5 Ways to Use Hibiscus for Hair
Hibiscus is a flower that has been used for centuries in various cultures for its beauty and health benefits. It is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and amino acids that can nourish your hair and scalp. In this article, you will learn five ways to use hibiscus for your hair and the pros and cons of each method.
Table of Contents
1. Hibiscus Hair Mask for Hair Growth
One of the most popular ways to use hibiscus for hair is to make a hair mask that can stimulate hair growth and prevent hair loss. Hibiscus can increase blood circulation in the scalp, which can promote the growth of new hair follicles. It can also reduce inflammation and prevent infections that can cause hair fall.
To make a hibiscus hair mask, you will need:
- A handful of fresh or dried hibiscus flowers and leaves
- Carrier oil of your choice, such as coconut, olive, or almond oil
- A blender or mortar and pestle
Steps:
- Wash and chop the hibiscus flowers and leaves into small pieces.
- Blend them with enough oil to make a smooth paste, or crush them with a mortar and pestle.
- Apply the paste to your scalp and hair, and massage gently for a few minutes.
- Cover your hair with a shower cap or a towel, and leave it on for at least 30 minutes.
- Rinse your hair with lukewarm water and a mild shampoo.
Pros
- Hibiscus hair masks can boost hair growth and prevent hair loss by nourishing the scalp and hair follicles.
- Hibiscus hair masks can also add shine, softness, and volume to your hair and enhance its natural color.
Cons
- Hibiscus hair masks can be messy and time-consuming to prepare and apply.
- Hibiscus hair masks can stain your clothes, towels, and skin, so be careful when using them.
Also Read: overnight hair mask 3 benefits ingredients how to use
2. Hibiscus Oil for Frizz-Free Hair
Another way to use hibiscus for hair is to make an oil that can moisturize your hair and reduce frizz. Hibiscus has a high mucilage content, which means it can coat your hair strands and seal in moisture. It can also smooth out the cuticles and prevent split ends.
To make hibiscus oil, you will need:
- A handful of dried hibiscus flowers
- Carrier oil of your choice, such as almond, jojoba, or grapeseed oil
- A glass jar with a lid
- A sunny spot
Steps:
- Place the dried hibiscus flowers in the glass jar, and fill it with the oil of your choice.
- Close the lid tightly, and shake the jar well.
- Place the jar in a sunny spot, such as a windowsill, and let it infuse for at least two weeks. Shake the jar every day to mix the ingredients.
- Strain the oil and discard the flowers. Store the oil in a dark bottle or container.
- Apply a few drops of the oil to your damp or dry hair, and comb through to distribute evenly.
Pros
- Hibiscus oil can hydrate your hair and tame frizz, making it easier to style and manage.
- Hibiscus oil can also protect your hair from sun damage and environmental stressors and improve its elasticity and strength.
Cons
- Hibiscus oil can take a long time to make, and you need to wait for the flowers to infuse with the oil.
- Hibiscus oil can be too heavy or greasy for some hair types, especially if you use too much of it.
3. Hibiscus Tea for Dandruff Treatment
A third way to use hibiscus for hair is to make a tea that can treat dandruff and scalp irritation. Hibiscus has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can fight off the microbes that cause dandruff. It can also soothe the scalp and reduce itching and inflammation.
To make hibiscus tea, you will need:
- A handful of fresh or dried hibiscus flowers
- A pot of water
- A strainer
Steps:
- Boil the water in a pot, and add the hibiscus flowers.
- Simmer the mixture for about 15 minutes, or until the water turns red.
- Strain the tea and let it cool down.
- Use the tea as a final rinse after washing your hair with a mild shampoo.
Pros
- Hibiscus tea can cleanse your scalp and hair, and remove any dirt, oil, or product buildup.
- Hibiscus tea can also balance the pH level of your scalp and hair and prevent dryness and flakiness.
Cons
- Hibiscus tea can be too drying for some hair types, especially if you use it too often or do not condition your hair afterward.
- Hibiscus tea can also alter the color of your hair, especially if you have light or bleached hair.
4. Hibiscus Vinegar for Hair Detox
A fourth way to use hibiscus for hair is to make a vinegar that can detox your hair and scalp. Hibiscus vinegar can help remove any impurities and toxins that can clog your pores and affect your hair growth. It can also restore the natural acidity of your scalp and hair, and improve their health and appearance.
To make hibiscus vinegar, you will need:
- A handful of fresh or dried hibiscus flowers
- A bottle of apple cider vinegar
- A glass jar with a lid
- A dark and cool place
Steps:
- Place the hibiscus flowers in the glass jar, and pour the apple cider vinegar over them.
- Close the lid tightly, and shake the jar well.
- Store the jar in a dark and cool place, such as a cupboard, and let it infuse for at least four weeks. Shake the jar every few days to mix the ingredients.
- Strain the vinegar and discard the flowers. Store the vinegar in a dark bottle or container.
- Dilute the vinegar with water in a 1:4 ratio, and use it as a final rinse after washing your hair with a mild shampoo.
Pros
- Hibiscus vinegar can detoxify your hair and scalp and improve blood circulation and oxygen supply to the hair follicles.
- Hibiscus vinegar can also add shine, bounce, and body to your hair and prevent tangles and breakage.
Cons
- Hibiscus vinegar can have a strong smell, which some people may find unpleasant or irritating.
- Hibiscus vinegar can also strip your hair of its natural oils, especially if you use it too often or do not condition your hair afterward.
Also Read: hair mask for soft hair
5. Hibiscus Powder for Hair Color
A fifth way to use hibiscus for hair is to make a powder that can color your hair naturally. Hibiscus powder can give your hair a reddish tint, depending on your original hair color and the amount of powder you use. It can also condition your hair and make it softer and smoother.
To make hibiscus powder, you will need:
- A handful of dried hibiscus flowers
- A blender or coffee grinder
- A bowl
- A shower cap or a towel
Steps:
- Blend or grind the dried hibiscus flowers into a fine powder.
- Transfer the powder to a bowl, and add enough water to make a thick paste.
- Apply the paste to your hair, and cover it with a shower cap or a towel.
- Leave it on for at least an hour, or longer if you want a darker color.
- Rinse your hair with lukewarm water and a mild shampoo.
Pros
- Hibiscus powder can color your hair naturally without using any harsh chemicals or damaging it.
- Hibiscus powder can also nourish your hair and scalp and prevent premature graying and hair loss.
Cons
- Hibiscus powder can be messy and time-consuming to prepare and apply.
- Hibiscus powder can also fade quickly, and you may need to reapply it frequently to maintain the color.
Conclusion
Hibiscus is a versatile and beneficial ingredient for your hair. It can help you achieve various hair goals, such as hair growth, frizz control, dandruff treatment, hair detox, and hair color. However, before you use hibiscus for your hair, you should be aware of the pros and cons of each method and choose the one that suits your hair type and needs. You should also do a patch test before applying hibiscus to your hair to check for any allergic reactions or sensitivity. With proper use and care, hibiscus can make your hair healthy and beautiful.