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Derived from the tropical Cocus nucifera fruit, coconut oil rules as a hair care staple in South India, the coastal regions, and beyond. Packed with saturated fatty acids, it boasts a rich composition, including myristic acid, capric acid, lauric acid, and monolaurin, along with antioxidants such as tocopherol.
It is a valuable ingredient in many shampoos, fights off bacteria and fungi, acts as a natural conditioner by sealing in moisture, helps with detangling, and even stops your hair from losing protein. (1)
However, many people miss out on the opportunity to enhance the effects of this oil. If you’re wondering how this amazing oil can be made even better, the answer is simple – add an essential oil such as tea tree oil to it.
Tea tree oil, derived from the Australian Melaleuca alternifolia plant, is a remarkable natural solution for hair care. Abundant in terpinen-4-ol, this oil possesses potent capabilities to address various hair concerns. (2)
Continue reading to learn why the partnership between these two oils is remarkable for your hair.
Benefits of Coconut Oil and Tea Tree Oil for Your Hair
The combination of coconut oil and tea tree oil can be a boon for your hair health in many ways.
1. Manages dandruff problems
Using a hair oil for dandruff isn’t just a remedy; it’s like giving your scalp a much-needed boost of nourishment.
In a 16-week study with 140 Indian women, applying coconut oil for 12 weeks showed amazing results – the good bacteria on the scalp increased, which is linked to less dandruff.
The study also found that coconut oil helps with healthy scalp processes such as biotin metabolism and a reduction in fungal pathogenesis. So, it not only fixes dandruff but also keeps your scalp happy and balanced. (3)
Plus, adding tea tree oil to it can make it even better because the former also has exceptional antidandruff effects!
In one study, a 5% tea tree oil shampoo reduced dandruff by 41%, while the placebo did only 11%. Users felt less itchiness and greasiness, and it was gentle with no side effects.
Thus, tea tree oil is an effective add-on to coconut oil for a healthy scalp. (4)
2. Improves hair growth
Coconut oil goes beyond moisturizing; it actively supports hair growth by fostering a beneficial environment for scalp bacteria.
When applied, coconut oil enhances the presence of beneficial bacteria, thus promoting a healthy scalp. These bacteria play a crucial role in increasing biotin production, a key factor in hair growth.
Biotin is essential for maintaining healthy cells and improving scalp quality. As your body can’t produce biotin naturally, the use of coconut oil contributes to enhanced hair growth. (3)
Essential oils such as tea tree oil, when used with carrier oils such as coconut oil, increase the hair growth potential of carrier oils. Such combinations are thereby a great way to one-up your hair care routine.
3. Reduces hair loss
Looking for a remedy for hair loss? Look no further than coconut oil.
A recent study compared mineral oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil and revealed coconut oil as the sole agent that reduced protein loss for both damaged and undamaged hair, whether applied before or after washing.
The secret lies in lauric acid, a component in coconut oil, as it has a unique ability to deeply penetrate the hair cortex due to its high affinity for hair proteins and low molecular weight. (5)
To minimize the scope of hair loss even more, mix coconut oil with tea tree oil!
Research has shown that a mix of minoxidil with tea tree oil emulsion surpasses the effects of minoxidil. This potent blend not only proved to be safer and more stable but also displayed incredible effectiveness against hair loss.
Patients witnessed a significantly better response in treating androgenic alopecia when they added tea tree oil to their routine compared to using minoxidil alone. (6)
4. Controls hair damage
Using coconut oil for damaged hair works wonders!
The cleaning agents used for regular hair washing can damage the inner structure of your hair. Coconut-based hair oils come to the rescue by preventing this damage. They create a protective barrier, reducing damage and improving color protection.
A study showed that Coconut-based hair oils block harmful interactions, keeping your hair healthy. They make your hair less prone to damage during washing. Thus, they are a great, natural choice for keeping your hair damage-free. (7)
Meanwhile, experts claim that the amazing nutrient profile of tea tree oil also has a great damage-control effect on hair when used with carrier oils such as coconut oil.
So, to ensure beautiful and healthy hair, start using these oils in your routine.
5. Provides a synergistic effect when used together
Tea tree oil and coconut oil make a great team that can promote healthy hair. Tea tree oil fights bacteria, and coconut oil’s fatty acids protect the hair from damage.
A study looked at seven shampoos with different amounts of these oils and found that all shampoos were good for the hair, especially the one with 6% tea tree oil. (8)
When the two oils were used together in hair products, the products had a nice texture, foamed well, and cleaned the hair effectively. (8)
So, if you want a duo that’s good for your hair, look for one with tea tree oil and coconut oil as they make a winning combination!
How Do You Use Coconut Oil with Tea Tree Oil on Your Hair?
To harness the benefits of coconut oil and tea tree oil for your hair:
- Mix 2-3 drops of tea tree oil and 2 tbsp of coconut oil.
- Blend them thoroughly, creating a nourishing hair mask.
- Before washing your hair, apply the mixture from roots to tips, ensuring even coverage.
- Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes or longer for deep conditioning.
- Shampoo and condition your hair as usual.
Can You Use Tea Tree Oil Directly Without Coconut Oil?
Do not use strong oils such as tea tree oil without carrier oils as they can irritate your scalp or skin. Always mix tea tree oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or castor oil.
Final Word
Derived from the Cocus nucifera fruit and the Australian Melaleuca alternifolia plant, coconut oil and tea tree oil, respectively, form a powerful partnership. From managing dandruff to promoting hair growth and reducing hair loss, their synergistic effects offer a natural and effective solution for a vibrant and healthy mane.
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