Nettle extract is an ingredient that has been used for centuries as a natural skin and hair care product, and it’s not hard to see why. Stinging nettle is packed with nutrients that can do wonders for both your hair and scalp. Rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, its ability to strengthen hair follicles and promote hair growth has made it a popular ingredient in many modern hair care products. In this blog, we’ll look at how nettle extract can benefit your hair and why it should be part of your daily routine.

What is nettle extract?

Nettle extract comes from the stinging nettle (Urtica dioica), a plant whose leaves most of us have had a brush with once or twice as children. Nettles have historically been used in folk medicine, and today you’ll find nettle extract in lots of cosmetic products thanks to its rich nutrient content. Nettles contain not only vitamins A, C, D and K, but also minerals such as iron, calcium, magnesium and zinc. In addition, nettle is full of polyphenols (anti-inflammatory and vasodilator antioxidants) and flavonoids (antioxidants with similar effects to vitamins C and E, found in our Swedish wild blueberries), which are powerful antioxidants, so it’s not surprising that nettle extract is a popular ingredient in many products

Strengthens hair from root to tip

One of the main benefits of nettle extract is its ability to strengthen hair. Thanks to its high content of vitamins and minerals, nettle can improve hair elasticity and therefore reduce the risk of damage. Zinc and silicon, found in high levels in nettle extract, play a crucial role in building up the structure of the hair, making it stronger and more resistant to wear and tear.

When hair follicles are properly nourished by nettle, hair can grow stronger and thicker. For those suffering from thinning or damaged hair, regular use of products containing nettle extract can be a way to help hair rebuild its natural strength and shine.

Promotes hair growth

When it comes to hair loss, there are lots of “cures” that give you your hair back. Many promise golden, green forests along with thick, flowing hair. But the fact is that nothing works when the hair has gone and the hair follicle has thrown in the towel. What can work, however, is giving the follicle, and the hair, the attention they need while they’re still there, and nettle extract has proven to be a promising ingredient. There are several studies suggesting that nettle extract can inhibit the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormonal by-product that can contribute to hair loss, particularly in men. By blocking DHT, nettle extract may help to promote hair growth and prevent further hair loss.
In addition, nettle extract increases blood circulation to the scalp, which may improve the oxygen supply to the hair follicles, thus promoting hair growth.

Soothes and balances the scalp

As well as strengthening the hair, nettle extract also has soothing properties that can be particularly beneficial for people with sensitive or irritated scalps. Nettle’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce redness, itching and irritation, making it an excellent ingredient for those suffering from dandruff or other scalp problems.

A balanced and healthy scalp is essential for healthy hair, and nettle extract can help regulate sebum production on the scalp. This helps to counteract both oily and dry scalp, creating an optimal environment for hair growth.

Antioxidants protect against damage

As I mentioned at the beginning of the text, nettle extract is a source of antioxidants. Antioxidants that help protect the hair and scalp from damage caused by free radicals (which is a more clinical term for substances that can react negatively with other substances we have in our body), which can arise from environmental pollution, UV radiation and other external stressors. By protecting hair from oxidative stress, nettle extract can help maintain hair’s natural shine and elasticity.

So how do you use nettle extract in your hair care routine?

To take advantage of the benefits of nettle extract, you can choose hair care products that contain nettle extract, examples of some products with nettle extract can be found below.

Det finns även nässlebaserade hårserum som kan appliceras direkt i hårbotten för att främja hårväxt och för dig som vill använda en mer naturlig metod så kan du helt enkelt koka nässelte som du sedan sköljer genom håret efter efter att duschat för en naturlig boost men en betydligt enklare lösning är att tvätta håret med ett shampoo som innehåller nässelextrakt och använda stylingprodukter, exempel Firm Hold Paste, Natural Matte Creme, Smooth Grooming Tonic och Salty Texture Spray (kommer snart) med samma ingrediens.

If you use products with nettle extract, try to massage them into the scalp to stimulate blood circulation and make sure the product really reaches the hair roots. This will maximize the effect and give you the best result.

In a nutshell

Nettle extract is one of nature’s many missed gems. Its ability to strengthen hair, promote hair growth and soothe the scalp makes it an excellent component of both daily and more intensive hair care routines. By using products containing nettle extract, you can give your hair and scalp the nourishment and protection they need to stay healthy and strong. So if you’re looking for a natural way to improve the health of your hair, nettle extract is definitely worth a try.

Whether you have brittle hair that needs strengthening, suffer from hair loss or just want to give your scalp a little extra care, nettle extract could be the solution you’re looking for. Gentlemen of Sweden offers products with the benefits of nettle, with the subtle sophistication that defines our philosophy: It’s not about brand – It’s about you.