soft summer red hair

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.

20+ PROM HAIRSTYLES FOR GIRLS WITH SHORT HAIR

Prom season is an exhilarating time, but it also comes with countless decisions to make! From your dress and makeup to accessories and hairstyle, there’s a lot to consider. If you’re struggling to come up with cute hairstyle ideas for this special occasion, check out these picture-perfect looks for prom below. Keep reading!

Easy Short Hair Updo Tutorial

Whether you want to make your everyday style a bit fancier or find the perfect prom hairstyle, you can easily create beautiful updos with short hair. All you need are some bobby pins and a bit of hairspray to achieve a look that’s classy and timeless. Start by gently teasing the top of your hair for some volume, then sweep your hair back and pin it in place. You can add a pretty hairpiece or some delicate flowers to make your updo extra special for prom. Enjoy your short hair with this stylish and simple look!

Saweetie’s Subtle Curls


Saweetie’s Grammy red carpet look was stunning for several reasons, but her chic short hair truly stood out. Simple yet elegant, the style features soft curls at the ends that fall right at the nape of her neck. To achieve this look, consider using a sea salt spray.

Sweet and Simple Updo on Naturally Curly Hair

This sweet and simple updo is ideal for girls with naturally curly or wavy hair who want a beautiful prom hairstyle. In just five easy steps, you can create a romantic updo that will look fantastic in photos and last all night long.

Ariana DeBose’s Volume

Ariana is on fire with her awards and hairstyles! We’re in love with her signature short hair, and this look is especially great for prom. To add some volume to your hair, you can use a flat iron or a large curling wand. If you prefer to avoid heat, a classic teasing technique with a comb works wonders too!

Side Twists

Side twists add an effortlessly chic flair to any short hairstyle, making them a fun choice for prom night. Whether you want a bohemian vibe or a more polished look, you can use colorful barrettes or simple pins to personalize your style. These accessories not only enhance the twists but also help keep your hairstyle secure while you dance and enjoy the festivities.

Pin-up Style

This hairstyle is known as a pin-up style, drawing inspiration from the classic looks of the 1940s. It often features victory rolls, which are made by rolling the hair up and securing it with bobby pins. This glamorous and elegant style is perfect for prom, while still offering a vintage vibe. You can enhance the look further with hair accessories like headbands, scarves, and bows.

Coco Jones’ Middle Part

If you’re still a fan of the middle part, Coco Jones has the perfect inspiration for you! Looking absolutely angelic, she showcased stunning prom hair at the Teen Vogue New Hollywood party. To recreate her look, use a tail comb to create a straight part down the center of your hair, then flat iron each side for a sleek finish.

Messy Topknot

This hairstyle is the perfect example of effortless elegance, especially for those with shorter hair. Sweep your hair up, letting a few stray strands frame your face for a relaxed, prom-perfect vibe. Secure your knot loosely at the crown, and just like that, you’ve mastered the art of casual glamour. To elevate your look, pair this style with a bold lip or smoky eye, ensuring you’ll turn heads at the event!

Daisy’s Side-Swept Crop

If you’re in need of a quick and easy hairstyle, take inspiration from Daisy Ridley! Use styling gel to sweep back your bangs or face-framing pieces, curling the ends slightly upwards for a polished finish.

Knot Tie Updo

This stylish twist on the classic updo is both playful and chic, making it a great choice for prom night. To achieve this look, tie sections of your hair into small, secure knots and pin them in place to create an intricate formation. This technique adds an artistic touch to your overall style, ensuring you’ll stand out among traditional hairstyles. No matter your hair color or type, the Knot Tie Updo is versatile and easy to manage, keeping you comfortable as you dance the night away.

Seo-Yeon’s Soft Waves

If you enjoy following seasonal trends, you’ll adore this short hairstyle worn by Seo-Yeon from fromis_9. With soft waves, it’s perfect for spring or summer—just in time for prom! To achieve this look, use a flat iron to create gentle waves or curls, then brush them out to get your desired style. If you want to avoid heat, consider leaving your hair in braids for a few hours or overnight for a similar effect.

Knotted Updo

To achieve this chic and playful knotted updo, start by dividing your hair into two equal sections. Create two ponytails, one above the other, and secure them with hair ties. Twist each ponytail into a small knot and pin it in place, ensuring the ends are tucked in neatly for a polished finish. This hairstyle is great for various occasions, from casual get-togethers to more formal events, making it a versatile and stylish choice for those with shorter hair. Follow the linked tutorial for a detailed step-by-step guide to ensure a flawless result every time.

Rachel’s Bumped Bob

Short, straight hair can have plenty of volume, as demonstrated by Rachel Zegler. For this look, part the front of your hair down the middle while letting the back hang straight down, creating a lifted effect. You can also curl the ends slightly outward for an added touch of flair.

Twisted Updo

This Twisted Updo is an ideal hairstyle for girls with short hair who want to achieve a romantic and wispy look for prom night. Created by popular Japanese hairstylist Kazuya Mizoguchi, who has over 33K followers, the style begins with pulling the hair back into a low ponytail and twisting it into a bun. A few strands are left out to frame the face, adding a soft, romantic touch. It’s a simple yet elegant style that’s sure to make you look stunning on your special night.

Naomi’s Low Ponytail

If your main goal for prom night is to dance, a low ponytail like Naomi Scott’s is a great way to keep your hair out of your face. Simply part your hair in the middle and secure it with a hair tie at the nape of your neck. To prevent flyaway strands, use some gel and bobby pins to keep everything neatly in place.

Braided Updo

The braided updo is a timeless option for prom night, radiating elegance and charm. This versatile hairstyle can be enhanced with delicate flowers or shimmering hairpins for an extra touch of glamour. Even those with shorter hair can achieve this sophisticated look—just start with a side or back French braid and tuck the ends in to form a lovely bun. Both practical and chic, this updo keeps your hair neatly out of your face all evening while ensuring you look impeccably stylish. It’s the perfect choice for dancing the night away!

The Chic Updo

The Chic Updo is an excellent choice for those with short hair seeking a stylish prom hairstyle. It’s simple to create and requires minimal styling products. To achieve this look, make a low bun at the nape of your neck, then wrap a section of hair around it for a polished finish. This hairstyle is perfect for anyone wanting to look elegant without spending too much time on styling. It complements any outfit and can be easily dressed up or down with a few accessories.

Kristen’s Shaggy Cut

Kristen Stewart has sported numerous short hairstyles, but this one particularly embodies the cool girl vibe. If that’s your aesthetic, simply apply a texturizing spray to your hair and go for a more relaxed, natural part instead of a perfectly straight line.

Retro Chic Short Curls

Here’s another retro look to consider! Tight curls paired with a hair clip create a romantic vibe. This hairstyle adds sophistication and timeless elegance to your ensemble. Channeling vintage glamour, these curls beautifully frame your face, highlighting your features with a nostalgic touch.

Emilia’s Chic Curls

If you want something unique yet understated, Emilia Clarke’s curls offer a fun twist on a classic style. To achieve this look, curl the hair on both sides of your face in the same direction. This technique creates curls that go both inward and outward, giving you a distinctive yet cohesive appearance.

Loose Low Updo

This loose, low updo is a fantastic choice for girls with short hair seeking a sophisticated hairstyle for prom. To create this look, gather your hair at the nape of your neck and secure it with bobby pins. For added flair, leave out some wispy strands around your face to create a soft frame. This style is perfect for anyone wanting to look polished and stylish without spending too much time on hair styling.

CONCLUSION

Short hair doesn’t mean limited style! There are countless ways to rock short hair, from chic and sleek to playful and fun. Whether you prefer a pixie cut, bob, or something in between, the possibilities are endless. Experiment with different products, accessories, and styling techniques to find the perfect look that suits your personality and lifestyle.