Hair loss is a common problem in both men and women, and it can be caused by many factors. The most frequent causes are hormonal imbalances (especially testosterone and DHT), genetics, aging, or highly stressful situations, although it can also be caused by medical conditions or as a side effect of medications.
To combat this, you can prepare a green tea shampoo, rinse, or hair mask. Several studies suggest that this natural ingredient helps keep hair healthy and strong, thanks to epigallocatechin gallate, which can inhibit hair loss. Let’s look at the details!
Why does green tea help with hair loss?
Green tea contains a number of components with positive effects on health. Specifically, it contains the following nutrients:
- Amino acids: such as valine, histidine, niacin, theanine, and arginine.
- Vitamins: A, B, C, and E.
- Carotenoids are pigments capable of preventing dandruff and promoting hair growth.
- Minerals: such as iron, sodium, potassium, or magnesium.
- Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG): an antioxidant that inhibits the damaging effect of DHT on the hair follicle, delaying hair loss.
- Polyphenols: flavonoids.
- Catechins have an important effect on the cells of the dermal papillae.
However, among these components, the key players in combating hair loss are epigallocatechin gallate, catechins, and polyphenols. First, it’s important to know that testosterone or dihydrotestosterone (also known as the androgen DHT) can shorten the hair growth phase.
On the other hand, hair loss occurs when the dermal papillae stop transporting nutrients and oxygen, which are necessary for hair growth. According to a publication in Phytomedicine, green tea inhibits the death of these cells in the dermal papilla of the hair follicle, thanks to the presence of EGCG.
Finally, a study published in The Journal of Nutrition indicated that green tea increases microcirculation in the scalp. This result was obtained after an experimental group consumed a beverage containing green tea polyphenols for twelve weeks, revealing increased blood flow and oxygen delivery to the skin.
How to apply green tea to hair to prevent hair loss?
To prevent hair loss, you can apply green tea topically to your scalp and roots. The polyphenols in this tea will nourish your hair, and all its components will promote healthier growth.
There are several ways you can use green tea on your hair. Let’s look at some of them below.
1. Shampoo with green tea extract
There are many commercial shampoos made with green tea extract, which is derived from the Camellia sinensis plant and protects your hair cells thanks to its antioxidant effect. However, you can also make your own 100% natural, homemade product. You will need the following ingredients:
- 5 grams of green tea oil.
- Cucumber aromatic essence (optional).
- 250 grams of organic base shampoo.
- Vitamin E/tocopherol (follow the package instructions to add the correct dose).
Once you’ve gathered the ingredients, mix them in a bowl and let them blend thoroughly. Then, pour the mixture into a bottle or jar, and you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of green tea for your hair.
2. Rinse with green tea infusion
One of the best home remedies to prevent hair loss is rinsing with green tea infusion. To prepare it, simply follow the usual steps for making tea: place the green tea bag (or green tea leaves) in hot water and let it steep.
After it cools, transfer the product to a spray bottle. After showering, you can apply the mixture to your head by spraying it. Be sure to spray it on the roots and, especially, the scalp, as the product needs to make contact with your scalp to be effective.
3. Face mask
Green tea masks can help reduce hair loss. However, if you add other ingredients with beneficial properties, you’ll also achieve softer, shinier hair. To prepare this mask, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 egg yolk.
- 15 grams of ground green tea.
- 15 milliliters of olive oil.
To take advantage of the benefits of green tea for your hair, place all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Then, if your hair is long, it’s best to separate it into sections. Massage your scalp and apply the mixture from roots to ends. Leave it on for 20 minutes and rinse your hair.
What other benefits does green tea have for hair?
The benefits of green tea for your hair go beyond serving as a natural remedy for baldness. In addition, it helps reduce oiliness in the hair, so it’s good to apply it after washing.
Similarly, it darkens hair, naturally concealing gray hairs. It also helps treat dandruff and scalp psoriasis by softening the skin and reducing inflammation. Finally, it adds shine and volume.
Contraindications
While green tea offers numerous health benefits, it’s important to be aware that it also has contraindications and side effects. Do not consume or apply green tea topically if you meet any of the conditions detailed below, and consult your doctor if you have any concerns.
Among the contraindications of green tea, we find that it is not recommended for pregnant women or for people who have heart arrhythmias, as well as liver problems.
It is also contraindicated for children under 12 and for those allergic to caffeine or other xanthines, as well as those suffering from insomnia, epilepsy, or peptic ulcers. Finally, it is important to note that excessive consumption of green tea may reduce the absorption of iron and folic acid.
Use green tea to prevent hair loss
If you want to prevent or stop hair loss, don’t forget the importance of adopting healthy habits to combat hair loss and consulting a hair health professional for personalized advice. Sometimes, medication or even hair transplants may be necessary.
However, in the meantime, if you want to address this problem, using green tea topically on your scalp is a great idea. The best part? You can make your own homemade hair care products with some tea leaves or tea bags.
