Last Updated on April 10, 2023 by Verna Meachum

A cup of tea can relax and soothe the body, mind, and soul. But did you know that you can use it as a tea rinse for hair?

If you’re looking for a way to improve your hair health, you may want to consider adding a tea rinse to your haircare regimen. By the way, it can be used on any hair type.

In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of using tea as part of your hair care routine, and we’ll provide instructions on how to perform a tea rinse at home.

There are many different types of teas that can be used in a tea rinse for the hair including green tea, black tea, oolong tea, or herbal teas like chamomile or rosemary.

The type of ingredients in each type of tea is what makes them so beneficial for the scalp and strands because they contain vitamins A & E along with minerals such as zinc that strengthen the roots while also promoting healthy circulation throughout the scalp.

These nutrients work together by providing nourishment that helps prevent breakage while also encouraging shiny locks!

Not only do these ingredients encourage stronger strands but they also have anti-inflammatory properties that help calm down irritation caused by dandruff. This means less itching and scratching which prevents further damage from occurring!

Disclaimer: Please note that some scalps can be sensitive to any and all DIY treatments. Using too much caffeine can cause scalp irritation. Always do a patch test first before applying.

Personal Story of Using Tea Rinse

I used to have this really itchy scalp and I couldn’t find anything to relieve it. I tried all sorts of things, but nothing worked. Then someone told me about tea rinses and how they can help with itchy scalps. I was a little skeptical at first, but I decided to give it a try.

And guess what? It actually worked instantly! My scalp felt so much better. Not only did the itch go away, but I noticed that my curls were more defined and my hair was shiny!

Tea rinsing is now one of my favorite ways to take care of my hair.

Benefits Of A Tea Rinse

In a 2018 study done on men with androgenetic alopecia (in vivo), a 0.2% caffeine solution was used twice per day, increasing the number of hairs in the growing phase (anagen) by almost 11% – similar to the results from Minoxidil in the same study.

The leaves of the black tea plant have high levels of tannins, a kind of polyphenol antioxidant that negate cell-damaging compounds known as free radicals.

Green tea is made from the young, fresh leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant and has a high level of catechins, which are also potent antioxidants.

Different teas provide different levels of colors because of how oxidation of tea work.

Types of Tea Rinses

Black tea rinse for hair

Has the highest caffeine content so it may not be ideal. Only use black tea if you are going to dilute it. Black tea works best for people who are looking to combat shedding.

Black teas’ natural properties help to block the hormone DHT that is responsible for hair shedding.

People with dark hair are advised to use black or dark-colored teas, which can deepen their color and darken grays.

Hair loss and hair shedding are caused by a variety of factors, including poor diet, stress, hormones, genetics, and damage to the hair.

Don’t rely on black tea to cure your hair loss problems; instead, visit a dermatologist who can help you determine the underlying source of your hair loss.

Green tea rinse for hair

Green tea is the most popular tea for a tea rinse because it is mild and has a high level of antioxidants.

The catechins in green tea help to improve hair elasticity, making it less prone to breakage.

It can also help to reduce scalp inflammation and dandruff.

Use at least two bags of green tea or more for a stronger rinse.

Oolong tea rinse for hair

Oolong tea is a distinctive tea that originated from China. It is nicknamed “Oriental Beauty,” and was often served to the emperors and royalty.

Did you know that Oolong tea represents just 2% of the world’s tea? It contains flavonoids, caffeine (less than in black tea), fluorides, and theanine.

Oolong tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant and is partially oxidized. This makes it have properties that are in between black and green tea. It is rich in antioxidants and is known for its fruity taste and floral aroma.

Because of the high number of antioxidants it contains, drinking oolong tea helps hair to grow in a healthy manner.

However, oolong tea isn’t just used to drink; it may also be used to treat the hair for additional wonderful benefits.

White tea rinse for hair

White tea is made from the buds and youngest leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant and has the lowest caffeine content.

It helps to reduce dandruff. It is also believed to be good for your overall health, so it is a great tea to drink.

Chamomile tea rinse for hair

Chamomile tea has been used as an herbal remedy for centuries and can have many benefits on the scalp.

Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties help to reduce inflammation and dandruff.

It can also be used as a tea rinse if you have blonde or light colored hair, since chamomile tea is known to make blondes even blonder, and accentuate your hair’s natural highlights.

Use one bag of chamomile tea per cup of water.

Rosehip tea rinse for hair

Rosehip tea is an herbal tea made from the fruit of a rose plant that are native to Asia, North Africa, and Europe.

It helps to reduce frizz, make hair softer, and promote shine.

Use one bag of rosehip tea per cup of water.

Hibiscus and Rooibos teas rinse for hair

Hibiscus and Rooibos tea is a caffeine-free alternative to black and green tea. This comes from the leaves in South Africa.

Rooibos tea has high levels of antioxidants and minerals such as zinc, calcium, copper and potassium which are essential for hair growth.

Peppermint tea rinse for hair

Peppermint tea can help to reduce dandruff and promote blood flow to the scalp.

Use one bag of peppermint tea per cup of water.

Sage tea rinse for hair

Sage tea contains anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help to reduce inflammation, promote blood flow to the scalp, and kill bacteria that can cause dandruff.

Brew two or three bags of sage tea for five minutes and let it cool before using.

Nettle tea rinse for hair

Nettle leaf extract has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help protect our scalp from damage and reduce hair loss.

Nettle leaves are also rich in minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc, which can all give our follicles a great boost.  

Steeping a bunch of nettle leaves in boiling water, then strain and allow the water to cool before using it as a hair rinse.

Caution when consuming herbal teas, as some tea can interact with certain medications you are taking.

If you take medication, speak to your doctor before using tea rinses or drinking herbal tea on a regular basis.

Instructions on How to Use Tea Rinse

There are a few different ways that you can use a tea rinse, depending on what kind of results you are looking for.

If you want to use a tea rinse as a conditioner, after shampooing your hair, brew two or three tea bags per cup of water and let it cool. Then, pour the tea over your hair and leave it in for five to ten minutes before rinsing it out.

To use tea rinses as a deep treatment, brew two or three tea bags per cup of water and let it cool. Then, pour the tea over your hair and leave it in for 30 minutes to an hour before rinsing it out.

You can also add other ingredients to tea rinses for additional benefits. For example, you can add tea tree oil to a tea rinse if you have dandruff.

You can also combine tea with other herbs to make a tea rinse. For example, adding rosemary or sage tea helps to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss.

Here are some other ingredients that can be added to your tea rinse:

– apple cider vinegar

– lemon juice

– essential oils (tea tree oil, lavender oil, rosemary oil)

– honey

How to Make a Tea Rinse

One of the best parts about tea rinses is that they’re cost-effective and easy to make at home.

The caffeine in tea is a quickly-absorbed vasodilator to increase blood flow in the scalp and needs to sit for about 2 minutes to absorb into your skin before rinsing.

1. Brew 1-3 teabags in 5 cups of hot water and allow to cool.

For high caffeine teas or for a weaker solution, reduce the number of tea bags.

Try a cold brew tea rinse by leaving your tea bags to soak overnight. This is said to maintain the potency of the tea without boiling away the benefits.

Tip: After you finish, reuse your tea bags to de-puff your eyes and reduce dark circles (thanks, caffeine!) or cut them open to use the damp tea as a skin exfoliant.

2. When you’re ready to use your tea rinse, begin by washing your hair with your favorite cleanser.

Once you’re done, leave your hair damp and be sure to check that your tea has cooled before use.

Prepare your rinse by funneling your tea into a spray bottle. I personally find it easier to pour the mixture on my scalp using a jug or wide mouth container.

3. Next, add the solution to your scalp and massage throughout your hair. Comb through to ensure all of your hair strands are covered.

4. Lastly, cover your hair with a plastic cap for up to thirty minutes and finish by rinsing your hair with cold water.

There’s no need to shampoo after your tea rinse, just rinse with lukewarm water and condition or deep condition as needed.

FAQs About Tea Rinse for Hair

Can tea rinses be used on color treated hair?

Yes, tea rinses can be used on color.

I have highlights in my hair. Will a tea rinse make them lighter?

It is possible that chamomile tea can lighten your hair if it is used regularly. However, using a tea rinse with chamomile tea as the main ingredient may be too strong for highlighted hair.

Can tea rinses help grow my hair back?

There is no research on whether black tea can improve hair growth.

How much tea should I use to see results?

It’s unknown how much black tea and caffeine are required, as well as how long you should leave this solution on your head to see results.

Because of the current limitations, more human research is required.

Can tea rinses be used every time I shampoo my hair?

You can use tea rinses as often as you like, but it is recommended that you do not use them more than once a week. Too much tea rinse can cause your hair to become dry and brittle.

What are the risks associated with using tea rinses?

There are no known risks associated with using tea rinses, as long as you are not allergic to any of the ingredients. However, it is always best to do a patch test before using a tea rinse on your entire head.