This well-kept secret is finally out of the bag – here’s how to get in on the benefits!
We all want lusher, healthier hair. But with so many hair treatments claiming to work, how can you be sure that you can use peppermint oil for hair growth?
It’s an all natural alternative to prescription drugs for hair loss. But even if you’re not losing your hair, you can still reap the benefits of luxurious, voluminous hair with peppermint oil.
Peppermint oil can help your hair grow longer and stronger, reduce the appearance breakage and flyaways, and add a radiant shine to your luscious locks. This isn’t dark magic; the secret is in improving circulation to your hair follicles.
If you’re thinking about trying peppermint oil for hair growth, let’s get you off the fence. In this article, you’ll learn how peppermint oil benefits hair, and how to use it to your advantage.
Does Peppermint Oil Really Help Hair Grow?
Scientific research published by the National Institute of Health (NIH) not only indicates that peppermint oil effectively promotes hair growth, but that you can see its results 2 weeks sooner than minoxidil (a prescription topical drug for hair loss). This study, though on mice and not humans, showed that mice had fuller, thicker hair in only 2 weeks, while minoxidil took 4 weeks.
Furthermore, while minoxidil may have toxic side effects, peppermint oil is safe for you and the environment.
So, how does peppermint oil work for hair growth?
One of the main causes of hair loss in men and women is a reduction in circulation to hair follicles.
It is believed that the active ingredient in peppermint oil, menthol, works as a vasodilator. In other words, that cooling sensation you get from peppermint promotes blood flow to your hair follicles.
This extra blood flow delivers much needed nutrients to hair follicles. The most important nutrient is keratin, the protein out of which your hair is made. By supplying hair follicles with what they need to create hair, peppermint oil can improve the health and growth of your hair.
It should be noted, however, that if your scalp is already inflamed due to dryness or exercise, peppermint oil becomes vasoconstricting, meaning it has the opposite effect. It reduces blood flow.
More Benefits of Peppermint Oil for Hair
Hair growth isn’t the only benefit of peppermint oil. Do you suffer from a dry, itchy scalp? The cooling feeling of menthol is a mild analgesic and anesthetic. It soothes itchiness and irritation, and the vasoconstricting effect of peppermint oil isn’t actually a bad thing at all. For people with an irritated scalp, peppermint oil is naturally anti-inflammatory.
You can also protect your hair and scalp using peppermint oil. It is antibacterial and a natural pesticide, making it the perfect addition to shampoo for a thorough cleanse. In fact, because it’s an antimicrobial oil, peppermint oil reduces breakage and clarifies hair for improved shine and volume.
How to Use Peppermint Oil to Stimulate Hair Growth
Adding peppermint oil to your beauty routine is easy! You’ll want to start by making sure you’re using a pure, undiluted essential oil. For example, Aura Cacia makes 100% pure organic peppermint oil that is both cruelty-free and vegan.
Peppermint oil for hair growth uses peppermint essential oil. Essential oils are extracted from the plant, refined, and undiluted. Because of this, they are powerful and can irritate skin. Always dilute essential oils before use.
One of the easiest ways to dilute peppermint oil for hair growth is by adding a couple drops to your shampoo or conditioner. You can also DIY hair serums, hair treatments, and hair masks using peppermint oil.
If you’re feeling unsure about your DIY skills, you can also shop for products with the perfect amount of peppermint oil for hair growth. We’ll recommend some of our favorites in the section below!
DIY Hair Masks
Hair masks are a relaxing and nourishing addition to any spa night. A peppermint oil DIY hair mask will ensure your scalp is getting the love it deserves.
A simple yet nourishing recipe is:
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon coffee bean oil
- 3 drops of peppermint oil
Massage this mix into your hair, making sure to work it onto the scalp. Peppermint oil, caffeine, and massage will stimulate blood flow to your scalp. Coconut oil strengthens hair at the root and encapsulates hair in a protective, shine-enhancing coating.
Leave this mixture in for 15 minutes, then wash with your favorite shampoo and conditioner.
Read about the 4 best natural ingredients for hair to get more DIY ideas!
Top Recommended Peppermint Oil Hair Products
Avalon Organics Strengthening Shampoo
Cruelty-free, Vegan, Free of Parabens, Synthetic Fragrances, Dyes & Sulfates, Non-GMO
The soothing combination of aloe, vitamin E, peppermint oil, and babassu oil works to nurture dry, damaged hair. This formula was crafted to strengthen hair from the follicle to the tip. By minimizing breakage and smoothing split-ends, Avalon Organics Strengthening Shampoo makes hair appear healthier immediately, and encourages it to grow healthier long-term.
100% PURE Volumizing Shampoo
Cruelty-free, Vegan, Free of Parabens, Artificial Fragrances & Sulfates
Pairing the circulation stimulating power of peppermint with burdock, neem, and nettle, this expertly crafted shampoo creates volume by promoting healthy hair growth. Seaweed thickens thin strands of hair while peppermint oil for hair growth clarifies and cleans. To add a little extra body, 100% PURE adds a dash of French sea salt for that beachified look. Green tea extract and pro-vitamin B5 enhance overall shine.
Tree to Tub Soapberry Conditioner for Hair
Cruelty-free, Vegan, Fair Trade, Sustainably Harvested, Free of Parabens, Sulfates, Harsh Detergents, Silicone & Artificial Fragrance
For a totally natural way to use peppermint oil for hair growth, check out Tree to Tub. This brand goes all the way to ensure they aren’t including anything “weird.” Using wild soapberries instead of harsh detergents, this conditioner naturally cleans and clarifies hair. Coconut oil, argan oil, and peppermint oil stand in as ultra-light, nourishing alternatives to heavy silicones.
Now Get Growing!
While other trends may come and go, peppermint oil for hair growth will likely stay in circulation. More research has to be conducted to show proven results on humans, but since peppermint oil is safe, you can conduct your own experiment at home. Our bet is that you won’t be disappointed.
