Lavender oil smells amazing, and it's become a favorite in hair care. You've probably seen it recommended for everything from shine to hair growth.
I love it as part of a scalp routine, but I want to be clear about what it can and can't do, because a lot of what's out there overpromises. Here's what lavender oil is, what the research actually says, how to use it safely, and what to mix it with.
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What Is Lavender Oil?
Lavender oil is distilled from the flowers of the lavender plant. It's a concentrated essential oil with that calming scent so many of us love.
You'll find it in aromatherapy, perfumes, massage oils, and plenty of skincare and hair care products.
Lavender Oil For Hair: What We Know
Here's where lavender oil really stands for your hair.
Hair growth: early research. In a study in mice, applying lavender oil daily for four weeks was linked to more hair follicles and more hair growth. It's interesting, but it was in mice, and we don't have good research in people yet. So I wouldn't call lavender oil a hair growth treatment.
A relaxing scalp massage. Massaging diluted lavender oil into your scalp is a lovely, calming ritual, and a scalp massage is a nice way to care for your scalp in general.
Antimicrobial properties. Lavender oil has been studied for its antimicrobial properties, which is part of why it's so popular for an itchy scalp. If you're dealing with real dandruff or a scalp infection, though, see a dermatologist.
A calming scent. Lavender is known for its relaxing aroma. Stress can contribute to shedding, and anything that helps you unwind is a good thing.
Shine. Like many oils, a little diluted lavender oil can leave hair looking shinier and feeling softer.
Lavender oil is generally well tolerated by all hair types, as long as you dilute it and patch test first.
How To Use Lavender Oil For Hair
First rule: always dilute it. Lavender is an essential oil, and it's too concentrated to put on your skin straight. Mix a few drops into a carrier oil, and patch test on your inner arm 24 hours before using it on your scalp.
Here are the easiest ways to add it to your hair care routine:
As a scalp massage. Mix a few drops of lavender oil into a tablespoon or two of carrier oil, like jojoba, argan or coconut. Section your hair, then massage the mix into your scalp in small circles for a couple of minutes per section. Work a little through your lengths, put your hair up, and leave it for about 30 minutes before washing it out with a gentle shampoo.
In your hair serum. A drop of lavender oil in your favorite hair serum gives it a soothing scent.
In your shampoo or conditioner. Add a drop or two to your shampoo or conditioner right before you use it. It's an easy way to enjoy the scent without changing your routine.
Buy products that already have it. If DIY isn't your thing, look for lavender essential oil or lavender hydrolate on the ingredient list.
In a hair mask. Mix a few drops into coconut or almond oil for a simple weekly treatment, or add it to a deep conditioning hair mask. Leave it on for about 30 minutes, then rinse.
Is it good for low porosity hair? It can be. Diluted in a lightweight carrier like jojoba or argan, it won't weigh low porosity hair down.
Combining Lavender Oil With Other Essential Oils
Lavender plays well with other essential oils. Just remember: every essential oil needs to be diluted, not just lavender.
Lavender and Tea Tree Oil For Hair
Tea tree oil is known for its antimicrobial properties, which is why people often pair it with lavender for an itchy scalp. Tea tree can be irritating, so use just a drop or two.
Lavender and Rosemary Oil For Hair
Rosemary oil is another popular partner. Together they smell great and leave hair with a nice shine.
Can you mix lavender and rosemary oil for hair growth?
You can mix them, and plenty of people do. Rosemary has one small study in people, and lavender's research is still in animals, so I'd enjoy them as part of a scalp routine rather than counting on them for growth. You can also combine lavender with argan, jojoba or olive oil.
Our Goldie Locks® Hair Supplements include rosemary extract and lavender powder as part of their Essential Oil Blend, and our customers love them as part of their daily routine.
Lavender Oil & Carrier Oils
Lavender needs a carrier oil anyway, so you might as well pick one that suits your hair:
Coconut Oil and Lavender For Hair
Coconut oil is a well-loved oil for hair, known for its moisturizing feel. Mixed with lavender, it makes a hydrating, soothing treat for dry hair.
Lavender and Argan Oil For Hair
Argan oil is famous for smoothing frizz and adding shine. With lavender, it leaves hair glossy and tamed.
Lavender and Jojoba Oil For Hair
Jojoba is similar to the natural oil your scalp makes, which is why it's such an easy, lightweight carrier.
Olive Oil and Lavender For Hair
Olive oil is rich and moisturizing. Mixed with lavender, it makes a good pre-wash treatment for very dry hair.
FAQs About Using Lavender Oil for Hair
Is Lavender Oil Safe For Hair?
Generally, yes, as long as you dilute it with a carrier oil and patch test first. Keep it away from your eyes, and if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before using essential oils.
Is Lavender Good For Thinning Hair?
Research on lavender oil and hair is still limited and mostly in animals. If you're dealing with thinning hair or hair loss, a dermatologist is the best person to talk to.
Is It OK To Put Lavender Oil In Your Hair?
Yes, as long as it's diluted. Undiluted essential oils can irritate your scalp.
How Long Should I Leave Lavender Oil In My Hair?
About 30 minutes to an hour for a pre-wash treatment. Some people leave it in overnight. If your scalp feels irritated, rinse it out.
How Often Should You Put Lavender Oil In Your Hair?
Once or twice a week is plenty for most people.
Does Lavender Essential Oil Regrow Hair?
There's some early research in mice, but more comprehensive studies in people are needed. So for now, there's no proof it regrows hair.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Lavender Hair Oil?
Some people get an allergic reaction or scalp irritation, especially if it isn't diluted. Always patch test first.
Final Thoughts
Lavender oil is a lovely addition to a scalp routine. It smells calming, it feels nice in a massage, and a little leaves hair looking shiny. It's just not a hair growth treatment, at least not based on what we know today.
Dilute it, patch test, and enjoy it for what it is. If you'd also like a hair supplement, our customers love pairing a little lavender oil in their routine with Goldie Locks® Hair Supplements, which include lavender powder and rosemary extract. And if you're dealing with hair loss, start with a dermatologist.