We mostly know yogurt as a delicious and nutritious food. It is packed with important nutrients as well as probiotics and protein.

But did you know that this fermented dairy product is also a traditional Middle Eastern treatment for hair growth and restoration?

The benefits of applying yogurt to the hair and scalp have not been proven by clinical research. However, anecdotal evidence and cultural traditions support its use in this way.

One of the most popular direct applications is the hair mask, also known as a deep conditioner.

Proponents of yogurt-based hair masks suggest that the proteins in yogurt promote strong, healthy hair. They also believe that the lactic acid in yogurt cleanses the scalp, removes dead skin cells, and promotes hair follicle growth.

People use yogurt hair masks to treat hair damage caused by: the environment, such as the sun, air pollution, and seasonal changes; styling tools, such as hairbrushes, flat irons, and hair dryers; and hair products, such as those used for styling, coloring, straightening, and curling.

 

Applying a yogurt hair mask

 

Advocates of using yogurt on your hair and scalp suggest applying it as follows:

Start with dry hair.

Apply the yogurt mask to the roots of your hair and work it through the length of your hair.

Leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes. Some suggest covering your hair with a shower cap.

Rinse the mask out with lukewarm water. Some suggest using a mild shampoo after rinsing the mask. 

 

Yogurt mask recipes for specific hair conditions

 

Damaged hair: yogurt for softness, strawberries for shine, coconut oil to stimulate hair growth, egg to replenish vitamins and minerals.

 

 

Anti-dandruff: yogurt and lemon to treat dandruff; honey to hydrate the scalp.

 

 

Dry hair: yogurt for softness; honey for hydration

 

 

Dull hair: yogurt for softness; honey for hydration; coconut oil for hydration

 

 

Frizzy hair: yogurt for hydration; banana for volume; honey for hydration

 

Oily hair: yogurt to cleanse; lemon to degrease; baking soda to balance the pH level

 

Thinning hair: yogurt to clear hair follicles; aloe vera to nourish hair follicles

 

Brittle hair: yogurt for protein, olive oil for maintenance, egg for vitamins and minerals.

 

 

If you are considering adding a yogurt hair mask to your hair care routine, perform a patch test before using the yogurt (or other ingredients) on your hair and scalp.

To do this, rub a small amount of the ingredient on your forearm and wait 30 minutes.

If your skin shows no signs of an allergic reaction (itching, redness, tingling), there is a good chance that you can use the ingredient on your hair and scalp.