Massaging essential oils into the scalp helps deliver their active benefits directly to the hair follicles and to the scalp itself. It’s best to do the massage before bedtime, sleep with your hair wrapped in a towel, and then wash and shampoo it the next morning.
Hair Massage Technique For All Hair Types
Use a base of 2 tbs extra-virgin olive oil, with 1 tbs wheat germ oil and 1 tbsp jojoba oil. For dry hair, add 8 drops of geranium oil, 12 drops of lavender oil, and 6 drops of sage oil.
For oily hair (yes, this really works!), add 8 drops of tea tree oil, 8 drops of lavender oil, and 8 drops patchouli oil.
For normal hair, add 8 drops of rose oil, 8 drops of lavender oil, and 8 drops of rosemary oil.
For dandruff, add 10 drops of cypress oil, 10 drops of juniper oil, and 8 drops of cedarwood oil.
For best results, heat the oil. You can do this by placing a cup or small pitcher in a bowl of just boiled hot water. Leave for 5 minutes-, and the oil will warm up. (Wrapping hair in a hot towel after the massage also helps the oils penetrate the hair shaft.)
Work the oil through the hair, then carry out a soothing head massage (see left) to calm the entire nervous system. For extra benefits, add in these massage movements:
Massaging the forehead generates a feeling of well-being in the brain and is said to improve eyesight and concentration.
Massaging the temples improves eyesight and concentration, and creates a “centered” state.
Massaging the eyebrows and orbital bone relaxes the whole body and is especially beneficial for the eyes and those who suffer from headaches.
Lavender and Apple Hair Mask for Oily Scalp
Lavender has a gentle clarifying action, and when applied to the scalp, it helps normalize sebum production and restore a healthy bounce to the hair. This simple recipe works best with fresh lavender.
Ingredients
- ½ cup fresh lavender florets
- 1 cup applesauce
- 1 teaspoon of sea salt
- ½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Method
Crush lavender florets with pestle and mortar. Stir in the applesauce and the salt. Add the apple cider vinegar and stir well.
Directions for Use
Apply an even thick layer to dry hair (before shampooing). Wrap your head with plastic film and cover with a towel. Relax for 8-10 minutes. Rinse well and shampoo as usual.
Storage
This mask is best used fresh.