Does Rosemary Oil Really Work for Hair Growth? The Benefits and How to Use It

The Benefits of Using Rosemary Oil for Hair

Rosemary oil has become an increasingly popular natural solution for common hair care concerns like thinning hair and an itchy scalp. This essential oil contains beneficial compounds that can help strengthen hair follicles, increase shine, and soothe irritation when applied topically to the scalp. Using rosemary oil for hair as part of your regular routine may provide noticeable improvements in hair growth and health over time.

What Is Rosemary Oil?

Rosemary oil is extracted from the leaves of the rosemary plant (Rosmarinus officinalis) through steam distillation. This aromatic herb is a member of the mint family and contains powerful essential oils once concentrated into extract form. The main active ingredients in rosemary oil are camphor, borneol, bornyl acetate, camphene, and 1,8-cineole. These compounds are believed to provide rosemary oil's therapeutic effects.

The most scientifically studied rosemary oil benefits for hair include:

• Increasing circulation in the scalp
• Stimulating hair follicles
• Neutralizing free radical damage
• Balancing sebum production
• Treating dandruff and itchiness

Some initial research indicates rosemary oil may rival the efficacy of minoxidil, an FDA-approved drug for treating hair loss. However, more studies are still needed to confirm its effectiveness.

Using Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth

There are a few ways you can incorporate rosemary oil into your regular hair care routine to take advantage of its growth-promoting properties:

Scalp Massage

Massaging diluted rosemary oil directly into your scalp can increase circulation, stimulate hair follicles, and potentially speed up growth. The soothing sensation also helps counteract itchiness from dandruff. Try massaging a few drops into your scalp before showering.

Hot Oil Treatment

Apply a rosemary hot oil treatment to clean, damp hair before washing as usual. Heat opens up the hair cuticles and allows the oil to penetrate deeper into strands to nourish hair follicles. Let it soak in for at least 20 minutes before rinsing out.

Leave-In Serum

Add a few drops of rosemary oil to your favorite leave-in conditioner or hair serum. Apply it evenly from roots to ends after washing and allow it to air dry. This will help strengthen hair and add shine while still promoting growth.

DIY Hair Mask

For an intensive at-home treatment, mix rosemary oil into a DIY hair mask recipe along with other nourishing ingredients like olive oil, honey, or avocado. Apply it for 20-30 minutes before your normal wash day routine for thicker, stronger hair.

Is Rosemary Oil Good for Hair Loss?

Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness, is the most common type of hair loss. It's driven by genetics, aging, and hormonal changes that cause hair follicles to shrink over time. Rosemary oil may help counteract the underlying causes by:

• Neutralizing damage from oxidative stress and free radicals
• Increasing blood circulation in the scalp
• Preventing the formation of DHT, the hormone linked to hair loss
• Stimulating cell metabolism and regrowth in dormant follicles

A small 2015 study found that rosemary leaf extract improved hair growth comparable to the medication minoxidil after 6 months of treatment. More research is still needed, but these findings are promising for using rosemary oil as an alternative hair loss remedy.

How Long to Leave Rosemary Oil in Hair

When using rosemary oil for hair growth, it's generally recommended to leave it on for at least 5-10 minutes before rinsing out. This gives the active compounds time to properly absorb into hair follicles and start working their magic. However, letting rosemary oil soak even longer is even more beneficial.

Overnight application is ideal for getting the full effects. Try massaging the oil into your scalp and covering hair in a shower cap before bed. Then wash it out normally in the morning. Doing an overnight rosemary oil hair treatment once or twice a week will provide the best results.

Is Rosemary Oil Good for Hair Everyday?

Using rosemary oil in your daily hair care routine is generally safe and effective for improving hair health. However, taking a break from daily use after 3-4 months is recommended. Taking a brief hiatus can prevent your scalp and hair from building up a tolerance to rosemary oil's effects.

Alternate using rosemary oil with other beneficial essential oils like peppermint, lavender, and tea tree oil. You can also cycle between different application methods - trying a scalp massage one day then a leave-in serum the next.

Should You Wash Rosemary Oil Out of Your Hair?

Although rosemary oil offers many benefits for hair, its always best to wash it out completely after the recommended soaking time. Like other essential oils, rosemary oil contains plant compounds that can potentially irritate your scalp if left on too long. Rinsing it off thoroughly after a DIY treatment will prevent adverse reactions.

Make sure to use a clarifying shampoo to fully remove excess oil. Shampoo twice if needed and avoid applying conditioner on your scalp after rinsing. Then continue with styling and drying your hair as usual.

Other Benefits of Rosemary Oil for Hair

In addition to possibly stimulating hair growth, rosemary oil offers other advantages for maintaining healthy hair from root to tip. Here are some of the top ways it can improve your hair:

Prevents Split Ends

The antioxidant compounds in rosemary oil help protect hair strands from environmental damage that can cause split ends over time. Using a few drops to coat the ends of your hair will help keep them strong and smooth.

Gets Rid of Dandruff

Dandruff is caused by a yeast-like fungus called malassezia that feeds on the oils secreted by your scalp. Carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid in rosemary oil have antifungal effects that can help treat dandruff by neutralizing malassezia on the scalp.

Makes Hair Shiny

Dry, dull hair? Rosemary oil can bring back shine and softness. It helps moisturize both hair and the scalp by regulating sebum production. The silica in rosemary oil also smooths down the hair cuticles to reflect more light.

Prevents Greasy Hair

Overactive oil glands on the scalp can cause greasy hair that attracts dirt and debris. The astringent effect of rosemary oil helps remove excess sebum and keeps hair fresh longer between washes.

Removes Product Build-Up

Regular use of gels, mousse, sprays, and other styling products can leave behind residue that weighs hair down. Rosemary oil has clarifying properties that dissolve gunk while cleansing the scalp and hair follicles.

How to Make Rosemary Oil for Hair

Its easy to make DIY rosemary infused oil at home to use for all your hair care needs. Here is a simple recipe to try:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup carrier oil (coconut, olive, jojoba, etc)
• 1/2 ounce rosemary leaves (about 1 large sprig)
• Small jar for storage

Instructions

1. Remove rosemary leaves from the stem and rinse clean.
2. Place leaves and carrier oil in a glass jar and seal tightly.
3. Set jar in a saucepan with 2-3 inches of water. Heat over medium flame until water lightly simmers. Reduce heat and let simmer for 2-3 hours.
4. Remove from heat and allow oil to cool completely before straining out the leaves.
5. Transfer rosemary infused oil to an air-tight container and store in a cool, dark place.
6. Use within 3-6 months by adding a few drops to shampoo, conditioner, hair masks, etc.

This simple stovetop infusion method allows the valuable plant compounds to fully extract into the oil for maximum concentration and potency. Making your own rosemary oil at home is an affordable and custom treatment option.

Risks and Considerations When Using Rosemary Oil

Rosemary oil is generally safe for adults when diluted and used as directed. However, there are some potential side effects and cautions to be aware of:

• May cause skin irritation or allergic reaction for sensitive individuals
• Not safe for use by pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Can potentially trigger seizures in epilepsy patients
• May interact with blood pressure, diabetes, and anticoagulant medications

Always do a patch test on your arm before applying any essential oil to your scalp or hair. Discontinue use if any irritation or discomfort occurs. Its also best to consult your healthcare provider before using if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking certain medications.

For topical use, rosemary oil should always be diluted with a carrier oil like coconut, olive, or jojoba oil. Use a ratio of at least 2-3 drops of carrier oil for every 1 drop of rosemary essential oil. Avoid contact with your eyes and mucous membranes when applying to your scalp or hair.

The Bottom Line

Rosemary oil is a natural therapeutic option that may help increase hair growth and thickness when applied to the scalp. Its beneficial plant compounds can improve blood circulation, fight oxidative damage, and stimulate dormant follicles into an active growth phase.

While more research is needed, using rosemary oil as part of your regular hair care routine may slow or prevent excessive shedding and thinning of hair over time. Just be sure to take necessary safety precautions and dont expect overnight miracles. Consistency and patience are key to seeing satisfying results.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.