Essential oils, known for their strong, invigorating aromas and therapeutic properties, have become a popular addition to people’s hair & skin routines.
When blended with the right amount, essential oils improve hair health, regrowth, and scalp health. However, excessive amounts of essential oils can lead to adverse effects, such as scalp irritation or hair damage.
But what is the right concentration? Being the formulation expert for over 24 years, we’ve experimented with a whole lot of concentrations and finally figured out just the right concentration of essential oil in a hair oil.
What are the factors affecting Essential Oil Concentration?
Since oils have different consistency, efficacy & potency, it becomes extremely important to consider every factor before you start blending different oils together.
The recommended level of concentration of essential oils should be in the range of 5-8% of the total quantity of the oil. For example if the hair oil is 100 ML, the essential oils should be anywhere between the range of 5 and 8 ML.
-
Intensity of the Essential Oil: Some essential oils are more potent than others. More potent essential oils, like rosemary, peppermint or eucalyptus, may require lower concentrations.
-
Sensitivity Hair, Scalp & Skin: If you have sensitive skin, a dandruff-prone scalp or damaged hair, it's recommended that you begin with a milder concentration. Then, week by week, you should increase the concentration based on tolerated.
-
Desired Benefits: The specific benefits you're seeking can also influence the concentration. For example, if you're using essential oils to stimulate hair growth, or reduce patchy spots on the head, you’ll have to opt for a slightly higher concentration.
If you want to prevent or reduce acne breakouts & painful pimples, you can add drops of tea tree essential oil to face wash, body lotion or other lightweight carrier oil.
What are the risks of over-dilution?
While using too little essential oil might not be potent enough to tackle the problem. Whereas using too much is always problematic. Here’s how it can be a problematic thing:
-
Irritate the scalp: This can lead to redness, itching, and flaking. This especially happens in the case of sensitive skin.
-
Damage hair & scalp: Over-dilution can strip the hair & scalp of its natural oils and leave it dry and brittle.
- Cause adverse reactions: In some cases, over-usage of essential oils results in allergic reactions or sensitivities. That’s why patch testing is always recommended before you start with the regular usage.
Some Other Things to Consider
When it comes to the concentration of essential oil in your hair oil, make sure to consider these things as well to get the best out of your hair care/maintenance routine.
-
Carrier Oils: Choose a carrier oil that complements your hair type and desired benefits. For example, castor oil will be perfect if you’re struggling with dry hair, olive & argan for frizzy & split ends, and bhringraj if you’re facing hair loss due to stress.
-
Patch Testing: Before applying any essential oil to your scalp, perform a patch test on a small area of skin to check for allergies or sensitivities.
-
Storage: Store essential oils in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. This helps preserve their potency and aroma.
- Consult with a Professional: If you have specific hair concerns or are unsure about using essential oils, consult with a trichologist or dermatologist for personalised advice.
With the right concentration and usage, essential oils can be a wonderful addition to your hair care routine, promoting healthy, vibrant hair.
We hope by following these tips and incorporating essential oils into your hair care regimen, you can unlock their full potential and achieve your desired hair goals.
