Benefits of Tea Tree Oil for the Hair

What you’ll learn:

• What is Tea Tree oil and where does it come from?
• Tea Tree oil uses for hair and scalp
• How to properly use Tea Tree oil
• Which hair products contain tea tree oil 

Tea tree oil is an essential oil derived from the leaves  of Melaleuca Alternifolia, a bushy plant that is native to Australia. It has quickly become a popular ingredient in self-care products, especially those made for skin and hair. Its commercial use began after the medicinal properties of the oil were first reported in the 1920s. 

Tea tree oil is a great alternative to conventional treatments thanks to its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antifungal properties. 

“Of all of the properties claimed for Tea Tea oil, its antimicrobial activity has received the most attention.” ((Melaleuca alternifolia Oil: a Review of Antimicrobial and Other Medicinal Properties)

Its healing benefits are useful for treating and soothing some common cutaneous conditions and has been demonstrated to be helpful at treating infections. Thanks to its antiseptic properties, it is also helpful at combating oily skin.  

Uses for Tea Tree oil 

Soothing. 

The anti-inflammatory properties in tea tree oil help relieve discomfort from  itchiness in the skin and scalp, as it soothes the skin and treats infection.

Acne. 

Several reports claim that tea tree oil is a natural acne treating alternative. “Some studies found that topical application of at least 5% tea tree oil used for 4–8 weeks improved mild to moderate acne vulgaris as well as or better than 5% benzoyl peroxide, 2% topical erythromycin, or placebo.” (Sciencedirect.com)  

Seborrheic Dermatitis.

The antifungal properties of tea tree oil help treat scalp conditions such as Seborrheic Dermatitis, caused by a fungus called Malassezia. According to a study published in 2002 by The Journal of American Academy of Dermatology, tea tree oil significantly reduces microbial growth.

Read: 7 Common Causes for Scalp Itchiness

Hair Growth.

Tea tree oil can naturally reduce hair loss and promote hair growth as it moisturizes the hair and keeps the scalp free of negative bacteria. It removes dead skin cells that cause clogged hair follicles which prevent hair growth. Using products that contain tea tree oil helps keep clear pores and hair follicles and promote healthy growth for the strands. 

How to Properly Use Tea Tree Oil

Start by testing the essential oil on a small area of your skin before applying it in larger quantities. Tea tree oil is safe for most people, but it can potentially cause skin irritation or allergies. Dilute it by combining 2 drops of natural tea tree oil with one spoonful of a carrier oil such as olive or coconut oil. You can even mix it with some raw honey to create a natural, hydrating mask for the scalp. Rub it into your skin or scalp by gently massaging. You can leave it for up to 10 minutes and then rinse it off with warm water.

Always store your essential oils in dark, cool, dry conditions and inside a dark container that is properly sealed. 

Hair Products that Contain Tea Tree Oil 

The Hair Routine has tea tree oil as one of the essential ingredients in the Balancing Bundle. Both the shampoo and the conditioner include tea tree oil to promote hair growth and overall hair and scalp health.