olive oil and coconut oil for hair

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.

HOW TO TRANSFORM BRASSY BROWN HAIR TO GORGEOUS ASH TONES IN 2024

Are you looking to tone your brown hair to a beautiful ash shade? If your brunette locks have taken on unwanted red, orange, or yellow hues, you’re in the right place! Here are some effective tips and recommended products to help you achieve stunning ash tones at home.

WHAT IS HAIR TONER?

Hair toner is a product that adds pigments to the hair, slightly altering its shade without permanently changing the hair color. It typically makes the color appear cooler, such as transforming warm brown hair into cool ash.

Toners are commonly used on color-treated hair to neutralize unwanted ginger, brass, or yellow tints, resulting in a more natural-looking shade. They can also help eliminate warm tones from natural hair that has been lightened by sun exposure.

HOW TO USE THE COLOR WHEEL TO TONE YOUR HAIR

When toning your hair at home, the color wheel can be an invaluable tool. Hair stylists at salons often refer to the color wheel to determine which shade to use for neutralizing unwanted warm tones in your hair.

The color wheel consists of 12 colors, with each color’s contrasting shade located directly opposite it. To use the wheel effectively, start by identifying the color you want to eliminate from your hair, then look at the corresponding color on the opposite side to select the appropriate hair product.

For instance, if your hair has unwanted orange tones, opt for a blue shampoo, as blue is opposite orange on the color wheel. The blue pigments in the shampoo will effectively neutralize the orange hues.

Similarly, if you have red tones in your hair, a green shampoo can help counteract them, while a purple shampoo is ideal for canceling out yellow tones. By understanding the color wheel, you can make more informed choices when toning your hair at home!

HOW TO TONE BROWN HAIR TO ASH

If you have brown hair and want to eliminate warm tones, there are several products available depending on your specific shade of brown and the unwanted undertones.

For dark brown hair, a semi-permanent hair toner is highly recommended to achieve noticeable results. This type of toner can effectively neutralize warm tones and enhance the coolness of your hair color.

If you have light brown hair, a quality blue shampoo may be sufficient to help transform your locks into a beautiful ash brown. Blue shampoos are effective at counteracting orange tones, making them a great choice for lighter shades.

Before you begin toning, it’s essential to understand how hair color charts work. Ensure you choose the right brown shade that complements your skin tone for the best overall look!

HOW TO TONE DARK BROWN HAIR TO ASH

SEMI PERMANENT DYE: CLAIROL NATURAL INSTINCTS – 6A LIGHT ASH BROWN

Another effective method for removing red undertones from brown hair is using a semi-permanent dye. One excellent option is Clairol Natural Instincts, which offers a shade called “Light Cool Brown.” This dye is particularly effective for transforming warm brown tones into an ash-brown hue.

While this product is technically a hair dye rather than a toner, it’s an easy way to achieve a medium ash color, especially if you’re dyeing your hair for the first time. It provides cool undertones while maintaining a natural appearance.

Clairol Natural Instincts Conditioning Colour is free from ammonia and harsh scents, making it gentle on the hair. It also contains nourishing ingredients like coconut and aloe vera to condition and moisturize your locks. This semi-permanent color lasts for up to 28 washes, allowing you to enjoy your new look without long-term commitment.

Semi Permanent Toner: VIPs Prestige BeBlonde BB03 – Icy Down

If you have dark hair and want to eliminate unwanted brassy tones, a semi-permanent hair toner is your best bet. VIPs Prestige BeBlonde offers a range of toners designed specifically for brunette hair, featuring various shades to achieve that coveted ashy look across different hair colors, including warm browns.

For brown hair with yellow undertones, the ideal VIPs Prestige toner is called “Icy Down.” This toner effectively corrects any unwanted yellowish hues that may arise from dyeing.

If your brown hair exhibits unwanted orange tones, the “Caffé Latte” toner is the best option. This product transforms brassy hair into a beautiful ashy brown. It can also be effective on black hair, helping to shift it toward a dark ash shade.

All VIPs Prestige toners are ammonia-free and enriched with nourishing ingredients like olive oil, macadamia oil, and castor oil. They also contain nettle to promote healthy hair. Each application lasts for approximately 6-8 washes, allowing you to enjoy your new look without a long-term commitment.

HOW TO TONE LIGHT BROWN HAIR TO ASH

OSMO COLOUR REVIVE CONDITIONING COLOUR TREATMENT COOL BROWN

Osmo Colour Revive is a cool brown conditioning treatment designed to refresh your hair color and prevent dyed hair from turning orange between salon visits. This treatment is particularly effective on lighter brunette shades. If your hair has become brassy or taken on a dull brown hue, Osmo Colour Revive can help restore it to a beautiful icy ash brown.

Infused with avocado oil and vitamins A and E, this treatment nourishes and conditions the hair, promoting overall health and shine. Additionally, it is free from ammonia and peroxide, making it a gentle option for maintaining your hair color. For best results, it is recommended to use this product once a week to keep your ash tones vibrant and fresh.

FUDGE PROFESSIONAL BLUE TONING SHAMPOO

If your brown hair has developed unwanted orange or red tones, the Fudge Professional Blue Toning Shampoo is an excellent solution to restore it to an ash brown shade. This blue toning shampoo effectively neutralizes warm hues, resulting in cooler, deeper, and stronger hair color.

The Fudge Professional Blue Toning Shampoo is sulfate-free and features Opti-PLEX technology, which strengthens and smooths the hair by making it 85% stronger. This combination not only helps maintain your desired color but also enhances the overall health and appearance of your hair.

CONCLUSION

Achieving stunning ash tones from brassy brown hair is entirely possible with the right products and techniques. By understanding the color wheel and selecting appropriate toners or dyes, you can effectively neutralize unwanted warm tones, creating a cooler, more sophisticated look.

Whether you choose a semi-permanent dye like Clairol Natural Instincts, specialized toners from brands like VIPs Prestige BeBlonde, or nourishing treatments such as Osmo Colour Revive, there are plenty of options tailored to different hair shades and needs. Incorporating products like Fudge Professional Blue Toning Shampoo can further enhance and maintain your desired color.

Regular maintenance, including weekly treatments and proper hair care, will keep your ash tones vibrant and your hair healthy. With these tips and products, you can confidently embrace beautiful ash brown hair in 2024, leaving behind the brassy hues for a chic, modern look!