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.

21 BEST HAIR LOSS SHAMPOOS TO PROMOTE GROWTH, TRIED AND TESTED

Hair loss is a common issue that can affect people of all ages. For many, it can be a source of stress and self-consciousness. If you are experiencing hair loss, there are things you can do to help slow it down or prevent it, including using hair loss prevention shampoos.. Read on as we share with you the 20 best shampoos for preventing hair loss and promoting growth.

WHAT CAUSES FEMALE HAIR LOSS?

Losing hair is a natural process, and typically, it’s nothing to be overly concerned about, an average person can lose between 50 and 100 hairs per day. For women, excessive hair loss may result from hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy or menopause, aging, nutritional deficiencies from a poor diet, stress, iron deficiency, or as a side effect of an illness or treatment. Excessive use of heating tools and years of bleaching can also contribute to hair loss, particularly around the hairline. Both factors contribute to breakage by causing hair to become dry and brittle, eventually leading to hair fallout.

CAN SHAMPOOS REALLY REGROW HAIR?

While shampoos technically can’t regrow missing patches of hair, they can create an optimal environment to promote healthy natural hair growth. Maintaining a clean and healthy scalp is crucial for achieving a fuller head of hair. Look for ingredients like caffeine and peppermint oil to enhance circulation, while proteins and keratin strengthen and add resilience to the hair. Hair loss shampoos and conditioners target common causes of hair loss, with categories such as:

  • Anti-breakage: Reinforces hair strands to prevent breakages and splitting.
  • Hair-thickening: Creates the appearance of thicker hair by adding body and lift.
  • Root- or scalp-stimulating: Clears away build-up and stimulates hair follicles for healthy growth.

21 BEST SHAMPOO HAIR LOSS

VANICREAM ZINC PYRITHIONE SHAMPOO

Zinc pyrithione in shampoo form emerges as a powerful ally in maintaining a clean and healthy scalp while effectively reducing dandruff and preventing hair loss. Renowned for its low likelihood of causing irritation, this shampoo plays a crucial role in promoting optimal scalp health. By harnessing its antifungal and antibacterial properties, zinc pyrithione actively combats dandruff, ensuring a flake-free and refreshed scalp. Importantly, its preventive measures extend to hair loss, making it a valuable component in your hair care routine. Kérastase Densifique Femme, Thickening & Volumising Shampoo, For Fine Hair, With Hyaluronic Acid, Intra-Cylane and Stemoxydinethe key ingredient in this hair care solution, operates as a potent stem cell activator. It creates a stimulating environment that awakens dormant hair follicles, encouraging them to regenerate and produce new hair. More than just preventing hair loss, Stemoxydine proactively promotes additional hair growth, providing you with a thicker and denser mane right from the roots. Its innovative action goes beyond mere protection, actively contributing to a fuller head of hair..”

PLANTUR 39 PHYTO-CAFFEINE SHAMPOO

Experience the transformative effects of the Plantur 39 Phyto-Caffeine Shampoo , a dynamic duo specifically crafted for combating hair thinning associated with menopause. The Phyto-Caffeine Complex, a unique blend of caffeine, niacin, and zinc, deeply cleanses the scalp, promoting natural hair growth. Enriched with white tea extract and wheat protein, this bundle nourishes thinning hair, providing strength and fullness for a noticeably thicker-looking mane with daily use. Tailored for hair over 40, which may have become weakened from the effects of menopause, including fine and brittle strands, the formula addresses the unique needs of this stage. 

ALICE ENGLAND LENGTHEN & STRENGTHEN SHAMPOO

Choosing your hair care routine with Avalon Organics Natural Volumizing Rosemary Shampoo, a beacon of organic excellence in hair care. This 11 oz bottle offers a gentle yet effective solution for cleansing and volumizing thin, fine hair. Crafted with a certified organic formula, the shampoo boasts plant-based botanicals and essential oils, ensuring a nourishing experience free from GMOs, parabens, harsh preservatives, synthetic colors or fragrances, and phthalates. Recognized by the Leaping Bunny Program, Avalon Organics remains committed to cruelty-free practices. The shampoo’s star ingredients, including rosemary essential oil, quinoa protein, calendula, aloe, and vitamin E, collaborate to condition and seal the hair cuticle, resulting in thick, full-bodied hair with a healthy shine. This EWG VERIFIED product is also vegan and not tested on animals. 

VATIKA BLACK SEED OIL SHAMPOO

Experience the revitalizing effects of our formula as it infuses your hair with shine, bounce, and overall health. The key ingredient, black seed, often referred to as the ‘Seed of Blessing,’ is a rich source of amino acids, fatty acids, and minerals that fortify hair strands, leaving them stronger and more radiant. Regular use of this oil promotes healthier and more manageable hair, making it an essential component in your hair care arsenal. Indulge in the moisturizing benefits of this refreshing oil, which works wonders in transforming dry and damaged strands into beautiful, healthy locks. The powerful blend revitalizes the scalp, strengthens each hair follicle, and imparts silky softness to your hair. 

TEA TREE OIL SPECIAL SHAMPOO

With a rich history spanning millennia, aloe vera stands as a timeless ingredient revered for its soothing properties, particularly in the realm of cosmetic products. When harnessed in the form of a shampoo and applied to the scalp, aloe vera proves to be a multifaceted solution for a range of hair concerns. Renowned for its ability to calm itchiness and irritation, this natural wonder not only addresses discomfort but also tackles greasiness, leaving the scalp feeling refreshed. Beyond its immediate soothing effects, aloe vera shampoo contributes to the overall health of your hair. It is known to strengthen and repair hair strands, imparting resilience and vitality to each follicle. Additionally, the application of aloe vera to the scalp has been associated with promoting hair growth, making it a valuable ally in the prevention of hair loss.

HONEYDEW ALOE VERA SHAMPOO

As a key ingredient in shampoos, aloe vera proves to be a versatile solution for addressing various hair concerns. When applied to the scalp, it becomes a soothing elixir, effectively calming itchiness and irritation, creating a refreshing sensation. The benefits of aloe vera extend beyond immediate relief. Acting as a natural cleanser, it efficiently removes greasiness, providing a clean and revitalized scalp. Moreover, aloe vera is a powerhouse for hair health. It works to strengthen and repair hair strands, promoting resilience and vitality from root to tip. As a bonus, its nourishing properties contribute to enhanced hair growth, making it a valuable component in the prevention of hair loss.

ANTI-AGING SHAMPOO

This specialized shampoo is formulated with a unique blend of protective substances designed to nurture and fortify your hair. Enriched with antioxidants, UV absorbers, conditioning agents, and essential amino acids, it offers a comprehensive defense against the daily wear and tear your hair experiences. Amino acids, in particular, are strategically included to replenish those depleted through daily activities, ensuring optimal health for your scalp and hair. While some formulations may fall short in delivering a significant and lasting impact due to low concentrations of these protective elements, quality products stand out by effectively maintaining the overall health of your scalp and hair.

L’ORÉAL PROFESSIONNEL SERIE EXPERT PRO LONGER SHAMPOO

Voted as the best for its luxurious lather and texture, this shampoo delivers a refreshing, squeaky clean feeling to your scalp.The advanced formula of this shampoo goes beyond the surface, with the majority of our panel noticing a reduction in hair loss by the end of the trial. Users reported that their hair felt stronger, indicating a potential solution for those seeking to prevent hair loss. With its refreshing and volumizing properties, L’Oreal Professionnel Pro Longer Thickening Shampoo offers a comprehensive approach to hair care, leaving your scalp revitalized and your hair stronger.

 PANTENE PRO-V MIRACLES GROW STRONG SHAMPOO

The resilience of your hair with our hardworking formula, enriched with a potent blend of Pro-V nutrients and antioxidants. This powerful combination not only strengthens your hair but also ensures it is free of impurities, promoting overall hair health. Our long-lasting formula gently cleanses and conditions with a vitamin-rich blend, providing 2x more nutrients than standard formulas. The results are impressive, lasting for 72+ hours, giving you continuous nourishment and protection. Nourish your strands with every wash, creating a shield against breakage and supporting healthy growth. Our root-to-tip nourishment is designed to fortify your hair, preventing breakage and fostering strength over time. 

NANOGEN THICKENING LUXE SHAMPOO

Nanogen’s 7-IN-1 Shampoo boasts a powerful hydrating formula that offers a multitude of benefits, ensuring your hair and scalp remain in optimal condition for the pursuit of thick, healthy hair. This innovative shampoo takes a multitargeted approach to hair thickening for women, simplifying the process into one comprehensive step. The benefits of this remarkable formula include cleansing, thickening, moisturizing, strengthening, protecting from pollution, balancing your scalp, and optimizing for fibers.

L’ORÉAL PROFESSIONNEL SERIOXYL CLARIFYING & DENSIFYING SHAMPOO

 The transformation of your hair with this remarkable shampoo designed for colored hair, hair loss and specifically targeting thin or fine strands. With a generous quantity of 250 ml, this shampoo promises beautiful hair that appears thicker and denser, providing a fuller and voluminous feel. Not only does it enhance the aesthetic of your hair, but it also offers a healthy appearance, hydrating your colored locks. The treatment option is tailored for thin hair types, aiming to encourage volume and clarify the scalp. While the promises may sound too good to be true, the lab results speak for themselves, showcasing impressive improvements in hair density and thickness, leaving our panel’s hair visibly fuller.

VIRTUE FLOURISH SHAMPOO 

While not the most budget-friendly option (leave that to Pantene), Virtue Flourish Shampoo offers a luxurious dose of keratin proteins to breathe life into tired strands. The abundance of keratin works to revitalize the hair, providing nearly all testers with a noticeable reduction in breakages, resulting in hair that looks and feels thicker and fuller. Beyond addressing breakages, this shampoo delivers a trifecta of benefits by boosting shine, taming frizz, and enhancing overall smoothness. Virtue Flourish Shampoo goes beyond the basic cleansing routine, offering a premium solution to combat hair loss and promote voluminous, resilient strands. While it may not be the most economical choice, the infusion of keratin proteins makes it a standout option for those seeking to prevent hair loss and achieve thicker, fuller, and more radiant hair.

HEAD & SHOULDERS SUPREME STRENGTH SHAMPOO 

 The revitalizing effects of our Hair and Scalp Shampoo and Conditioner enriched with the nourishing properties of argan and avocado oil. Specifically designed for scalp use, this dynamic duo is also an anti-dandruff solution, ensuring a comprehensive approach to hair and scalp care. The pH-balanced formula, infused with antioxidants, guarantees a nurturing and moisturizing experience for your hair from roots to tips. This powerful combination not only addresses flaking problems but also works to strengthen fragile strands. The argan oil-rich blend facilitates easier detangling of knots, leaving your hair softer to the touch. Our panel of testers enjoyed the fresh and clean feel provided by this duo, with many reporting some regrowth during the trial period.

UMBERTO GIANNINI GROW LONG ROOT STIMULATING SHAMPOO

The rejuvenating benefits of  Root Stimulating Shampoo, where a healthy scalp is the foundation for robust and hard-working roots. Our anti-pollution formula not only cleanses but removes build-up, optimizing your hair’s absorption of growth-promoting active ingredients. Powered by the Caffeine-Gro Complex, an exclusive blend by Umberto Giannini, this unique proprietary formula contains Caffeine and Black Coffee Seed Extract to stimulate circulation, Organic Pea Sprout Extract for accelerated hair growth and prolonged hair lifecycle, and Seaweed and Marine Nutrients to support overall hair health. 

BUMBLE AND BUMBLE FULL POTENTIAL SHAMPOO

Introducing Bumble and Bumble Full Potential Shampoo, a salon favorite that goes beyond mere cleansing to deliver fuller and stronger hair with reduced breakage. With an item display weight of 8.5 ounces and a volume of 250.0 milliliters, this shampoo is a compact yet powerful solution for your hair care needs. Apart from its other benefits, a good shampoo must effectively lift built-up dirt and grime to leave your hair feeling clean, and this product excels at just that. Our testers were pleased with its fresh scent and admired how thoroughly it cleansed their scalps. While only a few noticed new hair growth, the majority experienced fewer strands in their hairbrush, and breakages were noticeably reduced.

REDKEN EXTREME SHAMPOO

Introducing our Hair Strengthening Shampoo , a powerful combination designed to cleanse, strengthen, and fortify weakened areas of your hair. Shampoo repair damaged hair while preserving its natural shine. The hair strengthening conditioner provides an extra layer of protection, ensuring your hair not only regains its shine but also becomes supple and shiny. Even the most stressed and damaged hair will be transformed into soft, smooth strands that are more manageable, making combing through even the toughest tangles a breeze.

AVEDA BOTANICAL REPAIR STRENGTHENING SHAMPOO

Discover the excellence of Aveda, a certified vegan offering that emerged as a top performer in our lab tests. Notably, it excelled in detangling knots and proved effective in limiting hair breakages and fallout. Testers reported added strength and enhanced health to their strands, with some noticing a significant difference after just a single wash. Beyond its detangling prowess, this product leaves hair more hydrated, providing a nourishing boost that contributes to overall hair health. Additionally, irritated scalps found comfort and relief, making it a soothing solution for all.

ABSOLUTE COLLAGEN THICKENING COLLAGEN COMPLEX SHAMPOO

 

Experience the innovation of the UK’s first-ever collagen complex formula shampoo – Absolute Collagen Complex Shampoo. Developed in collaboration with leading UK hair experts and scientists, this groundbreaking shampoo is designed to tackle fine, thin hair right from the root! Powered by groundbreaking collagen technology, the Absolute Collagen thickening shampoo features a unique collagen complex formula. Soluble collagen wraps the hair cuticle in a protective layer, deeply cleansing and providing shine and gloss. Collagen amino acids penetrate the cortex of the hair, adding volume and thickness from within.

L’OREAL ELVIVE FULL RESIST FRAGILE HAIR SHAMPOO

Introducing the powerful solution for stronger, resilient hair – L’Oréal Paris Elsève Full Resist Shampoo. Enriched with a formula that includes essential hair supplements such as biotin, vitamin B5, and arginine, this shampoo nourishes the scalp and strengthens the lengths of your hair. The non-recognizable tinted gel boasts a liquid and transparent texture, instantly providing a natural, flawless look that lasts all day. 

DR. BARBARA STURM ANTI HAIR-FALL SHAMPOO

Dr. Barbara Sturm Anti Hair-Fall Shampoo -a premium product while bearing a high-end price tag, has proven its excellence in our lab tests. Notably, it excels in improving thickness and density, delivering visible results that set it apart. Testers were captivated by its luxurious gel-like texture, creamy lather, and delightful scent, elevating their shower routine to a pampering session. This premium shampoo is not just a lavish treat; it actively contributes to preventing hair loss. The impressive results in enhancing thickness and density make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a top-tier solution for their hair care needs.

THE HAIR BOSS BY LISA SHEPHERD OVERWORKED SHAMPOO

Pamper your dry and damaged hair with The Overworked Hair Shampoo by Lisa Shepherd, a nourishing hair product designed to hydrate, prevent breakage, and restore softness. Crafted with salon-quality standards, this shampoo is tailored specifically for coarse, bleached, colored, and heat-damaged hair types. The delicate cream formula gently removes dirt and build-up from the hair, providing a thorough cleanse. Vegan and cruelty-free, The Overworked Shampoo aligns with ethical standards in hair care.

CONCLUSION

Caring for your hair and choosing the right shampoo can play a crucial role in preventing hair loss. For those facing hair loss issues, consider the best shampoos for hair loss mentioned in the article. Each product serves not only to prevent hair loss but also to stimulate hair growth. Hopefully, you will find a product that suits your scalp and is within your budget for effective use.