Which Oil Should You Be Using to Prevent Hair Loss?
Hair loss is a widespread problem that affects 85% of men by the age of 50, and 40% of women by the age of 50. Approximately 6.5 million men and 8 million women in the UK are currently affected by hair loss.
However, there are many natural oils that can be used to mitigate hair loss, and promote regrowth. Make sure to do a patch test before trying any of the oils and use certain oils such as rosemary and castor oil sparingly to avoid irritation.
1. Rosemary oil
Rosemary oil has become increasingly popular, and not without good reason. It has been scientifically proven to stimulate hair growth straight from the follicle. It can also help improve dandruff and lead to a healthy scalp. The plant is said to have anti-inflammatory properties, improve circulation, and promote nerve growth. It is important to dilute it with a carrier oil like avocado oil, coconut oil, or jojoba oil, as it can be too strong and irritating. Overusing rosemary oil can also lead to skin discomfort, so it is important to use it sparingly.
2. Castor oil
Castor oil is an age old traditional natural remedy for hair loss. It contains ricinoleic acid which has anti-inflammatory properties which improve blood flow to the scalp promoting hair growth. If you massage it in, hair growth is stimulated in that area. Castor oil also contains omega-6 fatty acids a type of essential fatty acid that may promote hair growth and reduce inflammation in the follicles. If you leave castor oil on your head for too long it can be drying, so leave it in for a max of two hours. Castor oil also has benefits for eyebrow and eyelash growth, as long as you’re careful not to get it in your eyes.
3. Argan oil
Rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and E, promoting healthy hair growth and protecting it from damage. The fatty acids in argan oil improve hair elasticity and prevent breakage leading to longer, healthier hair. Vitamin E helps to keep follicles free from damage, helping to prevent splitting and breakage. It can help hair shine and smoothness, hydrating and softening. It is safe to use every day. Argan oil can also be used for skin and nails to hydrate and nourish them.
4. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is an all-rounder that has a plethora of benefits for hair and body. Coconut oil is effective at preventing protein loss to keep your hair looking healthy and help with hair growth. This prevents dry and brittle hair, and helps by treating split ends. Hair growth begins with scalp health, and studies have found that coconut oil can help treat dandruff and fungal infections. As well as being effective when applied topically to the scalp and hair, eating coconut oil as part of a varied diet can also help with hair growth, as the abundance of natural fats can lead to faster growing hair. Coconut oil should be used sparingly, however, as using coconut oil too much can lead to a build-up of oil and greasy hair.
5. Almond oil
Almond oil is another long-appreciated home remedy for hair growth, particularly in Ayurveda. Massaging almond oil on the scalp improves circulation of blood to the roots which promotes hair growth. The oil contains biotin which helps to reactivate dormant follicles and produces keratin to thicken and thinning hair. It also contains vitamins B7 and E which can help reverse damage caused by pollution, chemicals and heat. It can help to restructure the hair from the root. Almond oil also has essential fatty acids that can help in leading to moisturised hair, softening the hair at the root.
References:
https://www.healthline.com/health/essential-oils-for-hair-growth
https://www.healthline.com/health/rosemary-oil-for-hair#benefits
https://uk.gisou.com/blogs/blog/best-hair-oil-for-growth
https://www.verywellhealth.com/using-castor-oil-for-hair-growth-4172190
https://www.purplle.com/magazine/article/5-benefits-of-almond-oil-for-hair
https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/coconut-oil-for-hair-growth#other-benefits
