Did you know that peppermint oil, squeezed from a plant that grows naturally in North America and Europe, can do wonders for your hair and scalp? It’s most commonly known for scenting cosmetics and cleaning products, and even flavouring food. But it’s got some beauty secrets too!
Many people aren’t aware of just how great peppermint is for hair health. It does an excellent job at fighting off dandruff. This article will dive into the exciting benefits of peppermint for a healthy scalp and managing pesky problems like dandruff.
You see, peppermint, similar to herbs like rosemary, provides a comforting feeling when it touches your skin. It has a unique knack for soothing itchy scalp and getting rid of irritation and flaky skin. But let’s get into the nitty-gritty of it: How does peppermint oil tackle dandruff?
Handling dandruff can be tough, especially when many products available in the market fail to moisturize and balance the scalp properly. Dandruff is primarily just dry, dead skin that’s been shed excessively. This can happen due to a few reasons: an allergic reaction to fungus on the scalp, overly dry skin, severe skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, or simply over-washing your hair with a strong shampoo.
Maintaining a balanced pH level is critical for a healthy scalp. If this balance gets disrupted by harsh hair products, stress, or weather changes, it can cause your scalp to dry out and flake – leading to dandruff.
That’s where peppermint oil steps in! It’s got antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It prevents dryness by getting rid of dead skin cells and bacteria. While most shampoos only remove the dead skin cells, peppermint oil targets bacteria – the main reason for rapid skin cell production. Plus, it helps to normalize oil production in your scalp, setting the perfect groundwork for healthy hair growth.
Peppermint also contains menthol, which lends it its aromatic and healing capabilities. But, if your scalp is super sensitive, peppermint might feel a bit too strong and cause a burning sensation.
Mixed with other essential oils, peppermint oil can be a fantastic moisturizer. It can help give your hair that glow and promote better growth.
Interested in creating a DIY peppermint oil solution? Here’s a simple recipe:
You’ll need fresh peppermint leaves, a glass jar with a tight lid, and a chosen carrier oil such as grapeseed or olive oil. Pack the jar with the cleaned and chopped leaves, leaving about 1cm of space at the top. Submerge the leaves with your carrier oil, seal the lid, and give it a good shake. Leave it to sit for two days if it’s summer, or a month if it’s winter. Remember to shake the jar occasionally. Once ready, strain the mixture, throw away the leaves, and voilà – you’ve made your own peppermint oil!
To use peppermint oil on your scalp, remember: it’s super cooling! First, shampoo your hair. Then, mix seven drops of peppermint oil with your chosen carrier oil, and massage it evenly over your scalp. Be careful not to get the oil mix in your eyes!
But keep in mind: Do not apply peppermint oil directly to your skin – especially if you have a sensitive scalp. It’s best used mixed with a carrier oil or added to your favourite shampoo or conditioner.
Other than being a solution to an itchy scalp, peppermint oil has multiple other uses. It’s good for lice prevention, promoting hair growth, unclogging sinuses, relieving muscle pain, treating coughs, functioning as a natural energizer, and even a homemade chest rub!
So, next time you’re looking for a handy solution for your scalp problems or just a great addition to your beauty routine, consider reaching for some peppermint oil!
