Can essential oils be used as an alternative and supportive role in eliminating dandruff?

Yeah, that's absolutely right. Essential oils can be very effective aids and supports in the fight against dandruff. They are not a substitute for treatment from a trichologist or dermatologist if the problem is serious (such as seborrheic dermatitis), but are an excellent natural ingredient for improving scalp health.

Question from Svetlana to the topic: In what cases are therapeutic shampoos used

Why do essential oils work against dandruff?

Dandruff is often caused by a combination of three factors:

1. Malassezia fungus: This yeast fungus naturally lives on the scalp, but with excess sebum, it can multiply too much, causing irritation and flaking.
2. Excess sebum activity (oily seborrhea) or their under-working (dry seborrhea).
3. Individual skin sensitivity.

Essential oils work in a complex way:

• Antifungal and antibacterial action: Inhibit the growth of fungus and bacteria.
• Anti-inflammatory action: Relieve itching, redness and irritation.
• Regulatory Action: Normalize the work of sebaceous glands.
• Stimulating circulation: Improve nutrition and respiration of hair follicles.

Best essential oils against dandruff

Here is a list of the most effective oils with their main properties:

1. Tea tree (Melaleuca Alternifolia)

• Properties: Powerful antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory. The gold standard in the fight against dandruff and seborrhea. Excellent itch reliever.
• For what type: Ideal for oily and itchy scalps.

2. Laurel (Laurus Nobilis)

• Properties: Strong antifungal, antiseptic, regulates sebum secretion. Very effective in seborrheic dermatitis.
• For what type: Especially good for oily skin.

3. Rosemary (Rosmarinus Officinalis)

• Properties: Antiseptic, stimulates blood microcirculation, which improves root nutrition and promotes healthy hair growth.
• For what type: Versatile, suitable for oily and normal skin.

4. Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia)

• Properties: Anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, soothing. Excellent relieves irritation and itching, promotes healing.
• For what type: Versatile, especially good for sensitive and irritated skin.

5. Atlas/Himalayan cedar (Cedrus Atlantica/Deodara)

• Properties: Antiseptic, astringent, regulates the sebaceous glands.
• For what type: Great for oily scalps.

6. Geranium (Pelargonium Graveolens)

• Properties: Normalizes the work of sebaceous glands, anti-inflammatory.
• For what type: For oily and combination skin.

7. Patchouli (Pogostemon Cablin)

• Properties: Anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, regulatory.
• For what type: For oily skin.

Mixture recipes and application methods

IMPORTANT RULE: Essential oils are NOT to be applied to the skin in their pure form! They should always be diluted in base (transportation) oil.

Base carrier oils:

• For oily skin: Jojoba (great at regulating sebum), grape seed, almond oil.
• For dry skin: Ray oil, castor oil, avocado oil, olive oil.

1. Scalp massage mixture

This is the most effective way. The mixture is applied to the scalp, a light massage is made for 5-10 minutes, then left for another 30-60 minutes (you can under a warm towel for better penetration) and washed off with a mild shampoo.

All-purpose recipe for 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of base oil:

• Tea tree - 4 drops
• Noble laurel - 2 drops
• Lavender - 3 drops
• Rosemary - 2 drops

For an oily scalp:

• Tea tree - 5 drops
• Noble laurel - 3 drops
• Cedar or Geranium - 2 drops

For dry and irritated skin:

• Lavender - 4 drops
• Rosemary - 3 drops
• Tea tree - 3 drops

Base Oil: turpentine + jojoba in equal parts.

2- Enrichment of shampoo or conditioner

Add 2-3 drops of total essential oil per single serving of shampoo in the palm of your hand. Do not add to a whole bottle, as the essential oils may react with the plastic and shampoo ingredients.

Example: 1 drop tea tree + 1 drop lavender.

3. Hair mask

To your regular hair mask (preferably natural, no silicones) add a mixture of essential oils at the rate of 3-4 drops per tablespoon of mask. Apply to scalp and hair, rinse after 20-30 minutes.

Key safety and application rules

1. Patch test is a must! Before first use, dilute 1 drop of the chosen EM in 1/3 tsp. of base oil and apply to the inner bend of the elbow or behind the ear. If there is no redness, itching or swelling within 12-24 hours, it can be used.
2. Strictly observe the dosage. More does not mean better. High concentrations can cause burns and severe irritation.
3. Quality of oils. Use only 100% pure natural therapeutic grade essential oils from trusted manufacturers.
4. Pregnancy and disease. In case of pregnancy, epilepsy, asthma, allergies and other serious conditions, it is mandatory to consult a doctor before use.
5. Regularity. Apply the mixtures in a course: 1-2 times a week for 1-2 months, then you can take a break or use for prevention every 1-2 weeks.
6. Specialist counseling. If the dandruff is severe, accompanied by large flakes, redness, wet patches, or hair loss, - be sure to see a trichologist or dermatologist. Essential oils in this case are only part of the supportive therapy.

Start with a small dosage and the simplest recipe (like tea tree + lavender) to see how your scalp reacts. Good luck with your hair care routine