We explore how Evening Primrose Oil can be used as a natural method for encouraging normal, healthy hair growth!
Evening Primrose Oil can help with hair loss caused by:
- environmental damage (such as sun exposure)
- nutritional deficiency
- scalp inflammation
This is a video useful for both men and women - as Evening Primrose is an extremely useful oil for hair growth
But I am going to be discussing a male hormone called DHT which kickstarts male pattern baldness in people who are genetically pre-disposed to hair loss - so this is where hair loss runs in families.
Evening Primrose Oil contains an ingredient called Gamma Linoleic acid (GLA).
This is an unsaturated Omega 6 fatty acid that comes from plant sources including:
- Spirulina
- Oats
- Hemp seeds
- Borage seeds
- Primrose
- Barley
Gamma Linoleic Acid has shown lots of promise in blocking DHT!
Evening Primrose is a flowering plant with a yellow blossom - it grows in Europe and North America.
The oil, which is extracted from the seed, is thought to have therapeutic properties and is used as:
- An ingredient in beauty products
- A health supplement,
- topical treatment,
Lots more research needs to be done into the effects of Evening Primrose Oil - on hair growth.
But a number of studies have found that E P O can help to slow down male pattern baldness.
In men who carry a certain combination of genes, DHT or Dihydrotesterone kick starts male pattern balding by clinging to hair follicles and shrinking or miniturising them.
One important polyunsaturated fat, gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), blocks DHT. GLA can be found in borage oil, evening primrose oil, and blackcurrants.
As well as helping to block DHT, this oil is known for its:
- Anti-inflammatory,
- Antioxidant
- Hormone-balancing properties
Benefits of Evening Primrose Oil
Evening Primrose Oil contains Arachidonic Acid. This ingredient has been shown to promote new hair growth and help existing hair shafts to grow longer.
Evening primrose oil is high in essential fatty acids such as
- Linoleic acid,
- Gamma-linoleic,
- Glutamine
Linoleic acid is considered an essential omega-6 fatty acid, as our body cannot produce this fatty acid itself.
Fatty acids are so good for us as they:
- encourage healthy cell growth
- fight oxidative stress
- reduce inflammation
And Omega-6 fatty acids, in particular, contribute to healthy hair!
Evening Primrose Oil can help with hair loss caused by:
- nutritional deficiency
- environmental damage (such as sun exposure)
- scalp inflammation
Evening Primrose Oil also contains phytoestrogens, and so some people suggest it may improve the symptoms of hormone-related conditions like menopause and hair loss is a common symptom of menopause.
How can we use Evening Primrose Oil?
Topical application
Unlike essential oils, Evening Primrose Oil does not need to be diluted. But you do need to do a skin patch test to check for possible allergic reactions. Leave for 24 or 48 hours - if there’s no rash - you’re good to go.
If you do have irritation, wash the area with cool water and don’t use Evening Primrose Oil ever again. Don’t worry though our vegan friendly growth serum is just what you need it helps reduce signs of shedding, bringing you thicker, fuller looking hair.
If you are using evening primrose essential oil, then you must dilute it in a carrier oil before doing a patch test or using it -
A good carrier oil is Coconut oil or Olive Oil
After a successful patch test, you can proceed with a full application to your scalp and the roots of your hair.
To do this:
- Start with dry hair, as it penetrates into the hair follicle more than on wet hair.
- You can heat the oil too slightly by rubbing it between your palms before applying it directly to your head.
- Massage the oil into your scalp and deep into your hair.
- Let the oil sit on your hair for up to 30 minutes.
- Wash as normal with a paraben-free shampoo.
- Style or air dry as usual.
You can also mix the Evening Primrose Oil into your favorite shampoo.
You just have to remember to massage the mixture deep into your roots and scalp before you rinse.
Supplements
Before taking Evening Primrose speak to your doctor, especially if you’re already taking medicines or have pre-existing conditions.
We recently launched our very own Growth Serum. This vegan hair serum contains ingredients which have been proven in multiple studies to improve the appearance and density of hair, while reducing signs of shedding, bringing you thicker, fuller looking hair. Get yours today!
