Indications
This is a natural hair and scalp oil, a cosmetic blend of plant oils and herbal extracts for external use. It is used to nourish and moisturise dry hair and scalp, reduce dryness, frizz and split ends, add shine, and support a healthy scalp. Herbal hair oils are also traditionally used to reduce hair fall and dandruff, but scientific evidence for these effects is limited. It is not a treatment for medical hair loss or scalp disease.
How It Works
Plant oils coat the hair shaft and seal in moisture, which makes hair softer, smoother and less likely to break. Some oils soak into the hair and help reduce protein loss during washing. Massaging oil into the scalp can relieve dryness and flaking. Herbal extracts in such blends may have mild soothing or antimicrobial effects.
Dosage and Administration
For external use only. Apply a small amount to the scalp and hair, massage gently with the fingertips and leave on for at least an hour or overnight, then wash with a mild shampoo. Use two or three times a week, or as directed on the label. Do not apply to broken or inflamed skin.
Interactions
No interactions with medicines taken by mouth are expected. Avoid using it at the same time as medicated scalp treatments such as Minoxidil or Ketoconazole shampoo unless a doctor advises it, as oil may reduce their contact with the scalp.
Contraindications
- Allergy to any oil or plant extract in the product, including nut oils.
- Broken, infected or badly inflamed scalp skin.
Side Effects
Usually well tolerated. Some people may develop itching, redness, a rash, pimples along the hairline or worsening of dandruff. Stop use if this happens. Do a patch test on a small area of skin before first use.
Get urgent medical help if you develop swelling of the face, eyes or lips, difficulty breathing or a widespread rash.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Plant-based hair oils used on the hair and scalp are generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Check the ingredient list and ask a doctor if it contains strong essential oils.
Precautions and Warnings
- Avoid contact with the eyes; if it gets into the eyes, rinse well with water.
- Do not swallow.
- Sudden, patchy or heavy hair loss, or a scaly, itchy or painful scalp, may need medical treatment; see a doctor.
- Oil can make floors slippery; wipe up spills.
Overdose
Overdose is not expected with use on the hair. If a child swallows a large amount, it may cause stomach upset or, rarely, choking or breathing problems if inhaled; contact a doctor or the nearest hospital.
Therapeutic Class
Cosmetic herbal hair and scalp oil.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of the reach of children. Keep the bottle tightly closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.