Top 8 – Best Essential Oils for Hair Growth

The quality of our hair is affected by many factors such as:

• commercial hair care products we apply (chemical-based shampoo, hair gel, conditioner, etc)
• the food that we eat
• quality of sleep
• stress levels
• quality of water used during a shower
• the use of hair dryers and curlers 

Our hair takes a lot of abuse, so caring for it regularly will protect and nourish the scalp and hair strands, allowing for healthy long locks.

There are so many shampoo products being produced nowadays that contain synthetic materials which cause hair and scalp damage. When our scalp and hair follicles are damaged, we hinder the growth of new vibrant hair. 

A few ingredients to avoid in shampoos and conditioners are:

• propylene glycol - causes dry skin irritation.
• sodium lauryl sulfate - can inhibit the growth of hair follicles.
• oleyl betaine - a toxin that can make your hair and scalp dry and very irritated.

Extracted from the flowers of Lavandula angustifolia plant, sweet smelling lavender oil is calming and soothing and can be applied to any hair type. Massaging the scalp using lavender oil can improve blood circulation, prevent hair loss, and promote hair growth.

Lavender essential oil moisturizes the scalp and balances production of natural scalp oil. Ideally, it is best used for people with both oily scalps near the forehead and back portion of the head, but dry on some areas. Its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties fight any fungal or bacterial infections on the scalp including dandruff.

Rosemary Oil

The culinary herbal plant Rosmarinus officinalis is where the rosemary essential oil is extracted from. It has a strong woody and minty aroma packed with antioxidants that act against premature graying and thinning of hair. It helps in the circulation of blood in the scalp and growth of hair follicles.

Aside from being one of the best essential oils for hair growth, rosemary essential oil also has anti-dandruff properties, but it is best for those with oily hair and scalp. It regulates the production of oil glands and removes clogged pores which may be one of the causes of scalp acne and itching. If used regularly, rosemary oil can definitely bring back your hair to its healthy glow.

Essential oil from chamomile can be extracted from various types of chamomile plant, but for hair care, it is the Anthemis nobilis, a yellow-colored Roman Chamomile herb where the oil extract is taken. Chamomile is known to be soothing and calming and also as powerful anti-inflammatory components. It treats conditions of psoriasis, dermatitis, and itchy scalp or dandruff by rubbing the oil onto the scalp.

Chamomile essential oil makes a great hair conditioner and lightens hair color to a golden hue. It protects hair from damage caused by dust and other environmental pollutants.

Cedarwood essential oil is taken from the wood of Cedrus atlantica tree, thus producing a warm, woody aroma and is best used for dandruff and hair loss treatment.

The oil balances the secretion of sebum glands, so it can be applied either to dry or oily hair. The warm cedar oil promotes good blood circulation and hair follicles grow vigorously, easily enhancing hair growth.

Clary sage essential oil is extracted from the herbal plant Salvia sclarea with a powerful herbal aroma. It is known for a property called phytoestrogen that aids in hair growth. It is specifically used as treatment for preventive or premature balding.

Although it can be applied to both dry and oily scalp, it is more effective for use with dry hair and scalp. It can be applied as well to those with frizzy or curly hair.

Extracted from the herb Thymus vulgaris, this essential oil carries a strong and spicy aroma due to its high thymol content.

Thyme essential oil is usually an active ingredient in some hair care commercial products especially those that target hair loss. But since thyme essential oil is a strong oil, you need to use it in moderation. You can also pair it with essential oils such as lavender.

Peppermint essential oil is known for its cooling component which stimulates follicles and increases circulation to encourage hair growth. it is  ideal for people with an oily scalps since it helps pull away some of the oil buildup. Peppermint oil is very good at keeping the hair follicles healthy because it is naturally antibacterial.