I’ve lost count of how many anti-dandruff shampoos I’ve tried over the years. Each promised flake-free hair, but after a week or two, my scalp always slipped back into its itchy, flaky ways. That’s when I stumbled upon an under-the-radar remedy: lemongrass oil.
It’s not as Instagram-famous as rosemary oil for hair fall control, but trust me, it deserves a spot in your routine. And unlike the dozens of “miracle cures” that pop up on TikTok, this one actually has science to back it up.
Why Lemongrass Oil Works For Dandruff & Oily Scalps?
If you’ve ever scratched your head (literally) wondering why dandruff never truly goes away, here’s the secret; it’s often caused by a yeast called Malassezia. This little fungus loves feeding on scalp oils, creating flakes, itching, and irritation.
Here’s where lemongrass oil shines: it has anti-fungal properties that reduce this yeast and restore balance. In fact, a 2015 clinical trial found that a 10% lemongrass oil hair tonic reduced dandruff by 81% in just two weeks of daily use. That’s a dramatic result compared to the slow burn of most of home remedies for dandruff.
And dandruff isn’t the only target. Lemongrass also helps:
- Balance oil production so your scalp feels clean without being stripped.
- Soothe scalp inflammation, making it perfect if your scalp gets itchy or red.
- Support follicle health, so your hair grows stronger over time.
How I Use It In My Dandruff Control Routine?
The first time I tried lemongrass oil, I was nervous. Essential oils can be intense, and I’d already learned the hard way that applying them directly is a recipe for scalp burn.
So I kept it simple:
- I mixed 3 drops of lemongrass oil with 2 tablespoons of jojoba oil.
- Massaged it into my scalp, left it for 30 minutes, then rinsed with a gentle sulfate-free dandruff shampoo.
After just a couple of uses, I noticed two things: my scalp wasn’t itching at random times during the day anymore, and the flakes around my hairline were visibly reduced.
It’s not magic…It’s consistency. But it works.
The One Lemongrass Oil I Recommend
If you’re curious to try it yourself, I recommend the HBNO California Bottled Lemongrass Essential Oil. It’s pure, steam-distilled, and strong enough to work without smelling overly sharp or synthetic (some cheaper oils can be harsh or off). Plus, their bottles are sturdy and well-sealed, so the citrusy freshness actually lasts.
Last update on 2026-01-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How To Add It To Your Hair Routine?
Here are a few safe and easy ways to make lemongrass oil part of your scalp care:
- Scalp massage oil: 2–3 drops in a carrier oil (coconut, jojoba, almond).
- Shampoo boost: Add 2 drops to your shampoo right before lathering.
- Herbal rinse: Mix 5 drops in cooled green tea and pour over your scalp after shampooing.
Important: Always do a patch test on your wrist and back of your ear first. And remember more isn’t better. Just a few drops go a long way.
Over To You
If you’ve been chasing dandruff solutions or battling a scalp that feels greasy by day two, lemongrass oil might be the unsung hero you’ve overlooked. It’s not just another essential oil, it’s a natural, clinically supported way to calm irritation, balance oils, and send those stubborn flakes packing.
And honestly?
For me, it was a refreshing change to find something that didn’t just promise results but actually delivered.
So the next time your scalp acts up, skip the cycle of trying yet another “miracle” dandruff cure. Reach for lemongrass oil instead you might just wonder why you ignored it for so long.