For centuries, the secret to long, healthy hair has essentially been one thing: a secret. While it is proven that a good diet, scalp massage and regular haircuts contribute to strong hair, the question of how to make hair grow faster and thicker is still a mystery. However, thanks to the flood of hair care tips and tricks on TikTok, one natural ingredient has made it onto the radar of top beauty fans: rosemary.
Although rosemary is primarily known for being a star in the kitchen and for having great therapeutic properties, this fragrant herb has been gaining a lot of attention recently for its potential benefits in promoting healthy, shiny hair. Both hair care enthusiasts and experts have taken to social media to express their love for the herb, explaining how it can promote hair growth, prevent dandruff, and repair damage.
To verify these claims, we contacted Dr. Christina Han, a dermatologist at False Creek Dermatology, and Yvey Valcin, an award-winning master stylist and salon founder, were contacted to find out if rosemary oil really helps with hair growth. Ahead, learn more about rosemary’s beauty benefits and how to incorporate it into your hair care routine.
How is rosemary used in hair care?
Rosemary is most commonly used for hair care in the form of an oil. Rosemary oil, an essential oil extracted from the flowers and leaves of the rosemary plant, is best known for its therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects. “These compounds work by neutralizing molecules called free radicals, which can damage skin, hair and blood vessels,” explains Dr. Han. “This is important because the scalp is constantly exposed to sunlight and other environmental factors and pollutants that can increase the amount of free radicals in the skin.” With that in mind, you may also find rosemary-infused shampoos and conditioners that have similar benefits.
Is it safe to use rosemary oil on hair and scalp?
Like anything else, rosemary oil is safe when used correctly. Here’s what we mean: Rosemary oil can be quite strong—it is an essential oil, after all—which is why it needs to be diluted with a carrier oil like coconut oil or jojoba oil before applying directly to the scalp. (Undiluted essential oils can irritate the skin and scalp and even cause allergic reactions.) Our suggestion? Either take an already diluted rosemary oil or mix a few drops of rosemary oil with a dash of coconut oil or jojoba oil and you’re good to go.
What benefits does rosemary have for hair?
Rosemary is perhaps one of the MVPs when it comes to hair growth. As mentioned above, rosemary oil not only fights free radicals, but also contains compounds including caffeic and rosmarinic acid that promote blood circulation. Better blood circulation means more oxygen can reach the scalp, resulting in stronger hair growth. (This is why scalp massage is important, as it brings more blood to the top of the head.) Additionally, rosemary oil helps balance oil production, creating a better environment for hair growth. In addition, rosemary oil also strengthens hair follicles, reduces hair breakage, and improves overall hair texture and shine.
Can rosemary oil treat hair loss and promote hair growth?
“Absolutely,” says Valcin. “Rosemary oil is one of the most well-known oils that promote hair growth. It even helps treat hair loss due to alopecia and postpartum.” It also repairs hair damaged by perms, bleaching, and heat styling.
How can you use rosemary oil for hair growth?
There are various ways to use rosemary oil effectively. Firstly, rosemary oil can be used for scalp treatment. “For best results, apply three to five drops to a clean scalp,” explains Valcin. “For a treatment that promotes hair growth, you can apply it from the scalp to the entire hair. Leave it on for about 10 to 15 minutes and then rinse.” If you’d rather skip a scalp treatment, opt for a shampoo and conditioner set that includes rosemary as an ingredient.
How often should you use rosemary in your hair care routine?
Regarding the frequency of using rosemary, Dr. Han to incorporate it into your routine a few times a week. When it comes to oil, it’s best to use it up to twice a week (you can leave it on overnight) or use a shampoo and/or conditioner in the shower every other day.
Which rosemary products are best for a beauty routine?
Since rosemary has become a popular hair care ingredient, there are a handful of effective products that contain it. Whether you’re looking to promote hair growth, add shine, cleanse your scalp, or just experiment with something new, these are our favorite rosemary products to shop.
This hair oil from Mielle Organics is one of the most well-known TikTok products on the market for several reasons. First, this lightweight oil is made with a selection of natural ingredients, all of which intensely hydrate and strengthen hair from root to tip. Rosemary extract stimulates blood circulation in the scalp, promotes healthy hair growth and prevents hair breakage, while mint provides a cooling sensation that soothes and refreshes the scalp. (Read: This will leave your scalp feeling so fresh.) And the kicker? It is extremely affordable.
This vegan shampoo and conditioner set is made with aloe vera, rosemary, saw palmetto and horsetail extract to promote thicker, healthier and fuller hair. It cleanses the scalp of follicle-clogging deposits and leaves the hair soft and shiny. For best results, use it up to three times a week.
“This pre-shampoo scalp oil treatment is enriched with rosemary oil and avocado oil to provide moisture and nourishment to the scalp while leaving hair feeling softer and smoother,” says Dr. Han. To use it, apply a small amount to your scalp and hair before shampooing. Leave it on for 10 minutes and then wash it off immediately. Trust us, after a few weeks you will notice a big difference.
Suitable for all hair types and textures, this Briogeo oil is a must-have. “This is ideal for people with drier, flaky scalps,” explains Dr. Han. “It combines rosemary oil with castor and tea tree oils to soothe flaky and itchy scalps while promoting healthy hair growth.” If you suffer from dry scalp, this makes a big difference.
