Tea Tree Oil (Essential Oil For Dreads)

Why people use tea tree oil on locs

Tea tree oil is known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties, which is why it’s a common ingredient in scalp and dandruff products. For people with locs, a few drops can help with itch and flakes and keep locs smelling fresh between washes.

How to use it safely

• Always dilute: add 2 to 3 drops to a tablespoon of a carrier oil (like olive or jojoba) or to a spray bottle of water.
• Apply to your scalp between locs and massage in.
• Add a few drops to your shampoo or rinse water.
• Patch test first. Undiluted tea tree oil can irritate skin.

When to see a doctor

If itching or flaking doesn’t improve, or your scalp is red, sore or weeping, see a doctor or dermatologist. Read more in itchy scalp with dreadlocks and getting rid of dandruff in dreadlocks.

FAQs

Can I put tea tree oil straight on my scalp?

No. Dilute it first, as neat tea tree oil can irritate or burn skin.

Does tea tree oil help with mold in locs?

It can help keep locs fresh, but it won’t fix mold that’s already inside a loc. See our guide to mold in dreadlocks.

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