Hair loss, whether brought on by stress or genetics, is a pain point that sends many of us on a lengthy and costly journey toward healthy, luscious strands. Serums can give an additional layer of reinforcement to fend off dryness, while hair growth shampoos and rinse-out conditioners may help to clean and strengthen the hair thoroughly. However, if rosemary oil is missing from your hair care routine, you may be missing out on some impressive results.
Although likely best known as a savory seasoning for your favorite dishes, rosemary is believed to have plenty of wellness and beauty benefits, too. In addition to its purported aromatherapy perks, it’s also thought to help moisturize skin and bring hair back to life—specifically repair damage, combat pesky dandruff, and even promote hair growth.
What is rosemary oil?
Rosemary oil is a pale liquid oil from the rosemary plant which has an herbaceous aroma,” says cosmetic chemist Ginger King. “It’s often used in perfumes, skincare, and haircare as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial ingredient.”
How can rosemary oil benefit the hair?
Improves hair growth. The rosemary plant contains carnosic acid, which is known to heal nerve damage, tissue damage, and improve cellular turnover. Therefore, it encourages nerve growth and improves blood circulation. The reason blood circulation is so important to hair growth is that without a proper blood supply, the follicles do not get the nutrients they need to grow the hair, and they can die off.
Reduces scalp irritation: The majority of those who used rosemary oil also had less itchy scalps. The rosemary plant in essential oil form is known to boast anti-inflammatory properties. This would be especially beneficial to help soothe distressed scalps.”
Can prevent hair loss: Rosemary oil is a potent antioxidant that can fight against free radicals. These molecules destroy cells over time and can ultimately lead to hair loss by damaging the hair follicle.
Prevents dandruff: In addition to improving blood circulation to the scalp, rosemary oil eliminates bacteria that clogs hair follicles. This can “potentially reduce the occurrence of flakes on the scalp.
May help reduce gray hair: When cells are damaged from environmental aggressors, they can oxide, which research has shown can play a major role in accelerating aging processes, like hair graying. By actively fighting against those free radicals, rosemary oil may also be able to slow down the graying process.
How long after using rosemary oil should someone expect to see results in hair growth?
Not all hair will magically transform into Rapunzel-length upon using rosemary oil, as it depends on the person’s reaction to it. Also, be prepared to play the waiting game if longer hair is your goal. There is limited study to prove its effectiveness, but it takes more than six months of use to see results.
Who can use rosemary oil?
“Rosemary essential oil can be used on any hair type because the benefits target the hair follicle, not the hair strand. It is safe to use on color-treated hair, especially because its main use should be directly on the scalp.
There is no data regarding use in pregnancy or breastfeeding; therefore, I would avoid it if possible.
How does rosemary oil compare, if at all, to other oils?
Rosemary essential oil differs from most carrier oils used in hair care because of its hair follicle health benefits. Unlike other oils (like tea tree and peppermint) that produce hair growth, rosemary oil strengthens and promotes circulation for thirsty hair follicles that are starving of its blood supply and leading to hair loss.
What are the side effects of using rosemary oil for hair?
The physical weight of the oil could interfere with your style. For people with thin or fine hair or a sparse density of hair, the oils can make the hair look greasy and weighed down. If this is the case for you, try using the product as a pre-shampoo treatment reserved for days when you will be using a clarifying shampoo on your hair.
How often should I put rosemary oil in my hair?
If you’re trying to suppress itching due to dandruff, use the oil mixed with compounds three to four times a week. Massage it directly into the scalp, leave it on for 20 minutes, then shampoo the oils out of the hair and scalp.
If you have very fine hair and/or an oily scalp. Using rosemary oil once a week as a scalp treatment and washing it out of hair immediately to avoid any greasiness.
Can I leave rosemary in my hair overnight?
Although rosemary oil is not harmful. Leaving any kind of oil on the scalp for a prolonged period of time will upset the microflora of the scalp. This can cause itchiness and redness, and it applies to all oils—not just rosemary oil.
How can I use rosemary oil for hair?
Mix it with a carrier oil. You can start by using rosemary essential oil one to two times per week and titrate use upwards to daily as tolerated. Only use five drops of it, add it to a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil and massage into the scalp for five to ten minutes, and rinse. Diluting pure rosemary oil helps reduce potency and, therefore, decreases irritation on the skin.
Rosemary oil can safely be combined with most other essential oils.
Blend into shampoo or conditioner. Suggests adding it to your shampoo or conditioner to get the benefits while washing your hair. Just be sure to thoroughly wash your hair to get the product out well.