How can lemon essential oil be added to a hair care routine?

Lemon essential oil is added to ready-made hair products — shampoos, conditioners or masks. Just 2–4 drops per 10 g of product are enough: the oil is mixed in immediately before use rather than added to the whole bottle, so as not to upset the stability of the main product.

In hair formulas, lemon oil is valued for its refreshing effect and its ability to make hair look less dull. It may also be useful for hair that gets oily at the roots: the oil's astringent effect helps the scalp look more matte and fresh for longer.

It is important not to apply undiluted oil directly to the scalp: it is added to a hair product, or 2–3 drops are applied to a comb for aromatic combing. After rinsing out a shampoo or mask containing lemon oil, it is better not to go straight out into bright sun if your hair is wet and the oil may have got onto the skin of your face or neck.

Lemon oil is used for nails in a similar way: add a drop to a cuticle carrier oil or to a hand soak.