Can lemon oil help with hair care?
Written by
Robert Kelly
Reviewed by
Prof. William Dalton, Ph.D.Lemon essential oil has notable benefits for hair health via its antifungal and strengthening follicle properties. This includes fighting dandruff and providing natural shine without silicones. I have incorporated this into my weekly regimen, and I've noticed that my scalp irritation has diminished, as has the overall vibrancy of my hair, over the past few months.
Dandruff Control
- Antifungal action reduces Malassezia yeast overgrowth
- Apply diluted oil scalp massage 20 minutes before washing
- Use 2x weekly for persistent flaking relief
Shine Enhancement
- Removes product buildup without stripping natural oils
- Add 5 drops per ounce of shampoo for silicones-free shine
- Rinse with cool water sealing cuticles for reflectiveness
Scalp Health
- Balances pH reducing itchiness and inflammation
- Improves circulation during massage promoting follicle nutrition
- Use 1:30 dilution in jojoba oil for weekly treatments
The astringent effect helps balance sebum production so that you won't get greasy roots, and the lemon oil will tighten your scalp pores and decrease the oil that is secreted. I only apply it to the roots in diluted ways so it doesn't dry out the lengths. Finding that balance keeps my hair feeling fresher for longer between washes and helps retain moisture.
Safety precautions are put in place to avoid irritation and photosensitivity. Always conduct a patch test behind the ear for a day or so before applying it to the full scalp. Avoid exposure to the sun after treatments. I schedule oil applications on nights so it is washed out completely by the morning. Never apply it near the eyes or on broken skin.
Lemon oil alone is effective, but when combined with other supportive ingredients, the results are even more enhanced. Combine with coconut oil for deep conditioning. Blend with peppermint for an extra boost to your circulation. My favorite combination is with rosemary and lemon for thickness. Store the mixture in an amber bottle to protect its potency between uses.
Read the full article: 10 Powerful Benefits Lemon Oil Offers Daily
