4 Best Essential Oils for Itchy Scalp: Natural Relief

February 19, 2023

An african american woman suffering from itchy scalp

If you're experiencing an itchy scalp, you're not alone. Many people suffer from this uncomfortable condition, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including dryness, dandruff, and fungal infections. While there are many commercial products available to treat itchy scalp, some people prefer a natural approach. One option is using essential oils for itchy scalp

Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that contain natural compounds with a variety of therapeutic properties. When it comes to itchy scalp, certain essential oils can help soothe and nourish the scalp naturally, without the use of harsh chemicals.

What oils stop itchy scalp?

Here are some of the best essential oils for itchy scalp:

1. Lavender oil:

Lavender oil has anti-inflammatory and calming properties that make it great for soothing irritated skin. It's also known to promote hair growth, which can be helpful if you're experiencing hair loss as a result of your itchy scalp.

2. Tea tree oil:

Tea tree oil is a powerful antifungal and antimicrobial agent that can help treat dandruff and fungal infections. It's also known for its soothing and cooling properties, which can relieve itching and irritation.

3. Peppermint oil:

Peppermint oil has a cooling and stimulating effect on the scalp, which can help relieve itching and promote hair growth. It's also known to have antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent infection.

4. Rosemary oil:

Rosemary oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help improve scalp health and reduce dandruff. It's also been shown to stimulate hair growth and improve circulation to the scalp.

How to Apply Essential Oils to Your Scalp

African american woman applying essential oil in her scalp

When using essential oils for an itchy scalp, it's important to dilute them with a carrier oil before applying them to the scalp. Jojoba or coconut oil are good options for this.

Dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil:

Mix a few drops of your chosen essential oil with a carrier oil such as jojoba, coconut, or sweet almond oil. The ratio should be approximately 2-3 drops of essential oil for every tablespoon of carrier oil.

Section your hair:

Divide your hair into small sections to ensure that the oil is applied evenly to the scalp.

Apply the oil to your scalp:

Dip your fingertips into the oil mixture and apply it directly to your scalp in small, circular motions. Start at the hairline and work your way towards the back of your head.

Massage the oil into your scalp:

Use your fingertips to massage the oil into your scalp for a few minutes. This will help increase blood flow to the scalp and distribute the oil evenly.

Let the oil sit:

Leave the oil on your scalp for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if you prefer. You can cover your hair with a shower cap or towel to prevent the oil from getting on your pillow.

Rinse the oil out:

After the desired amount of time, rinse the oil out with warm water and shampoo your hair as usual. You may need to shampoo twice to ensure that all the oil is removed.

Repeat as needed:

For best results, repeat this process 1-2 times per week, depending on the severity of your itchy scalp.

Remember to always patch test the oil mixture on a small area of skin before applying it to your entire scalp, and avoid getting the oil mixture in your eyes or mouth. If you experience any irritation or discomfort, rinse the oil immediately.

Precautions and Considerations

It can cause skin irritation, Always dilute the oil or do a patch test on a small area of the skin before using it on your entire scalp.
Some essential oils may be unsafe during pregnancy or for certain medical conditions.
It can be expensive, Consider the cost of the oils and carrier oils before committing to using them as a treatment.
Essential oils may not work for everyone.
Essential oils may not have a long-lasting effect

Can you apply essential oil directly to scalp?

It is generally not recommended to apply undiluted essential oil directly to the scalp. Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that can irritate the skin if used at full strength. Instead, it is recommended to dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil, such as jojoba or coconut oil, before applying it to the scalp. The carrier oil helps to reduce the concentration of the essential oil and allows for safe and effective use

How long can you leave essential oils on your scalp?

The length of time you can leave essential oils on your scalp can vary depending on the specific essential oil and your individual skin type and sensitivity. As a general rule, it is recommended to leave the essential oil on your scalp for at least 30 minutes to allow it to fully absorb into the skin and provide maximum benefits.

While essential oils can be a great natural option for treating an itchy scalp, it's important to take some precautions and consider potential drawbacks before using them. Be sure to dilute the oil, do a patch test, and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns. Consider the cost of the oils, and keep in mind that they may not work for everyone or have a long-lasting effect. With these factors in mind, you can make an informed decision about whether essential oils are the right treatment option for your itchy scalp.