Eucalyptus Oil for Hair How to Use it and Side Effects

Specialty: Dermatologist ,Hair, Skin, and Nail Disorders

Dr. Shruti Chavan is a consulting dermatologist at Dr.Sheth's Skin and Hair Clinic since 6 years. She is a co-committee member of CDSI (Cosmetic dermatologist Society of India). She is highly skilled in non-surgical facial skin rejuvenation... more

Anjali specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. Her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be h... more

  • How Is Eucalyptus Oil Good For Hair
  • How To Use Eucalyptus Oil For Hair Growth
  • Side Effects Of Eucalyptus Oil For Hair
  • How To Dilute Eucalyptus Oil For Hair

How Is Eucalyptus Oil Good For Hair

We have briefly discussed how eucalyptus oil can be good for your hair.

These are the various ways eucalyptus oil may help promote hair health. The following section highlights the procedure to use the oil to achieve the same.

How To Use Eucalyptus Oil For Hair Growth

You Will Need

  • Eucalyptus oil: 2 to 4 drops
  • Coconut oil 2 tablespoons

Procedure

  1. Warm the coconut oil a little. Ensure it is not hot.
  2. Mix the warm coconut oil with the eucalyptus oil.
  3. Apply the mixture to your hair and scalp.
  4. Massage it into the scalp with your fingers for about 5 to 10 minutes.
  5. Use a comb to spread the oil evenly over the scalp. The motion of the comb on the scalp also has a massaging effect.
  6. Leave the oil blend on your hair for 45 minutes to an hour.
  7. Wash it with warm water and shampoo.

Prep Time

2 minutes

Processing Time

45 minutes to an hour

How Often

Once a week until hair improvement is noticed. You can then use it once every two weeks.

Why It Works

Coconut oil can help stimulate hair growth and improve hair texture while also protecting the hair from damage and protein loss (11). It also prevents dandruff and lice (12). Eucalyptus oil also can stimulate hair growth and improve overall scalp health (10). A mixture of these two oils may enhance long-term hair health.

We saw how to use eucalyptus oil for boosting hair health. But the oil may also cause certain adverse effects. It is better to be aware of them before you start using the oil.

Side Effects Of Eucalyptus Oil For Hair

Eucalyptus oil may cause poisoning and show symptoms like vomiting, CNS depression, epigastric pain, nausea, contact dermatitis, hypotension, and tachycardia (13). This oil cannot be used in its concentrated form. It has to be diluted for correct usage. Inhaling eucalyptus oil may lead to seizures. It may also cause allergic reactions and skin inflammation symptoms like redness, burning sensation, bumps, and itching.

Perform a patch test before using the oil. Dilute a drop of eucalyptus oil with a teaspoon of coconut oil. Apply the mixture to a part of the forearm or behind the neck. Check for any redness, swelling, or other reactions.

You can also dilute eucalyptus oil in other ways before using it on your hair.

How To Dilute Eucalyptus Oil For Hair

Eucalyptus oil cannot be used directly on the hair and scalp. It needs to be diluted with a base/carrier oil. You may also use jojoba oil, castor oil, almond oil, argan oil, or olive oil. Most of these oils can penetrate the hair fibers and enhance the absorption and effectiveness of eucalyptus oil.

You may also add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to your conditioner or shampoo. Such a combination may also help treat dandruff.

Conclusion

Eucalyptus oil can help improve scalp health and keep dandruff at bay. You may incorporate it into your regular hair care regimen to nourish and protect your hair. However, ensure you perform a patch test prior. Consult a doctor if you experience any adverse symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I leave eucalyptus oil on my hair overnight?

No, it is better to dilute eucalyptus oil with a carrier oil and leave it on the scalp and hair for 2-3 hours to avoid adverse effects.

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