Why & How To Use Tea Tree Oil On Relaxed Hair

Tea tree oil is made from the leaves of the Tea Tree which is a plant native to Australia and has been around for years, centuries even. The name came from a British explorer who saw the leaves from the tree being brewed by Australians for tea. He did the same and gave it to his sailors to treat scurvy.

Tea tree is known for its antiseptic and antifungal abilities. In fact, I remember my mom using it to treat burns and scrapes I'd get as a kid. This is one of the reasons it's a good essential oil to incorporate into a regimen for relaxed hair.

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The benefits of tea tree oil

One of the interesting things about tea tree oil is the benefits you get from using it are more for the scalp than the actual hair strand

• Helps reduce dandruff
• Unclogs hair follicles to aid hair growth and dry scalp
• Treat burns from chemicals or heat styling tools
• Destroys head lice

Related post: Tips for Combating a Dry Flaky Scalp

How to use tea tree oil

There are three key ways you can use tea tree oil in your hair regimen

1. A hot oil treatment

Mix a few drops with a warm carrier oil such as olive oil and then massage the mixture onto your scalp and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing.

2. A shampoo or conditioner mix

When cleansing your hair mix a few drops into your shampoo when it's in your hand and then massage it into your scalp. You can also mix a few drops into your deep conditioner.

3. Scalp massage

Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with another oil like almond or jojoba oil and massage it onto your scalp. Leave it on for a few minutes and then rinse it out.

 

Because of the high concentration you only need to use a few drops. A great way to ensure you're only using a few drops is to buy a bottle with a dropper or use a dropper when adding the oil to your shampoo or oil mix. It's also important to note that the high concentration can cause tea tree oil to irritate the skin. If that happens you should discontinue use immediately.

Exposure to air, moisture, heat, and light can negatively impact the potency and quality of tea tree oil. It should be kept in a dark, airtight bottle and stored in a cool, dry, and dark place.

Resources: http://www.stylecraze.com/articles/amazing-benefits-of-tea-tree-oil-for-skin-hair-and-health/, http://articles.mercola.com/herbal-oils/tea-tree-oil.aspx