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Don't spend a mint to get healthy, shiny hair. Peppermint oil and coconut oil can be used separately or together as a powerful leave-in treatment to add luster to your locks and even boost hair growth. You can use the leave-in treatment as a daily addition to your routine after washing your hair. Rub a few drops between your hands and run your fingers through your hair and scalp.
Coconut Shine
Add a touch of the tropics to your beauty regimen. Traditional hair care in many tropical locations includes coconut oil as a hair conditioner. It contains saturated fats, minerals and vitamins, including vitamin E and vitamin K. According to Bruce Fife, author of "Coconut Cures," coconut oil adds shine and luster to hair in addition to having antibacterial properties. Your scalp's naturally occurring bacteria activate the medium-chain fatty acids in the coconut oil – these are the acids that fight off harmful bacteria. The oil also helps minimize your hair's protein loss and prevents damage to your locks from combing and styling.
Peppermint Sensation
Girl, peppermint is good for much more than just fresh breath. Leaving peppermint oil on your scalp or adding it to your existing beauty regimen leaves your scalp cool and tingly and your hair smelling minty-fresh. The cooling effect soothes minor irritation and scalp itch. This essential oil is an effective hair treatment that stimulates circulation, enhancing blood flow to your roots. This enhances hair nourishment, leading to increased healthy hair growth. Peppermint oil will also banish flakes and clean up the oil slick. It's an astringent that balances both the scalp's production of sebum and its natural pH.
Taking It Easy
Don't forget that coconut oil is just that – oil. You can use coconut oil as a leave-in treatment after washing your hair, but you want to make sure you don't overdo it. Take the "less is more" approach, using just a few drops – a little dab will do you. Peppermint oil, like other essential oils, must be diluted in a carrier oil to prevent irritating your scalp and skin, and to make sure you get the maximum benefits from the treatment. Never use peppermint oil by itself. Use coconut oil as your carrier to reap the benefits of both.
Leaving It In
Make your own leave-in treatment by placing 2 to 3 teaspoons of coconut oil in a bowl. If your oil is solid, you'll need to warm it lightly before mixing it with three or four drops of peppermint oil. Go ahead and massage a few good dollops of the mixture into your hair and scalp, evenly coating every strand. Leave the mixture in for at least 15 minutes to allow it to penetrate the strands or your hair. Leaving the mixture in overnight is even better, ensuring that your hair and scalp thoroughly absorb the nutrients and benefits. In the morning, wash your hair and style it as you normally do. Use the same mixture as a leave-in treatment. Rub the drops between your hands and run your fingers through your hair and scalp.
