There is one haircare ingredient that has remained timeless in the world of haircare, and that is rosemary oil. However, does rosemary oil actually promote hair growth, or does it just belong to the legendarium of beauty products? So what do science and tradition say about it?
What is rosemary oil?
Rosemary oil can be defined as a type of essential oil that is obtained from the leaves of the Rosmarinus officinalis plant. Famous due to its fresh, herbal aroma and super powerful antioxidant qualities, it has been used in folk medicine to enhance blood flow, rid the body of inflammation, and stimulate healing.
Does Rosemary Oil Actually Make Hair Grow?
In short, the answer is yes, especially when used properly and regularly.
Research-supported:
According to a 2015 study published in SkinMed, rosemary oil was just as good as a popular hair regrowth medicine, minoxidil (2 percent), at stimulating hair regrowth after a six-month period. On the other hand, more subjects who applied rosemary oil reported reduced itching of the scalp and similar hair growth as those who used minoxidil.
How It Works
Rosemary oil is considered to:
- Increase the flow of blood to the head
- Activate hair follicles
- Damage hair follicles by DHT (a hormone associated with hair loss)
- Calm down the dry, smelly scalp.
The combination of these effects contributes to an environment on the scalp, which stimulates more robust and accelerated hair growth.
The advantages of Rosemary Oil on the hair
- Promotes hair growth
- Avoids graying of the hair at an early age
- Lessens dandruff and flakeiness
- Adds strength to the hair at the root
- Gives glitter as well as smoothness
How to Use Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth
There are a couple of ways in which you can use rosemary oil:
1. Scalp Massage
- Mix several drops of rosemary oil with carriers like coconut or jojoba oil
- Incorporate into your hair follicles by rubbing 5 to 10 mins
- Leave at least half an hour, or all night
2. To Shampoo
- Each time, add around 5-10 drops to your normal bottle of shampoo
- Apply in the normal way and massage around the scalp.
3. DIY Hair Mist
- Add rosemary oil to the spray bottle filled with water
- Apply the spray on your hair and the scalp every day.
Always carry out a patch test before use of essential oils in order to avoid allergic reactions.
How long do they take to show results?
In two to three months, most users say that there is a noticeable change, such as decreased hair loss, improved root health, and baby hairs on the hairline. It works over time, not immediately—consistency is the key with any natural remedy, and rosemary oil is not an overnight miracle but has lasting effects as time goes by.
Who Can Use Rosemary Oil?
Rosemary oil is safe in general to:
- Adults, men, and women
- Individuals with decreasing hair or just advancing hair loss signs
- People with a case of dandruff or even an itching scalp.
People that have sensitive skin and pregnant women should consult their doctor before using.
Here is the conclusion: Is Rosemary Oil Worth Trying?
Absolutely. Rosemary oil can be an invaluable help to you in case you want to take the first step into your hair growth without referring to any chemicals. It is cheap and simple, with both research and centuries of traditional application behind its back.
You never know; it could even thank you by giving your hair life.