Tea tree oil comes from the Melaleuca tree, which grows in Australia. The oil has both antibacterial and antiseptic properties, and is good for a variety of skin (find out how to use tea tree oil to treat pimples here) and scalp conditions. Tea tree oil relieves symptoms of itchy rashes due to dandruff or seborrhea, while healing the scalp. While you can purchase ready-made tea tree oil shampoos and hair care products, you can also make your own tea tree shampoo to treat a range of hair and scalp issues.
Check out these other best essential oils and how to use them.
Open an 8-ounce bottle of shampoo (preferably organically made). Use your favorite shampoo or a mild, tear-free baby shampoo if you'll be using your tea tree oil shampoo on children.
Fill an eye dropper one-third of the way with tea tree oil concentrate. This will probably be more than is needed but will make it easier to squeeze the oil from the dropper.
Hold the oil-filled eye dropper over the open bottle of shampoo. Squeeze out four drops of tea tree oil into the shampoo bottle. Squirt the remaining tea tree oil back into the container.
Replace the lid on the shampoo bottle and shake up the shampoo and tea tree oil to mix. Shake the bottle before each use, as the oil may separate from the shampoo. Use the shampoo as you normally would.
Tip
Rub tea tree oil cream or ointment directly onto dry scalp or scalp irritations. You can also use tea tree oil cream or ointment on cuts, burns, skin infections or bug bites
Warning
Tea tree oil concentrate is very strong and shouldn't be applied directly to the skin or scalp as it can cause irritation.
References
Writer Bio
Mary Ylisela is a former teacher with a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education and mathematics. She has been a writer since 1996, specializing in business, fitness and education. Prior to teaching, Ylisela worked as a certified fitness instructor and a small-business owner.