can i use peppermint oil instead of extract

DIY HAIR GROWTH OIL FOR RAPIDLY ACHIEVING LONGER, THICKER, AND LUSCIOUS HAIR

Looking to quickly achieve longer, thicker hair? While there’s no miracle solution for instant growth, this homemade hair growth oil can help accelerate the process. Packed with herbs and essential oils, this all-natural recipe is the result of years spent experimenting with effective methods for fast hair growth. It’s simple to make and highly effective.

There are plenty of so-called “fast hair growth secrets” out there—some work, while others don’t, and I’ve likely tried most of them! My journey into natural beauty began with a desire for longer, thicker hair. Like all my DIY beauty recipes, this hair growth oil stems from my personal experiences.

As a teen, I would spend hours hunting for herbs and supplements in specialty stores, diligently reading Long Hair Care Community forums, and testing various tips and remedies to grow my hair to hip length. In retrospect, I wish I’d focused less on superficial goals, but this quest provided valuable insights into the beauty industry, helping me cultivate discernment.

Whether you’re looking to combat hair loss, encourage regrowth after stress, or simply boost your hair growth, I hope this hair oil recipe helps you reach your goals.

CAN OILS REALLY HELP GROW YOUR HAIR FASTER?

The hair growth industry is booming, with countless new, exotic “fast hair growth oils” and magic serums promising to deliver your dream of long, mermaid-like locks.

However, the reality is that most carrier oils lack any truly magical properties for hair growth. In fact, using excessive amounts of the wrong oil can lead to issues like yeast overgrowth, exacerbating hair loss and scalp problems.

Take argan oil, for example. It was once hailed as the miracle hair growth oil, but its fatty acid profile is quite ordinary, resembling that of sesame or sunflower oil—neither of which have been shown to promote hair growth. (And I say this as someone who once relied on argan oil!)

That said, a few oils do genuinely support hair growth and thickness. When combined with certain herbs and essential oils—like rosemary and peppermint—you can create a more effective homemade hair growth oil.

DIY HAIR GROWTH OIL BENEFITS + HOW IT WORKS

This homemade hair oil promotes natural hair growth in several effective ways:

  • Stimulates Scalp Blood Flow: Infused with powerful herbs and essential oils, this recipe enhances blood circulation to the scalp and hair follicles.
  • Modulates Hair Growth Phase: Castor oil activates prostaglandin pathways linked to the growth phase, accelerating hair growth.
  • Reduces Scalp Buildup: Massaging the oil into your scalp before washing helps loosen buildup that can clog hair follicles, similar to how cleansing oils keep facial pores clear.
  • Antioxidant Activity: The antioxidants in this DIY hair oil protect hair follicles and shafts from oxidative stress, supporting faster growth.
  • Antimicrobial Activity: Excess bacteria and yeast can cause issues like dandruff and scalp acne, hindering growth. The antibacterial herbs and essential oils in this recipe, such as rosemary oil, help maintain a balanced scalp environment.

Now that we’ve covered the essentials, let’s dive into how to make your own hair growth oil.

KEY HERBS FOR HAIR GROWTH

PEPPERMINT

Known for its cooling and soothing effects, peppermint oil is great for irritated scalps. Research suggests it may promote hair growth even more effectively than rosemary. Peppermint oil accelerates the hair growth phase and increases hair follicles, contributing to longer, thicker hair. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties also support scalp health.

WHITE WILLOW BARK

If you face scalp issues like dandruff or acne, white willow bark can be beneficial. It contains salicin, a natural anti-inflammatory and gentle exfoliant. While it doesn’t directly stimulate hair growth, it promotes a healthy scalp by soothing irritation, unclogging pores, and reducing buildup.

ROSEMARY

Rosemary-infused oil is a popular remedy for hair growth. Studies show it can be as effective as minoxidil without side effects. Rosemary stimulates blood flow to the scalp, nourishing hair follicles and encouraging both new and existing hair growth. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties help maintain a healthy scalp, while its antioxidants protect against oxidative stress, which can lead to hair loss.

GREEN TEA

Adding green tea leaves to your hair oil infuses it with antioxidants that support hair follicle health. Although caffeine and ECEG—key components for hair growth—are water-soluble and won’t transfer to oil, the antioxidants in green tea still provide benefits. Note that it can impart a deep green color to the oil, but it generally doesn’t stain hair.

These herbs are effective allies in your quest for longer, thicker hair, and incorporating them into your hair oil can enhance its benefits.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR HAIR GROWTH

To enhance your herbal hair growth oil, consider adding essential oils for concentrated benefits. 

Peppermint and rosemary essential oils are particularly effective for promoting hair growth, and using both can provide optimal results. You can also create a blend with cedarwood, lavender, thyme, frankincense, myrrh, palmarosa, and nettle, all known for supporting hair growth and scalp health. 

Additionally, incorporating an essential oil blend like Beauty Within can further boost scalp health with its antifungal properties, making it a great addition to your scalp treatments and hair masks.

FAST HAIR GROWTH OIL INGREDIENTS

You’ll need just a few ingredients for this DIY hair growth oil:

  • Heat-stable carrier oil for herbal infusion
  • Cold-pressed castor oil
  • Dried, organic hair growth herbs
  • Growth-boosting essential oils
  • Vitamin E oil

You can choose to make this oil with essential oils, herbal infusion, or both. I prefer using both to maximize the plant’s benefits. If you’re short on time, simply mix the carrier oils with the recommended essential oils.

INGREDIENTS

  • J MAC BOTANICALS Organic Cold-Pressed Castor Oil
  • Starwest Botanicals Organic Rosemary Leaf
  • Simply Earth Rosemary Essential Oil
  • Vitamin E Oil from Forefront Health

CARRIER OIL OPTIONS

  • MCT oil
  • Fractionated coconut oil
  • Avocado oil
  • Jojoba oil
  • Olive oil

Using a stable carrier oil is crucial. Many common oils, like sweet almond and sunflower oil, contain unstable polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) that break down with heat and light, losing their beneficial properties. Instead, opt for monounsaturated or saturated oils, which are more stable. I recommend MCT or fractionated coconut oil, especially if you have issues with yeast overgrowth, as MCT oil won’t feed Malassezia yeast.

Once you prepare the herbal-infused oil, dilute it with castor oil. Castor oil is well-regarded for hair growth due to its unique properties:

  • It mimics prostaglandins, extending the active hair growth phase and delaying the resting phase.
  • It conditions and prevents hair follicles from drying out.
  • It moisturizes and protects existing hair from breakage.
  • It has antibacterial and antifungal properties to maintain a healthy scalp.
  • It’s rich in antioxidants like vitamin E, which protect hair follicles from oxidative damage.

DIY HAIR GROWTH OIL RECIPE

INGREDIENTS

  • 47g herbal infused oil (see below for instructions)
  • 47g castor oil
  • 3.5ml peppermint essential oil
  • 3.5ml rosemary essential oil

HERBAL INFUSED OIL

  • 1 cup (200g) carrier oil (e.g., MCT, olive, or avocado oil)
  • ~3/4 cup dry herbs (e.g., rosemary, willow bark, peppermint, green tea)
  • 5ml (1 tsp) vitamin E oil

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Prepare Herbal Infused Oil:
    • Place dry herbs in a clean, heat-proof mason jar. Pour carrier oil over the herbs and add vitamin E oil. Stir gently to ensure herbs are fully submerged.
    • Seal the jar with a one-piece metal lid.
  • Infuse Oil:
    • In a slow cooker, place a hand towel at the bottom and fill with water to submerge the jar without leaking. Set to low and infuse for 8-12 hours, keeping water temperature between 50°C-71°C (120-160°F). Monitor closely to avoid overheating.
  • Strain Oil:
    • Once infused, let the oil cool. Strain out the herbs using cheesecloth or a sieve, pressing gently to extract all the oil. Be cautious of sharp herb pieces.
  • Combine Oils:
    • Mix equal parts of the herbal infused oil and castor oil. Add peppermint and rosemary essential oils, stirring well.
  • Store:
    • Transfer the final mixture to a glass dropper bottle for easy application.

Enjoy your homemade hair growth oil!

HOW TO MAKE HAIR OIL WITH ESSENTIAL OILS

Combine castor oil and a low-PUFA carrier oil (like fractionated coconut oil, jojoba oil, or olive oil) in equal parts. Add vitamin E and a hair growth essential oil blend to the mixture. Then, transfer it to a glass dropper bottle.

HOW TO USE HOMEMADE HAIR GROWTH OIL

To use the hair growth oil, apply it directly to your scalp using the dropper applicator, section by section, to ensure even coverage. After saturating your scalp, gently massage the oil in with your fingers or a jade gua sha comb to boost blood circulation to the follicles, promoting faster growth. If safe for you, you can also massage your scalp with your head upside down.

Leave the oil on for at least an hour or overnight, depending on your hair washing routine. When ready to wash it out, use conditioner first to help remove the castor oil, then follow with your regular shampoo. For added benefits, consider using a rosemary hair rinse or a pH-balancing vinegar rinse afterward.

CONCLUSION

DIY hair growth oil offers a natural and cost-effective solution for promoting hair growth and improving hair health. By combining essential oils known for their hair-nourishing properties with carrier oils that provide moisture and penetration, you can create a personalized hair treatment that addresses your specific needs. Remember to patch test the oil before applying it to your scalp to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions. Consistent use and proper application are key to achieving optimal results.

18 BEST SHAMPOOS FOR OILY HAIR IN 2024

It might be difficult to find a shampoo that works well for people with oilier hair types. The mixture ought to cleanse hair thoroughly without depriving it of essential oils, amplify its inherent luster, and prolong the intervals between shampoos. Your entire hair care regimen will function flawlessly with the ideal oily hair-friendly shampoo. If you have been struggling with finding the answer to the question of what is the best shampoo for oily hair, you have come to the right place.

NÉCESSAIRE SHAMPOO

Nécessaire, a company well-known for its sophisticated formulae and stylish branding, has done it again with this shampoo. A fragrance-free shampoo may sound uninteresting to some, but for those who get headaches easily, have allergies, or want their perfumes to steal the show, it’s a dream come true. The product has a creamy, gel-like texture, and we were really impressed with how nicely it lathers. When you gently massage your scalp, a creamy cluster of bubbles will form, providing a sensory sensation while you cleanse your hair and scalp. But for certain clients, it could be a little too drying but it’s still a good shampoo for oily hair.

KRISTIN ESS CLARIFYING SHAMPOO

We recommend this shampoo if you’re seeking an affordable option that will effectively cleanse your oily hair. Its unique strengthening component helps to minimize the look of damaged strands, and we adore that it effectively removes oil and filth without overly drying out the hair. Despite being appropriate for all hair types, its lightweight texture makes it especially simple to work through fine hair. It doesn’t lather very well on the first shampoo, so you’ll probably want to shampoo twice with this recipe. However, once it breaks through the first layer of grime, it lathers brilliantly, usually on the second shampoo.

OUAI DETOX SHAMPOO

With the use of this clarifying product, buildup and grease can be removed from the scalp along with pollutants, free radicals, and other impurities. Though some find its aroma somewhat too much, people adore that it contains apple cider vinegar to aid in its purifying properties. We think you’ll adore this formula if the aroma isn’t an issue for you. This pick has a rich texture, produces a silky lather, and is designed to be used in the shower for several minutes to properly do its magic. You should anticipate having perfectly clean hair after rinsing it out. 

REDKEN HAIR CLEANSING CREAM

Hard water contains a lot of minerals, which over time can build up in the hair and cause it to seem greasy and lifeless. It’s a good idea to use a shampoo that works to neutralize mineral buildup, like this one, if you regularly shower in hard water. This solution eliminates excess oil from the scalp and minerals like copper, iron, magnesium, and calcium that are commonly present in hard water with just one shampoo. It’s quite clarifying the first time around, so you won’t need to shampoo and rinse twice with it. It also produces a delicate lather that’s easy to massage around the head.

LIVING PROOF PHD TRIPLE DETOX SHAMPOO

If you have oily hair in addition to color or keratin treatments, you may find yourself in a difficult situation because frequent shampooing might reduce the longevity of these treatments. The fix: An excellent purifying shampoo that is safe for color and keratin. It works to totally cut through extra oil to reveal squeaky clean, smooth, and lustrous hair without affecting color or treatments. It is made with an anionic polymer to eliminate impurities and buildup and activated charcoal to absorb oil. This shampoo, like the most on our list, may feel a little drying on your hair because it is best suited for oily scalps.

AG CARE APPLE CIDER VINEGAR SHAMPOO

Sulfates are not intrinsically harmful; in fact, they function as detergents in shampoo compositions. These substances can be very good in removing extra grease from oily hair, but they typically receive a poor rap because they can be a touch harsh and stripping for those with dry or damaged hair. This shampoo is for you, though, if you’d rather stick to sulfate-free formulations and still need something to thoroughly clean oily hair. It takes some getting used to because the lightweight texture is a little watery, but it does lather and requires less product to do the job.

dpHUE APPLE CIDER VINEGAR SHAMPOO

Unlike many strong shampoos that eventually fade color treatments, dpHUE’s mild cleanser-like shampoo kept our hair color vibrant and consequently increased the intervals between salon appointments. With apple cider vinegar for cleaning and aloe vera, ginger root extract, and lavender for soothing the scalp, the recipe is extremely gentle. Because of this, it didn’t foam up like conventional shampoos and we had to rinse it twice or more to get a clean feeling. Similar to the Ouai choice, apple cider vinegar isn’t particularly loved by consumers, but this product’s softness is excellent.

ORIBE SERENE SCALP OIL CONTROL SHAMPOO

This shampoo is rich without being overly thick, which is different from most light and sudsy shampoos for oily hair. It contains green sea algae and a prebiotic made of sugar to fight oil at its source. It also balances the microbiome of your scalp to help restore your hair to its natural state and produces just the right amount of oil to hydrate your hair without making it feel heavy. Those with thin hair who believe they can’t get their roots totally clean are the target audience for this shampoo. For individuals with thicker hair, the quantity of product offered for the price makes this shampoo difficult to recommend, but if it will help you avoid washing your hair every few days, it’s well worth the cost. 

DIVI SHAMPOO

This shampoo resembles a hybrid of a shampoo and a scalp serum. Tea tree oil, betaine, and menthol invigorate your scalp and senses while also removing harmful build-up from your hair and scalp. It lathers like a shampoo but penetrates like a serum. Excess oil is drawn to the tea tree oil, which then locks onto and removes it as it runs down the drain. Just a plus is the pump bottle. Some persons who are allergic to essential oils or have sensitivity to fragrances may find it too powerful, even though many enjoy the invigorating perfume and exciting experience. 

AVEDA ROSEMARY MINT PURIFYING SHAMPOO

White vinegar helps to clarify oily hair, and micelles aid in gently removing product build-up from hair. The vinegar works especially well to remove wax-based products from your hair without being harsh or stripping. All hair types, from extremely thin to extra thick, are ideal candidates for lightweight excellence. This shampoo gives just enough slide to fine hair that tangles easily when wet, making it simple to massage the product all the way into the roots. Your regular shower gains an aromatherapy element from the invigorating rosemary scent, which turns it into a luxurious sensory experience that encourages you to take your time applying the product to your lengths and ends.

PAUL MITCHELL TEA TREE SPECIAL SHAMPOO

Known for its unique tingling sensation, this best-selling shampoo combines soothing natural ingredients like tea tree oil, peppermint, and lavender to help wash away grime and oil, leaving your scalp feeling clean and rejuvenated. It is simple to massage the suds into your scalp and ends because of the lightweight gel-like formula’s good lather and spreading properties. Unlike other shampoos, you can actually feel the cleanness that this shampoo delivers to your locks, which you know is especially crucial if you suffer from oily roots. You save time in the mornings and your style lasts for several days because of that fresh feeling. It’s strong enough to give you a thorough deep clean, but gentle enough to use every time you wash your hair.

R+Co TELEVISION PERFECT HAIR SHAMPOO

Greasy roots are the fastest way to ruin a great hair day. This smoothing shampoo gives you the lustrous, healthy-looking hair you desire while also getting rid of greasy roots. The key is juniper berry extract; it helps balance the oils on your scalp, some of which are good for your hair’s health and help stop build-up before it starts. Glycerin, a naturally occurring humectant, assists in preserving the moisture equilibrium of hair. People adore how this shampoo improves all hair types; for straight hair, it gives body and shine, and for curly hair, it makes curls bouncy and shiny.

BUMBLE AND BUMBLE SUNDAY SHAMPOO

Use Bumble & Bumble’s Sunday Shampoo to start a new weekend ritual. This shampoo is not something you should use every day; instead, save it for the days when you have the leisure to really engage in self-care. This deep cleanser, which is designed to break down oil and product build-up, instantly lifts away all impurities from your scalp for an exceptional clean, enabling you to start the week with even fresher hair. For people with thinner hair who easily become bogged down by heavier products, this shampoo is great.

OGX REFRESHING SCALP+ TEA TREE MINT SHAMPOO

 With a cooling effect, the Refreshing Scalp+ Tea Tree Mint Shampoo is designed to thoroughly clean and refresh the scalp. The two main components of this shampoo are peppermint and tea tree oils. Tea tree oil has antifungal and antibacterial qualities that are well-known for helping with dryness and dandruff on the scalp. In contrast, peppermint oil has a cooling effect and has the potential to stimulate the scalp.

VIRTUE FULL SHAMPOO

A volumizing and lightly hydrating solution that clarifies the scalp is necessary for fine hair. With the help of the company’s own Alpha Keratin 60ku protein, which replicates the keratin that naturally exists in the hair, the Virtue Full Shampoo accomplishes precisely that. This ingredient gives this sulfate- and cruelty-free shampoo extra credit because it repairs damage from the inside out.

CURLSMITH WASH & SCRUB DETOX SHAMPOO

Curlsmith Wash & Scrub Detox Shampoo’s moisturizing and clarifying composition is ideal for people with curly hair. Perlite, a mineral included in the creamy texture, gently exfoliates the scalp by removing peeling skin and product buildup without changing the natural curl pattern of your hair. Probiotics help maintain the proper balance of germs on the scalp, making it less oily over time. This shampoo helps achieve this goal. However, it should be noted that the company advises starting with its Super Slip Pre-Wash Primer, which is an additional cost. 

K18 PEPTIDE PREP DETOX SHAMPOO

The moisturizing and clarifying formula of Curlsmith Wash & Scrub Detox Shampoo is perfect for those with curly hair. A mineral included in the creamy texture called perlite gently exfoliates the scalp by eliminating product buildup and peeling skin without altering your hair’s natural curl pattern. Over time, probiotics help reduce scalp oiliness by preserving the healthy balance of microorganisms on the scalp. This shampoo aids in achieving the objective. It should be mentioned, nevertheless, that the business suggests utilizing their Super Slip Pre-Wash Primer first—a costlier product. It should not, however, be used in place of a regular shampoo; rather, it should only be used as necessary.

BRIOGEO BIOTIN VOLUMIZING SHAMPOO

Briogeo’s Blossom & Bloom Ginseng + Biotin Volumizing Shampoo claims to lift and volumize fine, lifeless hair without depleting it of moisture. A natural starch called maltodextrin is a part of the mix that covers each strand of hair to give it the volume that finer hair lacks. Ginseng is added to promote blood flow to the scalp while biotin fortifies the ends. Furthermore, even the oiliest scalp types are cleansed by mild chelating agents, revealing hair that feels full and refreshed.

Using a clarifying hair cleanser and giving your scalp a thorough scrub on wash day is one of the greatest ways to treat a greasy scalp. Those with oily hair should first use a shampoo that will absorb the oil and wash the scalp before using products like hair masks and heat protectants. We’ve compiled the top shampoos for oily hair of all kinds, whether your hair is curly, straight, or color-treated. Take a look at our suggestions to make the best buy.