Geranium oil for hair: 5 ways to use it

Are you tired of dull, lifeless hair? Geranium oil might be a secret element your hair needs. This oil comes from geranium flowers, which is native to South Africa. It is known for its antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antiseptic characteristics, which may help treat a variety of health issues. This fragrant essential oil is believed to work wonders for hair problems. It has recently gained popularity as a home remedy for hair loss due to its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Know the benefits of geranium oil for hair and how to incorporate it into your hair care routine.

What is geranium oil?

Geranium oil is scientifically known as pelargonium graveolens. It is commonly used as a primary ingredient in the production of perfumes, cosmetics, and other products. The essential oil is also used in aromatherapy treatment for many hair and skin problems, as found in a study published in the Materials Today Proceeding Journal.

Geranium essential oil is sometimes called ‘poor man’s rose oil’. It is also known as an affordable substitute for rose essential oil because of its many cosmetic benefits. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory characteristics that are effective in treating a variety of hair problems, including hair loss, itchy scalp, and smelly scalp.

Benefits of geranium oil for hair

Here are some reasons to make geranium oil a staple in your hair care routine:

1. Combats dandruff

Dandruff is a common problem that affects almost every one at some point in their lives. The constant dry flakes with persistent itching can be irritating. “However, the antifungal properties in geranium oil can help regulate fungal growth on the scalp and eliminate dandruff by balancing the pH of the scalp. Additionally, it reduces flaking, inflammation, and itching, promoting a healthy scalp environment,” says skin expert Dr Blossom Kochhar.

2. Reduces hair fall

If you are experiencing increased hair fall, incorporating geranium can be helpful. The high concentrations of antioxidants and flavonoids combat free radicals responsible for hair loss. Plus, with excellent antibacterial properties, it prevents all fungal and bacterial growth that harm the scalp and cause hair loss, according to a study published in the Plants Journal.

3. Regulates oil production

Geranium oil has astringent properties, as found in a study published in the Plants Journal. This helps to regulate sebum production in the scalp. A regulated pH balance promotes optimal hair growth. This oil has soothing properties that moisturises the scalp and helps you get rid of dry hair. On the other hand, applying geranium oil reduces sebum production in case of oily hair.

4. Soothes itchy and irritated scalp

Geranium oil can help soothe an itchy and irritated scalp. “Its anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe the scalp and reduce redness and pain. Plus, geranium oil has antibacterial and antiseptic properties that prevent the formation of harmful bacteria that can lead to scalp infections,” says the expert. These combined actions make it a highly effective remedy for a variety of scalp issues.

5. Makes hair stronger

Think of your hair like a building. Proteins are the bricks that make it strong. “Geranium oil has a high concentration of amino acids, which are protein-building blocks. When these amino acids combine, they make your hair stronger. So, utilising geranium oil can help your hair become less prone to breakage,” explains the expert.

Also Read: Try these 10 essential oils for hair growth to make your mane thick and long

How to use geranium oil for hair?

Here is a complete guide on how to use geranium oil in your hair care routine for strong hair strands, as explained by the expert.

1. Geranium oil scalp massage

Ingredients:

• 5 drops of geranium oil
• 2 tablespoons of coconut oil

Method:

• Mix 5 drops of geranium oil and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil.
• Massage into the scalp for 10-15 minutes.
• Leave it on for at least 30 minutes before washing with a mild shampoo.

2. Hair mask

Ingredients:

• 3 drops of geranium oil
• 2 drops of rosemary oil
• 2 tablespoons of yoghurt
• 1 tablespoon of honey

Method:

• Add 3 drops of geranium oil, 2 drops of rosemary oil, 2 tablespoons of yoghurt and 1 tablespoon of honey in a bowl.
• Mix and apply it to damp hair.
• Leave it on for 20 minutes before washing.

3. Argan oil conditioner

Ingredients:

• 5 drops of geranium oil
• 2 tablespoons of argan oil
• 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel

Method:

• Mix 5 drops of geranium oil, 2 tablespoons of argan oil, and 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel.
• Apply to the hair ends and leave it on for 20 minutes before washing.

4. Geranium oil and green tea rinse

Ingredients:

• 5 drops of geranium oil
• 1 cup of brewed green tea
• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar

Method:

• Mix 5 drops of geranium oil, 1 cup of brewed green tea, and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a bowl.
• Combine all ingredients and use as a final rinse after shampooing.

This brings a lovely shine to your hair and strengthens hair strands.

5. Lavender and geranium hair spray

Ingredients:

• 3 drops of geranium oil
• 3 drops of lavender essential oil
• 1 cup of distilled water
• 1 tablespoon of witch hazel

Method:

• Mix 3 drops of geranium oil, 3 drops of lavender essential oil, 1 cup of distilled water and 1 tablespoon of witch hazel.
• Mix it well and pour it into a spray bottle.
• Shake well and spritz onto the scalp and hair daily for added shine and strength.

Are there any side effects of geranium oil?

While geranium oil is considered safe for hair, geranium oil can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation in some cases. It is recommended to take a patch test before using it and always consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating geranium oil into your beauty regimen. Plus, it is a photosensitive oil, hence it is not advisable to use geranium oil before stepping out in the sun.