Peppermint Oil For Hair Growth: Benefits, Uses, Side-Effects
What is it | Peppermint oil for hair growth | How to use | Side effects | Peppermint vs. others | Benefits for skin | FAQ | Conclusion
Essential oils are well known for their healing properties and have been used throughout centuries.
Peppermint oil is a prime example. It's been used for digestive disorders in ancient Greece, Egypt and Rome.
Lately, it's often touted as a potent natural remedy for hair growth.
This article dives into the benefits, uses, and side-effects of peppermint oil for hair growth.
What Is Peppermint Oil?
Peppermint oil is a potent essential oil derived from the leaves of the Mentha piperita plant.
It's celebrated for its refreshing aroma and a wide range of therapeutic properties, thanks to its primary constituents - menthol and menthone.
These compounds imbue peppermint oil with cooling, analgesic, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a versatile addition to your wellness and beauty routine.
Peppermint Oil: Benefits for Hair Growth
Research underscores the potential benefits of peppermint oil for hair growth.
A study published in 2014 found that topical application of peppermint oil led to significant hair growth in mice.
Surprisingly, peppermint oil outperformed the FDA-approved hair growth product minoxidil in terms of hair length, thickness, and follicle count.
How peppermint oil outshines other remedies?
Its stimulating effect on the scalp enhances blood circulation, which nourishes and activates hair follicles, promoting healthier and faster hair growth.
Moreover, its antimicrobial properties help maintain a clean, balanced scalp environment, warding off issues like dandruff that can hamper hair health.
Apart from boosting hair growth, peppermint oil offers additional hair health benefits.
Its cooling effect soothes an irritated scalp, while its ability to balance scalp pH aids in regulating oil production, making it a boon for those struggling with oily or dry scalps.
How to Use Peppermint Oil for Hair Growth
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use peppermint oil for hair growth.
1. Mix: Due to its potency, peppermint oil should never be applied directly to the scalp.
Instead, mix 2-3 drops of peppermint oil with a tablespoon of a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil.
2. Apply: Gently massage this blend into your scalp, ensuring even distribution.
3. Wait: Allow the oil to sit for 15-20 minutes.
4. Rinse: Wash your hair thoroughly with a mild shampoo.
You can perform this routine 1-2 times a week.
For the best results, consistency is key.
Despite its benefits, peppermint oil isn't without precautions. Some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Always conduct a patch test before full application.
Peppermint Oil For Hair Growth: Side Effects
Though peppermint oil is a natural product, it's potent and can have side effects when not used properly.
These may include skin irritation, redness, itching, or even an allergic reaction, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin.
It may also lead to eye irritation if it comes into contact with your eyes.
To minimize these risks, always dilute peppermint oil with a carrier oil before applying it to the scalp.
Conduct a patch test on a small area of your skin and wait 24 hours to check for any adverse reaction.
If you're pregnant, nursing, or have any health condition, consult with a healthcare professional before use.
Peppermint Oil vs Other Remedies
Let's compare peppermint oil to other popular remedies for hair growth - minoxidil and rosemary oil.
Peppermint Oil vs. Minoxidil
Minoxidil is a FDA-approved treatment for hair loss.
While effective, some users report side effects like scalp irritation, unwanted hair growth on adjacent areas like the forehead, and even heart palpitations in rare cases.
Moreover, the 2014 study mentioned earlier suggests that peppermint oil may outperform minoxidil in promoting hair growth without these adverse effects.
Peppermint Oil vs Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil is another natural remedy often used for hair growth.
Like peppermint oil, it promotes scalp circulation and has antimicrobial properties.
A 2015 study found rosemary oil to be as effective as minoxidil in treating androgenetic alopecia, but with less scalp itching as a side effect (Panahi et al., 2015).
However, peppermint oil's additional benefits, such as its cooling effect and ability to balance scalp pH, may give it an edge over rosemary oil.
Peppermint oil may also be combined with castor oil, lavender oil, batana oil for even better results.
Peppermint Oil for Skin
Peppermint oil, derived from the Mentha piperita plant, can be a rejuvenating elixir for your skin. Its primary constituent, menthol, imparts a cooling effect that soothes irritation and inflammation, providing relief from conditions like sunburn or insect bites.
Moreover, peppermint oil possesses antimicrobial properties, making it a natural deterrent against acne-causing bacteria.
It can help maintain a clean skin environment, potentially reducing breakouts and promoting clearer skin.
Additionally, the oil can stimulate blood circulation beneath the skin, contributing to a healthier and more vibrant complexion.
Conclusion
In conclusion, peppermint oil presents a promising natural solution for those seeking to boost their hair health and growth.
Its unique properties not only stimulate hair growth but also offer additional benefits, such as soothing the scalp and balancing oil production.
Peppermint Oil For Hair Growth: FAQ's
Does peppermint essential oil stimulate hair growth?
Yes, peppermint essential oil can stimulate hair growth. It improves blood circulation to the scalp, activates hair follicles, and promotes a healthier hair growth environment.
It also helps manage scalp conditions like dandruff, balances oil production, and provides a soothing effect on the scalp.
How often should you use peppermint oil for hair growth?
You can use peppermint oil 2-3 times a week for hair growth.
Consistency is key for optimal results.
How fast does peppermint grow hair?
The rate at which peppermint oil promotes hair growth can vary among individuals.
Regular and consistent use over several weeks to months is typically required to notice significant results.
Can peppermint oil be left in hair overnight?
While peppermint oil can be left in the hair overnight, it's not typically recommended due to its potency.
It's best to rinse it off after 15-20 minutes.
Is peppermint a DHT blocker?
While peppermint oil promotes hair growth, there's currently no scientific evidence to confirm that it acts as a DHT blocker.
It's best to use peppermint oil alongside a natural herbs that may help reduce DHT such as saw palmetto, nettle seed extract or pumpkin seed extract.
Is it possible to apply too much peppermint oil on scalp?
Yes, applying too much peppermint oil can potentially irritate the scalp and skin.
Always dilute it with a carrier oil before use. It's best to mix 2-3 drops of peppermint oil along with a tablespoon of carrier oil such as jojoba or coconut oil.
Can peppermint oil cause hair loss?
Peppermint oil generally promotes hair growth, but misuse, such as applying it undiluted or in excessive amounts, can potentially lead to scalp irritation or temporary hair loss. Always use it properly and responsibly.
References
Oh, J. Y., Park, M. A., & Kim, Y. C. (2014). Peppermint Oil Promotes Hair Growth without Toxic Signs. Toxicological Research, 30(4), 297–304. https://doi.org/10.5487/TR.2014.30.4.297
Panahi, Y., Taghizadeh, M., Marzony, E. T., & Sahebkar, A. (2015). Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a randomized comparative trial. Skinmed, 13(1), 15–21.
