A bad hair day is a downer yet when hair is at its best, the “crowning glory” lives up to its name.
Countless products promise miraculous transformations (and some even claim to be all-natural when really, they use a subtle mix of chemicals here and there) but why look further than natural remedies.
In this article, we explore the many uses and benefits of mānuka oil for hair care: combating hair loss, promoting hair growth, and maintaining overall hair health.
The Origins of Mānuka Oil
Before we explore the benefits of mānuka oil, let’s look at the long and distinguished history of the humble mānuka plant.
Mānuka is unique to New Zealand, where the native Maori people have revered the healing powers of its leaves and bark for centuries. Science today reveals its potent antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties and is the reason why mānuka oil is making its way into the beauty industry for skin care.
Mānuka oil is versatile in its ability to alleviate a variety of skin conditions across all parts of the body from face to foot, hair to lip and even oral care.
The power of mānuka oil lies in its rich bioactive compounds including:
- Leptospermone – is a key component that helps fight scalp infections and dandruff, promoting a healthier scalp due to its antimicrobial properties.
- Beta-Triketones – compounds with powerful antimicrobial properties work on helping such scalp issues as itching and flakiness.
- Flavonoids – these antioxidants protect hair follicles from free radical damage helping with healthy and long-lasting hair.
7 Mānuka Oil Benefits for Hair
1. It keeps hair hydrated.
Dry, fragile hair is often caused by excessive styling, heat tools, or changes in oil production as we age. Mānuka oil can help by locking in moisture and preventing water loss from hair strands. Additionally, it smooths the outer layer of hair, making it appear smooth, shiny and healthy.
2. It strengthens hair follicles.
Hair is mostly made of protein and amino acids. Damage from the environment and excessive processing can make hair weak and prone to breaking. Mānuka oil has lots of proteins that strengthen hair follicles, nourish healthier hair, and prevent hair loss.
3. It helps prevent dandruff.
Many factors can cause dandruff including the metabolism and hormone levels, stress, the efficiency of the immune system and even seasons to an extent. Generally, inflamed, itchy scalps and fungus-infected scalps often cause dandruff—a very common condition that affects about half of all people. The anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties of mānuka oil make it a great remedy for treating dandruff and prevent it from coming back. It helps unclog scalp pores and removes irritating chemical residues left behind by shampoos, conditioners, and other hair products.
4. It improves scalp health.
A healthy scalp is not flakey or oily. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial properties, mānuka oil soothes irritation, reduces inflammation, and removes flakes for a healthier scalp.
5. It promotes optimal hair growth.
Mānuka oil actively promotes new hair growth by reducing hair breakage and damage. It stimulates new cell production in hair follicles and clears away clogged pores (which prevents hair growth). Another good-to-know tip info that mānuka oil helps revive dormant follicles, resulting in fuller, thicker hair.
6. It makes hair shiny.
Mānuka oil has natural emollients that smooth down follicles and revitalize dull, lacklustre hair. The results are beautiful, glossy locks that reflect light better, adding lustre and shine to the hair.
Is Mānuka Oil Good for Hair Loss?
Yes. Mānuka oil improves blood flow to the hair follicles and the scalp aiding healthy hair.
Is Mānuka Oil Good for Hair Growth?
Yes. Healthy hair starts at the follicles. Mānuka oil’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can help maintain the health of hair follicles, strengthen hair roots, and reduce the risk of hair thinning and breakage.
Is Mānuka Oil Good for Hair Dandruff?
Yes. Mānuka oil is a potent remedy with antibacterial properties that have proven to be effective in dandruff control.
How to Use Mānuka Oil for Hair Care
- Hair mask. Create a hair mask by mixing a few drops of mānuka oil and with a carrier oil such as coconut, sweet almond or jojoba oil. Apply it to the scalp, massage it thoroughly, and leave it on for at least 30 minutes before washing the hair.
- Overnight leave on hair mask. Mix mānuka oil with a carrier oil. Massage it through the hair and into the scalp for a good 10 minutes. Cover hair with a shower cap, sleep in, and wash it out when you wake up the next morning.
- Hydration treatment. Add a few drops of mānuka oil with a regular shampoo (or conditioner) once a week. You can also throw in a go-to carrier oil, but this one’s optional. Apply it to the scalp, gently massage it for a few minutes, and leave it on for about 5-10 minutes. Wash hair gently, focusing on the scalp to prevent flakes and add moisture.