When someone with a really nice scent passes by you, it’s hard not to turn your head away. The power of a good perfume cannot be denied, especially in public places.

In recent years, beauty enthusiasts have taken their obsession with smelling good to another level by adopting hair perfumes. Many brands are now creating perfumes specifically for your hair.

So, imagine having your hair smelling amazing every day!

But is this product good for your hair or can it harm your shiny locks? Let’s find out what the experts have to say.

What?

“Hair perfume is a special fragrance product specifically formulated for use on hair. Unlike traditional perfumes, hair perfumes are light and non-drying, often containing essential oils and nourishing ingredients like silicones that help add shine to the hair and reduce frizz,” says Dr Stuti Khare Shukla, Mumbai-based dermatologist, hair specialist and founder of Elements of Aesthetics. india today,

Furthermore, Dr. Shravya C. Tipirneni, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetologist and Trichologist, Manipal Hospitals, Bangalore, states that hair perfumes are a relatively new product in the world of cosmetics and are creating a stir in the world of haircare.

“Hair perfume adds a pleasant scent to your hair, leaving a lingering trail of freshness that complements your perfume. Adding this scent to your routine can boost confidence and draw people’s attention to you,” she says.

‘Perfumes can damage your hair’

Dr Shukla said it is important to keep in mind what ingredients are in your perfume as such products may contain ethyl alcohol and heavy synthetic fragrances.

Over time, such products can cause scalp irritation, dryness or hair damage, she said.

“This skepticism is based on the understanding that the scalp is an extension of the skin, and therefore requires products that maintain its health and integrity while avoiding unnecessary chemicals that may disrupt its natural balance,” the doctor says.

Dr. Shukla explained that hair perfumes are generally not recommended due to the potential negative effects on hair health.

• The alcohol in hair perfumes strips the hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.
• Additionally, synthetic fragrances can cause scalp irritation and allergies in some individuals.
• Long-term use of such products can lead to an overall deterioration in hair quality, including tangled hair, split ends, and dull hair.

Necessary or fleeting trend?

According to Dr. Tipirneni, the product falls somewhere between a social media trend and an essential item.

While it can be a delightful way to add a touch of luxury to your haircare routine, it isn’t essential for healthy hair.

“For those who want a sensory experience and an extra layer of fragrance, hair perfumes are a unique way to personalize their scent,” the doctor said.

On the other hand, Dr. Shukla believes that using perfume on hair can be seen more as a social media trend than a basic hair care procedure.

Social media platforms often popularise beauty products and routines that promise instant beauty benefits, and hair perfumes have also become popular as a way to keep hair looking fresh all day.

It is important to note that this product is not considered essential to maintaining healthy hair, and the primary focus of hair care should be on practices that promote the health and integrity of the hair and scalp, such as using moisturizing shampoos and conditioners, avoiding excessive heat and chemical treatments, and maintaining a balanced diet.

How much perfume is too much for hair?

If you still want to join the trend and buy hair perfume, remember the following when choosing the right perfume:

• Choose a scent that clashes with your normal perfume or creates a feeling you enjoy.
• Look for alcohol-free formulas with conditioning properties and natural ingredients.
• Opt for a lighter mist for thinner hair and a richer formula for thicker hair.

It is important to use hair perfume in moderation to avoid potential hair damage and maintain hair health. Always remember that applying too much perfume on hair can overwhelm the senses and cause product build-up on your hair and scalp.

A few light sprays are usually enough to get a pleasant scent without soaking your hair.

“It’s best to apply perfume sparingly and on the mid-lengths and ends of the hair rather than on the scalp to minimise the risk of irritation or product build-up,” says Dr Shukla.

Option with your own hands

Experts say there are definitely some DIY hacks and household items that can be used as a more natural alternative to hair perfume.

Dr. Shukla explains, “An effective option is to make a hair mist at home using essential oils. You can add a few drops of your favorite essential oils such as lavender, rosemary or chamomile to a spray bottle with water. These oils not only provide a pleasant scent but also provide many benefits for hair health, such as promoting growth and adding shine.”

“Another simple remedy is to use rose water, which has a mild refreshing scent and can also help moisturize and soothe the scalp. Alternatively, you can add citrus peels, such as lemon or orange, to the water and leave it for a few hours before spraying it on your hair,” she adds.

According to the doctor, these natural alternatives are free from harsh chemicals and alcohol, making them more friendly to your hair and scalp and keeping your hair looking fresh.

In the meantime, here are some options shared by Dr. Tipirneni:

• Herbal rinse: Steep aromatic herbs like rosemary or chamomile in hot water, let them cool, and use as a final rinse.
• Leave-in conditioner: Add a few drops of essential oil to your leave-in conditioner for a light, lasting scent.

Ground Level

Hair perfumes have become a huge trend on social media, but with this product, less is more. A light spray is enough and overspraying can overwhelm your senses and weigh down your hair.

This product is a fun way to add a touch of luxury and fragrance to your haircare routine, but it’s not a necessity for healthy hair.