There are many shampoos and serums that claim to stimulate hair growth, but they’re not always beneficial. Even if they do help your hair grow faster, popular cosmetic products often contain harmful chemicals that make slow growth the least worrisome thing about your hair and scalp health.
Rosemary oil may be a promising alternative to the chemical-rich hair products found in stores. It’s been used for centuries in traditional medicine and is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Its potential to improve blood circulation and promote hair growth has led to a growing interest in its use as a hair care ingredient.
What is Rosemary Oil?
Rosemary oil is an essential oil that comes from the leaves of the rosemary plant, also known as Rosmarinus officinalis. Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that contain the natural fragrance and properties of the plant they are derived from. Their main beneficial properties for hair growth include:
- Stimulates blood circulation: Rosemary oil is believed to improve blood circulation in the scalp, which can promote hair growth. This increased blood flow brings more nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles, which strengthens the hair and stimulates growth.
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Anti-inflammatory: Rosemary oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm the scalp. This is especially beneficial for those who experience scalp irritation or inflammation, which can hinder hair growth.
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Antioxidant: Rosemary oil is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the hair and scalp from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and tissues, leading to premature aging and hair loss.
- Antimicrobial: Rosemary oil has antimicrobial properties that can keep the scalp clean and healthy. This can be beneficial for individuals who experience dandruff or other scalp conditions that can lead to hair loss.
How to Use Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth
There are different ways to use rosemary oil for hair growth. The best method for you and your hair is whichever is the most convenient.
Scalp massage
Use rosemary oil as a scalp serum and massage it onto your skin, but make sure to dilute it with a carrier oil. Essential oils are highly concentrated and can be irritating if used undiluted, made only worse if you have a scalp condition, like psoriasis and eczema. Carrier oils also have their own therapeutic properties, with common varieties including:
- Sweet almond oil
- Jojoba oil
- Coconut oil
- Avocado oil
- Grapeseed oil
A dilution ratio of 1-2% is recommended. This is about six drops of rosemary oil per ounce of carrier oil (one fluid ounce is six US teaspoons). Do a patch test before using any new blend to ensure there are no allergic reactions or skin irritations. After that, leave it on for several hours or overnight before washing the hair.
Shampoo or conditioner
Add a few drops of rosemary oil to your regular shampoo or conditioner and use it normally. When choosing the shampoo or conditioner, baby hair products tend to have less harmful ingredients than products meant for adults. You can also make homemade shampoo and conditioner to ensure that you are treating your hair with natural ingredients.
Hair mask
Mix rosemary oil with other hair-healthy ingredients, such as honey and avocado, and apply the mixture to your hair and scalp. Leave the mask on for 30 minutes to an hour before washing it off.
Does Rosemary Oil Really Help with Hair Growth?
Research shows that rosemary oil can promote hair growth in some people. One study explored how rosemary oil protected against hair loss by comparing it to minoxidil, a medication commonly used to treat hair loss. Another study acknowledged rosemary oil as an essential oil that helped significantly with hair regrowth in people with alopecia.
The many compounds found in rosemary oil are essential in stimulating the scalp and promoting hair health. For example, rosemary oil increases blood circulation. As shown in this report, blood vessels nourish hair follicles.
Other Ingredients That Work for Hair Growth
Rosemary isn’t the only essential oil that boosts hair growth. There are several others that are believed to be just as efficient at improving hair growth and overall hair health:
- Coconut oil
- Castor oil
- Jojoba oil
- Peppermint oil
- Lavender oil
- Rosehip oil
They work even better if used together. Each essential oil has individual properties that help your hair follicles thrive. This is why many hair care serums, such as Roots Hair & Scalp Oil, use multiple essential oils to promote healthy scalps and beautiful hair.
