Neem tree is considered sacred in India, and is widely used in Ayurveda and described as ‘sarva roga nivarini’ which means the tree that has the ability to cure all ailments. Every part of the tree is used for some or the other purpose — the twigs are used to brush teeth, flowers for aromatherapy, leaves are crushed and used for skin problems or even for consumption. The seeds and flowers however, are used to extract the potent and powerful neem oil. The antibacterial, antifungal and antimicrobial properties in this oil make it an excellent ingredient for treating several skin and hair problems. Using neem oil for the hair and skin is not a new concept. In India, women have been following this for centuries now and have addressed several common issues with its help.
If you are looking for a natural and safe alternative to put an end to your hair problems, we will tell you how to use this potent ingredient to do just that. In this article, you will learn the benefits of using neem oil for the hair, along with how to use it for your best hair yet. So, are you ready to find out? Scroll down!
- Benefits of using neem oil for hair
- 1. Neem oil cures dandruff
- 2. Neem oil treats lice
- 3. Neem oil prevents hair thinning
- 4. Neem oil prevents premature greying
- 5. Neem oil promotes hair growth
- 6. Neem oil conditions dry hair
- 7. Neem oil treats scalp infections
- How to apply neem oil to hair?
- FAQs about neem oil for hair
Benefits of using neem oil for hair
Packed with antioxidants, neem oil is the answer to all your hair problems. Replacing your regular oil with neem oil or mixing the two can be quite beneficial for your hair and scalp. Let’s take a look at all the problems this oil can solve.
1. Neem oil cures dandruff
The causes of dandruff are many. It could be due to bad hair care habits or the reaction of a product that does not suit your hair type. Whatever be the reason, what we know is dandruff is an embarrassing hair problem and occurs due to the presence of fungi candida and malassezia on the scalp. Since neem has antifungal properties, it effectively helps get rid of dandruff-causing fungi. Other problems associated with dandruff such as itchy and irritated scalp can also be treated by using neem oil on the hair.
Pro tip: Those with dandruff-prone scalp should regularly use neem oil to keep the problem at bay as well as maintain the pH balance of the scalp.
2. Neem oil treats lice
Lice is common among young girls and at times, adults too. It can be quite itchy, not to mention, embarrassing. Lice can multiply at quite a fast rate, therefore it is important to address the problem quickly to prevent it from becoming a major problem later. Neem oil contains an insecticidal agent that kills lice as well as its eggs, thereby stopping its reproduction. The pungent smell of the oil repels lice and eventually eliminates them completely from the hair and scalp.
Pro tip: Apply neem oil all over your scalp and let it stay overnight. Next morning, comb the hair to remove all the dead lice from your hair.
3. Neem oil prevents hair thinning
Hair thinning and balding giving you sleepless nights? Stress, poor eating habits, overuse of hair styling products and tools can all lead to hair thinning. Using neem oil for the hair can help with this problem. Neem oil is rich in fatty acids, which helps the scalp in numerous ways. Applying this oil on the scalp regularly strengthens hair follicles and promotes hair growth. What's more, neem oil prevents excess sebum production, which is the reason for hair thinning and stagnant hair growth.
Pro tip: Massage the oil into your scalp at night before going to sleep and wash off in the morning for best results.
4. Neem oil prevents premature greying
Premature hair greying can be quite worrisome, after all, no one likes looking older than their age. While chemical dyes can offer temporary relief, if you are looking for a safe and natural alternative to prevent greying of the hair, we recommend neem oil for your hair. However, you should know that it will only prevent more hair from turning grey. The hair that’s already turned grey due to ageing won’t suddenly turn black again.
Pro tip: Warm the neem oil for a bit in the microwave before applying to the scalp, this ensures easy penetration into the follicles.
5. Neem oil promotes hair growth
Did you know neem oil can also promote hair growth? The regenerative properties in neem oil stimulate hair follicles, thereby encouraging hair growth. It also increases blood circulation in the scalp, which in turn prevents excessive hair fall and thinning caused by factors like pollution, stress and medication. Since it also corrects scalp infections due to its anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties, it allows hair to return to its natural growth process.
Pro tip: In order to ensure the follicles are properly stimulated, apply a little pressure using your fingertips while applying the oil to the scalp. This will improve blood circulation and relax your mind.
6. Neem oil conditions dry hair
One of the easiest and natural ways to condition dry, damaged and lifeless hair is with a good old champi. No matter which oil you prefer to use, it will definitely make your hair soft and nourished. However, using neem oil will not only condition and repair your damaged tresses but will also offer all the other benefits mentioned above. If you are looking for an oil that does more than just condition, neem oil is for you.
Pro tip: To ensure the oil seeps in well and conditions every strand of hair, after applying the oil, wrap your hair in a towel soaked in hot water. Alternatively, you can also pass steam through your tresses.
7. Neem oil treats scalp infections
The strong healing properties of neem oil make it an excellent ingredient for treating scalp infections. In winter, due to the sudden drop in temperature, the scalp becomes dry and more prone to infections. Neem oil’s anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral properties come in handy during this time. It normalises the pH balance thereby regulating the production of sebum.
Pro tip: Apply neem oil at least once every week to keep scalp infections at bay while also relaxing the mind.
How to apply neem oil to hair?
- It is advised to use neem oil along with some carrier oil like jojoba, coconut or olive oil, as it is quite potent if used alone. A good rule of thumb to follow here is, add 12 drops of neem oil to an ounce of carrier oil.
- You can let the oil stay in your hair for about an hour or overnight, depending on the severity of the hair issue before washing it off.
- Alternatively, you can also mix a few drops of neem oil into your regular shampoo, massage it thoroughly into the scalp and wash it off.
FAQs about neem oil for hair
1) Can we use neem oil on the skin?
A. Yes, neem oil can also be used on the skin to get relief from issues like acne, blackheads, hyperpigmentation and more. However, don’t apply it directly onto the skin, mix it with a carrier oil and always perform a patch test.
2) How often should I apply neem oil to the hair and scalp?
A. Regular application is recommended for best results. However, applying it daily and leaving it overnight can cause irritation. So, start by applying once a week and if your scalp reacts favorably, go up to twice a week.
3) Is it safe to use neem oil during all seasons?
A. Yes, neem oil is safe to use all around the year. However, keep changing the carrier oil according to the season for best results. In winter you can apply it with coconut oil, whereas in summers, you could use olive oil.
Written by Sanya Hamdani on Dec 18, 2020
Sanya Hamdani is a skincare enthusiast and lipstick hoarder, she truly believes no two red lipsticks look exactly alike. With a Master's degree in Communication & Journalism and 5+ years of digital writing experience up her sleeve, Sanya has some of the biggest beauty experts in the country on her speed dial. When she's not swatching products or writing about the latest trends in beauty, you will find her watching F.R.I.E.N.D.S. or cooking up a storm in the kitchen.