Patchouli Cologne: Natural Hair's Best Friend?

Patchouli oil is an essential oil with a distinctive scent that can be described as woody, earthy, sweet, and spicy. It is commonly used in perfumes and colognes, as well as cosmetics and incense. With its rich and versatile aroma, patchouli blends harmoniously with other essential oils and ingredients such as cedarwood, sandalwood, and vetiver. In this article, we will explore the use of patchouli cologne specifically in natural hair care routines and discuss its benefits and effectiveness.

Patchouli cologne's benefits for natural hair

Patchouli colognes benefits for natural hair

Patchouli cologne can be a great way to promote healthy hair and improve scalp health. Here are some of the benefits of using patchouli cologne for natural hair:

Promotes Hair Growth

Patchouli essential oil is believed to stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth. It helps balance sebum production, leaving hair looking shiny and healthy. By massaging the oil into the scalp twice a week, you can improve hair strands and strengthen hair roots, resulting in reduced breakage.

Prevents Dandruff

The antifungal and antiseptic properties of patchouli essential oil make it an effective remedy for dandruff and other scalp conditions. It helps keep the scalp clean and prevents infections, ensuring a healthy environment for hair growth.

Moisturises Hair

Patchouli essential oil has the ability to penetrate the hair shaft and provide deep moisture to the hair. Applying a few drops of the oil to the scalp can help keep it hydrated and nourished, improving hair manageability and reducing frizz.

Soothes Scalp Irritation

The anti-inflammatory properties of patchouli essential oil can help soothe scalp irritation and itching. Its calming effects can reduce inflammation and provide relief from scalp conditions such as dermatitis.

Adds a Pleasant Aroma

Patchouli is known for its strong, earthy, and musky aroma. Adding a few drops of patchouli essential oil to your hair care routine can leave your hair smelling fresh and pleasant throughout the day.

It is important to note that patchouli essential oil should always be diluted before applying it to the hair or scalp. It can be added to shampoo, mixed with a carrier oil for scalp massages, or used as a hair rinse after shampooing. Patchouli oil can also be incorporated into DIY hair masks, combining it with natural ingredients like avocado, honey, or aloe vera gel.

DIY patchouli cologne recipes

Patchouli Cologne Spray

As per Our Oily House, you can make a patchouli cologne spray with the following ingredients:

• 0.75 oz of witch hazel
• 0.10 oz of vegetable glycerin
• 15 drops of patchouli essential oil
• 10 drops of cypress essential oil
• 5 drops of cedarwood essential oil

First, measure out the witch hazel and vegetable glycerin, which will act as the base for your cologne spray. Then, add the essential oils to the mixture, stirring well after each addition. Finally, pour the cologne into a small, dark glass bottle with a lid or stopper to preserve the fragrance.

Roll-on Patchouli Cologne

To make a roll-on cologne, switch out the witch hazel and vegetable glycerin in the above recipe for a carrier oil of your choice, such as almond oil or fractionated coconut oil. Top up with the fragrance oil, pop on the rollerball top, screw on the lid, and shake.

Patchouli and Vetiver Roll-on Perfume

Candace Osmond of Better Mind Body Soul suggests the following recipe for a roll-on perfume:

• 2 teaspoons of Aura Cacia Jasmine Absolute (in jojoba oil) 0.5 fl. oz.
• 2 drops of Aura Cacia Vetiver 0.5 fl. oz.
• 0.31 ounces of Aura Cacia Amber Roll-On Bottle with Writable Label .31 fl. oz.
• 2 drops of patchouli oil
• 2 drops of Aura Cacia Jasmine Precious Essentials
• 1 drop of ylang-ylang oil

Remove the ball fitment from an empty roll-on container and carefully measure and add each ingredient. Then, use an eyedropper to fill the remainder of the bottle with jojoba oil. Put the ball fitment and cap back on, shake the bottle, and your roll-on perfume is ready to use.

Patchouli-Based Perfume

This recipe from Better Mind Body Soul uses vodka and distilled water to increase the quality of the perfume:

• 50 ml dark glass bottle (preferably a spray bottle or roll-on)
• 1 tablespoon of distilled water
• 20 drops of sweet orange
• 5 drops of lavender oil
• 10 drops of patchouli oil
• 10 drops of cedarwood
• 5 drops of ylang-ylang oil

Combine the distilled water and vodka in the bottle, then add one drop of essential oil at a time, stirring thoroughly after each addition.

Patchouli Perfume with Carrier Oil

This recipe from Better Mind Body Soul uses sweet almond oil as a carrier, but you could also try coconut or jojoba oil:

• 30 drops of lavender oil
• 25 drops of clary sage
• 20 drops of lemongrass
• 20 drops of patchouli oil
• 05 ounces of carrier oil

Combine the essential oils, then add the carrier oil. Transfer the mixture to an empty perfume bottle.

Solid Patchouli Perfume

This recipe from Loving Essential Oils uses beeswax and fractionated coconut oil to create a solid perfume:

• 1 tablespoon of beeswax
• 1 tablespoon of fractionated coconut oil
• 20 drops of patchouli essential oil (Pogostemon cablin)
• 15 drops of orange essential oil (Citrus sinensis)
• 2 small tins or containers

Melt the beeswax in a bain-marie (heated bath) by placing it in a bowl sitting in gently boiling water. Once melted, mix in the fractionated coconut oil, then add the essential oils, stirring until the composition is homogeneous. Pour the mixture into your containers and let it cool.

How to apply patchouli cologne

Preparation

Before applying patchouli cologne, it is important to dilute the patchouli oil in a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil, almond oil, or grapeseed oil. This is because patchouli oil has a very strong scent and can be overpowering if applied directly to the skin. A ratio of 1 part patchouli oil to 8 parts carrier oil is recommended.

Application

Once the patchouli oil is diluted, you can apply it to your skin using your fingertips. The wrists and neck are recommended areas for application, as the heat from the body can help intensify the scent. Be sure to rub the mixture gently in a circular motion to ensure even coverage.

Reapplication

The scent of patchouli oil is strong and long-lasting, but you may want to reapply it throughout the day, especially if you've been in a smelly environment. A few drops in the morning should be enough for the day, but remember to use it sparingly as too much can be overpowering.

Choosing a Patchouli Oil

When choosing a patchouli essential oil, opt for a pure oil as these are the most natural and beneficial for use as a perfume. Be sure to read the label carefully, as some oils may be diluted or mixed with other oils.

Creating a Unique Scent

You can create a unique scent by mixing patchouli oil with other essential oils. Start with a base oil, such as sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, or coconut oil, and then add a few drops of other essential oils such as lavender, geranium, or rose. Finally, add your patchouli oil, starting with a small amount and adjusting to your preference.

Patchouli cologne vs perfume

Patchouli is a plant classified as part of the mint family. Its scent is described as earthy, woody, spicy, and sweet. It is a popular ingredient in perfumes and colognes. But what is the difference between cologne and perfume?

The key difference between cologne and perfume is their water content. Cologne has a higher water content and lower ratio of fragrance oils compared to perfume. This makes the scent of perfume stronger and more potent, and it typically lasts longer on the skin. If you are looking for a subtle, evocative scent that stays with you throughout the day without being overpowering, cologne is the better option. It is stronger than a body spray but less intense than perfume.

Traditionally, cologne is considered a men's fragrance, while perfume is used by women. However, in modern times, many fragrances are unisex, so the user can choose their preferred option.

Both colognes and perfumes can be made with patchouli, and this ingredient is known to have a long-lasting effect.

Patchouli oil's benefits for natural hair

Patchouli oil is an essential oil with a wide range of benefits for natural hair. Here are some of the key advantages of using patchouli oil to enhance your hair care routine:

Healthy Scalp:

Patchouli oil has a calming effect on the scalp, helping to reduce flakiness and itching. Its anti-inflammatory properties can soothe dry scalp issues and provide relief from irritation.

Hair Growth and Hair Fall Prevention:

By nourishing the roots, patchouli oil strengthens hair strands and promotes hair growth. Regular use can help prevent hair loss and thinning, leading to healthier and fuller hair.

Dandruff Control:

The antimicrobial properties of patchouli oil effectively eliminate dandruff without damaging the hair. It also moisturizes the scalp, maintaining a healthy balance and preventing excessive grease.

Head Lice Treatment:

With its insecticidal capabilities, patchouli oil is an excellent natural treatment for head lice and other parasite infections on the scalp. Its effectiveness makes it a preferable option to commercial lice washes.

Anti-Inflammation:

Patchouli oil has a tradition of being used to reduce skin edema and irritation, making it ideal for inflamed skin. It can be beneficial for people with eczema, dandruff, or psoriasis, helping to maintain a healthy scalp and reduce associated discomfort.

Aromatic Benefits:

In addition to its direct benefits for hair and scalp health, patchouli oil is known for its sweet and musky aroma. This pleasant scent adds a touch of luxury to your hair care routine, providing a Zen-like experience.

To use patchouli oil for natural hair, it is recommended to combine it with a carrier oil, such as argan, coconut, or castor oil, and apply it as a pre-shampoo treatment. This allows the oil to nourish the scalp and hair, enhancing its appearance and overall health.

Frequently asked questions