News

Mar 07, 2024

Rosemary Oil For Hair Growth: The Science Behind It, And All The Best Products To Use

By Tracy Achonwa Recently, rosemary oil has emerged as an unlikely remedy for rapid hair growth. On TikTok you’ll find a veritable rosemary oil fan club proclaiming its powers; regrowing edges,

By Tracy Achonwa

Recently, rosemary oil has emerged as an unlikely remedy for rapid hair growth. On TikTok you’ll find a veritable rosemary oil fan club proclaiming its powers; regrowing edges, thickening hair and lengthening locks is the refrain of countless rave reviews. Spawning long hair might seem a significant ask of a supermarket herb, but the people swear by it – and they’ve got video proof.

This content can also be viewed on the site it originates from.

With testimonials touting its efficacy for alopecia and postpartum hair loss, sceptics might wonder whether there are hard facts to support what seems like another fad. As it turns out, there’s actually scientific evidence to suggest that rosemary oil can be as effective as the hair growth drug minoxidil – a research study from back in 2015 showed it increased the hair count of alopecia sufferers after six months of use. And according to Dr. Zayn Majeed, hair surgeon at Harley Street Hair Clinic, studies have shown it to be effective at healing nerve endings and promoting hair restoration.

“Rosemary oil can strengthen circulation and improve blood supply to hair follicles, preventing them from being deprived of essential blood supply,” he explains. “If hair follicles don’t get a sufficient blood supply, this may shorten the growth phase of the hair growth cycle, and lead to hair loss over time.” Not only does it help you achieve longer hair, but it’s also beneficial for hair health overall. “Rosemary oil’s anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce scalp irritation, dandruff, and itching, providing a more optimal environment for healthy hair growth,” Dr. Majeed adds. Alongside its circulation-boosting and antimicrobial properties, it’s a great ingredient for supercharged hair care.

But temper your expectations: while the cult oil can work miracles to increase hair growth, it’s not a cure for stopping hair loss completely. “There’s currently no clinical cure for hair loss, though it can be slowed with medications and treatments like hair transplants,” says Dr. Majeed.

You’ll find all kinds of rosemary remedies online, from homegrown herb/oil infusions to spiking haircare with essential oil drops. But the best way to incorporate it into your routine? Apply diluted rosemary oil directly to the roots or bald patches and massage it into the scalp. Massage increases the oxygenation of hair follicles through increased blood flow, and according to Claire Martin (brand educator at bestselling brand Mielle Organics) a large supply of oxygen is crucial for hair to grow at its full potential.

Dr. Majeed tells us that massage application also enhances the absorption of rosemary’s active ingredients into the skin and hair follicles. “Allowing rosemary oil to remain on the scalp for at least 30 minutes enables it to better penetrate,” he says, “and keeping it on for a longer duration, especially when wrapped with a warm towel, can enhance absorption.” As for how often you should massage it onto the scalp, he advises “ideally, rosemary oil should be applied a couple of times a week for consistent exposure to its potential benefits.” So for the best results, apply, massage and let it sit as long as possible before washing it off with a mild shampoo to reduce excess grease.

According to Claire, a good rosemary oil formula will have rosemary (botanical name RosmarinusOfficinalis leaf oil) high up on the list – the lower down it is on the list indicates a loweramount of the ingredient inside.

If you’re buying an essential oil version, the key thing to know is it must be diluted before applying. “Rosemary essential oil is highly concentrated, and applying it directly to the scalp can lead to skin irritation or sensitivity. To avoid this, it’s essential to dilute the rosemary essential oil with a carrier oil – a mild, neutral oil like coconut oil, almond oil, or jojoba oil.” says Dr. Majeed. Alternatively, you can add a few drops into your existing haircare, or save the faff altogether by buying pre-mixed oils or leave-in treatments.

A big hit on Tiktok for restoring edges and giving a longer, fuller appearance to the hair, this is Vogue beauty commerce writer Tracy Achonwa’s rosemary oil of choice. “While this works on all hair types, it’s especially nourishing on my natural coils which are prone to tangling and dryness. Diluted in castor oil, which is also great for hair growth, it’s perfect for easing the tension of fresh braids. I’ve used it on areas that feel fragile and thinning and been seen impressive results within weeks.”

According to Claire, what makes it so special is the inclusion of mint and biotin, which aid in cell growth and improve keratin structure respectively. “It’s a recipe for success for healthy hair growth,” she says.

You’ll recognise this bestselling rosemary oil from pretty much every rave review – and with very good reason. Expertly blended with skin-loving ceramides, it works wonders for both hair and skin. Reviewers have praised its power to darken greying hair as well as rapidly increase hair growth, and it gives you a lot of bang for your buck at 150ml for under £10.

Korean beauty brand Aromatica offers a gentle formula that soothes the scalp for itch relief, and it comes in a convenient spray bottle. Designed to be left on, it’s also formulated with salicylic acid, so consider scalp build-up and dandruff sorted.

If you want to enjoy the benefits of rosemary oil but fret over a greasy scalp, Aveda’s shampoo is for you. It’s made with an invigorating blend of rosemary and mint, and is mild enough that it won’t strip the all-important rosemary oil extracts from your scalp as it gives hair a clarifying clean.

By Hannah Coates

By Alexandra Macon

By Daniel Rodgers

If you prefer to make your own custom rosemary oil hair treatments, this essential oil from Neal’s Yard is worth the spend. Small but mighty, it has been distilled to preserve the potency of the rosemary extract, and is perfect for dropping into your favourite hair oils or shampoo. Plus, it can be used in a body oil to stimulate blood flow all over the body – a multipurpose product for a hair and wellness boost.

By Tish Weinstock

By Hannah Coates

By Hannah Coates

By Hannah Coates