Healthy and full hair are often attained through careful planning of your care regime. Oils play a huge role in the nourishment and development of your hair. The two oils that have been widely accepted as part of a hair-friendly regime are rosemary oil and sesame oil. While both have been recognized for their benefits to hair health, they differ in their characteristics. We take a closer look at these two oils, comparing their benefits, shortcomings, and some tips on how to use them to best help you in deciding which of the two might be more beneficial for your hair to aid its growth.
Benefits of Rosemary Oil for hair growth
Rosemary oil is celebrated for its medicinal properties, especially when used in hair care. Being made from the leaves of the rosemary plant, this essential oil consists of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds believed to stimulate the scalp and encourage hair growth.
It boosts circulation, especially if massaged to the scalp. Improved circulation would naturally mean that the hair follicle receives more nutrients to increase growth faster and stronger.
DHT blocker: Scientists have found that rosemary oil can act as a DHT blocker, since it blocks dihydrotestosterone, a hormone responsible for the thinning of hair, causing baldness in those who suffer from androgenic alopecia.
It reduces scalp irritation and dandruff as it contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that do not allow any issues related to the scalp like dandruff, dryness, and irritation, thus allowing a healthy scalp environment for hair growth.
Strengthening hair shaft: Oiling frequently will make hair stronger because such oils reduce brittleness and split ends. Antioxidants in the oil help protect the hair from degradation caused by harmful external factors.
Benefits of Sesame Oil for hair growth
This oil from sesame seed is among the high recommendations in Ayurveda for nutrition and healing capacities. Being full of vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids, it is being used in multiple areas for hair health purposes.
Nutrient-rich: Sesame oil is rich in Vitamin E, B complex, and essential minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus. All these elements help in hair strength and health.
Moisturizes and protects: It is known for possessing high percentages of fatty acids; it gives deep moisturizing to the hair as well as the scalp, thus aiding it in supporting elasticity and preventing breakage.
Acts as a natural UV protector: Sesame oil is said to act as a natural sunscreen for your hair. It helps protect the hair from damaging UV rays that may eventually result in dryness and breakage.
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Promotes healthy scalp: Having high levels of antifungal and antibacterial, sesame oil may treat scalp infections and thus build up a better scalp health condition, which supports hair growth.
Weaknesses of Rosemary and Sesame Oils
Both have possible weaknesses so keep in mind the following about each oil.
Rosemary oil : This is an essential oil, and therefore quite concentrated. Alone undiluted on sensitive skin, it may irritate, producing minor burning or redness, and is often used blended with a carrier, such as coconut or jojoba oil, before applying to the skin.
Sesame oil: Though generally safe for most skin types, the dense, slightly greasy nature of sesame oil may not be suitable for everyone, especially those oily scalp individuals. The thick consistency tends to weigh down fine hair and may make it appear flat or greasy if not used sparingly.
How to use Rosemary Oil and Sesame Oil for hair growth
Using Rosemary Oil
Dilution: Mix 3-4 drops of rosemary oil with a carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba oil prior to application.
Scalp Massage: Apply to scalp massaging softly for about 5-10 minutes for stimulation of circulation
Rinse: leave to soak for at least 30 minutes up to overnight before shampooing gently. For maximum effect, apply 1-2 times a week.
Using Sesame Oil
Warm oil treatment: Warm a little sesame oil, apply it on your scalp and massage.
Leave-In Option: You can keep the oil overnight or for at least one hour before you wash it with shampoo.
Usage: If you have dry hair, you can apply sesame oil once in 3-1 weeks while for oily hair individuals it will be less frequent.
Which oil is better for hair growth?
Rosemary Oil is better suited if there are cases of hair thinning or scalp issues such as dandruff and irritation. It will really stimulate blood flow and has been proven to block DHT, which is a good thing if you’re afflicted with androgenic baldness. However, it should be applied sparingly and blended with a carrier oil.
Sesame Oil is ideal for anyone seeking an intensive emollient product meant to help protect hair. This nutritionally rich profile will increase elasticity in hair and protect it from the potential of breakage. It’s beneficial for dry or damaged hair types. The sesames oil, unlike other oils, does tend to irritation very less and is safe for usage as a regular conditioner without the requirement of its dilution.
Final verdict
These have their unique benefits for hair growth, and the one for use will depend on your type of hair and requirements. If you require scalp stimulation with thinning prevention, rosemary oil might become something added to your hair care routine, especially considering its effectiveness. For those suffering from dry or damaged hair that needs moisture and protection, sesame oil is a must-have.
Source: times of india
