Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common form of hair loss experienced by many men. Conventional treatments primarily involve oral and topical medications, but the use of aromatherapy is gaining attention as a complementary treatment option. Aromatherapy is a natural therapy that uses essential oils to promote mental and physical health, and can support scalp health and hair growth. This article details the benefits and specific methods of medical aromatherapy in AGA treatment.
1. What is Medical Aromatherapy?
Medical Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils from a medical perspective.Essential oils are highly concentrated essential oils extracted from plants and possess a variety of pharmacological effects. By using these essential oils, the following effects can be expected
Anti-inflammatory action: reduces inflammation of the scalp.
Promotes blood circulation: improves blood circulation in the scalp and supplies nutrients to hair follicles.
Antimicrobial action: inhibits the growth of harmful microorganisms to maintain scalp health.
Relaxation: reduces stress and promotes overall wellness.
2. Essential oils effective for AGA treatment
The following is a list of essential oils that have been shown to be particularly effective in the treatment of AGA.
Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil stimulates blood circulation and helps supply nutrients to the hair follicles.It is also an antioxidant and helps maintain a healthy scalp.
Effects: Promotes blood circulation, hair growth, and anti-inflammatory action.
Directions: Mix a few drops in a carrier oil (jojoba oil, coconut oil, etc.) and massage into the scalp.
Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is highly relaxing and helps reduce stress. It also has antibacterial properties and is effective in maintaining scalp health.
Benefits: stress reduction, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory.
Use: Mix a few drops in a carrier oil and massage into scalp or use in an aroma diffuser.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has strong antibacterial and antifungal properties that help prevent scalp infections. It also helps reduce inflammation.
Effects: Antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory.
Directions: Mix a few drops in a carrier oil and massage into scalp.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil has a cooling effect and stimulates circulation, helping to improve scalp health. It also helps reduce itching.
Effects: blood circulation promotion, cooling effect, itch suppression.
Directions: Mix a few drops in a carrier oil and massage into scalp.
3. Specific Practices of Medical Aromatherapy
Scalp Massage
Scalp massage is very effective in stimulating blood circulation and supplying nutrients to the hair follicles.Scalp massage with essential oils is also relaxing and helps reduce stress.
Preparation:
Mix a few drops of essential oil in a carrier oil (jojoba oil, coconut oil, etc.).
For example, add 3 drops each of rosemary oil and lavender oil to 30 ml of jojoba oil.
Methods:
Take the oil mixture into the palm of your hand and warm it with both hands.
Gently massage it into the scalp using the pads of your fingers.
Massage the entire scalp in a circular motion, paying particular attention to areas where thinning hair is a concern.
Continue massaging for 10-15 minutes, then leave for 30 minutes before rinsing with shampoo.
Use of aroma diffuser
Using an aroma diffuser diffuses the aroma of essential oils and provides a relaxation effect.This can be expected to reduce stress.
Preparation:
Fill the aroma diffuser with water.
Add a few drops (4-5) of essential oil.Lavender oil or peppermint oil are suitable.
Methods:
Activate the diffuser to diffuse the fragrance throughout the room.
Spend 30 minutes to 1 hour relaxing.
Hair Mask
Hair masks with essential oils provide nourishment to the hair and help repair damage.
Preparation:
Mix a few drops of essential oil in a carrier oil (avocado oil, argan oil, etc.).
For example, add 3 drops each of rosemary oil and tea tree oil to 30 ml of avocado oil.
Methods:
Apply the oil mixture throughout the hair and massage thoroughly, especially into the scalp.
Cover hair with a shower cap and leave for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Rinse with shampoo.
4. Medical Aromatherapy Precautions
When performing medical aromatherapy, it is important to note the following
Concentration of essential oils: Because essential oils are very concentrated, it is important to dilute them with a carrier oil.Normally, 3 to 5 drops of essential oil per 30 ml of carrier oil is a good rule of thumb.
Patch test: Essential oils used for the first time should be patch tested to make sure there is no allergic reaction before use.
Pregnancy: Pregnant women should avoid using some essential oils.It is recommended to consult a physician before use.
Photosensitivity: Some essential oils (especially citrus) are photosensitive and may cause skin damage when exposed to sunlight.Avoid direct sunlight after use.
Summary
Medical aromatherapy is an effective complementary approach in the treatment of AGA.The use of essential oils such as rosemary oil, lavender oil, tea tree oil, and peppermint oil can help maintain scalp health and promote hair growth. Use methods such as scalp massage, aroma diffusers, and hair masks to help relax your mind and body and support hair health. By following precautions and practicing medical aromatherapy, you can maximize the benefits of AGA treatment.
