Rose Geranium Essential Oil for Healthy, Shiny Hair
Rose geranium oil for hair: why it works in your routine, plus a DIY leave in conditioner and hair spray recipe for shine and scent.
In this guide
Rose geranium oil is good for hair because it gives a fresh, rose-like scent, a soft finish and a mood lift every time you move your head. The easiest way to use it is a few drops in your shampoo, a light leave-in conditioner spray or a homemade hair spray. Below are the benefits, two simple recipes and how to use geranium oil safely.
Key takeaways
- Rose geranium oil has a rose-like scent with a twist of citrus, used for centuries in perfumery and skincare.
- Its warm, floral aroma is uplifting and comforting, so you enjoy it all day in your hair.
- The quickest way to use it is a few drops mixed into one wash of shampoo or conditioner.
- Our leave-in spray uses 4 drops in 150ml of water, and the hair spray uses 10 drops in a cup of sugar water.
- Always dilute it, patch test first and keep it away from your eyes.
What are the benefits of geranium oil for hair?
Rose geranium is a favourite for many, thanks to its beautiful scent. It has a heavenly rose-like aroma with a twist of citrus, and it has been used for centuries in perfumery and skincare. It is also a lovely addition to a home haircare routine.
A mood-lifting scent
Rose geranium has a warm, floral fragrance that many people find uplifting and comforting. Adding this divinely scented oil to your haircare means you can enjoy its aroma throughout the day.
A scented finishing touch
Used in a leave-in spray or mist, rose geranium gives hair a fresh, naturally fragrant finish. It is a simple way to add a touch of luxury to an everyday routine without synthetic perfumes.
Easy to add to your routine
You do not need special products. A few drops in your usual shampoo or conditioner, or one of the two recipes below, is all it takes.
How to use geranium oil for hair
| Method | How much | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| In shampoo or conditioner | A few drops in one wash, mixed in your palm | Everyday scent |
| Leave-in conditioner spray | 4 drops in 150ml water with almond oil | Soft, fragrant hair after washing |
| Homemade hair spray | 10 drops in 1 cup of sugar water | Light hold and a fresh finish |
Pro tip
Add the oil to the shampoo in your hand, not to the whole bottle. A single wash at a time keeps the scent fresh and the amount right.
Two DIY rose geranium hair recipes
Both recipes use simple, natural ingredients and leave your hair feeling fresh and beautifully scented.
1. Rose Geranium Leave-in Conditioner
Best for: soft, scented hair after washing
- 4 drops Rose geranium oil
- 150ml Plain water
- ¼ tsp Almond oil
- 1 Cobalt glass spray bottle
Add everything to the bottle and shake gently to mix. Spray over your hair after washing, sticking to the middle sections and ends, not the roots. Shake well before each use and find the amount that suits your hair type.
2. Rose Geranium Hair Spray
Best for: a light, natural hold
- 10 drops Rose geranium oil
- 4 tsp Sugar
- 1 cup Plain water
Warm the sugar and water in a saucepan just until the sugar dissolves, then let it cool. Pour the oil into a mist spray bottle, add the cooled sugar water and spray on as you would a normal hairspray.
For a firmer hold, add a little more sugar. For a softer one, use less. Your hair should never feel sticky.
Can geranium oil help with hair growth?
Many people search for geranium oil for hair growth. In this guide we use it for scent, softness and a lovely finish, and we keep our recipes to what they do best. Its main gift to your hair is a healthy, cared-for feel.
If scalp care is your goal, many people pair geranium with rosemary oil or lavender oil in a carrier oil for a relaxing scalp massage. Read more in our guide to 6 essential oils for hair care, growth and shine.
Is geranium oil safe for hair?
Safety first
Essential oils are concentrated. Always dilute them as the recipes describe, and do a patch test before you use a new blend.
- Keep oils and sprays away from your eyes. If they get in, rinse with cool water.
- Store oils out of reach of children and pets.
- If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a sensitive scalp, speak to a qualified practitioner first.
- If you have a nut allergy, swap the almond oil for another carrier such as jojoba.
FAQs
Is geranium oil good for hair?
Yes. Rose geranium oil gives hair a fresh, floral scent and a soft, fragrant finish. It is easy to add to shampoo, conditioner or a homemade leave-in spray.
How do I add rose geranium oil to my shampoo?
Add a few drops to the amount of shampoo or conditioner you use in one wash, mix in your palm, then apply as usual. Avoid adding oil to the whole bottle so the scent stays fresh.
How often can I use the leave-in spray?
You can use it after each wash, or whenever your hair needs a refresh. Shake well before every use and start with a light mist, adjusting to suit your hair type.
What does rose geranium smell like?
It has a soft, floral, rose-like aroma with a gentle citrus lift, which makes it a popular choice for fragrancing haircare and skincare.
Can I use these recipes on coloured or treated hair?
The recipes use gentle, natural ingredients, but everyone's hair is different. Patch test first and stop if you notice any irritation.
How long do the homemade recipes keep?
They contain water and no preservative, so make small batches and use them within a few days. Store them in a cool place and throw them away if the scent or look changes.
The bottom line
Rose geranium oil is one of the easiest ways to give your hair a beautiful natural scent and a soft finish. Start with a few drops in your shampoo, then try the leave-in spray or the sugar hair spray. You might also like our DIY heat protection spray, and you can find every oil in our essential oils collection.
