hair grow. Hair actually gets pushed up through our scalp near the sebaceous glands, which add oil (i.e. sebum”> to the hair and keeps it moisturized. Hair is dead by the time it reaches your scalp. We are born with all of the hair follicles we will ever have and that are around 5 million on our entire body with 1 million just on our heads. This means there is no way to increase the density of your hair.
Three Hair Growth Cycles
- Anagen phase – the active phase is where the cells in the root of the hair divide rapidly and grows about 1 cm. every 28 days. Scalp hair is in this phase of growth for 2 to 6 years.
- Catagen phase – when the scalp transitions from anagen phase your hair enters the catagen or transitional phase, and only about 3% of all hairs are ever in this phase at any given time. This phase lasts about 2 to 3 weeks where growth stops.
- Telogen phase – this is the last phase and resting phase when your hair is released and falls out. About 6% to 8% of all hairs in this phase at any given time. There are about 25 to 100 telogen hairs that are normally shed each day. The hair follicle that remains will be inactive for three months before the entire process is repeated.
How fast does hair grow?
Ah, the question we all are dying to know the answer to! The most commonly accepted statistic is that hair on the scalp grows about .3 to .4 mm/day or about 3-6 in. per year. But the truth is, as with all things hair and health related, the answer is: it depends. “The rate of growth can be influenced by any number of variables,” Elizabeth Cunnane Phillips, a trichologist at the Philip Kingsley Clinic told Huffington Post. Those variables include “health, dietary habits, and endocrine function including thyroid, low iron or anemia…All of these have the capacity to influence hair growth and loss cycles.”
In a study conducted between 1999 and 2003, 511 healthy volunteers (254 males and 257 females”> where there was a comparison of African, Asian and Caucasian hair growth patterns. African hair was characterized by both low growth and low hair density, Chinese hair had low density and high growth rate and Caucasian hair was characterized by high density (Loussouarn, G., El Rawadi, C. and Genain, G. (2005″>, Diversity of hair growth profiles. International Journal of Dermatology, 44: 6–9. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-4632.2005.02800.x“> Despite those findings the article does explain that the findings are just too simplistic to draw strong conclusions and does indicate additional investigations should be conducted within each ethnic group.
So the simple answer? Three to six inches per year. But there are many contributing factors that can lead to more or less growth than that. Rather than focusing your energy on hair growth, we recommend you turn your focus to length retention.
Retention is just as important (or more important”> than hair growth
Honestly, no matter how fast your hair grows, if you do not learn proper ways to retain much of that growth, then your hair will not reach longer lengths. Retention is preserving the hair that grows out of the scalp and keeping it healthy by keeping it moisturized and gently handling the hair to reduce breakage; this also includes trimming when necessary. There is no need to schedule trims unless you are coloring, straightening, not sealing, and caring for their ends. The ends are the oldest part of the hair, therefore making them fragile and the most exposed to damage, especially when wearing the hair loose.
Can you make your hair grow faster?
Biotin has become the go-to for hair growth stimulant, but do many actually know what it is? “These B complex vitamins (also known as vitamin H”> are important in metabolism, helping your body to process energy and transporting carbon dioxide from your body’s cells,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Susan Stuart. Biotin is all the craze for growing healthier hair, nails, and clear skin and we are seeing a whole new generation of supplement takers for this beauty benefit, but according to Dermatologist Dr. Richard Scher, it is not totally clear what role biotin plays.
According to Dr. Scher, “Biotin deficiency is rare and low levels may result in brittle nails and hair loss, however, hair loss and brittle nails may have multiple causes and taking biotin supplements may actually halt this process and even help to reverse it.” Want another expert opinion? Check out cosmetic chemist Sister Scientist’s article Biotin and Castor Oil: Do They Really Work? Many of the NaturallyCurly editors have tried biotin, so to read more about how their hair (and skin”> reacted, read We Tried Biotin, Here’s What Happened.
Remember that it imperative to eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, reduce stress, maintain a clean scalp, and follow your doctor’s order for a holistic approach to healthy hair. Supplements can be taken in addition to those things with clearance from your primary care physician.
Follow Frédérique (pictured above”> here:
Benefits of coconut oil
Lauric acid is the big winner in the benefits of the coconut. It is one of the good fats that comprises about 50% of coconut oil and is a rare medium-chain fatty acid found in Mother’s milk that supports a healthy metabolism and has anti-fungal, anti-viral, anti-bacterial health-protecting properties. It is more easily absorbed by the body and are a source of dietary energy. Lauric acid has the strongest antimicrobial activity among all saturated fatty acids against gram-positive bacteria and some viruses and fungi. (Fabian, D. 2015″>.
Read more: What You Need to Know About Antibacterial, Antioxidants, Antifungal, and Anti-inflammatory Oils
Coconut oil also has capric acid, caprylic acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, linoleic acid, oleic acid, phenolic acid, vitmain E, vitamin K, and iron. It is great for skin care and is a highly effective moisturizers especially for dry skin sufferers. It delays the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin and treats various skin problems like dermatitis, eczema, and even psoriasis. It helps with high cholesterol, digestion, immune boosting, and even weight loss as it increases the body’s metabolic rate by removing stress on the pancreas, thereby burning more energy.
- Frizz-fighter– just a dab of coconut oil rubbed on your hands and then through your hair will help get rid of minor frizz.
- Shine enhancer and pliability– when added to dry hair it will add shine and increase hair fiber pliability. This in turn reduces friction and static electricity between strands.
- Scalp rehydrator and stimulator– actually great for your entire body for rehydrating dry skin, coconut oil was found in a 2013 study discussed in the Journal of International Dermatology found that virgin coconut oil improved skin barrier function in patients with atopic dermatitis. Irritated or dry scalps benefit from a coconut oil scalp massage as plethora of fatty acids fight skin ailments while hydrating a dry scalp.
- Blood circulator– a coconut scalp massage will effectively improve scalp circulation and most nutrient and oxygen delivery to your hair.
- Vitamin and nutrient importer– the natural antioxidants and nutrients in coconut oil deliver critical resources to improve your hair’s strength, softness, and luster.
Here are two recipes with the powerhouse coconut oil but we’ve even got a few hair care products that have it in their ingredient list too.
2 Ways to use coconut oil for hair
Coconut aloe leave-in conditioner
via Bustle
- 1 cup of coconut oil
- 2 Tbsp. of aloe vera leaf extract (or pure aloe juice”>
- 2 Tbsp. of sunflower seed oil
- 1 tsp. of vegetable glycerin
- 12 drops of lavender essential oil
- 8 drops of pure vanilla extract
Mix all ingredients except the essential oils in a blender until you get a smooth consistency. Now add the essential oils. A little goes a long way so try small amounts first to determine how much your hair needs and this is perfect for braided styles, twists, and updos.
Coconut oil and honey hair mask
- 1 Tbsp. organic coconut oil
- 1 Tbsp. organic raw honey
- Sauce pan
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
- Towel
- Shower cap (optional”>
Apply all the ingredients into a small saucepan and heat but not to boiling! Can be applied to wet or dry hair but make sure to apply to all strands but focus on the ends. Place hair in a bun and add a plastic cap and allow mask to sit for 30-40 min. Wash mask out in shower with regular cleanser and style as usual.
Products with coconut oil
If DIY is not your thing and store bought is more your speed, here are six products that contain coconut oil.
- EDEN BodyWorks Coconut Shea All Natural Leave-In Conditioner
- Phyto Phytojoba Intense Hydration Brilliance Shampoo
- Kiehl’s Amino Acid Conditioner
- Carol’s Daughter Monoi Oil Sacred Strengthening Serum
- SheaMoisture Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie
- John Masters Organics Citrus & Neroli Detangler
Will coconut oil make your hair dry?
From discussions here on NaturallyCurly and our Facebook pages, we know that while many people love this oil, there are also many who find that their hair feels drier and tangles easily when they use coconut oil. According to The Natural Haven, “The straw like feel some people find with coconut oil is usually related to using too much product because coconut oil is not as viscous as other oils. Hardening of the hair is related usually to temperature because coconut oil solidifies at a fairly low temperature so a cold winter breeze can stiffen hair very fast.”
The only way to find out if your hair will react well to an ingredient or not is to try it out on a small “test” section of hair and see how your hair feels. We recommend doing this before slathering coconut oil all over your hair or trying one of the recipes above. If you find that the oil hardens on your hair when used as a leave-in conditioner, you may prefer to use it as a treatment that you wash out of your hair.
We’d love to hear in the comments below how your hair reacted to coconut oil – did you love it? Or did you feel that it hardened on your hair?
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What’s in apricot seed oil?
Apricot seed oil is rich in nutrients like proteins, soluble sugars, and fibers and unsaturated fatty acids like oleic and linoleic acid (Lee, H., Ahn, J., Kwon. 2014“>. The oil is rich in plant antioxidants as it is a good source of vitamins A and C but also have vitamins E, K, and even niacin. They have a huge mineral content including copper, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous and potassium. It has excellent softening and moisturizing properties that aid skin, scalp, and hair as it helps skin retain its elasticity and suppleness. With its natural anti-inflammatory properties it is often used to treat eczema and dermatitis, and when combined with St. John’s Wort it creates a soothing and cooling effect giving an even stronger anti-inflammatory effect.
Read more: Oleic and Linoleic Acid: Why You Love Oils So Much
6 benefits of apricot oil for your hair & scalp
- Apricot seed oil has oleic acid, which is an omega-9 fatty acid and a wonderful emollient that makes hair and scalp softer and more pliable.
- It actually moisturizes the hair and scalp while increasing the hydration level and reducing dryness.
- Linoleic acid benefits hair by stimulating hair growth while staving off moisture loss.
- Linoleic acid is a fatty acid that controls or keeps moisture in the hair and scalp. This makes it a favorite for hair sealants along with its pleasantly light scent.
- This oil provides lubrication to the skin, including the scalp and as a light and gentle lubricant, it is great for sensitive skin types and often used in hair and face creams and rinses.
- It not only seals in the moisture, but it also absorbs small amounts of water from the air’s humidity to help maintain that barrier of hydration inside the strand and scalp. Apricot seed oil leaves hair soft, shiny, and keeps the strands well-nourished and moisturized.
5 ways to use apricot oil
- Add a few drops to your favorite shampoo or deep conditioner to impart extra softness, moisture, and promote healthier hair
- Pre-poo to combat the drying effects of shampoo or to help remove stubborn tangles prior to washing hair
- Apply to wet or even dry hair to boost moisture in second, third, and fourth-day hair to revive curls, coils, and waves
- Finish a style to add shine and softness
- Massage your scalp to rid dryness to scalp and give a light scent soothing to the senses.
5 Products with apricot oil
Not into DIY? Here are a few hair products utilizing the moistening effects of apricot seed oil in their ingredient list:
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Question
Coconut milk and Lime juice – deep conditioner or relaxer? I have a mixture of 3a, 3b, and 3c hair. It is a little bit heat damaged and I was looking for a good deep conditioner. On YouTube I saw this video by andreaschoice, who uses coconut milk and lime juice as deep conditioner. I’ve read many reviews, but most of them were made by people with hair types 4a, b and c. Now, is this treatment going to loosen my curls and frizz them up more, or is it going to work as a deep conditioner?
[do action=”youtube-video” videoid=”Cq4GUFBRnhM?t=35s”/]Answer
It seems that every few years this homemade coconut milk treatment comes about with a new following and hype. It has not been proven to relax curly, coily, or wavy hair although many suggest it does. However, most agree it is an amazing moisturizing treatment.
By definition a hair relaxer is a cream or lotion that is applied to the hair to straighten through chemicals, like the active ingredient sodium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide. It breaks down the hair shaft to alter the hair’s texture by loosening the curl pattern. There are no all-natural hair relaxers on the market to date. What some may experience while using the coconut lime masque are dry strands responding positively to the moisture-plentiful ingredients in most of these treatments.
Coconut milk acts as a natural detangler and conditioner and with the amazing minerals like phosphorus, calcium, and potassium it seems like a winner for hair health. Limes are full of vitamin C, which helps is great for fighting dandruff and can help manage an oily scalp. Both of these ingredients will help your hair and may even combat frizz, but it is more of a conditioning treatment than a relaxer just as chemist JC from The Natural Haven suggests.
There are several variations of this treatment, so I have a few below. Feel free to give them a try to gain moisture and shine without losing your curls.
Coconut milk deep moisturizing treatment
- 1-cup coconut milk
- 1 Tbsp. coconut oil
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1-cup non-fat plain yogurt
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Divide hair into at least four sections and apply mixture to each section ensuring all strands are covered. Cover with a plastic cap and allow mixture to sit on hair for 45 min. to an hour. Rinse out completely, moisturize, and style as usual.
Coconut & lime treatment
- 1 can of coconut milk (find a thick one”>
- 2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
- 4 Tbsp. lime juice
- 2 to 3 Tbsp. of cornstarch
Pour coconut milk into a saucepan and add olive oil and whisk until smooth. Add lime juice and cornstarch and mix while adding medium heat and whisk constantly. Do not cook the mixture but rather allow the heat to activate the cornstarch and to thicken mixture to a conditioner consistency. If mixture is too thin then add more cornstarch. Allow to cool and apply mixture to sectioned hair making sure all hairs are covered. Cover with a plastic cap and sit under a hooded dryer or a heat thermal cap for 30 min. Rinse, cleanse, and style as usual. Any remaining mixture can be placed in the freezer for another application.
I’m talking about horse hair brushes. Yes, brushes that were created to brush the tangles out of horse manes. Many curly women swear by it! As long as you are not sharing it with your horse you should be just fine. This very unusual brush has an innovative design comprising uniquely flexible comb rows that gently loosen the tangles.
It is created to prevent hair pulling or breaking strands by moving with the hair and not against it.
There are anywhere from 7 to 9 flexible comb rows that bend out and snap back without harming the hair. Made of nylon, it usually weighs around 1.4 ounces and around 8 ¾ inches long. It is created to prevent hair pulling or breaking strands by moving with the hair and not against it. It is made of nylon and has a wavy handle with a grip for easy use. The winning component in this brush is its flexible rows that are not attached at the top, which allows for optimal flexibility in brushing.
How does it compare to other brushes?
According to women who have tried all three, it seems to beat out other brushes like the Tangle Teezer and the Denman. While I have heard and read reviews in which curlies raved about both the Tangle Teezer and the Denman, I have also heard that they can cause breakage for some women. I have yet to hear any negative experiences with the horse hair brush, other than complaints of steep markups by a few retailers.
Some brands are renaming and revamping the brush as a detangling brush for curly hair, but it is just the same old brush no matter where you get it.
Members of our community have bought theirs at their local horse supply or agricultural shops, like Tractor Supply Co Store, for around $5. You can also find them on Amazon by Tangle Wrangler for $11.99 and Chicks Saddlery for $1.29.
If you’re considering giving this brush a try, watch these videos to see how the brush is used and whether these women like it (hint, the first video is entitled “the BEST detangler brush””>.
The Best Detangler Brush
CoilyHeadChick does an excellent review of this unique brush that glides rather easily through her hair. Now she has her hair saturated in shampoo but most who use the brush say to do that with conditioner. I think using conditioner would be a much better bet as well. She even sells the brush on her website (which she mentions”> but they are pretty popular and can be found just about anywhere including Amazon.com.
Natural Hair Detangling Regimen
My Natural Sistas discussing her detangling regimen using the Felicia Leatherwood Detangling Brush, which is very similar to the horse detangling brush. It also has flex-bristles (as she calls them”> that enable “fluid movement”. She shows the unique design and how it stretches as you brush through the hair. She starts from the bottom and works her way up from there to brush through and fully detangle a section of wet hair. No snags as she detangles with a breeze. The Felicia Leatherwood Pink Detangling Brush was $10 back when this video was created but now $16.
So, are you on board or have you already tried it? We would love to know below so comment and let us know if you love it, hate it or buying it.
The highest quality oil is achieved if distilled within 24 hrs. of harvesting, especially with younger plants, as they yield greater quantities. The plant is sensitive to climate and soil composition and any changes in those factors modify the naturally occurring constituent neryl acetate percentage. There are about 500 species of helichrysum, but only a few actually produce the essential oil.
Medicinal benefits of Helichrysum essential oil
The benefits are vast and impressive, as it is brimming with useful and healing properties. It is anti-allergenic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, astringent, diuretic, analgesic, expectorant, cytophylactic, cholagogue, and nervine. It has cytophylactic properties, which means it promotes regrowth of skin cells. Helichrysum essential oil will stimulate blood circulation and protect the body against a long list of microbial infections and keeps wounds from getting septic. Can be used topically to wounds, cuts, and other open sores to keep them from becoming infected.
Helichrysum is also an emollient that helps the skin maintain smoothness and retain moisture. This prevents dehydration and cracking of the skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties, namely sespquiterpene hydrocarbons, disperse free radicals and provides healing feature. This oil is an anti-oxidant, a tissue regenerative, and anti-inflammatory essential oil that does the body good. It blends well with bergamot, cypress, geranium, juniper, lavender, lemon, neroli, and rosemary oils.
Everlasting flower oil on your scalp and hair
The scalp can benefit from this oil’s natural healing and regenerative properties. Its ability to stimulate blood circulation is helpful for promoting your optimal hair growth when used in conjunction with low stress levels, proper diet, and exercise. Helichrysum essential oil will clean the scalp, strengthen the strands, and stimulate hair follicles while reducing itchiness and dryness. Helichrysum essential oil is also one of the better oils for treating psoriasis, dandruff, and other scalp disorders.
Damage to the hair follicle can stunt or hinder proper hair growth, so oils like everlasting flower oil stave off bacteria that may cause damage to the follicle and even the tissue underneath. It promotes cell health and encourages improved cell renewal rate. This helps in the overall growth and repair of the body as a whole but the hair and scalp health too. Here are some easy DIY recipes to try but if you prefer products with this scalp wonder than we have a few of those below too.
No fuss, no muss hair strengthening treatment
- 8 drops Helichrysum essential oil
- 8 drops of clary sage essential oil
- 8 drops of rosemary essential oil
- Your favorite shampoo or co-wash cleanser
- 8 oz. bottle
Just add these drops into your favorite bottle or jar of shampoo or co-wash. Add your shampoo or co-wash to the 8 oz. bottle and add the drops of essential oils.
Helichrysum + Coconut oil deep conditioner
- 8 drops of Helichrysum essential oil
- 3 tbsp. coconut oil
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
Mix all ingredients for a few minutes to ensure a proper cream consistency. Apply to dry hair. Work through with fingers or a wide tooth comb for even distribution. Allow to sit for 15 to 20 min. before rinsing. Cleanse and style as usual.
Products with Everlasting flower oil
I understand that our oversharing culture is not the only reason some feel the need to ask about your hair. Some just are nosy while others truly have no idea that people of color can have curly or coily hair. Yes, there are still some disillusioned souls out here thinking our hair grows straight and some of us are rocking curly weaves and wigs. If you have been asked this question and do not know how to address it, here are some responses to consider.
Push back
Smile and respond, “Why? Are you thinking about going natural?”
Some women may just want help with going natural as we are seeing more women joining the natural hair movement. I love it and welcome every woman aboard, but as stated before, tact is not an inherent trait, so maybe she is asking because if your hair is relaxed and you’re wearing a wig you may be less likely to offer advice. Of course this could be false, as there are beauticians with relaxed hair and relaxed-haired women who know how to care for natural textures. We have all seen the amazing crochet braids, wigs, and weaves on Instagram that will have even professional hairstylist’s wondering if it is your hair.
Divert and confuse
“Yes, are you natural? How long have you been natural and what do you use in your hair?”
I completely believe in diversion because many are so easily distracted. I bombard them with questions and take them off-guard so they no longer have the focus on me but rather on themselves. This is a polite way to keep them out of your head and onto their own. Some will respond slightly defensive and start tripping over themselves to answer you. Now, they are out of your hair and into their own, which is the way it ought to be.
Ask them why the want to know
Simply say, “Why do you ask?”
This is not a rude answer in the least. You have every right to know their intention and this is the most polite way of knowing why they want know. Never feel obligated to answer a person’s question, especially from a stranger. If you have an answer that suits you, then share it but if not then don’t.
The bottom line is, whether you are wearing your natural hair or extensions is irrelevant. No one needs to know what is going on up in your head, and if you do not feel the need to share, then by all means don’t. I am a natural hair blogger so I share but if I was not I would not be so willing to give information about my hair to strangers. Simple as that.
If you want to share then do it, but if you do not want to then use one or more of the examples above and keep it moving.
How do you feel when people ask if your hair is real? Do you ask other people that question?
Medicine can be made from the flowers, leaves, and oil. Tea made from the flowers and leaves are often used for runny noses and colds in small children. Marjoram essential oil is steam distilled from dried for fresh leaves, and although it has been used for physical ailments, it has often been used in spiritual rituals as well. The leaves can be harvested from the plant just after flower buds form. First, hang the harvested stems in a dark, dry room for seven to ten days before stripping it’s leaves from the stems and storing in an airtight container.
Benefits of marjoram leaf oil
Marjoram leaf oil is an analgesic, antispasmodic, antiseptic, antiviral, bactericidal, carminative, cephalic, cordial, diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, emenagogue, expectorant, fungicidal, hypotensive, laxative, nervine, sedative, stomachic, vasodilator, and vulnerary substance. This herb contains many phytonutrients, minerals, and vitamins and is used for many medicinal ailments like nausea, eliminating flatulence, relieving diarrhea and constipation as well as improving one’s appetite and calming the stomach. Marjoram oil blends well with bergamot, cedarwood, chamomile, cypress, eucalyptus, lavender, and tea tree oils.
With this miracle oil being antiseptic, bactericidal, and fungicidal makes it easy to see why it is ideal for any or all infections of the scalp. From dandruff to psoriasis this oil can be directly applied to the scalp to help with scalp ailments and excessive dryness. Marjoram tea and oil is used quite often in hair rinses for darker colored hair to revitalize the hair and color while giving a soothing aromatic touch to the hair. The hair rinses also aid in numerous scalp infections and should always be the last rinse with no need to follow up with water. The oil can be directly rubbed into the scalp to not only fight scalp ailments but also nourish the hair follicles. Here is a great hair rinse recipe.Marjoram leaf hair rinse
What you’ll need
- A few drops of marjoram essential oil
- One bunch of marjoram leaves
- Enough water to cover leaves
Directions
- Place marjoram leaves in a pot and add enough water to cover well.
- Allow to boil before removing from stove, steep, and then cool.
- Remove leaves from water, add a few drops of marjoram essential oil to make even more effective, and use as a final hair rinse after cleansing hair to treat any scalp ailments.
- Do not rinse out and style as usual.
Sandalwood essential oil comes from the heartwood of the Santalum tree, which is a heiparasitic evergreen that grows by joining the root system of other trees. It belongs to the Santalaceae family and is among the oldest-known materials used for its exotic scent. The oil is high in sespuiterpenes, which relaxing for the nervous system and has been used for centuries to enhance meditation. This oil is used for meditation, fragrance, and cosmetics.
What is sandalwood essential oil?
The essential oil is extracted by steam distillation of pieces of the wood from matured sandalwood trees in the age ranges of 40 to 80 years old. The 80-year-old trees are preferred because the older the tree, the more oil available and the aroma is more pronounced. This woodsy smelling oil ranges in color from yellow to pale gold. It has several magnificent characteristics that make it highly useful and beneficial for health and wellness.
Benefits of sandalwood essential oil
For your body
There are plenty of benefits this adjoining root system tree has to offer. It contains antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antiphlogistic, antispasmodic, astringent, cicatrisant, carminative, diuretic, disinfectant, expectorant, and hypotensive properties. With a list that impressive and vast, it is no wonder it was highly prized and used. It is excellent at cleansing, suitable for all skin types, and especially useful for chapped, dry, and even sensitive or inflamed skin.
Excellent for skin, sandalwood oil will soften and restore the skins ability to retain moisture. Powerful for relieving rashes and inflammation, sandalwood oil will also aid in scar fading, healing eczema, psoriasis, and soothing acne. Sandalwood essential oil blends well with bergamot, geranium, lavender, myrrh, rose, and ylang-ylang.
Read more: The Benefits of Blended Oils for Healthy Hair
For your hair
This antiseptic property in this fragrant essential oil is excellent for stimulating blood circulation in the scalp to encourage optimal hair growth. It has been used in ancient Indian medicine to increase shine and prevent hair dryness. The astringent in sandalwood oil is quite useful in getting rid of excess sebum secretions for those with an oily scalp. Relieve your dandruff-ridden scalp with by mixing sandalwood with a carrier oil and applying it to the scalp before a shampoo.
How to use it
Here are a few recipes and products that take the powerful and asset-filled sandalwood essential oil for your curls.
- Sandalwood hair sheen– Add around 4 to 8 drops of sandalwood essential oil to jojoba oil and apply to dry hair, concentrating heavily on the ends after a shower. This will help to retain moisture and enhance sheen.
- Sandalwood dry hair rinse– Add a few drops of sandalwood essential oil to your final rinse water and rinse hair. Condition and style as usual.
- Sandalwood hair massage oil– Add drops of sandalwood oil to carrier oil and massage in circular motion in scalp. This will soothe, cleanse, and reduce inflammation in the scalp while increasing blood flow to nourish the hair follicles. No need to rinse and can be done at night a few times a week for promoting a healthier scalp.
Products with sandalwood oil
What are the health benefits of artichokes?
Artichoke leaves are packed with phytonutrients, such gallic acid, cynarin, quercetin, and rutin, which all help to protect against many health risks. Artichokes and the leaf extract reduce cholesterol levels and aid in digestive health. It stimulates the production of bile, which enables humans to digest fats and absorb vitamins from food consumption.
This wonder plant will prevent ulcers and although artichoke leaf extract does not decrease acid production by the stomach it does however shows potential as a natural supplement for treating gastritis that can ultimately lead to the development of stomach ulcers. The extract seems to help persons suffering from IBS or Irritable Bowel Syndrome and dyspepsia or upset stomachs.
What can artichoke leaf extract do for the scalp and hair?
Artichokes have antioxidant compounds like silymarin, caffeic acid, and ferulic acids that help the body protect itself from harmful free-radical agents. This slows the aging process of the skin, scalp, and hair through the blocking of those harmful agents. UV rays inherently damage the melanin and protein constituents of hair follicles, but those changes can be repelled when treated with artichoke leaf extract.
A rich source of minerals like copper, iron, potassium, manganese, and phosphorus are vital to healthy hair. Copper assists in hair growth by increasing the follicle cell proliferation and decreasing programmed follicle cell death. Iron plays an essential role in getting nutrition and oxygenation to the hair roots. A potassium deficiency is one of the major reasons behind hair loss in both men and women and a deficiency of manganese may result in weaker hair. These minerals along with the calcium and phosphorous replenish dry, damaged, dull, and lifeless strands improving the strength, look, feel, and overall quality of the hair. The vitamin C in artichokes is good for scalp inflammation and even some mild infections or scalp ailments like dandruff.
To reap the benefits of artichokes for both your hair and the rest of your body, add them to your grocery list and incorporate them into your diet. If artichokes are not your favorite, then check out these five products that utilize the goodness of artichokes in their formulas.
Products with artichoke extract
What is milk thistle oil?
Milk thistle is known as the Marian thistle, Mediterranean milk thistle, as well as the Scotch thistle. Once native to southern Europe and certain parts of Asia, it is now naturalized in many places throughout the world including North America. A member of the Asteraceae family like sunflowers and daisies, it thrives in dry, sunny areas. Spiny stems branch at the top and reach heights of 5 to even 10 ft. tall. With wide leaves with white blotches or veins, it gets its name from the white sap that comes from the leaves when crushed. Considered a weed, it spreads quickly and matures in less than a year. With a fatty acid profile similar to sunflower oil, milk thistle oil is a good choice for use in cosmetics and skin and hair creams. It has been used in its extensive history for all kinds of medicinal remedies from chronic inflammatory disease and cirrhosis of the liver to depression.Who should use it?
Anyone who wants to protect their hair from UV rays and pollutants, as well as people suffering from:
- eczema
- acne
- rosacea
- irritated or dry scalp
- hair loss
How to use it
DIY natural sunscreen
Add one drop of milk thistle oil to ten drops of your favorite carrier oil and massage it into your hair. Apply this to your hair as a sealer, the last step in your hair styling routine. If your roots are prone to looking oily or greasy, then focus the oil from the mid-length to the ends of your hair. Leave this in your hair and head out for the day.
As a pre-poo for scalp issues
This is similar to the sunscreen, but instead you apply this 10 minutes before you shampoo your hair as a pre-poo. If your scalp is inflamed or irritated add one drop of milk thistle oil to ten drops of your favorite carrier oil and massage into scalp and hair. After 10 minutes just cleanse and style as usual.
Add one drop of milk thistle oil to ten drops of your favorite carrier oil and massage into scalp and hair
If you are not team DIY, then you can find milk thistle oil as an ingredient in hair products such as:
- AVEDA Invati Exfoliating Shampoo
- Nature’s Gate Nourishing Shampoo for Dry or Frizzy Hair with Hemp
- Nature’s Gate Hemp + Argan Oil Nourishing Conditioner
- Bumble and Bumble Creme de Coco Conditioner
What makes it special?
Silymarin, main active ingredient in milk thistle, is both an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound, and according to the University Of Maryland Medical Center, silymarin is a group of the flavonoids silibinin, silidianin, and silicristin. They are all thought to repair liver cells damaged by alcohol and other toxic substances. It also reduces inflammation and acts as a rather strong antioxidant. Lastly, milk thistle extract contains high concentrations of fatty acids and omega 3s which are vital for maintaining a healthy heart.
The benefits of milk thistle on hair
Milk thistle’s main active ingredient, silymarin, has those amazing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which protect the scalp and hair from sun damage and environmental pollutants. It also works to improve cell regeneration and that in turn may assist in hair growth.
Just as it can reverse damage to the liver (at a slow pace”>, it does so with the scalp and hair as well but it is not a quick fix. Milk thistle is rich in phytosterols which are not just great for anti-aging but superb as moisturizing agents that will hydrate and add moisture to the scalp and hair. Milk thistle has a healthy amount of vitamin E, which also acts as a natural sunscreen for your hair and skin as it protects them from UV rays and pollutants. Those moisturizing properties coupled with anti-inflammatory components help calm dry, cracking skin problems like eczema, acne, rosacea or just an irritated scalp.
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Benefits of vetiver root oil
This earthy root oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in calming inflammations particular in the circulatory system. Vetiver root oil also has antiseptic properties that aid in stopping the growth of certain bacteria. The cicatrizing components accelerate the disappearance of scars on the skin, stops skin infections from being septic, and aids in healing those wounds quickly while promoting the growth of new tissue on the affected area. It blends well with clary sage, lavender, rose, sandalwood, and ylang ylang.
Vetiver root oil for scalp and hair
Vetiver oil helps in cell regeneration and it bags this goodness from its cicatrizing properties. Cicatrisants are cell-renewing agents that stimulate collagen formation and it is a major component of our hair. As we age our collagen production slows and the cell structures weaken, causing hair to get lifeless and less elastic.
As we age our collagen production slows and the cell structures weaken, causing hair to get lifeless and less elastic.
Vetiver root oil is a big boost for aging hair to replenish collagen formation and bring hair back to life. Of course, this is a plus for your skin (i.e. scalp”> to stave off wrinkles, age spots, dryness, and dullness. The anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties help with scalp inflammation and scalp ailments like eczema, psoriasis, and even dandruff, and its soothing and calming properties it calms irritated and inflamed scalps.
Here is a scalp massage oil and a hair rinse that will be beneficial for your hair and scalp. If you are not the DIY type, we have a couple of hair products that utilize the amazing properties of vetiver essential oil.
5 oil scalp massage
- 4 drops vetiver essential oil
- 4 drops clary sage essential oil
- 5 drops of lavender essential oil
- 4 drops of ylang ylang
- ½ cup grapeseed oil
Mix all the oils together and use as weekly scalp massage oil and use as a body massage oil. Store in an airtight container.
Vetiver hair rinse
- Bundle of vetiver root
- 1 slice of lime
- Clay pot
- Water
Place the bunch of vetiver root in the bottom of the clay pot. Pour cooled, boiled water over the top of the root, and cover the pot for at least 2 to 3 hrs. Remove cover, add the lime, and allow it to set for a few minutes. Strain the water and use for a hair rinse.
Products with veviter
