Molasses is a nutrient-packed natural sweetener rich in minerals like magnesium, iron, calcium, copper, and other trace elements. People often use it internally as a plant-based source of iron or as a sweetener, and externally, it’s a popular choice for a natural hair treatment known as a molasses hair mask, a remedy that’s been around for ages.
Although there isn’t much scientific research supporting its benefits for hair, there are countless personal stories of molasses being used to strengthen hair, condition it, and even naturally cover gray strands. What makes this natural remedy interesting is its dual effectiveness when used both internally and externally. So, you might see the best results when you enjoy a gingerbread latte with molasses while also applying it to your hair.
Internal Uses: When you include molasses in your diet regularly, it may support hair health thanks to its unique blend of nutrients, particularly copper, which plays a role in hair growth. It also provides a good amount of iron, potentially helping to prevent anemia, a common cause of hair loss, and contains antioxidants that might delay premature graying.
External Uses: Molasses can also nourish and strengthen hair from the outside. Similar to honey, this sweetener acts as a deep conditioner, leaving hair silky and smooth. Its dark color might also help naturally cover gray hair. Although I haven’t tested this theory myself as I don’t have gray hair, I have used molasses to darken my hair naturally during the winter months, which helped tone down the sun-bleached blonde streaks from summer.
From my early experiences with DIY beauty treatments, I learned that applying undiluted molasses directly to hair is not the best approach. It’s incredibly thick and sticky, making it difficult to wash out. Instead, it’s better to mix molasses with other hair-friendly ingredients to thin out its texture and enhance its benefits without causing a shampoo marathon.
My go-to ingredient to mix with molasses for deep conditioning is yogurt. It’s naturally rich in amino acids, beneficial bacteria, enzymes, zinc, and lactic acid, all of which nourish the hair and scalp. Have you ever tried using food in your hair? How did it turn out for you?
