tea tree hair and 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.

CUTE & EASY KIDS’ BRAIDED HAIRSTYLES: NATURAL HAIRSTYLES FOR BLACK CHILDREN

When it comes to children’s hairstyles, braids are a classic choice that offer both charm and individuality. Not only are braids versatile, but they also provide a creative way to manage natural hair. From simple, everyday looks to elaborate designs suitable for special occasions, braids come in many styles. In this article, we’ll showcase a variety of braided hairstyles for kids that are not only adorable but also practical, celebrating the beauty of African American children’s natural hair.

BUBBLEGUM BEADS EXTRAVAGANZA

To wrap up on a high note, this hairstyle dazzles with vibrant pink bubblegum beads, creating a playful and eye-catching look that’s hard to overlook. It’s a fun and expressive choice for Black children, showcasing the joy and creativity that natural hair can celebrate.

SWEET IN HEARTS AND BROWNS

Heart patterns intricately woven into braids, combined with a beautiful brown hue, create a look that’s both charming and fashionable. This hairstyle highlights the versatile beauty of natural hair, offering a delightful and flattering frame for any young girl’s face.

CASUAL AND CUTE

The charm of this style lies in its simplicity, making it a perfect choice for easy and cute everyday hairstyles for Black children. It’s practical for various activities while still maintaining a polished appearance that celebrates natural hair.

VIBRANT GREEN ELEGANCE

This vibrant green braided hairstyle is a striking example of African American children’s hair. The blend of green and natural tones creates a fresh and unique look that is sure to make a statement.

HALF-CORNROW, HALF-CURLS

Here’s a style that beautifully combines neatly done cornrows on one side with wild, free curls on the other. It’s a celebration of natural hair, from short to long, and stands out as a favorite for its stylish appearance and ease of maintenance.

BRAIDED LENGTHS WITH A TWIST

This hairstyle makes a dramatic statement with its length, complemented by colorful bands and golden beads. It’s a chic and versatile option that effortlessly transitions from a casual day to a special event, making it an ideal choice for Black children’s box braids.

TOP KNOTS AND PEARLS

Embracing the latest trends, this hairstyle showcases cute top knots adorned with pearlescent beads. It’s an enchanting choice for Black children’s easy-to-style hairdos, combining traditional braiding with a modern twist for a standout natural look.

BEACH-READY BRAIDS

These braids are more than just a hairstyle; they’re the ideal companion for a sunny beach day. They epitomize natural, easy styles that are both practical for play and visually stunning, celebrating the full beauty of Black children’s natural hair.

RED BOW BEAUTY

A touch of classic red creates a striking contrast in this braided hairstyle, finished with a bow for a signature touch. It’s an ideal style for Black children with natural hair of short to medium length, keeping the hair manageable while looking adorable and perfect for any fun-filled day.

HEART-SHAPED CREATIVITY

This hairstyle is a true artistic marvel, featuring heart-shaped braids that captivate at first glance. Ideal for Black children for school or festive occasions, it’s accented with pink beads that add a charming touch. This style radiates love and highlights the artistry of natural hair.

STREET STYLE SAVVY

A fusion of braids and street style, this outfit is both stylish and fun. The vibrant white and red perfectly complement the braided hair, creating a cohesive and casual look.

CITRUS CHARM

A pop of yellow beads brings a fresh and playful look to these braided hairstyles for black children. The beads not only add color but also provide extra hold for the braids, making them ideal for active kids.

TRENDY RED ACCENTS

Red accents give this hairstyle a trendy edge, enhancing traditional braids with a bold statement. It aligns with the latest fashion trends for Black children’s short natural hair styles, offering a look that’s both edgy and adorable.

RADIANT IN PURPLE

This braided hairstyle for black children features eye-catching purple accessories that complement the classic braids. It’s a versatile and low-maintenance look that combines tradition with a modern touch.

FLORAL DELIGHT

Flowers bring a delightful touch to this braided hairstyle, making it ideal for a fresh spring or summer look. It’s a cute and festive style that celebrates the natural texture of African American children’s hair while incorporating vibrant floral accessories.

SPORTY CHIC

This braided hairstyle is a sporty and stylish choice for active children. It keeps natural hair neat and out of the face, while the beads add a fun touch. Whether for school or sports, this look is both practical and fashionable.

BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL

This hairstyle stands out with its bold parting and vibrant green accessories. It reflects the latest trends in Black children’s natural hair, offering a look that is both cute and commanding. It’s a testament to the versatility of braided styles, easily adaptable to different accessories and occasions.

CLASSIC WITH A TWIST

This classic braided style is enhanced with a bow, making it a charming and stylish choice for African American girls. The braids are arranged to create a halo effect around the head, blending seamlessly into soft curls. This versatile look effortlessly transitions from the classroom to a party with minimal fuss.

PLAYFUL PURPLE ACCENTS

For a touch of whimsy, this hairstyle features purple beads at the ends of each braid, making it a vibrant choice for African American children’s hair. Ideal for kids who enjoy adding a splash of color and fun to their style, the purple accents bring a playful element that makes it a popular pick for those who love beads.

ELEGANCE IN SIMPLICITY

Simple and elegant, this braided hairstyle highlights the natural beauty of Black children’s hair. Neatly braided along the scalp and flowing into lush curls at the ends, it’s an ideal choice for school, keeping the hair tidy and out of the face for a day of learning. This low-maintenance style allows the child’s natural features to shine.

CONCLUSION

Braids are more than just hairstyles; they are a form of self-expression and empowerment for young Black girls. By teaching them to love and care for their natural hair, we are fostering a sense of confidence and pride. Braids offer endless possibilities for creativity and self-discovery, empowering young Black girls to embrace their unique beauty.