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Natural Sense Hair Oils – Combining The Elements to Support Hair Growth
Black and African women spend four times more on hair care than white women, with 21 percent of them allocating more than 25 percent of their monthly budget to hair care. The Black Pound Report 2022 highlights that multi-ethnic consumers have £4.5 billion in annual disposable income, with a significant portion spent on hair and beauty.
With this massive expenditure on hair care products, we have seen an increase in hair and scalp problems in Black people.
Hair and scalp health, as well as hair loss, are topics of concern for individuals with Black and African hair types. These hair types often face specific challenges and require tailored care. Some common hair and scalp issues that affect black women include:
Hair Breakage and Scalp Itching: Black hair types frequently experience hair breakage, which can be attributed to factors such as excessive heat styling, harsh chemicals, and tight hairstyles. Scalp itching is also common and can be caused by dryness, sensitivity, or product build-up.
Excessive Dandruff and Flaking: Individuals with Black hair types may also encounter issues like excessive dandruff and flaking. These conditions can be influenced by a variety of factors, including dryness, product residue, or underlying scalp conditions.
Traction Alopecia: Traction alopecia is a type of hair loss prevalent among Black women. It is caused by prolonged tension on the hair follicles due to tight hairstyles like braids, weaves, and ponytails. The wearing of wigs for extended periods also causes constant pulling, tugging, and pressure on the hair follicles. Traction alopecia poses a higher risk for black women who have previously relaxed their hair using chemical treatments. This condition can lead to permanent hair loss if not addressed promptly.
Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA): CCCA is another form of hair loss that primarily affects Black women. It is characterised by scarring and inflammation of the hair follicles, often starting at the central scalp and spreading outward. The exact cause of CCCA is not fully understood, but it may be influenced by genetic, environmental, and styling factors.
Androgenetic Alopecia: Black women may also experience androgenetic alopecia, a common form of hair loss that affects both men and women of various ethnicities. It is characterised by gradual thinning of the hair, primarily in a pattern similar to male pattern baldness.
Hair Dying
Excessive hair dying can have an impact on the health of the scalp and potential hair loss in Black hair types. While hair dye is not directly linked to hair loss, it can cause allergic reactions or scalp irritation in some individuals. The harsh chemicals present in dyes, such as ammonia and peroxide, can damage the hair shaft and affect the overall health of the scalp.
If a person is suffering from traction alopecia, which can be caused by heat, chemicals, and tight hairstyles that pull at the hair. Excessive use of hair dyes, combined with these factors, may further contribute to hair loss and damage.
It is important to note that personal use of hair dyes and hair perms can threaten the health of the hair shaft and scalp. Modifications in genetic variation have also been associated with the use of hair dyes and hair perms.
Natural Dyes
There is no conclusive evidence to suggest that hair dyes made from natural plant extracts specifically cause hair loss in Black people. However, it is important to note that some hair dyes, regardless of the ingredients used, can potentially contribute to hair damage and breakage if used improperly or excessively. It is always recommended to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and conduct a patch test before applying any hair dye to check for potential allergic reactions.
While natural plant-based hair dyes are generally perceived as safe, it is still possible for individuals to have allergic reactions to certain ingredients. These reactions can vary from mild allergies to more severe symptoms. It is always advisable to consult with a dermatologist or hair care professional before using any hair dye product, especially if you have a history of allergies or sensitivities.
To minimise the potential negative effects of hair dyeing, it is advisable to follow proper hair care practices. This includes avoiding excessive combing, rubbing, and manipulation of the hair, as well as using dyes sparingly and opting for gentler and more natural alternatives when possible.
Known for its moisturising properties, castor oil can help nourish the hair and scalp. It may also help improve blood circulation in the scalp, which could potentially promote hair growth. However, using too much castor oil or not properly rinsing it out can lead to a greasy residue.
Jojoba oil closely resembles our natural skin oils and can help balance oil production on the scalp. It is often used to moisturise and condition the hair, promoting a healthier scalp environment. Jojoba oil can also help reduce dryness and flakiness.
Rosemary oil is believed to stimulate hair follicles, potentially promoting hair growth. It has also been used to address scalp conditions like dandruff. However, some individuals may be sensitive to rosemary oil, so caution should be exercised.
Coconut oil is widely recognised for its moisturising properties and ability to penetrate the hair shaft. It can help prevent protein loss in the hair and reduce damage caused by styling or environmental factors. However, coconut oil can be heavy and may cause buildup on the scalp if not properly rinsed out.
Peppermint oil has a cooling sensation and can help stimulate blood flow to the scalp. It may provide a tingling sensation and promote a refreshed feeling on the scalp. However, it is potent and should be diluted before use, as it can cause skin irritation for some individuals.
CBD oil is derived from hemp plants and contains various beneficial compounds. While limited research specifically focuses on CBD oil’s effects on hair and scalp health, it is known for its potential anti-inflammatory and moisturising properties.
It is crucial to consider individual sensitivities, allergies, and personal preferences when using any combination of oils on the hair and scalp. Conduct a patch test before applying the mixture to the entire scalp and hair, and if any adverse reactions occur, discontinue use.
Native Treatments offers a combination of natural oils that can be used as a treatment and aid to hair growth. The use of castor oil, jojoba oil, rosemary oil, coconut oil, peppermint oil, and CBD oil on the scalp can provide various benefits for hair and scalp health. However, individual reactions and results may vary.
Castor oil moisturises the hair and scalp while potentially improving blood circulation for hair growth. Jojoba oil helps balance oil production and reduces dryness and flakiness. Rosemary oil stimulates hair follicles and addresses scalp conditions. Coconut oil moisturises and protects the hair shaft but can cause buildup if not rinsed properly. Peppermint oil stimulates blood flow with a cooling sensation but should be diluted to avoid skin irritation. CBD oil, although limited research exists, may possess anti-inflammatory and moisturising properties.
When using these oils, it’s important to consider individual sensitivities, allergies, and preferences. Patch testing is recommended before applying the mixture to the entire scalp and hair, and discontinuing use if adverse reactions occur. Consulting with professionals like dermatologists or trichologists can provide personalised advice based on specific hair characteristics and styling preferences.
To promote healthy hair and scalp, Native Treatments’ natural oil combination shows promise, but each individual should approach its use with caution and tailor it to their unique needs.
It is advisable to consult with a dermatologist or trichologist for personalised advice and guidance on maintaining healthy hair and scalp while considering individual hair characteristics and styling preferences.
Anthony Peltier 2023
Shop for: Natural Sense Hair Oils at https://native-treatments.com/product/natural-sense-hair-oil/
References:
PMC: African American Women, Hair Care, and Health Barriers
Hopkins Medicine: Hair Loss in Black Women: Tips from an Expert
Reuters: Black women’s hair loss tied to braiding, weaving
PMC: Black Women’s Hair: The Main Scalp Dermatoses and Aesthetic
