Lemongrass Oil
LEM-un-grass OYL
What Is Lemongrass Oil?
An essential oil from lemongrass with strong antimicrobial and dandruff-fighting properties. Research shows it is effective against Malassezia fungi at relatively low concentrations.
Source: Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus/citratus)
Origin: Natural
Also known as: Cymbopogon Flexuosus Oil, Cymbopogon Citratus Oil
What Does Lemongrass Oil Do to Your Hair?
Fights dandruff-causing Malassezia fungi with potent antifungal properties. Helps control excess scalp oil with its astringent action. Research showed a hair tonic with 10% lemongrass oil significantly reduced dandruff after 7 days of use.
Best For
Dandruff-prone scalp, oily scalp, scalp odor, all hair types
Not Recommended For
Dry scalp, sensitive skin (can be irritating undiluted)
Concentration Matters
0.5-1% in products; 1-2% in carrier oils
Hair Type Compatibility
Method Compatibility
Safety & Regulation
Generally safe when properly diluted but can cause skin irritation if used at too high a concentration. Higher irritation potential than lavender or cedarwood. Always patch test and dilute to 1-2% in carrier oil.
FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe
FDA considers safe for cosmetic use at standard concentrations.
EWG Score: 3/10
HairAide Verdict
Impressive anti-dandruff research at accessible concentrations. A natural alternative to zinc pyrithione for dandruff control. Just be careful with dilution as it can irritate sensitive scalps.
Products That Contain Lemongrass Oil
Anti-dandruff treatments, scalp cleansers, clarifying shampoos, scalp tonics
Alternatives to Lemongrass Oil
If you want to avoid Lemongrass Oil, look for products with these ingredients instead:
Tea Tree Oil, Rosemary Oil, Zinc Pyrithione
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Lemongrass Oil has a safety rating of 7/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Generally safe when properly diluted but can cause skin irritation if used at too high a concentration. Higher irritation potential than lavender or cedarwood. Always patch test and dilute to 1-2% in carrier oil.
Lemongrass Oil is CG-method approved and is generally considered safe for curly hair.
Yes, Lemongrass Oil is approved for the Curly Girl method.
Some alternatives to Lemongrass Oil include: Tea Tree Oil, Rosemary Oil, Zinc Pyrithione
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