Rosemary oil is everywhere right now. Your feed is probably full of people massaging it into their scalps. But does rosemary oil for hair growth actually live up to the hype?
Here’s what the research says, what it doesn’t say, and how to add rosemary to your routine.
Why Everyone Is Talking About Rosemary Oil
Rosemary has been used in traditional hair care for centuries. It smells fresh, feels lovely on the scalp and is easy to use at home.
Interest really took off after a few studies looked at rosemary and hair. Social media did the rest.
What the Research Says About Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth
The 2015 Study That Started It All
In a 2015 study, researchers compared rosemary oil with minoxidil 2%, a common hair loss treatment. It was published in the journal SKINmed.
About 100 people with pattern hair loss used one or the other on their scalp for six months. At three months, neither group saw much change. At six months, both groups had more hair, with no real difference between them.
The rosemary group also reported less scalp itching than the minoxidil group.
Earlier Lab Studies
A 2013 study found that rosemary leaf extract helped hair regrow in mice. It’s a lab study in animals, so it tells us more about how rosemary might work than what it does for people.
What the Research Doesn’t Tell Us Yet
The human study was small and only looked at one type of hair loss. It hasn’t been widely repeated. So rosemary oil for hair growth looks promising, but it isn’t a proven treatment.
If you’re losing hair suddenly, in patches or in large amounts, see a doctor first. Hair loss can have many causes, from stress to thyroid issues to low iron.
How to Use Rosemary Oil on Your Scalp
Thinking of trying rosemary oil for hair growth? Regular scalp care is a good habit either way. Here’s a simple routine.
- Part dry hair into sections.
- Apply a few drops of rosemary oil to your scalp and roots.
- Massage with your fingertips for about two minutes.
- Leave it on for at least 15 minutes, or up to a few hours.
- Wash out with a gentle shampoo.
Never put pure rosemary essential oil straight onto your skin, because it’s very concentrated. Always dilute it in a carrier oil, or use a ready-made serum.
Patch test first, keep it away from your eyes, and check with your doctor if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
Want to Try Rosemary in Your Routine?
Our Rosemary Grow Serum [LINK 2] is a plant-based scalp serum made with organic rosemary. It’s blended with castor oil, sunflower seed oil and vitamin E, so it’s ready to use.
It helps hair look and feel fuller and thicker over time. Results are typically visible after 3 to 6 months of consistent use.
Pair it with Grow More Shampoo and Grow More Conditioner for a simple, easy routine.
FAQ
Does rosemary oil for hair growth really work?
One small 2015 study found rosemary oil performed similarly to minoxidil 2% over six months for pattern hair loss. It’s promising, but more research is needed, and it isn’t a proven treatment.
How long does rosemary oil for hair growth take to show results?
In the 2015 study, changes only showed at six months, not three. If you try it, be patient and consistent.
Can I put rosemary essential oil directly on my scalp?
No. Pure essential oil is too strong and can irritate skin. Dilute it in a carrier oil, or use a ready-made scalp serum.
Is rosemary oil safe for everyone?
Most people are fine with it, but patch test first. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding or have a scalp condition, check with your doctor.
This article is for general information only and isn’t medical advice.
Sources
Panahi Y, Taghizadeh M, Marzony ET, Sahebkar A. Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a randomized comparative trial. SKINmed. 2015;13(1):15-21. [LINK 5]
Murata K, Noguchi K, Kondo M, et al. Promotion of hair growth by Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract. Phytotherapy Research. 2013;27(2):212-217. [LINK 6]
