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Ginger has long been used by societies worldwide for its healing properties. Known for medicinal properties such as warding off bacteria, there’s also evidence of the benefits of ginger for your hair.
The Main Benefits of Ginger on Hair
Ginger has several unique benefits for your hair. The benefits begin at the scalp, as ginger can increase blood circulation and stimulate hair follicles.
On the hair shaft, ginger is known to help hair strands retain moisture and restore strength with its vast array of vitamins and minerals.
You may have seen articles circulating online touting the benefits of ginger for your hair. While more research is needed to determine how effective ginger treatments are for your hair, people have been using ginger for cosmetic and medicinal reasons for over 5,000 years.
In this article, we explore ginger’s reported benefits on your hair, popular treatments, and various ginger-infused products. Read on to discover if ginger may be a good treatment option for your hair!
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- How ginger can help stimulate blood flow
- Can ginger help dry hair?
- Can ginger infuse vitamins and minerals into my hair?
- Popular hair treatments with ginger
- Best ginger-infused hair products
How Ginger Works on the Scalp
There are several claims that ginger may increase overall scalp health. These claims are widely due to the active component found within ginger, known as gingerol.
1. May Promote Hair Growth
Did you know that poor blood circulation is linked to some types of hair loss? It’s true! Naturally, that means we want to stimulate increased circulation in our scalps to encourage lush, thick hair.
So, the next time you’re giving your scalp a good scrub in the shower or enjoying a massage at the salon, remember it may be providing more benefits than you realize!
Working fresh ginger, ginger oil, or a ginger-based product into the scalp is thought to increase blood flow and encourage hair growth. This growth is due to the active component found within ginger, known as gingerol.
2. Ginger May Help Reduce Dandruff
There’s more to dandruff than just dry skin. In fact, there could be several reasons why one may suffer from dandruff. In many cases, the culprit is a yeast-like fungus known as Malassezia that thrives on the oils found on our scalps.
That’s where ginger comes in. Ginger is known for having antifungal and antimicrobial properties. These benefits have long been acknowledged in Eastern medicine.
And while science catches up with research, many are using ginger as a way to alleviate dandruff. Due to ginger’s antifungal and antimicrobial properties, many use ginger to ward off infections and leave their scalps feeling clean and refreshed.
Read Next: How to Get Rid of Dandruff on the Scalp
3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties on the Scalp
We’ve learned that ginger possesses antifungal and antimicrobial properties, but did you know it’s also widely used as an anti-inflammatory? While more research on ginger and hair is needed, the effects of ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties have been well-studied.
No one likes a red, itchy, irritated scalp. Perhaps you forgot to wear a hat at the beach or used a hair product that was too strong.
It might be worth applying ginger in some form to your scalp to reduce inflammation. However, it’s always a good idea to test a small area of skin to gauge your reaction first.
Can Ginger Help Dry Hair?
Due to ginger being full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, it’s thought that those benefits may transfer to the hair shaft. By feeding the hair these nutrients, anecdotal evidence suggests ginger may help the hair shaft retain moisture.
Dry Hair Is Damaged Hair
When the hair shaft no longer has the ability to retain moisture, it becomes brittle and susceptible to more damage.
Dry hair can be caused by various factors, including:
- Bleaching
- Harsh chemicals in hair products
- Poor nutrition
- Dry weather
- Heat damage
- Perming damage
Preventing damaged hair from drying out further is essential in maintaining healthy hair.
The Vitamins and Minerals in Ginger
Ginger packs quite the nutritional punch! Among other things, this superfood contains:
- Vitamin C
- Potassium
- Magnesium
So, what does that mean in terms of hair care? We need a bit more research before we can draw a definite conclusion. We do know that vitamin C is fantastic for hair health.
While it’s likely that consuming ginger as food will deliver these benefits to your body, applying ginger directly to the hair shaft is still relatively unstudied.
Read Next: The Best Vitamins for Hair Health in 2024
Popular Hair Treatments With Ginger
Hair fanatics and hair stylists across the globe are becoming increasingly interested in ginger’s reported benefits. Thus, hair treatments containing ginger are on the rise!
DIY Ginger Hair Mask
Hair masks are rising in popularity, so it’s no wonder that recipes for ginger hair masks exist! Simply combine equal parts ginger oil with another type of carrier oil.
Popular carrier oils are argan and coconut oils. Mix the two ingredients and coat your hair. Leave it for about 30 minutes before washing it out.
Ginger Oil Scalp Massage
We’ve discussed ginger’s antimicrobial and antifungal properties. We’ve also discussed the benefits of increased blood circulation, so why not combine them for a relaxing massage? Rub ginger oil into your scalp for an invigorating massage that will leave you feeling clean and fresh.
You can leave the oil in for 30 minutes to get all the moisturization benefits. Remember, it’s always a good idea to test a new product on a small part of your skin to ensure you don’t have an adverse reaction.
Ginger Supplements
Yes, this article is focused on discussing topical methods of ginger, but taking ginger as a supplement may also benefit your hair! Ginger supplements are widely available, and your hair may receive more benefits from ingesting ginger rather than applying it topically.
The Best Ginger-Infused Hair Products
Ginger is trending in the hair care world. Check out some of the most popular hair products on the market that contain ginger.
Ginger Scalp Serum by The Body Shop
This popular serum is designed to minimize scalp dryness. It’s meant for those whose scalp feels dry and flaky after the shower. Apply a few drops to the affected area of your scalp and leave it in. Customers love the smell and the great absorption!
Rooted Ritual Leave-In Hair Mask
Check out Rooted Ritual’s Leave-in Hair Mask if you don’t want to DIY a ginger hair mask. This hair mask is used with ginger, vitamin E, and other high-quality ingredients to transform your hair’s health at the roots.
This mask is designed to be left on your hair for maximum absorption. Bonus points because it’s safe for color-treated hair!
Pacifica Ginger Root 10-In-1 Hair Volumizer
Customers adore this volumizing spray for its incredible scent and ability to make the hair appear thicker. With nearly 600 five-star reviews, this hair product quickly becomes a fan favorite. It works by nourishing, volumizing, oil control, and adding vitamins and minerals.
Frequently Asked Questions
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You’ve got questions about ginger and hair care, and we’ve got the answers!
Can I directly apply ginger to my hair?
Yes! There are several great DIY recipes out there for at-home ginger treatments. Some mash fresh ginger, while others use ginger oil, juice, or paste.
Does ginger grow hair fast?
While ginger has some awe-inspiring properties, it’s not scientifically proven to grow hair fast yet. However, several ginger products exist on the market, claiming ginger can aid in quick hair restoration and growth.
How often can I use ginger on my hair?
Follow any product recommendations for use frequency. Watch out for any reactions if you’re doing a DIY ginger hair treatment at home. It’s always wise to consult with a hair care professional, a dermatologist, or your primary care physician before incorporating a new product into your hair care routine.
Can ginger stop hair loss?
Currently, there’s not enough evidence to confidently say ginger stops hair loss. However, ginger has been used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes for thousands of years. There may be some benefits, but it has not been studied conclusively as of yet.
Can I leave the ginger in my hair overnight?
Consult with a medical professional before leaving a DIY treatment in your hair overnight. If the treatment is too strong, it may cause irritation. However, there are several leave-in hair masks that contain ginger that are safe to leave in overnight.
So, What Are the Benefits of Ginger for Your Hair?
There are many reported benefits of ginger for your hair, though they rely heavily on anecdotal evidence. Not enough research has been done yet to scientifically prove if ginger has a measurable positive effect on hair.
However, several treatments and products containing ginger are on the market with happy customers. We do know that ginger contains several vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
We also know that ginger has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties. Due to ginger’s historical medical and cosmetic uses, it might just be worth trying out.