Essential Oils For Hair Loss and Shedding

[jessie58]

Essential Oils For Hair Loss And Shedding - Condensed Version

Here (http://archive.longhaircommunity.com/showthread.php?t=23598) is a link to the original thread. It contains 19 pages, including 728 posts. It is very informative but time consuming to read.

Here is an excellent site for women for support and information about hair loss:
www.herhairlosshelp.com (http://www.herhairlosshelp.com/)

I would first like to address some extremely important factors about hair loss and thinning.
Before embarking on a mission to find a magic oil to stop hair loss and thinning, you need to find the source of your loss.

Reasons for hair loss or thinning can include:
-hormones
-stress
-certain medications causing hair loss
-certain medical conditions, such as a major illnesses causing hair loss
-poor or incorrect diet
-ageing, the natural process of thinning hair
-thyroid issues in women
-male pattern baldness in men
-many different scalp conditions, such as alopecia areata, etc.
-excessive manipulation, overuse of styling tools, chemical damage

It is very important to find the source of thinning and baldness before attempting to use an essential oil formula. If you are otherwise healthy and have a good diet and have ruled out any scalp disease, then using one of these recipes may yield good results. Pregnant and nursing women should research all essential oils before use and consult with their doctor.

ABERDEEN HAIR STUDY:
A recently documented study judging the effectiveness of essential oils in the treatment of Alopecia areata
Hay IC, Jamieson M, Ormerod AD Department of Dermatology, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Foresterhill, Scotland.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the efficacy of aromatherapy in the treatment of patients with alopecia areata.

DESIGN:A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial of 7 months' duration, with follow-up at 3 and 7 months. SETTING: Dermatology outpatient department.

PARTICIPANTS: Eighty-six patients diagnosed as having alopecia areata.

INTERVENTION: Eighty-six patients were randomized into 2 groups. The active group massaged essential oils (thyme, rosemary, lavender, and cedarwood) in a mixture of carrier oils (jojoba and grapeseed) into their scalp daily. The control group used only carrier oils for their massage, also daily.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Treatment success was evaluated on sequential photographs by 2 dermatologists (I.C.H. and A.D.O.) independently. Similarly, the degree of improvement was measured by 2 methods: a 6-point scale and computerized analysis of traced areas of alopecia.

RESULTS: Nineteen (44%) of 43 patients in the active group showed improvement compared with 6 (15%) of 41 patients in the control group (P = .008 ). An alopecia scale was applied by blinded observers on sequential photographs and was shown to be reproducible with good interobserver agreement (kappa = 0.84). The degree of improvement on photographic assessment was significant (P = .05). Demographic analysis showed that the 2 groups were well matched for prognostic factors.

CONCLUSIONS: The results show aromatherapy to be a safe and effective treatment for alopecia areata. Treatment with these essential oils was significantly more effective than treatment with the carrier oil alone (P = .008 for the primary outcome measure). We also successfully applied an evidence-based method to an alternative therapy.
In research conducted in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary in Scotland, 43 alopecia patients received daily 2-minute scalp massges with essential oils of thyme, rosemary, lavender, cedarwood, mixed with jojoba and grapeseed oils. Another 43 received scalp massages using just jojoba and grapeseed oils. After seven months, 19 people in the essential-oil group grew hair, compared to 6 people in the control group. The results included one man who regrew a full head of hair from an almost completely bald scalp, says Isabelle C. Hay, MRCP, the medical doctor and specialist in dermatology who spearheaded the study. The above comments were excerpted from Prevention Magazine.

LHC RECIPES:

Meg Evenstar's Recipe
1/2 teaspoon of Chrome Dome (see below) essential oil blend
4oz of Carrier oil such as -
Emu, Jojoba, Camellia, or any deep penetrating oil
10 drops of Thyme
10 drops of Sage -- Dalmation or Clary


Igor's Recipe
1. Thyme essential oil - 2 drops
2. Atlas cedarwood essential oil - 2 drops
3. Lavender essential oil -3 drops
4. Rosemary essential oil -3 drops
5. Jojoba oil - ½ teaspoon
6. Grapeseed oil - 4 teaspoons


jessie58's Recipe
4 oz. Jojoba oil
4 drops each of:
Cedarwood
Grapefruit
Bay
Thyme
Rosemary
Clary Sage
Basil
Patchouli
Lemon
Cypress
Sage
Geranium
8 drops of Lavender

Alba-NY's Recipe:
Using 150ml burdock root oil as a carrier oil- add the following:
lemongrass oil -14 drops
thyme oil - 14 drops
lavender oil -12 drops
rosemary oil -8 drops
geranium oil -6 drops
tea tree oil -6 drops

Moonchaser's Sweet Success Oil (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/member.php?u=3345)


Nightbloomings Triple Moon Hair Annointing Oil (http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14491548)



Chrome Dome
Chrome Dome is a premixed essential oil recipe which can be used with a carrier oil for the same effects as the above recipes. It can be ordered online.
http://www.essentialwholesale.com/product/1395/chrome-dome-essential-oil-blend



How to mix essential oils with carrier oils:

When mixing small amounts as in Igor's recipe, it's very straight forward and easy to use kitchen measuring spoons. Just stir and keep in an airtight container.

When mixing large amounts as in 4 oz carrier oils, you simply open the carrier oil bottle and drop in individual drops directly from your essential oil bottles. Close carrier bottle and mix.

How to apply:
These recipes should be applied directly to the scalp making sure that essential oils are premixed with a carrier oil.

Oil should be applied to dry hair, as wet hair may dilute the oil and direct it away from the scalp.

Oil should be massaged into the scalp in a gentle fashion for 2 or 3 minutes.

Oil can be applied to the scalp with the fingertips or by dropping it directly onto the scalp with a dropper or pipette.

Method 1:
Hair can be parted where it is thinning, then drop several drops directly onto the scalp. Next, you gently massage it in and repeat the process in the next thinning area. After applying to all thinning areas, gently massage the entire scalp all over.

Method 2:
You can pour out a small amount into a shallow dish to dip your fingertips into. Or pour several drops directly onto your fingertips. Bending over at the waist so your hair is hanging loose, you place your oiled fingertips under the hair, being careful to avoid depositing the oil onto the hair itself. Place fingertips on the scalp where the hair is thinning and gently massage in. Repeating this process whereever the hair is thinning until you have covered all thin areas. Then gently massage the whole scalp all over.

-Depending on your scalps reaction to this oil, you can use it several ways in conjunction with washing. Each person will react differently to these recipes according to their individual scalp conditions, oily, dry, flaky, time of month, etc. It's up to you to determine what works best for you.

-According to the original thread, many people apply this at night, allowing overnight absorption. Shampoo out in the morning.

-Some people apply and leave in for 4 to 6 hours, shampooing it out afterwards.

-Some people apply at night and it completely absorbs overnight and they do not wash it out. In this instance, take care when wearing a bare head outdoors if using lemon and grapefruit oils.

I have personally left it in overnight at all times and did not wash it out with shampoo. Water Only rinsing works for me, however I don't think there were many other people that this worked for. My scalp seems to soak it up.

How often to use:
These recipes can be used anywhere from 1 to 3 times a week, although some people have used it up to 5 times a week with good results.

As with any new product, care should be taken to note any reaction to these recipes. If you experience rash, bumps, or discomfort, discontinue use.


Results:
Varying results have been reported in regards to length of time to see new growth. Some see results within a month, some see results within 3 months and some see no change at all.

Varying results have been reported in regards to growth from using these recipes. From no change in hair loss/thinning, to some new growth, to excellent growth, to reversal of shedding.

Women have much better luck with these recipes than men do. This likely stems from the reason for shedding being very different for men and women. For women it is often health related or hormone related. For men it is generally due to male pattern baldness which does not respond very well to these treatments.

Men generally report only small amounts of fine hair, while women see good result in slowing of shedding and new hair growth.

The bulk of this information was found here (http://archive.longhaircommunity.com/showthread.php?t=23598).
Additional information found in this (http://archive.longhaircommunity.com/showthread.php?t=74214)excellent carrier oils thread.
The Aberdeen Study was quoted from Prevention Magazine.

[aprilmay]

Interesting info, thanks!

[freznow]

Hey, I think my 'article' got lost somehow after I submitted it (I've heard others say they see an 'awaiting admin check' which I haven't seen. This looks great, are you going to submit it? Combined with the other thread you recently started, I can't think of anything to add.

[Henna Sooq]

thanks for the amazing post! I will get to reading through it more thoroughly

[jessie58]

Hey, I think my 'article' got lost somehow after I submitted it (I've heard others say they see an 'awaiting admin check' which I haven't seen. This looks great, are you going to submit it? Combined with the other thread you recently started, I can't think of anything to add.

Freznow, I looked for your article as well and could not find it. :shrug: So I decided to post in the main recipes section. It may have more exposure here anyway, since I find the articles a bit hard to navigate at the moment.

I would like to thank you for posting my recipe in the other essential oils thread here for others to share. Also I would like to thank you for pointing out how to get archived information. You are one helpful and informative lady. :smooch: You're kind of like a cross between Snowbear and Flaxen, lol. :inlove:

[jessie58]

thanks for the amazing post! I will get to reading through it more thoroughly


I hope you find it helpful, thanks Henna Sooq.

[heidi w.]

There are two specific details missing in the initial article, although it's very good and pretty darn comprehensive.

1. Women can experience baldness just like men, and for the same reason --
"Testosterone converts to DHT with the aid of the enzyme Type II 5-alpha reductase, which is held in a hair follicle's oil glands. Scientists now believe that it's not the amount of circulating testosterone that's the problem but the level of DHT binding to receptors in scalp follicles. DHT shrinks hair follicles, making it impossible for healthy hair to survive.

The hormonal process of testosterone converting to DHT, which then harms hair follicles, happens in both men and women. "

sourced from http://americanhairloss.org/women_hair_loss/causes_of_hair_loss.asp
The American Hair Loss Association, women's section

Under HORMONE area, I would have added a few specifics so readers (especially newbies understand)
examples include pregnancy -- after gestation or breast feeding is finish (this hair loss is more temporary, but for some it can not shift back properly within about 6 months); polycystic fibrosis, endometriosis, issues with heart, diabetes....and so forth.

I would suggest adding the fact that some hair loss is temporary while others can be permanent.

I would have added some forms of cancer treatments and other medical situations. Many women face cancer in a variety of forms, and the treatments can cause temporary (yet long term) hair loss, thinning whereas other forms won't affect the hair at all.

Stress -- I think that was mentioned. Real stress can cause temporary thinning (unless we're delineating between thinning and hair loss).

2. The other detail I would have made pristinely clear is this caution when working with essential oils:

Essential oils are distilled oils from plant matter and very intense, for lack of a better term. They should be well diluted in a carrier oil. All essential oils, even if well diluted in a carrier oil, should be skin patch tested before applying to a wider area to ensure no reactions (you never know if you might be allergic, for example). Moreover, many essentials oils carry precautions such as sun sensitivity, or do not use while breast feeding or pregnant (since these oils can permeate skin and potentially get into blood stream, or so the precautions read), or do not use if have heart condition. Also take care if have asthma, epilepsy and other health conditions. I would have tried to find a link that gives the various precautions for each essential oil. Essential oils can be beneficial when used responsibly.

I would also add to never apply essential oils to young children or babies, and perhaps even older children. The same can be true in patients that are elderly.

And I would be clear in explaining essential oils are NOT to be used internally, not taken orally by anyone of any age.

http://www.aromaweb.com/articles/safety.asp
from the same site, a list of hazardous essential oils
http://www.aromaweb.com/essentialoils/hazardous.asp

here's a link (from above site) with guidelines on buying essential oils
http://www.aromaweb.com/articles/howtobuyessentialoils.asp
they should be clear, translucent (whatever the plant source), not overly murky or cloudy

they should be in a dark vial of glass (not plastic)

store in a cool, dark place

I like this site's point about spending money on essential oils, budget and price -- that cheapest isn't necessarily the best nor is most expensive, either.

This site also offers, by name and by plant name, a profile of each essential oil which includes safety precautions.

Here's the profile for Geranium as an example:
http://www.aromaweb.com/essentialoilsgo/geranium.asp
Note that in the safety zone it states to not use by dermatitus hypersensitive persons (that would be those who have sensitive skin) AND to avoid during pregnancy!!

heidi w.

[heidi w.]

For Thyroid, I would have specified that there are two types, hyper- and hypo-thyroid, each with different symptoms. Thyroid condition is under-diagnosed in women and it can cause major havoc with hair thinning or falling out in chunks or by the handful even in borderline cases. Once the thyroid medications are found that work for one's system, the hair will mostly grow back over time.

Most women have no idea about thyroid and that hair can really fall out a LOT even in a borderline case..

I would also add that iron can contribute to chronic, ongoing hair loss, of the sort that one may not notice. (A famous up&coming opera singer recently had some cracking in his voice and it was found that the cause was low iron!) Even a borderline case can be problematic.

I would have additionally added that in certain ages, our hair thins naturally as a part of the body growing process. Around 21 or so is the first time most people notice it. We have many members in this age group who may not realize, and this is a common question area, I notice.

Great article! Very good idea. I had thought of doing this, but I'm glad someone beat me to it.

heidi w.

[heidi w.]

I realize now this is the 'condensed' version of a longer article. Perhaps the longer article expands on all of this. My apologies if that's covered.

heidi w.

[Melisande]

I love this thread, and I love the recipe. I found it in the old forum in September of last year and was fascinated. My hair has always been on the fine side, and hormonal problems made it very thin, especially around the temples.

I bought all the oils listed in Jessie's original recipe, mixed them in jojoba oil, put them into a dropper bottle and massaged them into my scalp at leat three times a week ever since.

My hair definitely grows faster and stronger. Before I began them essential oil regimen, in July 2007, I had 22.4 inches (57 cm). In February 2008, my hair measured 26.8 inches (68 cm), and today, I had 28.7 inches (73 cm).

I'm neither especially young nor healthy (44 years old with a persistent low-key health condition that demands daily medication) so for me, this is really impressive growth.

I implemented many beneficial changes in my regimen since lurking and joining long hair sites but one of the most decisive changes has been NO DOUBT the essential oil mixture and the massage.

I love the smell, it's so relaxing and herb-y and wonderful and rich.

I have by now a dropping and massage technique that does not make my hair greasy at all, and my scalp seems to suck it in. I keep my little bottle next to my bed, and the treatment has become my nightly ritual while I read in the precious half hour before I really go to sleep. I will never stop this treatment, it's simply too good, too relaxing and gives such wonderful results.

My ponytail circumference has not increased, it's 3.5 inches (9cm) as it has been for many years, but this is to be expected. After all, my new growth did not yet reach ponytail length. But my new growth is definitely stronger, the temples begin to fill in slowly but surely, and my hair feels better and looks shinier.

I recommend this treatment to anyone who feels that his scalp and hair need a boost. I will never have thick hair like other here have but thanks to the essential oil treatment I can reach my optimum potential.

Jessie, your original thread was wonderful, and I'm more than happy to have it revived here. (When LHC went online, I wrote here (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showthread.php?p=12848&highlight=jessie#post12848)about it, hoping you would revive the thread!)

[jessie58]

Melisande, I am so happy that you posted this. Thank you for your kind words. I love to hear how people do with their recipes. To see if there are any improvements or not. It sounds like you really had great success with this. I'm so happy for you.

I am still having great luck myself. I started shedding for a few months and I was losing hair fast and lots of it. My health was the culprit, but I started using the oil when I could remember and as soon as the illness started getting better I had tons of new hair and quick growth. I know it was the oiling. If I had not started again, I would still have the thinness caused by this great, massive shed.

I cut bangs into my hair a few weeks ago, I only wish it would make them grow at the speed of light. I might start oiling them madly in hopes they will grow in faster,lol.

[snoopy]

Just wondering can we apply this EO oil to eye lashes !!!

[jessie58]

Just wondering can we apply this EO oil to eye lashes !!!

I would not put any essential oils near my eyes. They can be very dangerous in the eyes.

However castor oil is used by many to grow in or thicken their eyelashes. Just put a drop on the end of a Q-tip and run it along the top of the top lashes and under the line of the bottom lashes before you go to bed.

[Nynaeve]

I would not put any essential oils near my eyes. They can be very dangerous in the eyes.

However castor oil is used by many to grow in or thicken their eyelashes. Just put a drop on the end of a Q-tip and run it along the top of the top lashes and under the line of the bottom lashes before you go to bed.

Hmmmm. Thanks for that, I have a friend who is complaining about her eyelashes falling out and growing back in really thin.

[marla]

I would like to try Meg's method of Chrome Dome, carrier oil and thyme and sage. I know where to get the chrome dome and carrier oil, but where do you get the thyme and sage? What is it called? Essential thyme and sage oil? I don't want to get the wrong thing.

[jessie58]

You can buy essential oils at most health food stores or natural supplement stores.

You can buy sage or clary sage essential oil.
Thyme essential oil is the other one.

[Patrycja]

thank you so much for this info.I've been pulling out handfuls of hair everytime I wash and some more strands when I finger comb between washes.Its beyond the normal shed rate for me and I was beginning to get really worried about it.Now I know what might be the causes and oil recipes for helping;

:flowers: :blossom:

[jessie58]

thank you so much for this info.I've been pulling out handfuls of hair everytime I wash and some more strands when I finger comb between washes.Its beyond the normal shed rate for me and I was beginning to get really worried about it.Now I know what might be the causes and oil recipes for helping;

:flowers: :blossom:

I'm so glad this info could help you. I hope your shed comes to an end soon. I just had the worst shed ever for about 5 or 6 months and it was alarming. It suddenly stopped and my hair is growing thick and fast. I hope the same for you. :)

[flapjack]

I can attest to castor oil on eyebrows and eyelashes, I have been using it every night before bed for about 8 months now and have noticed a change. What it will do is make your hairs stronger, a little darker and they will feel thicker in comparison because the hair there is much healthier and doesn't fall out as easily. And the hair will feel softer because the ends of each hair will be tapered like healthy hair on your head is... instead of being blunt and broken off. The reason for this is because we're actually pretty rough on our eyebrows and eyelashes so little bits on the tips break off regularly. But the castor oil makes them stronger and moisturized at the ends. So it's not so much that they GROW longer than they were before... it's more that they don't break off little bits at a time anymore, so they're softer and longer as a result. I hope this makes sense. It actually has made my eyelashes and eyebrow hairs longer... I now have to trim some of my eyebrow hairs and my eyelashes are now so long that I can't wear sunglasses without them hitting the lens every time I blink.

Here are two newer pictures I have. Both photos have one very light coat of clear mascara on them, black makes me look like a little spider and more than one coat is really... not a good look for me, haha.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v106/theironflapjack/upmynose_edited.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v106/theironflapjack/hfvjyurvututfjyur_edited.jpg


And my eyebrows did get a couple shades darker but it was perfect for me because the hair on my head darkened about 2-3 years ago and my body hair never caught up... so now I don't need eyebrow pencil! It rules. But just so you know, they probably will get darker.

[marla]

Will this work if your eyebrows are greying I wonder?

[flapjack]

I'm unsure about gray hairs because I've read that they are a different texture for some people than non-gray hairs, so I don't know how that might effect things. But I know that a lot of people on here use various herbs and teas to color grays. From experience, I know that I had very white-blonde eyebrow hairs mixed in with the brown ones and now they are light brown, instead... lighter than the medium brown shade of the other hairs, but definitely not white anymore. Anything beyond that, I can't say, but I'm sure there must be other people around on the board that have tried this, also. Sorry I can't be of more help.

[gunjee]

Here's an update on my new method of using the essential oils recipe. I've mixed my essential oil mixture in equal quantities in an old rosemary essential oil bottle and drop 14 drops into an old empty 1 oz Aveda face serum pump bottle (was called Night Nutrients at the time), then 1 tsp of carrier oil, 1 tsp of ACV, and fill the rest of the way with aloe gel. This gives a less drippy serum texture that won't leave hair greasy. The ACV is also good for killing off scalp nasties and other Indian remedies for hair loss say to use aloe gel, so I just combined them. This is working better for me than the oil used alone as a carrier.

-Shilpa

[jessie58]

Great update Gunjee, thank you!

I have also added a link to Nightshade's hair oil (http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14491548)in the original post. In addition to all the other recipes listed there, she has her own special blend as well.
I think I'll order some myself too, as it has some ingredients that I'd really like to try.

[LadyMoon11]

Great update Gunjee, thank you!

I have also added a link to Nightshade's hair oil (http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14491548)in the original post. In addition to all the other recipes listed there, she has her own special blend as well.
I think I'll order some myself too, as it has some ingredients that I'd really like to try.
Jessie;
I recently ordered her hair oil and I love it. I highly recommend you try it. :D She has a sample bottle or the 4oz. with the dropper.
I have not yet used it on my scalp ( I plan to do so soon), but for about three weeks I have been using it on the ends of my hair post- shower. I use about 4 drops and it works so well. It is a wonderful combination of oils.

[jessie58]

Thanks for the review LadyMoon, I have been oiling my scalp again lately but wanting to try something new. I had a big shed in the spring and my hair still hasn't gotten back to par yet. I hope this will give it a boost.

[Nightshade]

Hey ladies! :) This was one of my favorite threads to read on the old boards.

In the oil blend I made, most all of the EOs I used are pretty well known for hair loss and scalp stimulating. I do think that the addition of shea nut oil blended with sunflower oil and EPO helps to keep it pretty light for a carrier but I think the most beneficial addition was sea buckthorn oil (http://floraleads.com/seabuckthorn/).

The stuff is terribly potent, and even though it just a normal "oil' it's recommended at dilutions the same as EOs.


Sea Buckthorn Oil– So rich in vitamins and nutrients that it has been even speculated that the plant must have been cultivated by some ancient plant-breeder. A useful, highly prized, and specific oil typically used to treat damaged skin, ulcerations, scar tissue, wrinkles, eczema, burns, etc. Cold extracted from whole Sea Buckthorn berries, it is a moisturizing and anti-inflammatory, scalp soother. This oil is exceptionally rich in essential fatty acids, carotenes, tocopherols, and phytosterols.

It's this amazing deep currant red color, and good GODS is it potent. I spilled some undiluted sea buckthorn on my hand and after a few minutes (I had just wiped it off, not rinsed it) my skin was pink there!

In a diluted form and in a carrier oil it's obviously not going to do that, but it certainly is potent stuff.

[jessie58]

Hey ladies! :) This was one of my favorite threads to read on the old boards.

In the oil blend I made, most all of the EOs I used are pretty well known for hair loss and scalp stimulating. I do think that the addition of shea nut oil blended with sunflower oil and EPO helps to keep it pretty light for a carrier but I think the most beneficial addition was sea buckthorn oil (http://floraleads.com/seabuckthorn/).

The stuff is terribly potent, and even though it just a normal "oil' it's recommended at dilutions the same as EOs.



It's this amazing deep currant red color, and good GODS is it potent. I spilled some undiluted sea buckthorn on my hand and after a few minutes (I had just wiped it off, not rinsed it) my skin was pink there!

In a diluted form and in a carrier oil it's obviously not going to do that, but it certainly is potent stuff.

Nightshade, I have been very curious about sea buckthorn oil and have seen some interesting stuff about it, as in your link above. I have ordered some of your hair oil and am very interested in giving it a try. Is there any scent to the sea buckthorn oil itself?

[Nightshade]

Yes, it's got a very poignant scent, as it's concentrated like an EO, but I couldn't tell you just quite what it smells like. When I get home I'll go take another whiff of it and try to describe it :flowers:

It's a full spectrum oil, though, and it should be refrigerated, and will become solid once it is. It'll become liquid again once it warms up a little.

I do hope you like the hair oil, and would appreciate any feedback you have :flowers:

[Nightshade]

Update on the sea buckthorn oil smell, it's rather like bitter fermented berries :) It's got this amazing rich rich red color too.

[WURW]

Jessie58 - I will be watching this thread. Please let me know if you have to pay duty on your order. (I would PM you but I am new and don't think I have that option yet)
I really want to try Nightshades blend, sounds heavenly, but I am very uneasy ordering items from outside of Canada. I have had some very unpleasant surprises on delivery. At times the duty is as much as or more than the cost of the item.

[jessie58]

WURW, hi there and welcome to the Long Hair Community.
In the last three years I have ordered many hair related items from businesses in the U.S. including hair sticks, oils, shampoo, conditioner, combs, etc. and I have only ever had to pay duty on one item. I think it was about $8.00 if I recall correctly. It seems to be a very random process. Sorry I can't be more specific but that has been my experience thus far. Many small business/small packages seem to escape the evil duty tax.

Besides Nightshade's oil, there are other recipes listed above that you may wish to try making yourself. They all seem to be very effective. When I recieve my oil, I'll post a review here.

[jessie58]

Update on the sea buckthorn oil smell, it's rather like bitter fermented berries :) It's got this amazing rich rich red color too.

Now I am even more intrigued and anxious to try this. Thanks.

[WURW]

WURW, hi there and welcome to the Long Hair Community.
In the last three years I have ordered many hair related items from businesses in the U.S. including hair sticks, oils, shampoo, conditioner, combs, etc. and I have only ever had to pay duty on one item. I think it was about $8.00 if I recall correctly. It seems to be a very random process. Sorry I can't be more specific but that has been my experience thus far. Many small business/small packages seem to escape the evil duty tax.

Besides Nightshade's oil, there are other recipes listed above that you may wish to try making yourself. They all seem to be very effective. When I recieve my oil, I'll post a review here.

Thanks Jessie58,
I guess it's depends on the type of business and where it's coming from, I really got dinged on some ipod accessories from Hong Kong that were inexpensive but didn't end up being such a great buy after the duty and have been shy ordering online ever since.
I have tried some other hair oil recipes but Nightshade's sounds so nice and I already have too many bottles of EO hanging about so (don't want to get a whole new batch) I think I will take the plunge and try it out.

[almudena]

I’ve been using Nightshade’s oil for a while now and it has become my favourite oil without any doubt. For me, it is the perfect blend of oils. I use a few drops on my damp length, put my hair up and when have it down my hair is soft and shiny.
My brother is quite upset about his hair loss and I gave him a sample bottle to try. As soon as I have his feedback I’ll let you know :)

BTW, I live in Spain and get many of my hair items from US. Never have had a problem with customs.

[WURW]

I’ve been using Nightshade’s oil for a while now and it has become my favourite oil without any doubt. For me, it is the perfect blend of oils. I use a few drops on my damp length, put my hair up and when have it down my hair is soft and shiny.
My brother is quite upset about his hair loss and I gave him a sample bottle to try. As soon as I have his feedback I’ll let you know :)

BTW, I live in Spain and get many of my hair items from US. Never have had a problem with customs.

I ordered a sample of the hair oil and also some of the Fairie Dust.

Sorry about the mini-hijack but just remembered last summer my cousin sent me 3 pairs of very expensive Italian Shoes as a gift for keeping his twin boys for the summer. It was a large package so I was prepared to battle it out with his letter stating that it was a gift if they tried to charge me duty but I had no problem at all. I am guessing because it was coming from a residence rather than a business address.

[Misso]

Thank you jessie58 I was just wondering about this article. I have been having some shedding and remembered that I came across this article some time ago. At the time I looked at it quickly because 1. I had no source for EO's 2. my hair was behaving then. But now I found a store that has a small collection of EO's and my hair needs some extra help.

So thank you your article came just in time.:D

[jessie58]

Thank you jessie58 I was just wondering about this article. I have been having some shedding and remembered that I came across this article some time ago. At the time I looked at it quickly because 1. I had no source for EO's 2. my hair was behaving then. But now I found a store that has a small collection of EO's and my hair needs some extra help.

So thank you your article came just in time.:D

Misso, glad you found the article! I just wanted to comment that your siggy is gorgeous. :)

[carols_e]

Hi, how long will Rosemary oil last before it goes bad? I have a bottle I bought maybe 2-3 years ago is it still good to use?

[jessie58]

Hi, how long will Rosemary oil last before it goes bad? I have a bottle I bought maybe 2-3 years ago is it still good to use?

I am not sure that the majority of essential oils will "go bad" but they will lose their potency. If they are stored properly, they can last up to 3 years. Since Rosemary is an antibacterial, I am sure that this particular quality would not last forever, however it can still be used for the aromatherapy (scent) values.



Guidelines for Telling if an Essential Oil Has Deteriorated

The aroma has drastically changed
The essential oil has thickened
The essential oil has become cloudyEssential Oil Life Span
As a broad rule of thumb, essential oils usually retain their aromatic and therapeutic quality for at least 1 year from the date of purchase, provided that you purchased the oil from a reputable supplier that maintains fresh inventory. The shelf life of essential oils can be maximized by storing them in dark glass bottles, keeping their caps tighly closed, and keeping them in a cool, dry location away from sunlight. As you use up the oil from a large bottle, rebottle the oil into a smaller bottle. This reduces the amount of oxygen that stays in contact with the oil.

Information taken from AromaWeb

[Melisande]

An update from me, enthusiastic user of Jessie's oil mixture for one and half years. I have reached by now 31.9" (81cm), and my ponytail circumference went up from 3.5" to 4.3".

My hair looks better than it ever did. A huge part of this success is Jessie's oil. I'll continue to use it at leat twice, usually three times a week.

[jessie58]

An update from me, enthusiastic user of Jessie's oil mixture for one and half years. I have reached by now 31.9" (81cm), and my ponytail circumference went up from 3.5" to 4.3".

My hair looks better than it ever did. A huge part of this success is Jessie's oil. I'll continue to use it at leat twice, usually three times a week.

:cheese:Yay, Melisande, I am so happy to hear that. I found it did the same for me and I was forever grateful to Meg Evenstar who started this original thread in the first place. It brought me back from a major hair loss twice now in the last few years.

[jessie58]

oh dear, double post.

[avraea]

An update from me, enthusiastic user of Jessie's oil mixture for one and half years. I have reached by now 31.9" (81cm), and my ponytail circumference went up from 3.5" to 4.3".

That sounds absolutely amazing! I'm going to have to try this out, once I save up the money to buy the big list of EOs. May I ask how you apply this? I assume you apply to your scalp, but do you let it soak in overnight or wash it off, etc? My hair just isn't growing fast enough, and I would love to increase thickness as well. :)

[jessie58]

That sounds absolutely amazing! I'm going to have to try this out, once I save up the money to buy the big list of EOs. May I ask how you apply this? I assume you apply to your scalp, but do you let it soak in overnight or wash it off, etc? My hair just isn't growing fast enough, and I would love to increase thickness as well. :)

The very first page of this post has all the information that you need. Near the bottom, there are several application methods listed. Good luck.

[rose_in_bloom]

Wow, this is wonderful!! I have lost about an inch of thickness in my hair, and it has left me very sad. My mom has also lost a good deal of hair. As soon as I read Jessie58's recipe, I went to the Mountain Rose Herbs website and bought the EO's necessary to make the treatment. It was expensive, but I think it's going to be worth it! Can't wait till they arrive. I'll post as soon as I see whether or not it's working.

~Erin

[jessie58]

Wow, this is wonderful!! I have lost about an inch of thickness in my hair, and it has left me very sad. My mom has also lost a good deal of hair. As soon as I read Jessie58's recipe, I went to the Mountain Rose Herbs website and bought the EO's necessary to make the treatment. It was expensive, but I think it's going to be worth it! Can't wait till they arrive. I'll post as soon as I see whether or not it's working.

~Erin

Good luck on the treatment. Remember to read the first article carefully. Let us know if you have any success. :blossom:

[rose_in_bloom]

Good luck on the treatment. Remember to read the first article carefully. Let us know if you have any success. :blossom:

Thanks for the advice! I'll definitely post results.

[essentialoil]

Is anyone looking for Essential Oil specialist suppliers and also a members of the Aromatherapy Trade Council,then stop u r Search.I have seen that Supplier in online..

(link removed ~ spamming not permitted)

[morguebabe]

Im going to have to try these thanks.

[Henna Sooq]

Amazing wealth of information. Thanks for doing the work and taking the time to put this together.

[Heidi_234]

Hey guys, I made my oil blend with the recommended EOs. But I have a question - Does it make you feel something? Like itches, or funny feeling on the scalp, or maybe headaches?
Those EOs suppose to increase blood flow to the scalp, so does one really feel the effect or hopes that it works?

[jessie58]

Heidi, I have never experienced itchy or headache or tingling. There is a possibility that one or another essential oil may irritate the scalp. I'm not sure if others have experienced any of those feelings either. Are you just asking or have you experienced any problems?

[Heidi_234]

Heidi, I have never experienced itchy or headache or tingling. There is a possibility that one or another essential oil may irritate the scalp. I'm not sure if others have experienced any of those feelings either. Are you just asking or have you experienced any problems?
I'm not sure, I have some sort of very minor headache and overall unwell feeling, but I wasn't sure I could connect it to the oil blend. It's inconsistent. Could it be that I made my blend too potent? Should I add carrier oil just in case?

[jessie58]

I'm not sure, I have some sort of very minor headache and overall unwell feeling, but I wasn't sure I could connect it to the oil blend. It's inconsistent. Could it be that I made my blend too potent? Should I add carrier oil just in case?


NO carrier oil? ACK, you must always use a carrier oil. Essential oils have the potential to be very dangerous if applied directly to the skin or scalp. Please only a few drops of EO's to at least 2 or more ounces of oil. You can certainly have an itchy scalp and headaches and reactions to EO's when applied directly tp the skin.

What ratio of oils are you using and are you really not using a carrier?

[Heidi_234]

NO carrier oil? ACK, you must always use a carrier oil. Essential oils have the potential to be very dangerous if applied directly to the skin or scalp. Please only a few drops of EO's to at least 2 or more ounces of oil. You can certainly have an itchy scalp and headaches and reactions to EO's when applied directly tp the skin.

What ratio of oils are you using and are you really not using a carrier?
No no I do use carrier oil of course, I tried to keep it 98% carrier to 2% EO (and I included in that 2% EO that are 100% safe on the skin). I just thought maybe it still was too potent?

ETA: this should be - "Should I add more carrier oil just in case?" :doh:

[jessie58]

No no I do use carrier oil of course, I tried to keep it 98% carrier to 2% EO (and I included in that 2% EO that are 100% safe on the skin). I just thought maybe it still was too potent?

ETA: this should be - "Should I add more carrier oil just in case?" :doh:

LOL, okay now that you have added the word more, I am not so alarmed. It is possible that you are one of those people with sensitivities to certain oils. Have you tried to apply it on another part of your body. For instance, dab a little on the inside of your forearm. If it develops a rash, or redness or itchies, then you definitely have a sensitivity to it. Have you used all the essential oils before. Are there any new ones in the blend that you are not familiar with?
Could the headache and nausea be unconnected with the oils? If you are feeling fine and then apply the oil and you suddenly have the onset of nausea and headache, then it's definitely not a coincidence if it happens more than once. If it keeps happening, then please do not use it. I would definitely try the trial and error method before you dilute your solution any more.

[Heidi_234]

LOL, okay now that you have added the word more, I am not so alarmed. It is possible that you are one of those people with sensitivities to certain oils. Have you tried to apply it on another part of your body. For instance, dab a little on the inside of your forearm. If it develops a rash, or redness or itchies, then you definitely have a sensitivity to it. Have you used all the essential oils before. Are there any new ones in the blend that you are not familiar with?
Could the headache and nausea be unconnected with the oils? If you are feeling fine and then apply the oil and you suddenly have the onset of nausea and headache, then it's definitely not a coincidence if it happens more than once. If it keeps happening, then please do not use it. I would definitely try the trial and error method before you dilute your solution any more.
I was kind of unwilling to hear that because I like that blend. But if it has such a negative affect on me, of course I'll stop using it by all means. I'll do a patch test, but I doubt I'm sensitive, I should have developed a rush/redness/itching every time my hands came in contact with it, but I didn't.
The only other time I felt kind of the same headache/nausea thing was when I tried that yoga pose where you stand on your head. But it was much more severe then. Could it be blood pressure thing?

[plainjanegirl]

So I am interested in using oils to help with growth/regrowth. But all buying all of the different oils and mixing them intimidates me so I would prefer to buy something already mixed. I saw this doo gro mega thick growth oil, here are the ingredients:


Soybean Oil , Soy Methyl Ester , Sweet Almond Oil , Oat Extract , Oat Protein , Meadowfoam Seed Oil , Shea Butter Extract , Fragrance , Propylparaben , BHA , Tea Tree Oil , Retinol Vitamin A , Ergocalciferol Vitamin D , Tocopherol Vitamin E , Matricaria Extract , Goldenseed Extract , Hops Extract , Soap Bark Extract , Cherry Bark Extract , Calendula Extract , Henna Extract , Horsetail Extract , Safflower Oil


So does this look like a good mix of oils? If not is there anywhere else that you can buy premixed oils for hair growth benefits? Thanks in advance!

[jessie58]

Plainjanegirl, I am very unsure about many of the ingredients in that list. I would have to research properties to find out if they are beneficial and I do see a couple of things that I would not want to be massaging into my own scalp.

I would recommend that you contact our member Nightshade to see if she can help you out in finding a premixed formulation.

[Nightshade]

So I am interested in using oils to help with growth/regrowth. But all buying all of the different oils and mixing them intimidates me so I would prefer to buy something already mixed. I saw this doo gro mega thick growth oil, here are the ingredients:


Soybean Oil , Soy Methyl Ester , Sweet Almond Oil , Oat Extract , Oat Protein , Meadowfoam Seed Oil , Shea Butter Extract , Fragrance , Propylparaben , BHA , Tea Tree Oil , Retinol Vitamin A , Ergocalciferol Vitamin D , Tocopherol Vitamin E , Matricaria Extract , Goldenseed Extract , Hops Extract , Soap Bark Extract , Cherry Bark Extract , Calendula Extract , Henna Extract , Horsetail Extract , Safflower Oil


So does this look like a good mix of oils? If not is there anywhere else that you can buy premixed oils for hair growth benefits? Thanks in advance!

My red flag at this comes up when you hit the "Fragrance" and the "polyparaben". My personal aversion to parabens aside... usually scents and preservatives, which is what parabens are, are way WAY down on the ingredients list in most products.

Applying that rationale, I would say that these ingredients:


Tea Tree Oil , Retinol Vitamin A , Ergocalciferol Vitamin D , Tocopherol Vitamin E , Matricaria Extract , Goldenseed Extract , Hops Extract , Soap Bark Extract , Cherry Bark Extract , Calendula Extract , Henna Extract , Horsetail Extract , Safflower Oil

being after those two things are in such small amounts as to be useless, but to pad the label and make it look nice and natural.

That leaves you with:


Soybean Oil (Carrier)- Soybean oil is widely used oil and is commonly called ‘vegetable oil’. Soybean oil is a very healthy food ingredient despite the bad publicity regarding fats and oils in general. Soybean oil is very popular because it is cheap, healthful and has a high smoke point.
Soy Methyl Ester (Solvent, helps dissolve other components)- Can be used as an industrial cleaning solvent. It also works well as a co-solvent blended with other products.
Sweet Almond Oil (Carrier)- Often used to relieve skin itch and dryness. In fact, all skin types can benefit from this essential oil. It is high in mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids, and contains naturally occurring Vitamins A, B1, B2, B6 and Vitamin E. Sweet Almond Oil may also be used as a cosmetic ingredient for softening and moisturizing.
Oat Extract (http://www.dermaxime.com/oats.htm)(moisturizer)- Oats extract is especially used in products that have a moisturizing and anti-aging effect, as well as in products that are used to alleviate acne, pimples and to treat problem skin.
Oat Protein (PH stabalizer and reduces scalp irritation)- A composition containing enhanced colloidal oatmeal which utilizes other avena sativa ingredients to neutralize the discomfort, irritation and inflammation of the skin, as well as maintaining normal skin, and can be used to treat many types of discomforts, including itching; due to poison ivy, oak and sumac, insect bites, sunburn, chicken pox, hives, prickly heat, chafing, and the like while maintaining the normal pH of the skin.
Meadowfoam Seed Oil (Moisturizer)- this oil is a prized medium for applications which require a moisturizing and rejuvenating benefit for the skin and face. A usefull ally in your formulated creations; where you need a highly valuable and effective ingredient to nourish the skin and outer epidermis.
Shea Butter Extract (Emollient and moisturizer)- contains several natural anti-inflammatory agents and a minor sunscreen agent. Clinical studies have shown that this product transforms the skin in as little as 4-6 weeks, into a softer, smoother, and better looking skin. Those who routinely use Shea Butter report a number of other special benefits for skin ailments, including relief from blemishes, itching, sunburns, small skin wounds, eczema, skin allergies, and wrinkles. So nothing BAD per se (so long as you're cool with the parabens, but I'm not seeing anything that's making me think that it's more than something to sooth irritated scalps.

Like I said earlier, I'm just concerned that all the ingredients I'd call effective for hair loss or reducing shedding are in amounts so minute I'm not sure they'd do much. :ponder:

[Heidi_234]

I'm still not sure what to do with my blend. :( I've got so much left.

[Nightshade]

I'm still not sure what to do with my blend. :( I've got so much left.

I'd store it in a glass bottle in the fridge, and dilute it into a smaller container to use. Or were you still getting headaches with it diluted even further?

[Heidi_234]

I'd store it in a glass bottle in the fridge, and dilute it into a smaller container to use. Or were you still getting headaches with it diluted even further?
I haven't tried to dilute it yet. I guess that's what I'll do, even if it loses it's 'growing' properties it would still make a nice scalp massage oil I suppose.

[Nightshade]

I haven't tried to dilute it yet. I guess that's what I'll do, even if it loses it's 'growing' properties it would still make a nice scalp massage oil I suppose.

Can't hurt to try, anyway :flowers:

It may be just one component that's irritating you. Perhaps if you had the components you could use the weaker blend as a base, and add in things one at a time to see what triggers it? (using very small test batches so as not to ruin your large bottle of oil)

[Heidi_234]

Can't hurt to try, anyway :flowers:

It may be just one component that's irritating you. Perhaps if you had the components you could use the weaker blend as a base, and add in things one at a time to see what triggers it? (using very small test batches so as not to ruin your large bottle of oil)
Thanks dear that's such a great idea :flower:

Oh, my. :doh: Wait! I know where I might got it wrong. I did herb infused EVOO a (long) while ago, with rosemary, calendula and nettle. Before I did the oil blend I used it straight on my scalp with no adverse reactions. I added it to the scalp oil blend, but I also used rosemary EO. Could that make too much rosemary? The EVOO itself wasn't strong enough on it's own, and I used about 10 drops of rosemary EO (along with 10 drops of 8 other EOs, when some of them 100% safe), on a batch of 150 ml or so. Could it still be too much?

[Nightshade]

It may well be. I know the one time I went a bit overboard with rosemary EO in my henna I ended up with a hell of a headache.

[plainjanegirl]

So are there any premixed oils for hair growth than you can buy?
I am gonna be using a bit of megatek soon and I sometimes use monistat, but I really need something to help.

[plainjanegirl]

I have thought of another thing.
Say you have a shampoo or conditioner that your hair does fairly well with, but the smell is not the best.
Could you add like peppermint oil, etc. to give them a more pleasant smell?

[plainjanegirl]

I got more questions about e.oils.
Say you make mixes of oils for hair growth. Can the oils be used on the scalp as well as on the length of hair? Like here are some of the oils.
Almond oil
Clary sage
Rosemary
Thyme
Rose
Patchouli
Lavender
Tea Tree
Ylang Ylang

Also do your oil mixes have a kind of herby smell to them?

[jessie58]

I got more questions about e.oils.
Say you make mixes of oils for hair growth. Can the oils be used on the scalp as well as on the length of hair? Like here are some of the oils.
Almond oil
Clary sage
Rosemary
Thyme
Rose
Patchouli
Lavender
Tea Tree
Ylang Ylang

Also do your oil mixes have a kind of herby smell to them?

For me personally, I would only use tea trea oil, rosemary, sage and thyme on my scalp. I find they are the key ingredients to the growth formula that I make and are also good for scalp health. The others would make nice scents in a mixture with a carrier oil to oil the length.

A lot of these mixtures do smell kind of herby to me. Especially the kitchen oils such as rosemary, thyme and clary sage. Mind you, if you add a lot of lavendar or patchouli, it changes it to a musky, more perfumey type of scent. I add lots of patchouli to mine, just because I love it. Others love rose or lavender. Personal preference I guess.
I never really found much benefit to adding this mixture to my length. I prefer to use coconut oil or plain jojoba or grape seed oil to my length.

[milemma]

thank you so much for the information on this thread and the former one, I read most of it. I'm so much into essential oils for health and my skin, and I haven't used it on my hair yet, that's a good way to start !

[jessie58]

milemma, good luck with trying oils on your hair. :flowers:

[milemma]

thanks Jessie, I ordered the oils. I order on an aromatherapy site and I think in the recipe it would be quite interesting to mention the whole name of the plant (and the latin name) Indeed several of the essential oils mentionnend can be made of different plants. For example for lavenda, you have Lavendula latifolia; Lavendula angustifolia ; Lavandula x grosso; Lavandula burnatii CT Super, each has different properties : same for the thyme or rosemary, and cypress...
on the site where I bought my essential oils there is much information on ess oils properties so I was able to select the one for my hair but that is not always the case.
I'm really looking forward to get my oils

Did you also notice an improvement in the scalp condition (for those with oily scalp ? )

[plainjanegirl]

So can oils like these help regrow lost hair?
Also can it help you gain thickness from a big shed?

[chrissy-b]

So can oils like these help regrow lost hair?
Also can it help you gain thickness from a big shed?

I think they can. I notice denser regrowth, and less shedding when I remember to do my scalp massages. I use equal parts of emu and castor oil with the Chrome Dome blend and leave it over night. Of course, it's not as noticeable as using monistat, but I really do think it helps.

[Henna Sooq]

Is there an exact list on oils and which ones work for what benefit? Do we have a list going here? Did I miss it?

Do they have to be 100% pure essential oils...? or they blends at all?

[jessie58]

Henna Sooq, all the info you need should be on the first page.

[Henna Sooq]

Thanks bunches Jessie! I am off to explore

[plainjanegirl]

Can the oil mixes be used on your hair ends or only on your scalp?

[jessie58]

Can the oil mixes be used on your hair ends or only on your scalp?

Sure the oils can be used on your ends as well. Most of these particular recipes are formulated specifically for hair growth and scalp health though, so it may be a bit of overkill to use it only for ends. Most people find only one oil is really necessary for their ends. However if you mean after applying it to scalp, you can remove the residue on your length and ends from your hands, it shouldn't hurt. Also constant application of these oils on dry hair ends may cause the ends to dry out. I find that in my case, constant oiling of my ends will eventually dry them out.

[plainjanegirl]

Sure the oils can be used on your ends as well. Most of these particular recipes are formulated specifically for hair growth and scalp health though, so it may be a bit of overkill to use it only for ends. Most people find only one oil is really necessary for their ends. However if you mean after applying it to scalp, you can remove the residue on your length and ends from your hands, it shouldn't hurt. Also constant application of these oils on dry hair ends may cause the ends to dry out. I find that in my case, constant oiling of my ends will eventually dry them out.




Thanks! I have been thinking about purchasing either the nightblooming's oil mix or the sweet success hair growth oil (such a hard choice deciding which to try first), maybe if I do get one I will just use it for my scalp and use a cheaper oil for my ends and or pre wash oilings.

[jessie58]

Thanks! I have been thinking about purchasing either the nightblooming's oil mix or the sweet success hair growth oil (such a hard choice deciding which to try first), maybe if I do get one I will just use it for my scalp and use a cheaper oil for my ends and or pre wash oilings.

Great idea! I know users here who swear by both products and I have only tried NightBlooming's myself but either one would be good. I'm sure that both oils are meant for scalp and ends though, so it certainly won't hurt to use them for both. I myself just prefer to use one type for scalp health and hair growth and one type for oiling ends and length. I also find that after a scalp application, I have enough oil on my hands to do a light oiling on the ends.

Good luck and let us know how you do with yours.

[plainjanegirl]

http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showthread.php?t=24915

Does anybody know anything about this oil? I didn't know if it has any good growth enhancing oils in it. For only $2 I could get it soon.

[milemma]

Ok I got my oils, so in Jojoba oil I added all oils except lemon (I thought I had some but no)

I added some
Juniperus oxycedrus
Cananga odorata
Cymbopogon martinii
all oils good for the hair.


Yesterday I applied my first shot and followed this massage :http://www.centre-clauderer.com/massages-cuir-chevelu/femme.htm
it's one that is being done at a PAris Institute for Hair Loss, I've been there a while ago, but really loved the scalp massages.....let's see what comes out of all this, I'm really excited about my new hair routines.....

[jessie58]

Ok I got my oils, so in Jojoba oil I added all oils except lemon (I thought I had some but no)

I added some
Juniperus oxycedrus
Cananga odorata
Cymbopogon martinii
all oils good for the hair.


Yesterday I applied my first shot and followed this massage :http://www.centre-clauderer.com/massages-cuir-chevelu/femme.htm
it's one that is being done at a PAris Institute for Hair Loss, I've been there a while ago, but really loved the scalp massages.....let's see what comes out of all this, I'm really excited about my new hair routines.....


I see those three you listed are all good for scalp conditions and antifungal, etc. Do you have any preexisting scalp conditions?
Did you add them to other oils from the original recipes?

I'm off to look at the massage link.

[jessie58]

Here's the English link to the massage.

http://www.centre-clauderer.com/en/scalp-massages/women.htm

[SimplyLonghair]

Thanks Jessie, my second grade french wasn't cutting it! lol

[jessie58]

Well I tried deciphering it for a minute or two until I realized there was a link to the English. :silly:

[milemma]

great I did not see there was an english version :)

I have fine, thinning over the years and quite oily hair. I really hope to change all this:cheese:

[Melisande]

I have been using this mixture for nearly two years by now, and I must say it again: it has made my hair amazing.

I use the following recipe: essential oil of cedar, grapefruit, lemon, rosemary, tangerine, juniper, lavender, sage, geranium, clary sage, thyme, bay - in jojoba oil. I mix it intuitively - I smell the oil and add the number of drops that feel necessary. This is my crazy way of doing things ;-)

I can see the hair that grew since I massage with my essential oil mixture, and it's so much stronger and more beautiful than my "old" hair. It has more shine, more body and more character. It's my dream hair, to be honest.

Of course, other changes play a role, too - I take nutritional supplements and treat my hair like old lace. But I can recommend this recipe and the massage. wholeheartedly. I use it at least once a week since the summer of 2007, and I never stopped. I will never stop!

It's in a little drip bottle (former ear drops bottle) next to my bed and I apply it while I'm reading before I go to sleep. I mix up a larger batch that I keep in the fridge and re-fill the little drip bottle whenever necessary. That's the easiest and most practical way for me to use it. I wouldn't have kept up with it if it was a big ceremony in the bathroom, I'm too tired in the evenings. But next to my bed and my night-book, that's easy to follow through.

I find that my instinctive attraction to a certain treatment or ingredient is usually leading me to the right direction. Make it easy to use and just give it a try.

[jessie58]

Melisande thank you for sharing your recipe. It looks wonderful and I'm so glad you have such great results with it.

[az_sweetie01]

May I ask a question? :) I know this thread hasn't been looked at for a while so, hopefully someone with experience will see it!

I have some of Nightshade's Oil, it's very, very nice but, I seem to have issues with my scalp breaking out after I use it and so, I've never used it long enough to see results. Any advice? Am I using too much perhaps? I usually take the dropper and place drops along my part then massage. I continue this method, re-parting the hair on the top of my head. When finished applying, I massage (as in pads of the fingers rubbing the scalp, not just moving the scalp around)..though maybe it's my "massaging" that's causing issues. My dermatologist says not to touch my scalp when I'm having a flare of Seborrheic Dermatitis so, I'm concerned that the massage is making it worse...

I'd really love to slow the hair loss down to at least normal.

[Henna Sooq]

az_sweetie, have you contacted Nightshade directly? I know you may also want other people's personal experience too. But just wanted to ask since I feel the person best able to answer questions regarding products are sometimes the supplier of those products.

and I'm sorry to hear of the issues you are having. Perhaps your scalp may not like one of the herbs used.

[az_sweetie01]

You know, I haven't, the best answer is always the simplest :) I'll send her a note, thanks!

[Henna Sooq]

welcome, anytime
Have a good weekend!

[jessie58]

I would say the same, to contact NightBlooming, it's possible that you are having a reaction to one or more ingredients in there. It's entirely possible that Nightshade can also mix an oil specific to your needs and omit some oils that you may not like.

[Natalia]

Im not sure if ive already replied in here but thank you so much fro posting this all condensed. Anything past 7 pages gets daunting, especially when you have it set to display max.

[jessie58]

Im not sure if ive already replied in here but thank you so much fro posting this all condensed. Anything past 7 pages gets daunting, especially when you have it set to display max.

I hoped it would make it easier for everybody and also nice to have most of the needed info at your fingertips on page one. Glad you find it useful.

[s_tresses]

Hello!

I have been meaning to buy essential oils for so long and I finally bought some yesterday. The bill was around $60!!! but I hope it is worth it.

I mixed just a little left over avocado oil with about 4 oz. of Grapeseed oil.

I mixed random drops of the following EO's:

4 drops grapefruit
6 drops rosemary
5 drops lavender
5 drops sage
5 drops cedarwood
2 drops peppermint (I am scared of this oil)

Should I add more of anything?

I read somewhere on this thread that you should buy essential oils that come in dark bottles as light may alter the oils. But I am storing the blended oil in a clear glass bottle. Is that an issue or it does not matter after the EO's have been diluted?

[Natalia]

Hello!

I have been meaning to buy essential oils for so long and I finally bought some yesterday. The bill was around $60!!! but I hope it is worth it.

I mixed just a little left over avocado oil with about 4 oz. of Grapeseed oil.

I mixed random drops of the following EO's:

4 drops grapefruit
6 drops rosemary
5 drops lavender
5 drops sage
5 drops cedarwood
2 drops peppermint (I am scared of this oil)

Should I add more of anything?

I read somewhere on this thread that you should buy essential oils that come in dark bottles as light may alter the oils. But I am storing the blended oil in a clear glass bottle. Is that an issue or it does not matter after the EO's have been diluted?

Wow thats quite a bill and quite a mix! Congrats on your new EO's though :D. And yes you should reallys tore any porduct with EO's in a cobalt blue or dark brown container. I buy blue just becasue i feel its prettier and cleaner looking but they are a tiny bit more expensive than brown. If you want to keep it in its bottle you you can keep it in a dark cool place like a cupboard or drawer to split the differance. Really all oils should be stored that way but its not always convienient that why dark bottles are a plus :).

[Natalia]

Oh also i wanted to add this sepparetly. Has anyoen ordered their EO's from http://aspenearthoils.com/onlinestore-eomain.asp?c=5&g=1 ? I found the link on the old LCH and thought if anyone still used them they could give a review of their service :). Also do they really have free shipping? I wasnt sure if that was if you total order was under that weight or if you individual bottles in the order were all under that weight. Becasue free shipping would be a HUGE plus and inscentive to order from them.

TIA,
Natalia

[jessie58]

If your hair mixture is in a light bottle and you use it quickly, it should be fine. I always put my essential oil drops into the bottle of carrier oil, which is clear but I use it up quickly so it doesn't affect the mixture. It's because the essential oils take so long to use and they may be in those bottles for years, that they say to store then in a dark bottle and dark place.

[jessie58]

s tresses, if you are using the mixture for hair growth, then I would also add some sage to the mixture.

[saskia_madding]

I think this has been implicitly answered, but I wanted to check anyway - is grapeseed oil okay as a carrier oil? I have had poor luck with jojoba oil in the past, it just made my hair look greasy and didn't make it softer. I have tried coconut oil recently to replace the jojoba and love it.

But I also used to use a grapeseed finishing serum from The Body Shop (before they got bought out by L'Oreal). I loved the stuff! So I'm hoping to try Jessie's mixture with a bit of Nightshade's sea buckthorn oil, all in grapeseed oil as a carrier. Do you think that's safe?

[saskia_madding]

ps. I'm in Toronto, Canada. Does anyone know of a good place to buy essential oils around here?

[Canarygirl]

I would like to create a hair-growth mixture using emu oil as the carrier oil. (There is an emu oil available from Skinbiology.com that is specifically for hair; I think it has some kind of DHT-blocker in it.)

Question: If I want to add bhringhraji (thyme) to this mixture, would I just look for regular thyme--Thymus vulgaris? Does anyone know if that's the same herb known as bhringhraji?

Also, I've read that spearmint is a DHT blocker too. So would it be good to add spearmint oil to my mixture?

Thanks for your help... :)

[Heidi_234]

I would like to create a hair-growth mixture using emu oil as the carrier oil. (There is an emu oil available from Skinbiology.com that is specifically for hair; I think it has some kind of DHT-blocker in it.)

Question: If I want to add bhringhraji (thyme) to this mixture, would I just look for regular thyme--Thymus vulgaris? Does anyone know if that's the same herb known as bhringhraji?

Also, I've read that spearmint is a DHT blocker too. So would it be good to add spearmint oil to my mixture?

Thanks for your help... :)
Unless you have some weird uncommon hormonal issue or you do to use this mix for you husband/son/any other male, DHT blocker have very little relevance for you. They are connected to male baldness issues specificly, and won't be too useful for you.
Also, bhringaraj is not thyme. Despite the fact that thyme EO is used to incorage hair growth, both are very different plant. Bhringaraj is called also Eclipta Alba (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eclipta_alba) (or Flase Daisy in English), is not thyme. It got strong properties in regarding to hair growth/hair loss, that's true. Check out this this:
http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showthread.php?t=8939
I personally use this bhringaraj oil (http://www.banyanbotanicals.com/prodinfo.asp?number=3293&variation=&aitem=4&mitem=18) btw, if that helps. You can order it over amazon too.

[Henna Sooq]

Wonder why they call it Bhringaraj with an extra a. I never saw it spelled like that. I also used bhringraj. I have down it also as eclipta alba hassik.

[saskia_madding]

Okay. Here's my very expensive plan:

Use Borage Seed oil as the carrier oil - http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/learn/oilprofile/borage.php

Then add these essential oils:

Sea Buckthorn oil
Clary Sage
Bay, West Indies
Cedarwood (Atlas)
Lavender
Rosemary
Thyme (Red)
Grapefruit
Cypress
Ylang Ylang

BUT ... having never made anything like this before and I don't even know what half of these smell like(:confused:), I need some advice.

Will this concoction smell terrible? Should I add something in to ensure a yummy smell?

[Henna Sooq]

I know a website where it recommends blends. I am waiting on the link to the site from a friend, who makes soaps. It's really nice. I'll post the website up once I get it sent to me via email.

Basically you type in the oil and then it tells you what it is compatible with. Oils can be overpowering due to the different smells. I just wonder how many, is too many?

[s_tresses]

s tresses, if you are using the mixture for hair growth, then I would also add some sage to the mixture.

There is sage in the mixture. I really wanted to add thyme and nettle but I could not find them.


If you want to keep it in its bottle you you can keep it in a dark cool place like a cupboard or drawer to split the differance. Really all oils should be stored that way but its not always convienient that why dark bottles are a plus :).

Thanks! I guess I thats what I will do until I get colored bottles. Hmm if I start thinking about it now I will actually do it next year around this time!

[jessie58]

Forgive me S tresses, I wanted to say thyme and not sage. Thyme and rosemary are the key ingredients as per the Aberdeen study and Meg Evenstar and Jessie58's recipes that do show positive results.

[jessie58]

S tresses to answer an earlier question, grapeseed oil is used in many of these recipes and is a good carrier oil. Emu and jojoba seem to have better absorbant qualities but they all work just fine.

[Canarygirl]

I wonder if there a difference between red thyme and white thyme, in terms of being a growth aid?

Thanks for the info. about bhringraji being "false daisy." I sure have not seen that listed on any of the vendor sites for essential oils.

As for the DHT blocker thing, I've read conflicting things about whether that comes into play for women. Some sources say that excess testosterone in the bloodstream--regardless of whether it's a woman or a man--effects hair follicles. Women suffering from PCOS and having pattern baldness as a side effect is one example.

[hennaphile]

I wonder if there a difference between red thyme and white thyme, in terms of being a growth aid?

Thanks for the info. about bhringraji being "false daisy." I sure have not seen that listed on any of the vendor sites for essential oils.

As for the DHT blocker thing, I've read conflicting things about whether that comes into play for women. Some sources say that excess testosterone in the bloodstream--regardless of whether it's a woman or a man--effects hair follicles. Women suffering from PCOS and having pattern baldness as a side effect is one example.

Could it also be excessive sensitivity to testosterone?

I don't have PCOs but I have similar symptoms, but my hormone levels were normal. An androgen blocker helped lots :)

[saskia_madding]

hennaphile - what did you use as an androgen blocker?

[hennaphile]

spironolactone

[Canarygirl]

Could it also be excessive sensitivity to testosterone?

I don't have PCOs but I have similar symptoms, but my hormone levels were normal. An androgen blocker helped lots :)

I don't know, but just from a logical standpoint since people can be sensitive to a variety of chemical compounds in our bodies it seems possible to me.

In my case, my hair is thinning around my crown area. Coincidentally my naturopath tested me and said that both my estrogen and testosterone levels were elevated. She felt this was due to my liver not properly clearing out these hormones from my bloodstream, and them undergoing re-uptake in the intestines. I'm working on lessening the toxic load on my liver but I'm also interested in finding an essential oil that has DHT/testosterone blocking properties (to add to my EO blend for scalp massages).

Hennaphile, it sounds like spironolactone is a prescription med that you take orally? Glad it is effective for you.

[hennaphile]

I don't know, but just from a logical standpoint since people can be sensitive to a variety of chemical compounds in our bodies it seems possible to me.

In my case, my hair is thinning around my crown area. Coincidentally my naturopath tested me and said that both my estrogen and testosterone levels were elevated. She felt this was due to my liver not properly clearing out these hormones from my bloodstream, and them undergoing re-uptake in the intestines. I'm working on lessening the toxic load on my liver but I'm also interested in finding an essential oil that has DHT/testosterone blocking properties (to add to my EO blend for scalp massages).

Hennaphile, it sounds like spironolactone is a prescription med that you take orally? Glad it is effective for you.


Hmm, I've not heard of the liver coming into play, but that sounds really interesting. Yes, it is a prescription drug, and it's helped a lot of people with water retention, severe acne, hirsutism, water weight, the gamut of things which are not so fun to deal with.

[wahmof9]

Does any one seem to experience more shedding the day of the application???

[s_tresses]

Does any one seem to experience more shedding the day of the application???

Do you comb/brush hair after application?

[Henna Sooq]

After an application I do experience more shedding personally. I wash out really well and I also brush my hair. I always brush my hair after I wash it all out. I always figure that the shedding is due to the weight of the paste and perhaps making room for new hair growth.

[wahmof9]

Do you comb/brush hair after application?
No I don't.


I think I do have a lot more shed....Henna Sooq, you seem to think that this is ok???

I also have castor oil in my mix, could that be the culprit?

[Henna Sooq]

Yeah I mean the shedding doesn't bother me. I have really thick hair, so it seems okay to just lose some hair. It also has always fluctuated when I have had children as well. During pregnancy I barely lose any hair. Right after delivery for the next few weeks, I lose a bunch and then it just returns to normal. I always have little bits of hairs coming out here and there.

We are supposed to lose about 40-100 hairs a day. The life cycle of each hair is 3-7 years. On average we have about 150,000 and 200,000 hairs. A few facts from one of my home spa books. It's all about naturally taking care of yourself. This is in the hair section.

Here's a few more: "It is advisable to brush your hair morning and evening to remove any airborne pollutants and dry flakes from the scalp, and to distributre oil down the hair shaft. Dry hair will benefit from brushing more than greasy hair for this reason. However, you should not overbrush: 100 strokes a day may lead to split ends.

Always use a comb on wet hair, never a brush, as the hair is much more elastic when wet and more vulnerable to breaking. Use a wide-toothed comb to distribute conditioner evenly through the hair, which will help the individual hair shafts to absord the proteins it contains. Untangle any knots starting at the ends of the hair and gradually working upwards. "

Just a tid bit share. It's a really good book. Maybe I will get more time to post more soon!

[jessie58]

Do you comb/brush hair after application?

Sorry if I'm lost but are you still talking about essential oil forumulas applied to the scalp for shedding and thinness? I am thrown off by Henna Sooq's reply about a "paste".

If so, I have never experienced more shed when I applied my growth oil, even though I did massage it in for several minutes and sometimes would brush it through with a BBB too.

[Henna Sooq]

I may have misunderstood too. I thought the application was in reference to a paste application. We mean an oil application right?

If so then no I don't experience any unusual shedding after an oiling or similar applications.

Sorry for the confusion.

[pixiedoo]

I have been using Nightshade's Triple Moon Hair Anointing Oil for about 4 weeks now and I am really pleased with the initial results :)

Up until quite recently I have been experiencing massive amounts of shedding due to ongoing health problems. I have completely changed my hair care rountine to try and deal with this and my search for natural hair care lead me to the LHC (and I am so pleased I found it). I had already reduced the amount of shedding considerably and improved growth rates before I joined the LHC but was eager to find ways to further the improvements I had made, so this thread was of particular interest to me.

I know it is early days yet but my hair and scalp seem to love the oil mixture (and it smells divine:)). I do experience a little more shedding when I apply it but I have just put this down to the fact that I am manipulating my scalp and loosening hairs that would shed anyway. I have been using it 3 times a week and leaving it in over night.

In the last month I have had over 3/4 inch of new hair growth which is loads for me. I dye my hair as I have loads of grey so it is really easy for me to see progress. My roots are massive so I am definitely doing something right!! Before I started giving my hair serious amounts of TLC it was falling out like mad and growing at a very, very slow snails pace!! It has not had a growth spurt like this since before the commencement of my illness over 2 years ago. Whilst I can not attribute the growth entirely to the application of the oil as I am also taking a multitude vitamins/supplements for growth I believe it has definitely helped. I have also noticed a considerable decrease in shedding and I think my shedding is now in the range of 'normal' for the first time in ages :)

I plan to continue with my scalp oiling routine as I am very happy with the results so far. Thanks for this thread jessie58, and also thanks to Nightshade for the oil and superb customer service (I received my oil in just over a week to the UK which was superfast!!)

[jessie58]

Pixiedoo, it's so good to hear how well you are doing with Nightshade's oil mixture. I'm happy that you are doing so well with it. Nightshade is indeed a delight to order from.
So glad that this thread helped you with your hair. I know that oiling my scalp from what I learned on this thread is what brought back all my hair.

[ShaSha]

This summer I've had a lot of stress with a new job and other things and my hair started shedding again, a lot. :?

So I decided to try essential oils. Basically I bought what was easily and quickly found for me, lavander, cedarwood, rosemary and patchouli, I added that to camellia oil.

After the first application my shedding stopped. I've now applied this three times and I'm still not shedding. :joy:

I can only do this once a week. I have thin and fine hair that does not absorb any oils, so any amount I apply to roots shows and is difficult to remove. It is a two day process to remove the oil, but worth it.

[jessie58]

This summer I've had a lot of stress with a new job and other things and my hair started shedding again, a lot. :?

So I decided to try essential oils. Basically I bought what was easily and quickly found for me, lavander, cedarwood, rosemary and patchouli, I added that to camellia oil.

After the first application my shedding stopped. I've now applied this three times and I'm still not shedding. :joy:

I can only do this once a week. I have thin and fine hair that does not absorb any oils, so any amount I apply to roots shows and is difficult to remove. It is a two day process to remove the oil, but worth it.

That's wonderful Sha Sha, I love to hear that others have had success with essential oils too. :cheer:

[StarShine]

I use essential oils for pretty much everything, hair shedding included.

If you've been having good results with a blend and then it stops being so great, you may be developing a sensitivity to the EO. I have this problem with lavender by using it in too many products. Luckily, taking a break seems to take care of the problem.

What works best for me is not making a super blend with 15 EOs in it. I just blend 4-6 EOs in a carrier. Then come up with a different blend that doesn't repeat those oils and alternate. Or use one up then make another.

This has been working a lot better for me. So if you're experiencing shedding after having good results, consider reducing the number of EOs in your blend and start using them seperately or vary the combination.

[CherrySilver]

I use essential oils for pretty much everything, hair shedding included.

If you've been having good results with a blend and then it stops being so great, you may be developing a sensitivity to the EO. I have this problem with lavender by using it in too many products. Luckily, taking a break seems to take care of the problem.

What works best for me is not making a super blend with 15 EOs in it. I just blend 4-6 EOs in a carrier. Then come up with a different blend that doesn't repeat those oils and alternate. Or use one up then make another.

This has been working a lot better for me. So if you're experiencing shedding after having good results, consider reducing the number of EOs in your blend and start using them seperately or vary the combination.


That's wonderful advice, Starshine! I never thought about reducing the number of EO's in my blend and alternating with two (or more) blends. It really seems to make sense -- sorta like cross-training for your hair! Normally, I would just dump just about everything I have into my topical mixture (aka the kitchen sink method). Hmmm, I will probably try this with my face oil blends as well to keep my skin on its toes (if you'll pardon the pun).

[Niere]

I'm so glad I stumbled across this thread, it's very helpful.

I can't wait to try this on my hair. Hope to buy the oils this weekend. I'm going with Jessie58's recipe, but since I'm on a budget, won't be buying all of the oils.

What would be the 4 or 5 that I should make a point to buy?

I'll be using jojoba oil as my carrier. My hair is very oily, if that makes any difference to the advice.

Thanks :)

[Melisande]

Sage, lavender, bay, rosemary - if I had to buy only four, I'd pick those.

(I'm using this mix for two years now and love it still!)

[Niere]

Thanks for the suggestion, I look forward to starting!

[jessie58]

Niere, sorry I was away but Melisande is right, those 4 essential oils are good ones to go with. Good luck. :)

[Fethenwen]

This thing actually works! :cheese: My boyfriend has had problems with his scalp, and started shedding like a cat on spring. His hair was everywhere.

Well, I have been giving him head massages with oils for the past two weeks, and see a lot of improvement already! But I have to keep doing it, or the shedding returns, as it is now.
I bought some castor oil yesterday, and put some of that on his scalp. Along with an oil blend that I have been using (jojoba, grape seed oil etc.), and drops of rosmary and black pine essential oils. I think I will get some thyme and t-tree too.
He really likes having that on his head, and I also put on a beanie made of bamboo that I microwave first :cloud9: Which he sleeps with, and then he washes his hair in the morning.
He shedded zero hairs this morning :)

[jessie58]

Awesome to hear that Fethenwen! I'm sure he is glad that you've hit upon something that can help.

[s_tresses]

I am on and off with this thing, so how am I going to see results? I lose my motivation and just to bump it up, is any one still using this and seeing results (mainly for regrowth)?

[little_cherry]

I use the actual herbs and make an anti shedding/hair growth oil. Linky in my signature.

[jessie58]

I've been using the original recipe for about 3 1/2 years now. Every time I have a major shed, I will start massaging the recipe into my scalp for a few days at a time and the next month, I will always see new growth. This way I am often stimulating new growth and have a constant crop of new hairs at different length.

[ll]

I use Nightshade's Nightblooming Triple Moon anointing oil, and have definitely seen re-growth, typically pretty quickly (a week or two). I have also used bhringraj, amla, brahmi (the gotu kola one), and rosemary, which also definitely help. It's some re-growth here and there, but it's slowly adding up.

[runaway177]

I recently started using two natural products from Pooka Pure & Simple (http://www.pookapureandsimple.com/products/haircare.asp):
Nectar Hair Oil & Treatment
Shea n Olive Hair ButterBoth contain rosemary and lavender EO which is what I was looking for at the time. If I had known about Nightbloomings Triple Moon Hair Annointing Oil (http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14491548) before buying the Pooka oil and hair butter, I probably would have gotten that instead since it has all the beneficial EOs for promoting hair growth. I'm kicking myself for not knowing about this sooner. :doh: :brickwall (http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14491548)

I need to use up the Pooka hair oil so I can get Nightbloomings mix! :stirpot:

[jessie58]

I recently started using two natural products from Pooka Pure & Simple (http://www.pookapureandsimple.com/products/haircare.asp):
Nectar Hair Oil & Treatment
Shea n Olive Hair ButterBoth contain rosemary and lavender EO which is what I was looking for at the time. If I had known about Nightbloomings Triple Moon Hair Annointing Oil (http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14491548) before buying the Pooka oil and hair butter, I probably would have gotten that instead since it has all the beneficial EOs for promoting hair growth. I'm kicking myself for not knowing about this sooner. :doh: :brickwall (http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14491548)

I need to use up the Pooka hair oil so I can get Nightbloomings mix! :stirpot:

Nightblooming's mix is lovely. I'll have to get mine out. I haven't oiled in ages.

Such a shame about buying the other oil first. Well you could still order hers and alternate oils or have the Pooka for a back up. :D

[runaway177]

Oh Jessie don't tempt me, I'm already thinking of doing that before you suggested it. :thumbsup: Do you think it's worth it? I would be more than willing to go ahead and buy it if I knew others had some good results with it. In addition to growing long, I'm trying to regain the thickness in my hair again.

[jessie58]

I would suggest you use the Pooka for about 2 months. If you don't see any growth or other hair benefits in that time, then perhaps you should spring for the Nightblooming oil.

I personally believe that regular gentle massage with a growth oil such as the ones in this thread is beneficial as long as they carry the main ingredients, such as thyme, rosemary, sage and lavender. Those seem to be the most beneficial.

[runaway177]

Thank you for the suggestion. I will follow your advice and see what happens. Wish me luck!

[jessie58]

Thank you for the suggestion. I will follow your advice and see what happens. Wish me luck!



Good luck, keep us informed. :flowers:

[Melisande]

It does work. I've been using my oil mixture for three years now and my hair has become much fuller, stronger and healthier. I love it and will never stop. I don't need much but I use it at least once a week, usually twice a week.

Love, love, love this stuff!

[jessie58]

It does work. I've been using my oil mixture for three years now and my hair has become much fuller, stronger and healthier. I love it and will never stop. I don't need much but I use it at least once a week, usually twice a week.

Love, love, love this stuff!

Melisande, which mixture do you use?

[Rapunzal2Be]

I use a homemade mixture of coconut oil and sulfur powder - I massage it into my scalp and leave in overnight. I always notice a growth spurt afterwards, and have lots of new growth (even new hairs along my hairline where I did not have growth before).

[jessie58]

I use a homemade mixture of coconut oil and sulfur powder - I massage it into my scalp and leave in overnight. I always notice a growth spurt afterwards, and have lots of new growth (even new hairs along my hairline where I did not have growth before).

What does the sulfur powder do? What are its properties? I haven't heard of people using this before and don't really know anything about it.

[runaway177]

I too am interested in learning more about the sulfur powder. I think I'll be doing some research on this :google:

[runaway177]

It does work. I've been using my oil mixture for three years now and my hair has become much fuller, stronger and healthier. I love it and will never stop. I don't need much but I use it at least once a week, usually twice a week.

Love, love, love this stuff!

Wow that's great Melisande! Can you please specify which mixture you use? Are you referring to Nightblooming's Triple Moon Hair Anointing Oil (http://www.etsy.com/listing/48468551/triple-moon-hair-anointing-oil-4oz-full) mix?

[lastnite]

where do you buy the sulfur powder?

[Rapunzal2Be]

What does the sulfur powder do? What are its properties? I haven't heard of people using this before and don't really know anything about it.


I too am interested in learning more about the sulfur powder. I think I'll be doing some research on this :google:


where do you buy the sulfur powder?

I learned about using sulfur to promote hair growth through reading another hair board where products like MTG (http://www.amazon.com/Shapley-Original-M-T-G-Coat-Care/dp/B00197SGO0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=beauty&qid=1276040920&sr=8-1) and Boundless Tresses (ttp://www.growthspecifics.com/) are popular, and since the active ingredient in both is sulfur powder mixed with oils, some people (including me) choose to make their own.

This is the sulfur powder I buy: http://www.amazon.com/Sulfur-Powder-Sublimed-Oz-Pack/dp/B0013ND5AK/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=beauty&qid=1276041036&sr=8-2

I choose to go simple and just melt my coconut oil to liquid, mix in a small amount of sulfur powder, let the coconut oil solidify and then when it is semi-solid I mix it back up so that the powder does not all sink to the bottom. I mix it up before use, and melt a small amount on my fingertips which I then massage into my scalp. It does smell like sulfur, but it isn't too strong, and I shampoo the next morning.

MTG smells gross - like BBQ and smoke. Boundless Tresses can be ordered with scented oils, which is great if you don't want to make your own, or you can always add your own essential oils for scent if you wanted to.

But, if you look on this thread (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showthread.php?t=34933)on here PirateJenny talks about her use of MTG and the boost in her growth that she gets after using it. The thread took on a life of its own and people mainly pick up on the use of DE, but in fact, a few other people besides myself have had good results using a sulfur oil (both use MTG, I believe).

Here's some more info on sulfur oil and growth:

http://talk.blackhairmedia.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=120790

http://www.longhaircareforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=63006&highlight=shapley+email

http://www.komazacare.com/hairgrowthoil.html

I realize these all seem to cater specifically to AA hair, but I am caucasian and have had great results using this. I'm surprised more people on this board don't use it, actually. My hair naturally grows fairly slowly, and has been known to stall for months at a time and sheds easily when I get stressed - but when I use my sulfur oil overnight regularly (once per week or so) I see growth spurts (sometimes of .5" in just a few weeks' time) and lots of new growth. (Disclaimer - I am not saying that regular use of this product will increase your growth *rate* drastically on a regular basis every two weeks], but there have been many reports of people having major growth spurts after an application of sulfur treatments and it does seem to help people's overall growth.)

[Melisande]

My mixture is based on a recipe posted by Jessie on the old boards. I mix jojoba oil (sometimes also other oils, like camelia or avocado, but mostly jojoba) with essential oils of rosemary, lavender, cedar, grapefruit, lemon, patchouly, tangerine, juniper, sage, geranium, clary sage, thyme, bay, sandalwood.

These are a lot of oils but I use very little of most of them. I add them to the oil without rules - I smell the essential oil and ask myself how much I need of it. And then I add the drops to the jojoba. It works for me. My instinct seems to tell me whether I need more lemon or more juniper this time.

When the mixture is ready, I put it in a glass bottle in the fridge. From this bottle, I re-fill a little dripper bottle that I keep next to my bed. And from this dripper bottle that used to be ear drops or iodine or something.... I put little drops on my scalp while reading in bed. I work in lines around my head, putting a bit of oil and then massaging. The scent is wonderful, herbal, relaxing, and it signifies for me the end of the day. My scalp loves it, too. And my hairgrowth has become definitely stronger and healthier.

I can't recommend essential oils warmly enough. I'd recommend going with a list of possible oils to a shop where you can smell them. Then you can decide whether you need it or not. the most basic and important are probably lavender, sage, rosemary and thyme.

I find my rich mixture incredibly lovely-smelling. It washes out very well. My husband uses it sometimes when he has the scalp itchies, poor man. It helps very well.

It's important to be regular, though, as in every change of routine. It takes months to see a difference but then it's wonderful. I think I dropped in every couple of months in this thread and repeated this advice - sorry if I sound repetitive but I wanted to answer the questions, and I know how quickly advice gets buried in a long long thread ;-)

[Carmen Castro]

Really??? My pony tail thickness is 3.5 inches as well...I have some essential oils and have used them a few times but not enough to get any results but i do notice that i get dandruff or coating on my scalp..I didn't measure I just added bunch of drops of tea tree, lavender, rosemary I wonder if this is a good mix. I'm trying to increase thickness but i'm scared to try monistat cuz i don't know if it will increase thickness or just length. How often did you use the oil blend and how long did it take you to get your results? Thanks in advance

[Carmen Castro]

Hmm, thank you..Im going to try this. I started reading about the monistat and googled it and I read that shapley's mtg was a better option because the new growth you get from monistat will shed once you stop using it and the new growth with shapleys didn't shed?? Do you notice shedding when you stop using it..I want to try too many things LOL

[Carmen Castro]

www.hair.nerdery.wordpress.com was the website where i read this

[pheonixphire]

I was wanting to make my own oil blend at home, would evening primrose oil be ok as a carrier oil? Or would that be too strong? I also read somewhere about using nettles on the hair and scalp. Is the leaf part of the nettles used or the roots?

[Nightshade]

EPO is a great oil. It's pretty light and I've used it on its own in the past :)

Nettle leaves are what's used, it's the same thing found in nettle teas, so you can check that out as an easy option for local sourcing at your nearest health food store!

[ChloeDharma]

EPO is a great oil. It's pretty light and I've used it on its own in the past :)

Nettle leaves are what's used, it's the same thing found in nettle teas, so you can check that out as an easy option for local sourcing at your nearest health food store!

The leaves are great nutritionally and contain great nutrients that would be helpfull for hair growth when eaten. Most recipes for hair use that i've seen though call for the roots to be used.....that's if the intention is to fight hair loss.

ETA i just had a quick look and found this link about nettles http://www.stopnowhairloss.com/2008/04/18/can-nettle-extract-combat-hair-loss/

[pheonixphire]

OMG thanks guys! I know I got two answers on the nettles, but at least I know neither one would hurt me to use :). I'm going to use both and just make an oil infusion, then add that to the rest of my EO blend.

[xfan]

Would it be better to ingest Nettle root as a capsule or using it in a essential oil blend mix?

I did find this as an extract. Could something like this be added to Jojoba oil scalp treatment?

[ChloeDharma]

Would it be better to ingest Nettle root as a capsule or using it in a essential oil blend mix?

I did find this as an extract. Could something like this be added to Jojoba oil scalp treatment?

The root can be taken internally as well, especially to benefit from a chemical it contains that helps to counter hairloss caused by testosterone, well a form of it.

If the extract is a tincture then it may be in alcohol form. I'd be cautious adding that to a hair oil although maybe if you heated the oil to evaporate the alcohol that would work. I don't know how well jojoba oil tolerates heat though so something like sesame or coconut might be better as they are more heat stable.

[faeflame]

I love the smell and tingling feeling after massaging my scalp with essential oils (Nightshades blend is awesome), but I have one major problem that keeps me from doing this very often. My hair instantly turns into a major oil slick and I can't stand it!! I end up running off and shampooing till it is clean.
Does anyone else have this problem? If not, how are you oiling? I use the dropper bottle to put drops of the oil on my part and then repart my hair every few inches and drop some more oil on my scalp massaging a bit as I go, then a nice full massage when I've got my whole head 'droppered'. Am I doing something wrong?

[jessie58]

I love the smell and tingling feeling after massaging my scalp with essential oils (Nightshades blend is awesome), but I have one major problem that keeps me from doing this very often. My hair instantly turns into a major oil slick and I can't stand it!! I end up running off and shampooing till it is clean.
Does anyone else have this problem? If not, how are you oiling? I use the dropper bottle to put drops of the oil on my part and then repart my hair every few inches and drop some more oil on my scalp massaging a bit as I go, then a nice full massage when I've got my whole head 'droppered'. Am I doing something wrong?

One thing you could try is to do it on the weekend, perhaps on Friday night. Then you could just let it soak in overnight and wear your hair up on the weekend or under a scarf. Let it be oily for a bit. Then do your wash the next day or Sunday night so you can get the benefits of the oil for at least overnight if not the whole weekend.
Maybe just do a touch of oil and less massage to get less oil production.

I have neither an oily scalp nor a dry one, I used to let my oil soak in overnight and the next day it would be all absorbed, except a tiny bit of oil on the scalp which would disappear by the next day.

[marla]

I've been using this on my eyebrows and they have grown in thicker so I know it works!

[jessie58]

I've been using this on my eyebrows and they have grown in thicker so I know it works!

Oh that's marvelous Marla. :cheese:

[TannedAndRaven]

Hello everyone, I've been reading about the benefits of essential oils for hair for a long time and decided to make my own blend yesterday, with some of jessie's suggested EOs (thank you, btw! :)).

I mixed several EOs in jojoba, but I am not sure why the oil droplets are floating on top and not mixing with the base? Ugh... Why is this happening? I don't want to apply 100% EO droplets to my scalp...

[jessie58]

TannedandRaven, it's kind of odd that the oils are not mixing. I know that you should give your hair mixture a good shake before applying but I don't recall seeing droplets floating on top. They do seem to need a good shake to get mixed up initially but they should eventually mix quite nicely.

What oils did you use? Were they pure essential oils? Was there anythin besides EO's and pure jojoba?

[TannedAndRaven]

Nope, nothing else in there except pure EOs and jojoba. I used your recipe, minus the bay, thyme and sage. Strange isn't it? Maybe I'll shake it again later and see if it dissolves.

[jessie58]

Nope, nothing else in there except pure EOs and jojoba. I used your recipe, minus the bay, thyme and sage. Strange isn't it? Maybe I'll shake it again later and see if it dissolves.

Wow, that's odd, it has never happened to me and I've made about 20 different batches. Well at first you can see the droplets going into the jojoba but they will mix nicely with shaking.

Was there a temperature difference in the oils?

[TannedAndRaven]

I took the bottles out of the same cupboard prior to mixing, so I don't think so. I've tried shaking the bottle again and it looks like it won't mix. Guess I'll check with the shop I bought my supplies from, I am hoping they'll be able to help.

[Esya]

hmm I'm definitely going to try this blend. Thank you!

[Seraphinelle]

My Aunt told me to be careful about putting oils on my hair, because they coat the hair shaft and cause build up. But everyone's different. I have been practicing <spam - removed> and seems to be getting my hair much thicker )... I think it works reasonably well for hair regrowth

[CherrySilver]

My Aunt told me to be careful about putting oils on my hair, because they coat the hair shaft and cause build up. But everyone's different. I have been practicing the M.******* Method and seems to be getting my hair much thicker )... I think it works reasonably well for hair regrowth

Can you please educate us and expand on the "M. ******* Method"? What is it all about? I googled it and the ONLY info I could find was a site that tells ABSOLUTELY NOTHING except to try to get you buy a book. I also see that this is your very first post here, so I'm just a *little* suspicious. Also, millions of women around the world have used oil on their hair to their advantage.

Flame me if you want, but this just looks like a scam advertisement to me....

[Idun]

I find several posts in other forums that are very similar to Seraphinelle&#180;s, but no explanation is offered anywhere about this "method". I agree with CherrySilver the website looks rather suspicous!

[In2wishin]

I have just mixed my own using a variation on Igors

Igor's Recipe
1. Thyme essential oil - 2 drops
2. Atlas cedarwood essential oil - 2 drops
3. Lavender essential oil -3 drops
4. Rosemary essential oil -3 drops
5. Jojoba oil - ½ teaspoon
6. Grapeseed oil - 4 teaspoons

I used the same 4 essential oils plus 2 drops palmarosa EO (anti fungal, stimulates cell regeneration, regulates sebum) since the seller was offering a freebie.

The other change I made was to use fractionated coconut oil as the carrier since it is the lightest oil available and is easily absorbed into the skin.

I will give progress reports if I see any change.

Also, those of you who are using any of these treatments: do you do it daily? How often if not daily?

[aenflex]

I scalp massage 4 times per week, using my own blend or a purchased finished product.
My own blend is alma/avocado/capsicum oleoresin, and the finished product that I buy is made with a mix of Camellia oil, Argan oil, Black Castor oil, Shea Butter, Broccoli Seed oil, Rosemary EO and salicylic acid.
Trying to GROW :)

[tressesntwists]

the finished product that I buy is made with a mix of Camellia oil, Argan oil, Black Castor oil, Shea Butter, Broccoli Seed oil, Rosemary EO and salicylic acid.

That sounds interesting...what product is it? :)

[s_tresses]

I was wondering why are oils like Jojoba and Grapeseed recommended for making the EO oil mix. I have seen topics around the forum which say that these oils stay on the surface and thus recommended as leave ins and oiling the length.

Does anyone use any other base oils? I was thinking about avocado and castor oil...

[ChloeDharma]

I was wondering why are oils like Jojoba and Grapeseed recommended for making the EO oil mix. I have seen topics around the forum which say that these oils stay on the surface and thus recommended as leave ins and oiling the length.

Does anyone use any other base oils? I was thinking about avocado and castor oil...

The scalp is skin so different to the hair shaft. Jojoba seems to absorb quite well. Avocado and castor oil would be a fantastic base though. The list of oils you could use as a carrier is quite long.

[ikke1978]

Are there any oils that can stop or prevent hair loss due to medication???

[jessie58]

No products can really stop or prevent hair loss but some of these recipes in conjunction with light scalp massage, do stimulate growth.

[allnaturalboy]

Are there any oils that can stop or prevent hair loss due to medication???

The only things I've ever heard of to help stop or prevent hair loss is stinging nettle and saw palmetto, but to be honest, I'm not even sure that would help really. I've never tried it to stimulate growth either, it's just what I've heard. I've heard a lot of things too and most I wouldn't try, so be careful.

[lastnite]

Is anyone still using EOs, and if so how are your results? I'm wondering how EOs from more western herbs compare to using the Indian infused oils..

[CarpeDM]

Forgive me if this has already been asked... As opposed to a 4 ounce bottle of carrier oil, I have a 2 ounce bottle I would like to use instead. What would be the appropriate ratio of herbal drops using a 2 ounce bottle? For example, how many drops of rosemary, lavender, and basil would I add to a 2 ounce bottle of camellia oil?

Also are carrot oil and evening primrose oil considered carrier oils?

Thanks in advance...

[In2wishin]

Forgive me if this has already been asked... As opposed to a 4 ounce bottle of carrier oil, I have a 2 ounce bottle I would like to use instead. What would be the appropriate ratio of herbal drops using a 2 ounce bottle? For example, how many drops of rosemary, lavender, and basil would I add to a 2 ounce bottle of camellia oil?

Also are carrot oil and evening primrose oil considered carrier oils?

Thanks in advance...

I copied Igor's recipe from the first post. The amounts in red will fill a 2 oz bottle so I hope this will give you an idea how to adjust the recipe you are thinking of using.

Igor's Recipe

1. Thyme essential oil - 2 drops 5 drops
2. Atlas cedarwood essential oil - 2 drops 5 drops
3. Lavender essential oil -3 drops 7 drops
4. Rosemary essential oil -3 drops 7 drops
5. Jojoba oil - ½ teaspoon 1 and 1/4 tsp
6. Grapeseed oil - 4 teaspoons 10 tsp. (3 Tbl plus 1 tsp)


Someone may correct me but all I can find about evening primrose oil is that it is used more as a nutritive oil rather than a carrier oil and a maximum of 10% is recommended. I couldn't find anything about carrot oil except as an EO.

Hope this helps.

[CarpeDM]

I copied Igor's recipe from the first post. The amounts in red will fill a 2 oz bottle so I hope this will give you an idea how to adjust the recipe you are thinking of using.

Igor's Recipe

1. Thyme essential oil - 2 drops 5 drops
2. Atlas cedarwood essential oil - 2 drops 5 drops
3. Lavender essential oil -3 drops 7 drops
4. Rosemary essential oil -3 drops 7 drops
5. Jojoba oil - ½ teaspoon 1 and 1/4 tsp
6. Grapeseed oil - 4 teaspoons 10 tsp. (3 Tbl plus 1 tsp)


Someone may correct me but all I can find about evening primrose oil is that it is used more as a nutritive oil rather than a carrier oil and a maximum of 10% is recommended. I couldn't find anything about carrot oil except as an EO.

Hope this helps.

Question...is Igor's recipe based on one ounce of carrier oil, I didn't see the carrier oil amount indicated?

[ChloeDharma]

Question...is Igor's recipe based on one ounce of carrier oil, I didn't see the carrier oil amount indicated?

The recipe is the one used in the study done at the university of aberdeen. Joboba and grapeseed are the ones used there.

[In2wishin]

Question...is Igor's recipe based on one ounce of carrier oil, I didn't see the carrier oil amount indicated?

It is based on 1/2 teaspoon of jojoba and 4 teaspoons of grapeseed which is a total of 4 and 1/2 teaspoons carrier. This equals approximately 3/4 of an ounce.

[CarpeDM]

It is based on 1/2 teaspoon of jojoba and 4 teaspoons of grapeseed which is a total of 4 and 1/2 teaspoons carrier. This equals approximately 3/4 of an ounce.

Hmmm, well I just added 5 drops of each to the 2 ounces of oil...

It seems like some of the recipes have more oil and some have less, hard to figure out the correct ratio...

[jessie58]

Jessie58's recipe is based on 4 ounces of carrier oil and can be halved to a 2 ounce bottle of jojoba oil.

[CarpeDM]

Hi Jessie, (PS I loved that part in the movie) I saw that recipe, but my goodness there sure are a lot of ingredients LOL. Currently I have basil, lavender, rosemary, carrot, camellia, and evening primrose oil in my herbal arsenal so I was hoping to use those ingredients before investing in some others. I'm hoping the 5 drops per 2 ounce will work for now. I remember trying something similar out before but I sort of gave up on it, I think mainly because it was irritating my head and shedding increased. However this could have been my fault because I do believe I added too many drops and didn't have the correct ratio of carrier oil. I'm going to give it another shot and see what happens...

[In2wishin]

Hi Jessie, (PS I loved that part in the movie) I saw that recipe, but my goodness there sure are a lot of ingredients LOL. Currently I have basil, lavender, rosemary, carrot, camellia, and evening primrose oil in my herbal arsenal so I was hoping to use those ingredients before investing in some others. I'm hoping the 5 drops per 2 ounce will work for now. I remember trying something similar out before but I sort of gave up on it, I think mainly because it was irritating my head and shedding increased. However this could have been my fault because I do believe I added too many drops and didn't have the correct ratio of carrier oil. I'm going to give it another shot and see what happens...

If this makes it easier yet: Igor's recipe (which is the same one my soapmakiing guru Zonella Gould recommends) uses 12 drops COMBINED TOTAL of essential oil per ounce of carrier which would be 24 drops TOTAL for your 2 ounces.

[CarpeDM]

If this makes it easier yet: Igor's recipe (which is the same one my soapmakiing guru Zonella Gould recommends) uses 12 drops COMBINED TOTAL of essential oil per ounce of carrier which would be 24 drops TOTAL for your 2 ounces.

Yes that does make it easier, thanks!

[krissykins]

So I was wondering what everyone's results are from using Nightblooming's oil? I've been massaging it into my scalp and mixing it in with my castor oil treatments. Has anyone seen good growth with it?

The oil has definitely has helped with the itchy scalp I've been getting.

[ludwig20]

Wow, I really appreciate this thread! I've finally reached APL after years of having short hair above my shoulders. Now I'm shedding a lot, and although I suspect it's a seasonal shed, I am just not accustomed to losing this much. I think it's time I start using EOs and see how it goes.

[jaquelines]

The recipe is the one used in the study done at the university of aberdeen. Joboba and grapeseed are the ones used there.

Dear ChloeDharma, do you think that I can use this mix additional to vatika oil as a scalp treatment? Or do you think they might inhibit each other? I was thinking to use vatika as a carrier oil substitute and maybe add a bit only of jojoba oil.
What is your opinion ?

[louwulf]

I had a massive amount of shedding that left me with less than half my original thickness. Luckily my hair was extremely thick before so it could be worse, but still is tough to deal with. Mine came from hyperactive thyroid, but a side effect of my medication is hair loss so I'm still struggling with this. I am going to gather these oils and try this. Which recipe do you you recommend? I haven't have time to read all the posts and am anxious to order the oil ASAP! Thanks for your help, I cut 15" off a year ago to try to make it look thicker, instead it looks shorter.

[sjshelt]

OMG I just started using the Chrome Dome EO mixed with some castor oil and EVOO. I have STOPPED SHEDDING! I used to shed at least 100 hairs during the shower, yesterday I lost about 3! It is absolutely amazing and I will not stop this regimen! I rub my mixture on my scalp about 3 or 4 times a week. It works! I'm amazed.

[lastnite]

OMG I just started using the Chrome Dome EO mixed with some castor oil and EVOO. I have STOPPED SHEDDING! I used to shed at least 100 hairs during the shower, yesterday I lost about 3! It is absolutely amazing and I will not stop this regimen! I rub my mixture on my scalp about 3 or 4 times a week. It works! I'm amazed.


thanks for sharing, I've been wanting to try that one. want to also try the lip plumping one :p

[tinu]

The correct link for the Chrome Dome oil is this
http://www.essentialwholesale.com/product/1395/chrome-dome-essential-oil-blend

[tinu]

I became a member of this forum and came to know about the recipe posted in the original post in late 2009. I trimmed 1/2 inch every 3 months. Applied this oil x1-2/week and my hair grew out to my waist within a year. I'm someone who has very slow hair growth. I didn't really have much faith in this recipe when I started out, but now I'm completely sold. Now I'm in a country where I'm not sure I am able to get this stuff. I hope to order Chrome Dome oil and try it.

[tinu]

thanks for sharing, I've been wanting to try that one. want to also try the lip plumping one :p
They have one? Seriously? I need it then.

[DarleneH]

Do any of you know if there is a length of time to have this on scalp after which the ingredients are no longer doing anything? To phrase a different way, the maximum amount of time for effectiveness where you're getting anything out of it at all, after which it's pretty much inert and no more additional benefits happen?

[duchess67]

A team of researchers at the University of Aberdeen discovered that an essential oil blend applied daily to the scalp and massaged for two minutes can help with hair growth. The research paper is available online to read.
After reading that I think it's better to apply a few drops daily to achieve the benefits. I feel it's like any medication or food we take, skipping a day would lose it's benefits. Everyone's hair is different, as you know. Personally I like the smell and it helps me relax. After application I use a heat therapy cap which helps absorb the oil better.

[jessie58]

Do any of you know if there is a length of time to have this on scalp after which the ingredients are no longer doing anything? To phrase a different way, the maximum amount of time for effectiveness where you're getting anything out of it at all, after which it's pretty much inert and no more additional benefits happen?

Good question. I have always left mine in overnight and the next day. Sometimes I would do a water rinse the next day, on occasion I would CO or shampoo. I had wonderful results. I have always wondered if there were any additional benefits to me leaving it in, unwashed over the others who would shampoo it out the same day. I don't remember anything in the Aberdeen study saying ow long the oils were left in.

[duchess67]

If anyone is interested, here is the link to that study done at the Aberdeen University. I've copied and pasted the archived dermatology text beneath the first.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9828867

http://archderm.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=189618

jessie58, I see that you've copied and pasted the same text on the first page of this thread. You had written the very first post in 2008 :) I still follow your recipe, I really love the smell of that mix. I have the ChromeDome oil, but am not quite a fan of it, esp the smell.

[roseomalley]

I started today using Meg's original recipe with Chrome Dome. I used Camellia oil. I followed the recipe exactly, except I halved it for now. I mixed it in a my Camellia oil bottle, which gas a dropper. I have baby fine hair which has thinned with age (67) and medication (blood thinners). I would love to have mire hair at the top front, especially. I hate the fact that I have become so thin at my hairline. Well, we shall see. I plan to use the oils and massaging three nights a week, and will shampoo the next morning. I did patch test on my scalp first. Thanks to all for sharing the information.

[Voqque]

Very detailed, thanks for putting all that out there, it really helps.

[kdaniels8811]

My hair is too fine/thin to put oil on my scalp as it makes my hair really greasy. So... I put oils and herbs in apple cider vinegar and massage 8-10 drops on my scalp when I think of it - 3-4 times per week. My shedding is down to 10 hairs a day and my hair is growing and gaining length and hopefully thickness. I am afraid to measure my circumference for fear it has not gotten any larger - i am at 1 3/4" so very thin but my hair looks full and feels soft. I used many of the essential oils mentioned earlier in the thread. The vinegar scent stays for a few minutes but does not linger when it dries. I do not wash it out, I leave it in for the herbs to work their magic. I should post this on the thin/fine hair thread!

Update - I measured my circumference and I am up to 2" AND I have a ton of 3" baby hairs growing so I would say the herb infused vinegar is working really well!

[Arctic]

Bumping this thread up!

I have re-started my scalp massages after several years. I am familiar with using essential oils and have put some in my scalp before, but I haven't made much mixing with them, but want to try that now. I am a firm believer in aromatherapy and the massages are very relaxing.

I can't use oils (other than essential oils) on my skin at all, but I bought an aloe vera gel for the scalp massage purposes. I am also not planning to purchace more/new essential oils right now, I have quite many bottle needing to be used. I don't have several of the oils that are often mentioned in this thread, but I have a feeling my oils will be almost or just as good. I am still trying to find my combinations. I might buy some of the popular oils later on, but right now I want to use up the old bottles.

I do hope some new, denser growth, especially at my front hairline, and wouldn't mind some overall thickening either. Healthy scalp and relaxation would be nice too :)

[Arctic]

I did another scalp massage. I have just enough of my premixed aloe+eo for one more treatment, then I need to mix more.

The essential oils that I currently have:

- lavendar
- tea tree
- rose maroc
- ylang ylang
- red ceddar
- pelargonium (I guess it's called geranium in English)

I have put each of these to my mix. I currently don't have several of the ones that many have named the key eos: thyme, rosemary, sage and some others I can't remember right now.

My mixture has a nice smell and I have been happy with it so far.

[jessie58]

Hi Arctic. *waving* I just used Jessie58's mixture last week, once only and will be oiling again on a regular basis. I've seen some thinning at my temple area in the last year and I'm hoping to thicken it up again.
Let us know how yours works. I think you should add some of the key EO's in when you can if you're looking for new growth.

[Arctic]

Wonderful to see you here, Jessie58! I hope this doesn't sound wierd, but we can be oiling buddies :D Sorry to hear you've had some thinning, but I feel good knowing you have your trusty oil blend!

Yeah, I should buy some of the key oils, I'd just want to use my stash down a little bit before. I do believe this is beneficial even now, when my EO mixture is not quite like what's recommended AND I don't use base oils (I use aloe vera gel). Who knows how important the base oils are in these mixtures and effects. I do have a good feeling about my blend, because it smells so nice and is very relaxing and pleasant to use. I do like how rosemary and thyme smell as spices, but might not even now how their EOs smell, not to mention sage and many others. Who knows maybe they would blend harmoniously smell-wise with what I have. It might be good to change the EO blends from time to time too, so there is not sensitizing, although I haven't seen many mentioning they do that while reading these EO threads.

I'm also doing caffeine rinses, so if I see new growth, I might not know which of these methods helped with it.

[Arctic]

Did EO+aloe gel scalp massage today. I finished up the first batch, and it lasted longer than I would have imagined. So long that I already started to fear possible mold. I'm super mindful about moldy DIY stuff, after having aloe products get moldy at least twice in the past.

Tomorrow I'll make a new batch, with same oils.

The very first massage I did, my hair got tangly from aloe. I browsed my old blog entries from the time I last used aloe, and read that I had loved aloe juice but for the convenience chose gel, and the best results were when the gel was diluted with water. And so I did, and no more tangles. Having wet hair is not enough, it needs to be diluted for me.

Scalp feels good. I have had few headaches lately, I hope they are not related to these EOs. I have headaches often, but there had been a better period untill I started the massages. Something I have to keep an eye on. If it looks like I get headaches every time I use EOs, I will have to reconsider this method.

[Arctic]

I did a second batch of aloe+EO mixture. 2-3 drops of each oil. The massages are very relaxing, and are quickly becoming a nice winding down part of my evening routines. I found a small jar of brown glass, and will start using that for my mixture after I have cleaned it.

[jessie58]

Good update Arctic. I did want to mention that I found that if I oiled my scalp when my hair was wet, that the moisture from the hair would dilute the mixture and draw it away from the scalp. So I always apply to dry hair. I just did an oiling an hour ago. I can't remember what I put in this batch, it was made months ago but it doesn't smell right, meaning that I am missing something or other. I love the smell of the original recipe.

[mamaherrera]

do you guys always do an oiling just before a hair wash, or do you oil daily and does it accumulate?? I get nervous to oil on a non wash day, knowing it's going to stay on my scalp for another day and a half yet. And how do you mix the aloe vera gel, isn't that sticky?? Mine is anyways. I'm curious because I've made essential oil mixes, but always inside a carrier oil and I don't want that to cause hair shedding or not allow pores to breath.

[Arctic]

Jessie58, good to know about wet vs. dry hair. My situation might be slightly different than yours, seeing that (diluted) aloe gel is already waterbased, and doesn't have same effects as base oil would have. Hope you'll get your trusty mix done again! I'd love to try your recipe one day too (in aloe base), I've heared so good reviews of its smell and effects! I like how my mix smells too, especialy the rose aroma seems like linger forever! Mmm...roses... :D


MamaHerrera - You can browse or use search function on the thread, Jessie58 has shared her method and recipe many times, and many people have shared how they do it too. The first post tells many thing you need to know. I'm sure many people are very busy and everyone should try to find the answers before asking others to do the searching for them - I know Jessie has repeated her method over the years several several times.

I think most people love using carrier oils the most, and if your skin doesn't object, that might be the best approach aromatherapywise. If you know oiling scalp causes shedding, then you can think of alternatives. Someone up the thread uses vinegar as base for EOs.


I try to do my scalp massage with aloe+EOs about every other night or so. I could do it on daytime too, because it doesn't make my hair look bad in any way. My aloe vera gel is not sticky. It mixes very easily with the essential oils (I use small spatula for cosmetics, and never touch the mixture with my hands, always use spatula to take what I need from the mixture.). The aloe gel does make my hair tangly, unless I dilute it with water a little bit - when I do that, it acts more like aloe juice would on my hair. My scalp doesn't mind whether I dilute it or not, but my hair takes the diluted aloe gel much better (it doesn't tangle and feels moisturizing). Note, I dilute it just before use to prevent bacteria (etc) growth, and mix quite little batches for the same reason.

[Bergelmir]

Against hair loss or treatment of loss: Sure, almost any essential oil may be able to have an effect but not all of them are truly proven to be useful or they can easily be replaced by a better essential oil without having a lack on the tonic effect, so the recipes are always lot of guessing. According to indian ayurveda knowledge, and i just know a few things so far but i am probably gonna study it, it is no use just mixing endless amount of herbs or oils together because the interaction with other ingridients can either power up or even weaken a certain effect. In my mind, everything above 5 useful and proven ingridients is most likely overkill and without a real effect. Instead i would pay more attention to the quality of those ingridients and not its amount. Mind the quality of the essential oil, it can vary a lot but supplier of finished products may rarely declare those values and almost nobody is asking anyway. Essential oils or herbs containing essential oils i always consider delicate, to much and the scalp will be irritated with bad effects, to less and the tonic effect may be to weak, so it will surely need lot of tryouts in order to find the optimal routine and application.

Personally, i do not use any essential oils in a direct way. I use a indirect applications using Indian herbs for washing, many of them are containing essential oils naturally. For my hairline on the front (basically the weakest spot) i may blend rosemary herb, wild thyme herb (fresh if possible, else dried may work too), wild Pu Erh tea herb, with mainly sacha ichi öil/argan oil and some drops of seabuckthorn oil (rasperry oil works too), evening primrose and black cummin oil and then apply it on the front hairline (1-2 inch thickness). Reason for using this mix of oil is because this mix is providing almost any fat acids including lot of vitamine E and A known to be important for the skin. Black cummin oil is a natural carrier of a essential oil while the primrose got a rare gamma linoleic oil. May not be removed for a entire night for maximum tonic effect and not more than 1-2 times a week. Apart from that, i see no use for a special tonic. So in usual all i do need is ayurverda herbal washing... and at least 30 min of application on the scalp every 2 weeks. In term i feel the need for added treatment, i may use more of the herb containing essential oils and maybe even in a weekly period. So far i seem to be fine with the 2 week period, not stressing myself to much.

Considering some oils used in recipes: Emu oil is usually of questionable quality and t i think people with lot of sebum simply have no need using a "sebum replacing oil" but in term the scalp is very dry then i may have to ask what is actually the cause of the hair loss... maybe the lack of sebum is playing a role aswell and not only hormones or whatelse. If there is a carrier needed, some actively vitalizing oil may work even better. I guess to people with acne issues and scalp with lot of sebum jojoba oil is useful as a carrier or partial carrier at least as it can fight acne but same may count for black cummin oil. However, black cummin oil can only be used as a partial carrier as it is simply to powerful because of the high essential oil amount.

[ddiniz]

jessie58, please, is there any possibility of you manipulate your formula oils and sell to me?

[Lize]

I think I would like to try this. I don't have any more shedding than usual, but if this could decrease shedding or promote hair growth it can't be bad to try it. I always oil my length using coconut oil before I wash so I could add scalp oiling to my routine too. I plan to get the four EOs used in the study to begin with and use jojoba oil as carrier. I just need to find a website who sells all the four EOs.

[Nymphe]

Thank you for bumping this. I was research this last night to see if anything new had been discovered. I am using a mixture of 5% EOs (rosemary, lavender, cedarwood, and a few drops of ylang-ylang to balance out the scent), 5% hemp seed oil, and the rest, castor oil. Since I am WO, I only use it when I wet my head, 2-4 times per week. Even if nothing happens, it invigorates my scalp and makes my hair smell so good.

[summergame]

I think I would like to try this. I don't have any more shedding than usual, but if this could decrease shedding or promote hair growth it can't be bad to try it. I always oil my length using coconut oil before I wash so I could add scalp oiling to my routine too. I plan to get the four EOs used in the study to begin with and use jojoba oil as carrier. I just need to find a website who sells all the four EOs.

Maybe you can try http://www.iherb.com/search?sug=essential%20oils&kw=essentia&rank=41
:flower:

[Lize]

Maybe you can try http://www.iherb.com/search?sug=essential%20oils&kw=essentia&rank=41
:flower:

Thank you for the suggestion. :flower: I already found a Swedish site that had them all so I ordered yesterday. I look forward to trying this. :)

[Lize]

The oils I ordered were delivered. I made a batch from 100 ml jojoba oil and added 13 drops of lavender oil, 13 drops of rosemary oil, 9 drops of cedar wood oil and 9 drops of thyme oil. I just took the recipe from the study and adapted the amount of EOs to the larger amount of carrier oil. The only thing I regret is not also getting peppermint EO. I think that might be nice to add to this mix. I have read that it also has benefits for hair growth. It smells nice as it is though. I am doing a patch test now on my arm. If that goes well I will try it on my scalp for a few hours tomorrow before I wash. I plan to use this as a prewash treatment. I will be able to let it sit on my scalp for a few hours in the week and possibly longer in the weekends if I am not going anywhere. I think this will be fitting in nicely in my routine.

[renia22]

Not sure if I responded to this thread before or not, but I wanted to mention I've had great results with rosemary eo. I did try the recipe mentioned above that had good clinical results, but that increased shedding one me. Not sure if it was the carrier oil, or if one of the oils in the recipe made things worse. But a couple of drops of rosemary eo in about a tablespoon of pure aloe, dabbed gently on the scalp in the evening, and washed out the next morning, decreased my shedding dramatically, and didn't trigger any kind of additional shedding.

I have also tried clary sage in aloe, that doesn't seem to bother me either. Rosemary is my favorite, though. I use Mountain Rose Herbs brand pure aloe (refrigerated after opening) and rosemary essential oil. I mix a fresh batch every time. I used it nightly for over a year, and now I'm down to a couple of nights a week.

[Lize]

I am trying my oil mix on my scalp for the first time today. I found it a bit difficult to get the oil on my actual scalp and I had to use a lot of oil. I did a scalp massage at the same time but I feel like most of the oil ended up on my roots and not on my actual scalp. I did shed a bit while massaging but I guess that's normal when putting something slippery in your hair and I reckon I will lose less hair in the shower than usual. I was wondering if someone has any advice how to get the oil on your scalp. How to apply it?

[meteor]

I was wondering if someone has any advice how to get the oil on your scalp. How to apply it?

Applicator bottles (http://demandware.edgesuite.net/aabj_prd/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-SBS-SallyBeautySupply/default/dw0d557e98/images/large/SBS-292691.png) and pipettes (http://g01.a.alicdn.com/kf/HTB1t6FoLXXXXXcGXFXXq6xXFXXXN/Glass-Graduated-Dropper-Pipette-Transfer-Pipette-with-Bulb-Size-6-5x180mm-Vol-1ml-Pack-of-5.jpg) can be pretty helpful. :) Some transfer to roots/length is normal and practically impossible to avoid though.

[Lize]

Applicator bottles (http://demandware.edgesuite.net/aabj_prd/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-SBS-SallyBeautySupply/default/dw0d557e98/images/large/SBS-292691.png) and pipettes (http://g01.a.alicdn.com/kf/HTB1t6FoLXXXXXcGXFXXq6xXFXXXN/Glass-Graduated-Dropper-Pipette-Transfer-Pipette-with-Bulb-Size-6-5x180mm-Vol-1ml-Pack-of-5.jpg) can be pretty helpful. :) Some transfer to roots/length is normal and practically impossible to avoid though.

Thank you. :) Either of those should probably work better that just the fingers. I don't mind oil getting in my hair, I just want to get enough on the scalp for it to do it's job there. :)

[Lize]

Today I am trying my oil mix for the second time. I plan to do this before every wash if I have time to let it sit for a few hours. This time I parted my hair and put oil in the middle of the part using my fingertips. I kept parting it in different places until my scalp was covered. This was a better way of applying it than the random massaging it in that I did last time. When the scalp was covered I did a scalp massage. I didn't lose anywhere near as many hairs as last time. I guess that the hairs that were meant to fall soon fell last time because of the slip.

Last time I CO washed as usual and I think the conditioner got the oil out decently. Felt a bit waxy when it was still wet, but when it dried it was just wonderfully soft and felt hydrated and like it wasn't stripped. As I understand it conditioner is the best way to get oil out of your hair anyway.

I like doing this. I like the smell of the EOs and I like the idea that I am doing something extra for my hair besides my ordinary routine. I guess it will take some time to see if it helps my growth in any way, but it feels nice to do it regardless. My hair likes oil in general. :)

[Lize]

I went a week without applying any oil to my scalp since it's a bit hard for me to get it out. I doubt I will be able to do this before every wash, but I might do it in the weekends if I have nothing planned and feel like pampering my hair. Now I am at home with a cold and decided that I can use this time when I am inside anyway to have the oil mix on my scalp. This time I found an even better way to apply it. I parted my hair like last time but instead of my finger I used a cotton swab to apply the oil on my part. This way i used much less of the oil and got much less on the hair. I am gonna let this sit on my scalp for a day or two before I wash it out.

[Kat-Rinnè Naido]

I went a week without applying any oil to my scalp since it's a bit hard for me to get it out. I doubt I will be able to do this before every wash, but I might do it in the weekends if I have nothing planned and feel like pampering my hair. Now I am at home with a cold and decided that I can use this time when I am inside anyway to have the oil mix on my scalp. This time I found an even better way to apply it. I parted my hair like last time but instead of my finger I used a cotton swab to apply the oil on my part. This way i used much less of the oil and got much less on the hair. I am gonna let this sit on my scalp for a day or two before I wash it out.

Hi Lize if it makes it easier; you can try a medication syringe. That is what I use when I apply oil onto my scalp

[Lize]

Hi Lize if it makes it easier; you can try a medication syringe. That is what I use when I apply oil onto my scalp

That's also a good idea. I am not sure where to get those, but maybe they have in the pharmacy. I'll check. :)