"For centuries, the secret to long, healthy hair has been essentially that: a secret. While it’s been proven that a good diet, scalp massaging, and regular trims all contribute to strong strands, the question of how to make hair grow faster and thicker is still somewhat of a mystery. However, thanks to an influx of hair care tips and tricks on TikTok, one natural ingredient has made its way to the top beauty buff’s radars: rosemary.
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Although rosemary is primarily known for being a star in the kitchen and having great therapeutic properties, this fragrant herb recently gained a significant amount of attention for its potential benefits in promoting healthy, lustrous locks. Hair care enthusiasts and experts alike have taken to social media to show their love for the herb, explaining how it can promote hair growth, prevent dandruff, and repair damage.
To verify these claims, we tapped Dr. Christina Han, a dermatologist at False Creek Dermatology, and Yvey Valcin, an award-winning master stylist and salon founder to see if rosemary oil really helps with hair growth. Ahead, learn more about the beauty benefits of rosemary and how you can include it in your hair care routine.
Dr. Christina Han is a Canadian and U.S. board-certified dermatologist and is the Director of Dermatology at False Creek Dermatology in Vancouver. She completed both her medical school and dermatology residency training at the University of British Columbia. Her busy practice consists of medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology.
Yvey Valcin is a celebrated Master Stylist and Founder of Yvey Salon. Yvey has styled top editorial and fashion events such as New York and Paris Fashion Week and was one the highest-rated stylists at the flagship Gene Juarez salon in Seattle. He is a verified StyleCraze Expert and his insights have been featured in InStyle, The Huffington Post, The Strategist, and more.
How is Rosemary Used in Hair Care?
The most common way rosemary is used for hair care purposes is in the form of an oil. Rosemary oil, which is an essential oil extracted from the flowers and leaves of the rosemary plant, is most notably known for its therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects. “These compounds work by neutralizing molecules called free radicals, which can be damaging to 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 levels of free radicals in the skin.” On that same note, you might also see rosemary-infused shampoo and conditioner, which have similar benefits.
Is It Safe to Use Rosemary Oil On Your Hair and Scalp?
As with anything, rosemary oil is safe when it’s used correctly. Here’s what we mean: Rosemary oil can be pretty strong—it’s an essential oil, after all—which is why it must be diluted with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or jojoba oil, before applying it directly to the scalp. (Undiluted essential oils can irritate the skin and scalp and can even cause allergic reactions.) Our suggestion? Either get a rosemary oil that’s already diluted or mix a few drops of rosemary oil with a dollop of coconut oil or jojoba oil, and you’ll be good to go.
What Are the Benefits of Rosemary For Hair?
Rosemary might just be one of the MVPs when it comes to hair growth. In addition to fighting free radicals, as we mentioned previously, rosemary oil also contains compounds, including caffeic and rosmarinic acids, which work to promote blood circulation. More blood circulation means more oxygen can get to the scalp, which means more hair growth. (That’s why scalp massaging is important since it brings more blood to the top of the head.) Plus, rosemary oil helps to balance oil production, which creates a better environment for hair growth. What’s more, rosemary oil also strengthens hair follicles, reducing breakage and improving 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 with treating hair loss due to alopecia and postpartum.” It also works to repair hair that’s been damaged by things such as perms, bleaching, and heat styling.
How Can You Use Rosemary Oil For Hair Growth?
There are a few different ways to use rosemary oil effectively. First, rosemary oil can be used as a scalp treatment. “To get the best results, apply three to five drops on a clean scalp,” explains Valcin. “For a treatment that promotes hair growth, you can apply it from the scalp throughout your hair. Leave it on for about 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse.” If you’d rather not do a scalp treatment, opt for a shampoo and conditioner set that contains rosemary as an ingredient.
How Often Should You Use Rosemary in Your Hair Care Routine?
In terms of how often to use rosemary, Dr. Han recommends incorporating 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 you can use a shampoo and/or conditioner every other day in the shower.
What Are the Best Rosemary Products to Add to a Beauty Routine?
Since rosemary has become such a buzzy hair care ingredient, there are a handful of effective products to try that incorporate it. Whether you’re looking to promote hair growth, add shine, clean your scalp, or just experiment with something new, these are our favorite rosemary products to shop.
This Mielle Organics hair oil is one of the most TikTok-famous products on the market for more reasons than one. First, this lightweight oil is crafted with a selection of natural ingredients, all of which deeply moisturize and strengthen hair from root to tip. The rosemary extract works to stimulate blood circulation to the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth and preventing breakage, while the mint provides a cooling sensation that soothes and refreshes the scalp. (Read: It’ll make your scalp feel so fresh.) As for the kicker? It’s ultra-affordable.
Made with aloe vera, rosemary, saw palmetto, and horsetail extract, this vegan shampoo and conditioner set promotes thicker, healthier, and fuller hair. It works to cleanse the scalp from follicle-clogging buildup as well as make hair soft and shiny. Use it up to three times a week for best results.
“This pre-shampoo scalp oil treatment is infused with both rosemary oil and avocado oil to deliver moisture and nourishment for the scalp while helping hair feel softer and smoother,” says Dr. Han. To use it, apply a small amount onto your scalp and hair before shampooing. Leave it on for 10 minutes, then wash it right out. Trust us, after a few weeks, you’ll notice a big difference.
Safe for all hair types and textures, this Briogeo oil is a must. “This is one great for those with drier, flakier scalps,” explains Dr. Han. “It combines rosemary oil with castor and tea tree oil to soothe flaking and itchy scalps while promoting healthy hair growth.” If you suffer from a dry scalp, this will make a world of a difference.