The glycerin for hair can be used to moisturize the scalp and strands. This is a popular ingredient used in skin care products, but little is known about its benefits for hair. Glycerin might be especially helpful for treating dry, itchy scalps or dry, damaged hair.
If you want to know what are the benefits of glycerin for hair and the ways you can use it to nourish your hair. Keep reading! Here we will tell you everything you need to know about this product.
Glycerin for hair, is it good?
Glycerin is known to suit all hair types including curly, frizzy and coarse hair. Anecdotal evidence suggests that it can repair damaged hair. Glycerin can also moisturize and replenish dry hair. It can strengthen split ends, prevent hair breakage and fight dandruff.
Benefits of glycerin for hair
- Glycerin is a popular moisturizer and can soften hair
- Can act as a heat protectant as it minimizes heat damage
- It can also balance the pH levels of the scalp and minimize damage caused by alkaline changes.
- Glycerin can help reduce dandruff when used as a leave-in treatment. It is also used in herbal anti-dandruff shampoos, creams and lotions as they can dry out the hair and the glycerin prevents dryness.
- It is used in shampoos as a conditioning agent. Glycerin increases the moisture content in the hair roots and strengthens the hair shaft.
- Also shown to induce hair growth in mouse studies
- May help soothe dry, itchy scalp
How to use glycerin for hair
1. Lacquer with rose water and mint
Research shows that rose water can help retain moisture in the skin. This can treat dry and itchy scalp disorders. Peppermint and rosemary have antimicrobial and antifungal properties that can help keep your scalp clean.
You will need ½ cup rosewater, 4 to 5 drops of peppermint or rosemary essential oil, 2 tablespoons of glycerin, ½ cup of water, and a spray bottle. Mix all the ingredients. Pour the mixture into the spray bottle. Spray the spray on washed and damp hair. Apply it once a week.
2. Castor oil with glycerin
Castor oil can help stimulate hair growth. Apple cider vinegar is known to help preserve the pH level of the scalp. It also acts as a cleaning agent. Egg yolk contains peptides that can stimulate hair growth.
You will need 1 tablespoon of castor oil, 1 tablespoon of glycerin, 2 tablespoons of water, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 1 egg yolk. Mix all the ingredients in a bowl to form a smooth paste.
Apply the paste to your hair from roots to ends. Use your fingers to massage your scalp with the paste. Let it act for 30 to 45 minutes. Wash with cold water and shampoo. Do this once every week.
3. Olive oil, glycerin and honey
Research shows that olive oil can penetrate hair follicles and protect hair from within. Contains oleic acid which can inhibit 5-alpha reductase and help prevent hair loss. This enzyme converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which causes alopecia. Honey helps treat chronic dandruff and moisturizes the scalp and hair.
You will need 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of glycerin, 1 tablespoon of honey. Heat the olive oil a little. Make sure it’s not hot and mix all three ingredients in a bowl. Apply the mixture on the scalp and hair.
Massage your scalp with your fingertips in circular motions for 5 to 10 minutes. Let the mixture sit for at least 10 minutes to half an hour. Wash with warm water and shampoo as usual. Repeat once every week.
4. Aloe Vera and glycerin
Aloe vera benefits are well known. Helps stimulate hair growth, moisturizes dry hair and repairs dry and damaged hair. This combination is ideal for dry, damaged and chemically treated hair.
Mix 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel and 1 tablespoon of glycerin. Massage the scalp with small circular movements. Also apply it to your hair. Leave it on for an hour and wash your hair as usual. Do this once every week.
5. Hair products
You can also add glycerin to your conditioners and shampoos to increase their moisturizing properties. Glycerin locks in moisture and softens hair.
Side effects of glycerin for hair
Topical application of glycerin is considered safe. But it should not be used on cracked or broken skin. When used on hair, glycerin should be combined with oils, water or other serums to ensure that it does not weigh hair down or make it greasy.
Glycerin transports heat very well. Therefore, it should not be applied to hair when using heating tools such as curling irons or hair dryers. It can also damage your hair and make your hair and scalp feel very sticky.
Glycerin can also cause allergic reactions in some. Do a patch test on your wrist, forearm, or just below your hairline before use. Check for redness, swelling, burning, bumps, or itching. Most of these side effects are based on anecdotal evidence.
When you should not use glycerin
It should be noted that glycerin cannot be used at all times. It is advisable not to use pure glycerin during winters. In winters, our skin tends to crack. Therefore, do not use pure glycerin on skin without any carrier oil or water. Glycerin tends to thicken when cold and can thicken when applied to hair and blow-drying.
Glycerin is often used in many hair care products for its benefits. Helps prevent frizz, boost shine and treat dry scalp. However, it can cause certain side effects. Therefore, use glycerin with caution. If you experience any side effects, stop use and consult your doctor.