hair oil for oily scalp

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR DRY SCALP & GENTLE HAIR CONDITIONING MASK

A dry, flaky scalp can be a harmless issue, but it can become bothersome if it leads to itchiness and embarrassing when others notice the white flakes. Here are some natural remedy suggestions, including essential oils that can help alleviate dry scalp.

TREATING DRY, ITCHY SCALP NATURALLY

First, it’s important to distinguish between dry skin and dandruff. While some remedies may help both conditions, dandruff is more complex and requires a different approach.

Dandruff is typically caused by excess oil, resulting in larger, yellowish flakes that are more difficult to remove. An unpleasant odor may also accompany dandruff. If this is your concern, you may need to consider more intensive treatments.

Once you’ve established that you’re dealing with a dry scalp, it’s helpful to identify the underlying cause of the dryness. While you can start using essential oils for dry scalp right away, understanding the root cause can help prevent recurring issues.

Some common causes of a dry scalp include:

  • Stress
  • Poor diet
  • Dehydration
  • Seasonal changes and climate (such as cold, dry winter air or excessive sunlight in summer)
  • Harsh chemicals in shampoos, conditioners, styling products, or other hair treatments
  • Hormonal changes

I recommend being cautious with dandruff shampoos, as the chemicals in these products may exacerbate dry scalp conditions. 

BEST ESSENTIAL OILS FOR DRY SCALP

These essential oils are renowned for their ability to cleanse the sensitive skin of the scalp and enhance hair conditioning. This list serves as an excellent starting point to discover which oils work best with your unique body chemistry.

  • Lavender: Known as one of the best oils for skin care, lavender essential oil is gentle yet potent, featuring antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
  • Tea Tree: This oil promotes healing of the scalp thanks to its antifungal properties and can also stimulate hair growth.
  • Rosemary: With its antioxidant and antibacterial characteristics, rosemary stimulates the scalp and may promote hair growth.
  • Cedarwood: This earthy oil combats bacteria and fungi with its antiseptic properties, adding shine to hair and serving as a heat protectant.
  • Lemongrass: A popular cleansing oil, lemongrass essential oil is effective for oily hair and helps strengthen hair follicles. It also boasts anti-inflammatory and detoxifying benefits.

A simple apple cider vinegar hair rinse can sometimes provide just what you need to balance your scalp’s skin, eliminate any bacteria contributing to dry scalp issues, and improve your hair’s texture. For many, this may be the only natural hair treatment needed in their routine. Here is a recipe for making apple cider vinegar at home that you can refer to.

Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

Author: Mama Z

Ingredients

  • ⅓ cup organic unfiltered apple cider vinegar
  • 1⅓ cups purified or distilled water
  • 30-48 drops of essential oils*

Instructions

  • Combine one part apple cider vinegar with four parts water and add your choice of essential oils.
  • Pour the mixture into a squeeze bottle or a repurposed shampoo bottle.
  • After shampooing, apply the rinse to clean, wet hair in the shower.
  • Gently massage it into your scalp and the roots of your hair, allowing it to soak for 3-5 minutes.
  • Rinse thoroughly. You may find that you don’t need to use as much conditioner after this treatment.

Notes: The ratio for this recipe is 1 part vinegar to 4 parts water. Feel free to adjust the quantities as needed for your family.

*Recommended essential oils include lavender, tea tree, cedarwood, lemongrass, and rosemary. Use about 15-20 drops per cup.

If your dry scalp requires more intensive moisturizing, this natural hair and scalp treatment is just what you need! Customize the essential oils to find the perfect match for your skin. Keep in mind that it may take a few applications and some time to heal your scalp. Here’s Mama Z’s at-home hair mask recipe for you to try!

NATURAL HAIR MASK TREATMENT

INGREDIENTS

  • 4 tablespoons aloe vera gel
  • 2 tablespoons organic unfiltered apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon carrier oil or raw organic local honey*
  • 24-30 drops of your choice of essential oils**

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Combine all the ingredients to create a hair treatment mixture.
  • Apply the natural hair mask to your scalp, ensuring it penetrates the skin to help eliminate bacteria and flakes.
  • Start at the crown of your head or your natural part, working the mask down your scalp. A wide-tooth comb can help distribute the mask effectively if needed.
  • Cover your head with a shower cap or a clean towel, allowing the mask to soak in for 15-20 minutes or as long as desired.
  • Rinse thoroughly and shampoo or condition as usual, though you may find you don’t need as much conditioner after this treatment.

Notes:

  • Follow this mask with my Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse to balance your hair’s pH and remove any excess product. Use an organic, unscented conditioner on the ends of your hair.
  • I recommend using a scalp massager to thoroughly work the hair mask into your scalp. For extra care, you can use a Nix lice comb to remove any leftover particles from your hair and scalp.
  • To complete your hair care routine, consider applying our Hair Regrowth Gel.

*Avoid coconut oil, as it can dry out the skin. Opt for jojoba, argan, almond, or olive oil instead; jojoba is particularly good for adding shine. Honey is also a great option for moisturizing and can help tame frizz.

**Suggested essential oils include cedarwood, lavender, lemongrass, tea tree, and rosemary. My favorite blend is equal parts peppermint, rosemary, and tea tree.

This treatment makes for a wonderful weekly ritual, especially while you unwind in a detox bath or simply to rejuvenate your scalp’s skin.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, essential oils offer a natural and effective solution for addressing dry scalp and promoting healthy hair. By carefully selecting oils like lavender, rosemary, tea tree, and peppermint, you can create a gentle yet potent hair conditioning mask tailored to your specific needs. Remember to always conduct a patch test before using essential oils on your scalp, and dilute them properly with a carrier oil to avoid irritation. With consistent use, this DIY hair mask can help nourish your scalp, reduce dandruff, and leave your hair feeling soft, shiny, and revitalized. Embrace the power of nature and unlock the transformative potential of essential oils for your hair care routine.

15 BEST MEDIUM-LENGTH HAIRSTYLES FOR BLACK WOMEN

A mid-length hairstyle is the perfect choice for those who want a balanced, low-risk look. Despite being “mid-length,” these styles are far from dull. Their versatility offers a happy medium between the upkeep of a shorter bob and the commitment of extra-long hair. Mid-length cuts are both stylish and practical, making them an appealing option for many. Take a look at our top 15 mid-length hairstyles below!

SHOULDER LENGTH BOB

Kahlana Barfield Brown’s shoulder-length bob always gives me major hair envy. If you’re looking to recreate her waves, a curling wand is an easy go-to tool. One pro tip I picked up while straightening my own hair is to pin curl it at night after styling. This helps keep the waves intact and looking fresh the next day!

Asymmetrical Lob

The lob, or long bob, is a collarbone-grazing style that works beautifully for all curl types. To give it a more edgy, relaxed vibe, try parting your hair off-centre—this will add extra volume on one side and create a less “polished” finish.

Locs

Hair discrimination against Black women remains an issue in the workplace, particularly for those with locs. However, trailblazers like Ava DuVernay inspire us to embrace and celebrate the hairstyles that are unique to us, reminding us to wear them with pride.

Layered Curls  

If you’re lucky enough to have thick, bouncy curls, a layered cut might be perfect for you. This style is designed to create a softer, more rounded shape and is often done on dry curls to ensure the best result. To enhance your natural curls with added texture, a curling wand is your go-to tool for defining those layers even more.

Curly Puff with Fringe

Yara Shahidi always nails her look. If you’re not ready to wear all your curls down, a puff with fringe is the perfect compromise, offering a stylish way to showcase your curls without going all in.

Curly Fringe

Add a touch of allure to your curly hairstyle by incorporating a fringe. Whether you let a few curls fall softly over your forehead or sweep a fuller set forward, a fringe can instantly create the look of more volume and bounce, enhancing your overall style.

Bold Colored Wig

Regina Hall’s Met Gala look was a whole vibe. It wasn’t just the sleek middle part and silky texture that stood out—the pop of color added an unexpected twist. While achieving shades like pastel pink can be risky for dark roots due to the damage from bleaching, that doesn’t mean you can’t rock the look. A great wig and a boost of confidence are all you need to pull it off without compromising your curls.

Angled Lob

For a chic and sophisticated look, try an inverted lob. This style is cut slightly shorter in the back, allowing for a front that frames your face beautifully. It’s the perfect way to show off your wild locks while adding a touch of elegance to your overall look.

Faux Locs

Protective styles like faux locs offer a great way to switch up your look while giving your hair a much-needed break from daily styling. You can wear them as they are for a sleek, natural vibe, or add colorful hair accessories or highlights to make your locs stand out even more.

Straight Lob

The collarbone-grazing long bob is ideal for straight hair, particularly if your locks lack natural volume. As the ends hit your décolletage, they’ll create a natural flick. To style, use a round brush while blow-drying to curve the hair under your chin, or keep it sleek and straight. Tucking one side behind your ear adds an impression of texture and effortlessly enhances the overall look.

Bantu Knots

Bantu knots serve a dual purpose: they act as a protective style while also stretching coily hair. By twisting wet hair into bantu knots and allowing them to dry, you can achieve stunning beachy waves once you take them down. This technique not only protects your curls but also enhances their natural texture in a stylish way.

Textured Lob

Even the straightest hair can gain texture with the addition of layers. These layers help frame your face, accentuating features like your eyes and cheekbones. For extra volume and texture at the roots, try light backcombing and finish with a spritz of hairspray to hold the style in place.

Hair Wraps

During my journey growing out my Big Chop, wraps became my go-to accessory. Not only did the printed fabrics enhance my wardrobe, but they also helped my hair grow by minimizing manipulation of my 4C coils. While learning to tie a wrap can be tricky, I recommend watching a few tutorials to find a method that suits you best. With a little practice, you’ll be able to style them effortlessly!

straight Side-Parting

A simple way to elevate your hairstyle is by opting for a side parting. Whether it’s your natural part or not, shifting your hair to one side creates a cool, edgier vibe. This is especially effective if you have more hair on one side; parting it on the thicker side can help create balance.

Side Swept Afro

If you’re searching for a style that’s perfect for a special occasion or want to highlight your cheekbones, Kia Marie’s side-swept fro is an excellent choice. This look beautifully frames the face and adds an elegant touch to any outfit, making it a standout option for any event.

CONCLUSION

The journey to finding the perfect hairstyle for natural hair is a personal one. It’s about discovering what makes you feel confident and beautiful. Whether you opt for a classic look like the Afro or a trendy style like the locs, the key is to embrace your natural texture and experiment with different styles. So, go ahead and explore the 15 hairstyles we’ve presented in this article. With a little creativity and care, you can rock your natural hair with style and confidence.