Olive Oil Treatment for Restoring Hair Loss

Hair loss is caused by a number of factors, such as aging, genetics, poor diet, harsh chemicals and serious medical conditions. When combating hair loss, one of your primary goals should be to create a healthy scalp that fosters new hair growth. Olive oil, rich with vitamins and moisturizing properties, is a ideal treatment for scalp health, and can also be used to smooth and hydrate your existing hair.

Scalp Massage

• Without sufficient blood flow to the scalp, hair follicles won't receive enough of the nutrients necessary for hair growth. A dry, flaky scalp clogs follicles and inhibits new hair from growing. Kill two birds with one stone by giving yourself an olive oil massage to stimulate and moisturize your scalp.

  Warm a tablespoon of olive oil in the palm of your hand. Using your fingers (not your nails), rub the oil all over your scalp in kneading, circular motions. Start at the front of your hairline and work your way backward. Repeat this motion several times; you should feel a warmth spreading across your scalp. For increased blood flow, turn your head upside-down while massaging. Leave the oil on for about 30 minutes, then shower as usual.

Deep Conditioner

• Well-conditioned hair is less likely to break, shed, and split at the ends. Keep your strands healthy and moisturized with a weekly olive oil conditioning treatment.

  Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to get rid of dirt, oil and buildup. When hair is damp (not sopping wet), cover your scalp and hair in 1/4 cup olive oil (use more or less depending on the amount of hair you have). Rub the oil in, focusing on the ends, so that each strand is coated in oil.

  Wrap your head in a plastic shower cap, and cover this with a thick towel. This traps your body heat, which helps the conditioner penetrate each strand of hair. Leave the olive oil in your hair for 30 minutes to an hour before shampooing. You may have to wash your hair two or three times to get rid of all of the oil.

Additives

• Adding a few drops of essential oil to your treatment is a good way to maximize the benefit to your hair. Rosemary and frankincense work well for stimulating hair growth. Add four or five drops to 1/2 cup of olive oil and let the mixture marinate for 24 hours in a cool, dark place before using.

  You can also mix olive oil with other moisturizing oils for added hair benefits. Try combining equal parts olive and avocado oil for increased shaft absorption, or olive and coconut oil for slowing hair loss. Sesame and almond oils are good for nourishing the hair and scalp.