If you have dreadlocks, I’m sure you’ve come to realize the importance of using oils on your scalp and hair. I never used oils until I got dreads. My head was begging me for some TLC and it took me a while to realize how I could nurture it properly.

When I started researching what I could do to stop the agonizing itchiness on my scalp, I found a lot of vague advice. I took way too many notes from all the sources I found and made myself a guide that I often look back on for reference. Now, I’m sharing that guide with you, in hopes that if you’re experiencing any of the same problems I did, you don’t have to scour the internet for days.

I broke this guide up into two sections to make it easier to digest. In this article, I discuss essential oils and in this one, I discuss carrier oils.

Essential oils for locs

These are some of the best oils for locs, in alphabetical order:

• Cedarwood essential oil
• Chamomile essential oil
• Clary sage essential oil
• Eucalyptus essential oil
• Frankincense essential oil
• Geranium essential oil
• Horsetail plant essential oil
• Juniper berry essential oil
• Lavender essential oil
• Lemon essential oil
• Lemongrass essential oil
• Melaleuca – Tea tree essential oil
• Peppermint essential oil
• Rose essential oil
• Rosemary essential oil
• Stinging nettle essential oil
• Thyme essential oil
• Ylang ylang essential oil

Continue reading to learn about each of their benefits, what they’re ideal for, the best ways to use them, and where to buy them.

What are essential oils?

Essential oils are concentrated oils that are distilled from plants. They can become oxidized, meaning that they will lose their potency over time, but unlike carrier oils, they will not become rancid.

Essential oils have to be mixed with a carrier oil to be used on the skin. They’re so strong that a few drops will go a long way. If they’re not diluted, they can cause damage to the skin, such as irritation, a rash, and burning. I don’t recommend you use essential oils on an open wound or broken skin.

When buying essential oils, look for “100% Pure Essential Oil”. I prefer to buy organic but you don’t have to. Always look at the ingredients to make sure there are no additives.

Let’s talk essential oils for dreadlocks!

In case you’re wondering, a few of my favorites are lavender, tea tree, rosemary, and peppermint essential oils.

Cedarwood Essential Oil

Benefits:

• Anti-inflammatory properties: It can improve conditions of the skin such as scalp irritation, seborrhea, dermatitis, and acne. It increases blood circulation to the scalp.
• Moisturizing properties: It helps those who have dry scalp and dandruff.
• Astringent: It helps to balance the scalp’s oil production, therefore reducing oily skin.
• Healing properties: It heals wounds and removes toxins from the body.
• Antibacterial and antifungal properties: It prevents infections and fungus from growing.
• Promotes hair growth: Cedarwood oil will help regenerate hair if you have hair loss or your hair is thinning.
• Insect repellent properties.
  

Ideal for:   

• Alopecia and other skin conditions. 
• Those at risk of getting lice.
• If you like the woodsy, masculine scent.

How to use it: 

• One of the best ways to use cedarwood essential oil is by massaging it on your scalp. Mix 3 to 5 drops of the essential oil with 6 to 10 drops of the carrier oil of your choice. Gently massage your scalp for two minutes and rest for 15 minutes so it gives the oils time to absorb. Then, wash it off.
• Cedarwood mixes well with lavender and rosemary essential oils.

Where to buy it:   

If you’re an Amazon shopper, this is one of the best options out there, in terms of price and quality.

Chamomile Essential Oil

Benefits:      

• Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties: It soothes an itchy scalp.
• Moisturizing properties: It adds softness and shine to the hair.
• Hair-nourishing properties: It strengthens the hair follicles from within.

Ideal for:   

• Dry hair that is lacking luster.
• Those with an inflamed scalp.  
• Those who have had any chemical treatments done to their hair.
• Use during the winter season and harsh weather to protect the scalp and hair.
• Use during the summer season and sunny days for a natural hair lightener.

How to use it:    

• Chamomile essential oil can be used in a daily moisturizing spray. Add 5 to 10 drops in 3 cups of distilled water. Add other essential oils if you like. Shake the oils and spray on your hair and scalp in the morning and the evening.  
• You can also massage it onto your scalp. Mix 3 to 5 drops of the essential oil with 6 to 10 drops of the carrier oil of your choice and massage your head for 2 minutes.

Where to buy it:     

Chamomile essential oil is pretty expensive, compared to most of the organic and 100% pure essential oils. Expect to pay a little more than usual or you’ll get an inferior product. If the price is too good to be true, it probably is. If you shop on Amazon, this oil is a trusted brand and is reasonably priced.

Clary Sage Essential Oil

Benefits:     

• Antibacterial, antiseptic, and antifungal properties: It stops bacteria from growing and controls oil production. 
• Soothing properties: Soothes conditions of the skin, such as dryness, itchiness, and inflammation.
• Scalp-stimulating properties: It strengthens the hair at the follicle and promotes hair growth.

Ideal for:     

• Those who have oily hair and other scalp conditions such as dandruff and rashes.
• Those who have stress-related hair loss and thinning hair.

How to use it:     

• You’ll find that there are many benefits to massaging your scalp with clary sage. Mix 3 drops of the essential oil with 2 tablespoons of the carrier oil of your choice- I like to use jojoba. Massage your scalp for about two minutes and then let your head soak up the oils for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Add clary sage essential oil to your moisturizing spray if you want to use it daily. 
• It can also be added to your diffuser at home for other aromatherapeutic benefits.

Warning: 

• Clary sage can cause contractions so it’s NOT to be used by expecting mothers.

Where to buy it:     

I like the oil from Healing Solutions. It’s organic and there’s not much of a price difference between this one and the non-organic oils. You can find it on Amazon here.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Benefits:      

• Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antiseptic properties: Eucalyptus oil helps to fight off infections.
• Soothing properties: It’s also a good deodorizer if dreads smell bad due to residual mold or non-frequent washing.
• Healing properties: It helps to heal wounds but is also a natural decongestant. For double the benefits, spray diluted eucalyptus oil on your hair on the days that you’re ill or feeling congested.
• Hair-stimulating properties: It prevents hair loss and strengthens the hair follicles.

Ideal for:     

• Those whose dreads are thinning. 
• Those who are congested.
• If the dreadlocks are smelling bad.
• If an infection is present in the scalp.

How to use it:     

• Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to your moisturizing spritzer (the ratio should be about 10 drops of essential oil to 3 cups or more of distilled water). Spray liberally on your dreads once or twice a day.
• Alternatively, apply a diluted blend of the essential oil with the carrier oil of your choice directly to the problematic areas (use this in moderation).

Warning:

• Do not use it in large quantities since too much of it can become toxic. 
• Eucalyptus may interfere with certain medications and homeopathic treatments.
• Some people are sensitive to eucalyptus and may get allergic reactions as well as contact dermatitis as a result.
• Talk to your doctor prior to using eucalyptus!

Where to buy it:     

This is a good one from Healing Solutions.

Frankincense Essential Oil

Benefits:      

• Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. 
• Healing properties: It protects the body from infections and speeds up the healing process.
• Astringent properties: It helps to control oil production in the scalp.
• Regenerative properties: It increases the production of cells and keeps them healthy.

Ideal for:     

• Those with hair loss. 
• Those who have scalp conditions and an over-production of oil. 

How to use it:     

• Make a scalp massage with frankincense oil. Mix 3 to 5 drops of the essential oil with 6 to 10 drops of the carrier oil of your choice.

Warning: 

• Pregnant and nursing mothers should get the approval from their doctor prior to using frankincense oil.

Where to buy it:     

When you shop for Frankincense, you may notice a wide range of prices. This is because there are different types of frankincense, also known by its plant species name: Boswellia. The most popular types that you will find on the market are Boswellia serrata, Boswellia carteri, Boswellia sacra, and Boswellia frereana. Each species is grown in a different region, and some kinds produce stronger properties than others. Boswellia serrata is great for hair and scalp health and you can find a good deal here. Alternatively, you can try Boswellia carteri which can be bought here.

Geranium Essential Oil

Benefits:      

• Astringent: It helps to manage the oil production in the scalp, making your hair less oily while nourishing it at the same time.
• Healing properties: It helps to heal scars and skin conditions, such as psoriasis.
• Regeneration properties: It encourages the growth of healthy cells.
• Hair-strengthening properties. 

Ideal for:     

• Those with thinning hair and an oily scalp. 
• Those with smelly dreads. Geranium oil is used in controlling odors. 

How to use it:  

• Add a few drops of the essential oil to your daily moisturizer and spray throughout your dreads a couple of times a day. Spray a little on your scalp and massage gently to encourage the regeneration of new cells and nice-smelling dreads.

Where to buy it:     

You can buy it here on Amazon.

Horsetail Plant Essential Oil

Benefits:  

• Antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties: It may help heal conditions of the skin, such as dandruff.
• It contains silica. Silica produces collagen which helps to maintain your hair and nails healthy and strong. 
• Improves blood circulation to your scalp. More circulation means faster hair growth.

Ideal for:     

• Boosting hair strength and growth. 
• Those with dandruff. 

How to use it:     

• Mix 2 drops of horsetail plant oil with 2 tablespoons of any carrier oil of your choice. Massage it on your scalp for two minutes and then leave it on your head for a minimum of 15 minutes so the oils can be absorbed. When the time is up, you should wash it off.

Where to buy it:     

It’s more common to find horsetail pill capsules than essential oils but I found this one from a reliable brand and it’s a great price.

Juniper Berry Essential Oil

Benefits:      

• Astringent properties: It manages oil production on the scalp.
• Antiseptic properties: It helps the body fight scalp conditions and heals wounds.
• Hair-strengthening properties: It promotes stronger hair follicles.

Ideal for:     

• Those who have overly greasy hair.
• Those who have thinning hair.
• Those who have eczema, dandruff, and other scalp conditions. 
• If you like fruity scents, this is the perfect oil for you.

How to use it:     

• Mix 3 to 5 drops of the essential oil with 6 to 10 drops of the carrier oil of your choice. Massage it on your scalp for two minutes and then leave it on your head for a minimum of 15 minutes so the oils can be absorbed.
• A couple of drops can also be added to your daily moisturizing spray.
• It blends well with cedarwood and lemon essential oils.

Where to buy it:     

Juniper berry essential oil can be found here.

Lavender Essential Oil

This is one of my favorite essential oils. It’s one of the most incredible oils for your hair. I use it every day.

Benefits:      

• Antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties. 
• It helps to balance the scalp’s pH and sebum production.
• It increases blood circulation thereby improving scalp health.
• Moisturizing and soothing properties: It helps to improve dry hair and dry skin while maintaining the hair healthy and shiny.
• Regenerative properties: It promotes hair growth and an increased number of hair follicles. It also deepens the hair follicles and thickens the thermal layer meaning that your hair is less prone to falling out.
• Its therapeutic scent relieves stress and anxiety. It may also boost the immune system.
• Disinfectant properties: It provides healing and nourishment to the scalp and hair from within.

Ideal for:     

• All hair types.
• Those experiencing hair loss and balding, especially alopecia areata. 
• Those who have any form of irritation, itchiness, and inflammation on the scalp.
• Those with any other scalp condition, such as psoriasis, eczema, and dandruff.

How to use it:     

• Use it every day for fuller and thicker hair. 
• I like to put lavender in my daily moisturizing spray. The ratio is 10 to 15 drops of essential oil to 2 to 3 cups of distilled water. 
• Add a few drops to your residue-free shampoo. 
• Use it as an overnight scalp treatment. Mix 5 drops lavender oil with 15 drops of the carrier oil (preferably a lighter oil, like grapeseed). Massage your head for 2 minutes and wrap it with a bonnet or cap. Leave it on overnight and wash it off the following morning.
• Use it as a general scalp massage. Mix 8 drops of essential oil with 3 tablespoons of the carrier oil, like coconut or olive. Massage your scalp for 2 minutes and leave it to soak in for a minimum of 15 minutes. Wash it off.
• For a hair growth treatment, mix a few drops of lavender oil with peppermint essential oil, lemon essential oil, and 2 tablespoons of the carrier oil of your choice. Massage your head for a couple of minutes and leave it on your head to soak for one hour. Then you can wash it off.

Where to buy it:     

• The best quality lavender oil comes from the Lavendula angustifolia plant.
• I recommend this one in terms of quality. Plus, I like that it’s a little larger than most of the other oils because if you’re anything like me, you’ll probably be using it quite a bit.

Lemon Essential Oil

Benefits:      

• Antiseptic, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties.  
• Astringent properties: It helps to clarify the scalp and remove excess oiliness.
• Disinfectant properties: It cleanses the skin from impurities, such as acne.
• It promotes hair growth and prevents further hair loss.

Ideal for:     

• Preventing a flaky scalp and dandruff. 
• Preventing and treating lice.
• If used prior to going in the sun, it can help lighten the hair.

How to use it:     

• Add a few drops to your residue-free shampoo.
• Massage it into your scalp. Mix 3 to 5 drops of essential oil with 2 to 3 tablespoons of any carrier oil of your choice. Massage your scalp with it for two minutes and leave it on for an hour to two hours, then wash it off. 

Where to buy it:     

Lemon oil is so amazing (not only for hair). I really like this one.

Lemongrass Essential Oil

This is another incredible and highly recommended oil for your scalp and dreads. 

Benefits:      

• Antiseptic, antimicrobial, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties.
• Detoxifying properties: It kills odors, deodorizes, and cleanses the hair leaving it oil-free.
• It’s a natural bug repellent. 
• Hair-strengthening properties: It stimulates the hair follicles to grow faster and stronger. It leaves your hair shiny too.
• Scalp-soothing properties: It effectively reduces dandruff caused by yeast and treats a dry, itchy scalp.
• It relieves stress, anxiety, and headaches. There’s no better place to put it than on your head. 

Ideal for:     

• All hair types, especially oily hair.
• Those whose dreads smell bad for any reason. Lemongrass leaves you smelling clean and fresh.
• Those who are experiencing thinning hair and balding.
• Prevention of lice and other bugs.

How to use it:     

• Use it daily for best results. 
• Add 10 drops to your daily moisturizing spray (10 drops of essential oil to 3 cups distilled water). 
• Add a few drops to your residue-free shampoo.
• Mix a few drops with 1 or 2 tablespoons of the carrier oil like coconut or olive oil. Massage it on your scalp for a couple of minutes and leave it on your head to soak up. Wash it or leave it overnight (wrap your hair if you sleep with it).
• It can be used in a diffuser at home as well.
• Lemongrass oil mixes well with lavender and rosemary essential oils. Always blend them with a carrier oil! 

Warning:

• Lemongrass stimulates mensuration and there’s a chance that it could cause a miscarriage in pregnant women. 
• It shouldn’t be used by nursing mothers either, nor on children under 2 years old. 
• Consult a doctor if you’re taking medications for other pre-existing conditions. 

Where to buy it:     

Lemongrass has many more benefits than I listed here. I recommend this one.

Melaleuca – Tea Tree Essential Oil

Tea tree is an exceptional essential oil. It’s one of the best oils for dreads amongst many of its other practical uses.

Benefits:      

• Antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
• Hair-growth properties: It nourishes, thickens, and strengthens the hair strands, allowing them to grow long and healthy, as well as improving hair that has already been damaged. It treats alopecia.
• Cleansing properties: It conditions and unclogs the pores of the scalp. It improves scalp health.
• Healing properties: Effectively treats skin conditions, such as scalp inflammation, dandruff, psoriasis, and acne. It also heals scars faster.
• Repellent properties: Wards off lice and other insects.
• Powerful disinfectant that kills germs and controls bad odors. 
• Immune system booster.

Ideal for:     

• Those who have severe itchiness and other scalp problems. 
• Those who lack moisture in their hair and scalp.
• Reducing greasiness in the hair.
• Preventing lice and bugs in your hair.

How to use it:     

• Use it daily in your moisturizing spray. I add 10 drops of tea tree to every 3 cups of distilled water.
• Add it to your residue-free shampoo, especially if you’re dealing with dandruff. 
• For hair regrowth, mix 3 to 5 drops of essential oil with 6 to 10 drops of the carrier oil, like grapeseed, jojoba, or almond oil. Massage well throughout the scalp and allow it to absorb. You can wash it off after 15 minutes or leave it on overnight.
• Tea tree is very powerful. A little will go a long way. Do not get it in or near your eyes. 

Where to buy it:     

This is a tea tree oil that I recommend.

Peppermint Essential Oil

This is another one of my favorite essential oils for dreadlocks.

Benefits:      

• Antiseptic and antibacterial properties. 
• Astringent: It helps to control the production of oil in the scalp.
• It stimulates hair growth conditions. It improves the hair follicle depth and number, so that hair grows stronger and deeper in its roots, preventing hair loss and breakage.
• It improves conditions of the scalp, such as dryness, itchiness, flakiness, and acne.
• Promotes blood circulation and oxygenation in the scalp.
• It restores the pH of the scalp.
• Removes bad hair odors while giving it luster.  
• Mood booster.
• Tension reliever: It also minimizes headaches, so it’s a good idea to spray it in and near the head.
• Repellent properties: It wards off bugs, such as lice.
• Therapeutic and refreshing: It smells like soothing menthol and it produces a tingly cooling effect in the scalp. It’s also a decongestant.

Ideal for:     

• Dry and greasy hair types. 
• Those dealing with stinky dreads. 
• Those experiencing severe itchiness and dandruff. 
• Prevention against insects.
• Those whose hair is lacking shine and luster.
• Those who are feeling congested. It’s a natural decongestant to you can kill two birds with one stone with this one!

How to use it:     

• Use in your daily moisturizer spritzer. Dilute 10 to 15 drops of essential oil in 3 cups of distilled water.
• Add a few drops to your residue-free shampoo.
• Prior to shampooing, you can do a scalp massage. Mix 2 to 5 dries of peppermint oil with about 6 drops of the carrier oil, like coconut, jojoba, or almond. Gently massage your head for about two minutes with the pads of your fingertips. Leave it on your head for 20 to 30 minutes and then wash it off.

Warning: 

• Those with a very sensitive scalp should spot test it prior to use. The tingling effect may be too much for your skin.
• Pregnant women and nursing mothers should consult with their doctor prior to using peppermint oil. There are theories that it might cause a miscarriage and reduce the production of milk. 
• It’s not recommended that peppermint oil be used on young children. 
• Do not get it in or near your eyes. It will sting…a lot!

Where to buy it:     

You can buy peppermint oil here.

Rose Essential Oil

Benefits:      

• Antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Astringent: It controls the production of sebum in the scalp.
• It balances the pH of the scalp thereby providing healing properties that reduce itchiness.
• It provides nourishment to dry hair.
• Mood booster and stress reliever: It is known as an essential oil that reduces depression.
• It removes bad odors. smells divine to those who like floral scents. 

Ideal for:     

• Those with very oily hair.
• Those with sensitive and dry skin. 
• Those with severe itchiness and scalp inflammation.

How to use it:     

• Add it to your residue-free shampoo.
• Make a scalp massage with it. Add 5 drops of rose oil to 1 tablespoon of the carrier oil of your choice. Rub your scalp for two minutes and leave it to absorb for 15 minutes. Wash it off. Rose oil improves the quality of your sleep. You should do your scalp massage before bedtime.

Where to buy it:     

When you’re looking to buy rose essential oil, make sure you don’t mistake it for rosehip seed essential oil. These two oils are extracted from different parts of the rose plant. Rose oil is fairly expensive but I was able to find one that was a good price for being 100% pure rose. This is the best oil I could find on Amazon.

Rosemary Essential Oil

Benefits:      

• Anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. 
• It increases blood circulation to the scalp.
• Hair-growth stimulating properties: It encourages the production of new hair, thicker hair follicles down to the root, and can prevent split ends.
• It slows down the greying process and cures dull hair.
• Scalp-soothing properties: It treats dandruff and dry, flaky scalp, among other scalp conditions.
• Natural insect repellent, especially for lice.
• Natural disinfectant that prevents bacteria and other germs to live in the hair and scalp area. 

Ideal for:     

• All hair types.
• Those who are experiencing baldness or thinning hair.
• Preventing and treating lice.
• Those who have itchy heads.

How to use it:     

• I use rosemary in my daily moisturizing spray. Add 10 drops to 3 cups of distilled water. 
• For a scalp massage, mix 5 drops of essential oil with 5 drops of the carrier oil, like coconut or olive, and massage for a couple of minutes. Leave it on your head for a minimum of 15 minutes and a maximum of 4 hours. This allows the oils to be fully absorbed through your scalp. Wash it off afterward.
  

Warning: 

• This oil should NOT be used by pregnant women and nursing mothers.

Where to buy it:     

This is a good rosemary essential oil from Amazon.

Stinging Nettle Essential Oil

Benefits:     

• Anti-inflammatory properties. 
• Healing properties: It treats wounds and skin abrasions. It improves skin conditions, such as psoriasis and dandruff.
• It contains lots of minerals and vitamins, such as vitamins A, B, C, and K.
• It’s rich in silica and sulfur. 
• It has hair-growth properties that work to combat hair loss. 

Ideal for:     

• Those who are becoming bald or have thinning hair.
• Those who have scalp conditions. 

How to use it:     

• Add a few drops to your residue-free shampoo.
• Give yourself a scalp massage. Mix together a few drops of nettle oil with a carrier oil of your choice (preferably lighter oils). Massage your scalp for several minutes and wrap your hair in a warm towel. Leave it overnight and wash it off the following morning. 

Where to buy it:     

This is not a very common essential oil to find. I’ve seen it more in capsule form. When you’re looking for it, make sure it says “Urtica dioica”. I found this one on Amazon but you can also find it on iHerb.

Thyme Essential Oil

Benefits:     

• Hair-growth properties.
• It improves blood circulation to the scalp.
• It helps control sebum production.
• Detoxifying properties.
• Natural insect repellent. It helps to ward off lice and other bugs. 

Ideal for:     

• Those with overly greasy scalps. 
• Those experiencing alopecia areata.

How to use it:     

– Thyme oil is very strong so only use one or two drops max and dilute it with a carrier oil of your choice. Massage around the problem areas or around your scalp in general. Leave it on your head for about half an hour and then wash it off. 

Where to buy it:     

I like the thyme essential oil made by Healing Solutions. You can get it from Amazon here.

Ylang Ylang Essential Oil

Benefits:    

• Antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-seborrheic properties. 
• Increases the sebum production in the scalp. 
• Improves the quality of the hair, promoting growth and thickness while reducing breakage. Some people say the hair becomes shinier and looks like it has been conditioned. 
• Mood booster.
• It helps to repel lice.

Ideal for:     

• Those with dry hair. This is not for you if you have oily hair or skin.
• Those with damaged and thinning hair.
• Those who have scalp conditions, such as seborrhea dermatitis.  
• Those who like floral scents. It’s very fragrant but it may be overwhelming for some people. 

How to use it:     

• It works well as a hot oil treatment. Mix 5 drops of the essential oil with 2 tablespoons of the carrier oil of your choice (it needs to be warm). Massage your scalp for two minutes and then wrap your hair in a warm towel. Leave it on for 30 minutes and wash it off. 
• It combines well with lemon and lavender essential oils.

Where to buy it:     

You can buy it here on Amazon.

A few additional tips on essential oils

1. Buy essential oils in bundles to save money! This is a really good kit that includes 5 of the recommended dreadlock essential oils. Another cool option is this bundle that features 9 of the 10 essential oils highlighted in this post. In that package, the bottles are smaller so it gives you the chance to try different oils and determine what works best for you. Always read the labels and product reviews if you’re purchasing online. Use high quality, minimally processed oils. If possible, choose all-natural organic. No additives nor unnatural ingredients. No hidden chemicals. High-quality oils can be more expensive but should provide better results.

2. Avoid using citrus essential oils when you’re going out in the sun.

3. Always mix essential oils with carrier oils. Never use them on their own- they will cause irritation/ burning because they’re too strong. Always spot test a little bit of the oil on a patch of skin in your inner arm to make sure that you don’t get irritation and are not allergic.

4. Every essential oil has its own unique properties and people may have specific sensitivities to them. Some oils can cause allergic reactions in certain people.

5. Start by using small concentrations of essential oils because too much can cause harm.

6. Consistency is key. Keep up the routine to get results. Some oils can, and should, be used every day.

7. Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should always ask their doctor before using any essential oils. Some carrier and essential oils promote miscarriages and other complications to nursing mothers.

8. Some essential oils are also not safe to use on small children, so always consult your doctor before using essential oils on them.

9. For a soothing scalp spray, mix 1 cup of distilled water with 1 cup 100% aloe vera gel (or juice), 1 tablespoon of any lightweight oil, and 10 to 15 drops of the essential oil of your choice. Shake well and mist the top of your hair. This spray will help balance and restore scalp conditions. Use it once a day for the best results.

---

All the oils I mentioned are highly recommended among the dreaded community (not just by me) but I should note that they don’t work the same for everybody. It may take a little bit of trial and error to come up with something that works perfectly for you. 

Disclaimer: Please consult with your doctor prior to trying out an essential oil you’re unfamiliar with. I’m not a doctor and I don’t know what will work best for YOU specifically. Some oils can be harmful to pregnant women and nursing mothers so if you’re in doubt, please get the approval from a licensed health care provider.

---

Hopefully, this guide gives you a general idea of what oils are preferred for your hair type and how you can best incorporate them into your hair-care routine.

Remember to check out my complete guide to carrier oils for dreadlocks! There you will learn how to pair essential oils effectively for your hair type and skin condition.

Do your locs need a natural pick-me-up? Check out these 39 DIY recipes to revitalize your dreads!