Herbal hair care has taken the beauty world by storm in recent years. The veil has lifted and consumers have awakened to the toxic ingredients, unnecessary chemicals and additives in their products. But just like other commercial hair care products, each individual has a unique experience and relationship with products based on their hair type, texture, and condition. Whether you’re starting to explore herbal hair care, or are already an earthy guru, knowing facts vs. myths is important to your journey. In this post, we’re debunking common herbal hair care myths!
Myth #1: Herbal Remedies Work Overnight
Despite what you may see or hear, using herbal hair care on your hair wellness journey is not an instant fix. Though some herbs that are used topically can reduce symptoms such as inflammation, itchiness, or redness almost instantly- these results are not the same for every one.
The reality is, it takes time, trial and error, patience, and getting in tune with your body when you are introducing herbs into your wellness rituals.
Myth #2: All Herbal Hair Care Products Are Safe
As consumers are becoming aware to the healing powers of herbs, demands for sustainable, toxin-free and environmentally sound products are ever increasing. Unfortunately, there are some companies creating herbal hair care, beauty, and wellness products just for a quick profit.
It’s called greenwashing. And it’s something you should be aware of.
Make sure to read the product labels thoroughly. Some companies will advertise they are all organic and natural but their ingredients list won’t reflect that.
Myth #3: Herbal Hair Care Can Solve All Hair Problems
Even though herbs a known to have multiple healing powers, using herbal hair care alone will not solve your hair concerns. The hair wellness journey looks different for each of us.
Herbal hair care is a great way to address certain appearances in the physical, but the hair wellness journey reminds us that having holistically healthy hair requires care on our internal self as well.
We all have different circumstances when starting out on this journey, so we each will have a personalized approach. This means you will have to address the root cause.
For example, if you are experiencing hair breakage you could use a rice water rinse for added protein and strength. But if you aren’t eating a diet filled with proteins, the rinse can only work do much.
Myth #4: Natural Means No Side Effects
As much as you want to believe that natural means no side effects, this is also just a myth as well. With anything, side effects can vary from person to person.
Especially, if you are new to the realm of herbs and how to use them for your hair.
Herbs are known to contain medicinal properties. And like any current medication on the market, herbs can also have serious side effects if you aren’t following the proper doses. This leads us to the next herbal hair myth below.
Myth #5: You Can Skip Professional Advice
Please don’t.
I’m so serious.
I highly recommend that you do not ignore a professional’s advice. This is one of the most common herbal hair myths. When it comes to incorporating herbs and oils into your day to day, stay curious.
Remember, herbs aren’t just plants. They’re medicine, too. It’s important to discuss with your physician to avoid irritations, understand your proper dosage, and prevent other prescription interference. Some products like essential oils and some herbs can be dangerous for expectant mothers or those with previous health concerns.
Don’t hesitate to check with your hair stylist as well. Understanding what your hair needs will point you towards the right herbs. For example, lavender is a great antimicrobial and antibacterial herb that helps to soothe the scalp and retain moisture. But if you are experiencing itchiness and dandruff, I would recommend tea tree as its an antifungal.
This helps keep you on the right path with proper guidance on your journey. From there you can do your due diligence and find what suits your needs best.
Always better to be safe, than sorry!
Myth #6: Any Herb Will Work For Your Hair Condition
False! Like over the counter medications, there’s a different herb for each ailment. Some herbs work well together to tackle any issues, while others may be counter productive.
Similarly, you can look at your regular hair care products. Not every product is going to work for you specifically, and not every product out there is right for every person’s hair.
It’s important to choose the right herb that align with your specific concern.
Myth #7: Natural Oils Are Always Safe For Hair
Not all oils are the same! This is a big misconception, especially if you participate in hair oiling rituals. Some oils are heavier, while others are lighter. Some are comedogenic, which means the oils can clog pores, while others are non comedogenic. This means they mimic the pH of your skin’s natural oils and will not clog the pores.
Natural oils, like herbs, require customization for your individual hair concern, scalp environment, type, texture, and density. Using the wrong oil in your hair might leave your scalp irritated, greasy or worsen dandruff and acne.
If you’re looking to make the switch over to herbal hair care, you are likely to experience many of the amazing benefits provided by Mother Earth. But remember to stay realistic about your hair goals in your hair wellness journey. While herbs and oils can be highly effective, it’s not a guaranteed over night fix.
Chat with both your doctor and your hair stylist to understand where you might want to dip your toe into. Understand the potential side effects and make sure you read the product labels thoroughly.
And now that we’ve debunked 7 herbal hair care myths, here’s the biggest takeaway:
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