Tea tree oil can benefit your hair and scalp in a variety of ways. If you are losing hair due to clogged follicles or a scalp condition like dandruff, this oil can help remove the dead skin, rid your scalp of fungi and bacteria and promote healthy hair growth. Talk to your doctor before using tea tree oil, and tell her about any recent hair loss or scalp problems you’ve experienced.
Scalp Conditions
Dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis result in a rash of scaly, dry skin on your scalp. If left untreated, these conditions can cause dead skin to build up on your scalp and in your hair follicles, resulting in temporary hair loss. According to MayoClinic.com, a tea tree oil shampoo may be an effective treatment for dandruff and similar scalp conditions. This is because tea tree oil acts as an antifungal and antibacterial agent, working to get rid of the microorganisms that can thrive on your scalp and contribute to flaking skin. However, more research is needed to determine the efficacy of this treatment.
Hair and Scalp Health
Even if you do not have a scalp condition, poor hair and scalp care can result in hair loss. Using shampoos with harsh ingredients can dry out your scalp and strands, and constant blow drying can rob your hair of moisture, causing it to split or break off. By applying tea tree oil, you ensure that your follicles will not become built-up with residue from hair products or dead skin, thereby encouraging your locks to grow. Tea tree oil both moisturizes your hair and scalp and helps control excess oil, which can also clog your follicles and inhibit the growth of your strands.
Dosing and Application
There are many ways you can apply tea tree oil to your hair. If your skin is sensitive or prone to irritation, dilute the tea tree oil by mixing one part tea tree with 10 parts almond oil or another type of bland oil. Many over-the-counter shampoos also contain tea tree oil, in a dose of about 5 to 10 percent. Select or make your desired tea tree solution, and use it to wash your hair once a day, or as directed by your health care provider.
Additional Considerations
Tea tree oil may not be effective for all types of hair loss, such as those associated with autoimmune conditions, heredity or age. Furthermore, if your dandruff or scalp condition is severe, you may require stronger treatments to get rid of it and stop the accompanying hair loss. See your doctor before using tea tree oil, and tell him about the hair loss and scalp problems you experience. When applied to the skin or scalp, tea tree oil may cause an allergic reaction like redness or a rash. If you experience this or another reaction, stop using the oil and seek medical attention.
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Writer Bio
Lynne Sheldon has over 12 years of dance experience, both in studios and performance groups. She is an avid runner and has studied several types of yoga. Sheldon now works as a freelance writer, editor and book reviewer. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and art history from Boston University and recently completed her Master of Fine Arts in writing from Pacific University.