Can Rosemary Oil Treat Hair Loss?
Most of the hair-boosting benefits of rosemary oil are based on anecdotal evidence. Claims do show that the oil may treat hair loss.
Rosemary oil helps stimulate blood circulation to the scalp. This, in turn, can promote hair growth. Rosemary oil has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties (1), (2). These may help soothe the scalp. Rosemary oil exhibits antifungal properties against Malassezia furfur, fungi that cause dandruff (3). The oil from the herb may cleanse the hair follicles and scalp. This could reduce the risk of dandruff and hair fall. The oil may also repair hair damage.
More research is warranted to understand the beneficial effects of rosemary oil on hair. However, some studies that were conducted did show favorable results.
Rosemary Oil For Hair – What Research Says
A study found that rosemary oil could help in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. The study compared the effects of rosemary oil to minoxidil, a medication used for hair loss. The results showed that rosemary oil was as effective as 2% minoxidil in controlling hair loss (4). In another study, topical application of rosemary extract could stimulate hair growth in mice (5). In this case, the hair loss was initially induced by testosterone treatment. Aromatherapy with rosemary oil (and other essential oils) was also found to improve alopecia areata in patients (6). The patients who massaged the essential oil mixture (including rosemary oil) into their scalp daily showed better hair regrowth. Using rosemary oil for hair growth is simple. In the following section, we have listed a couple of recipes that can help you.
How To Use Rosemary Oil For Hair Growth
1. Rosemary Hot Oil Treatment
Hot oil treatment can be a great way to deep condition your hair. The process is efficient and requires minimal ingredients. The treatment can also help tackle dry, damaged hair while improving scalp health. You Will Need
2 to 4 drops of rosemary essential oil 2 tablespoons of carrier oil (coconut, olive, or almond oils) Hot towel or shower cap Shampoo Conditioner
What You Have To Do How Often You Should Do This You can treat your hair to a hot oil treatment up to 2 times a week. Note: Do not overheat the oil as it may burn your scalp. Overheating the oil may also reduce its nutrients. You may use this recipe even if your hair is greasy.
2. Rosemary Leave-in Conditioner
Rosemary promotes hair growth in ways similar to minoxidil, a medication for hair growth (4). Using it as a leave-in conditioner may leave the hair feeling glossy and soft. It may also treat itchy or dandruff-ridden scalp. You Will Need
1 tablespoon of rosemary leaves/15 drops of rosemary essential oil 1 cup of water Tea infuser Spray bottle
What You Have To Do How Often You Should Do This You can use this leave-in treatment every time you wash your hair or in between washes to freshen your hair. Note: Use this treatment with caution if you have high blood pressure or are pregnant. Anecdotal evidence suggests that rosemary oil may have adverse effects on pregnant women or those with high blood pressure levels. However, direct research is lacking in this aspect.
3. Rosemary Water (Rosemary Hair Rinse)
Rosemary hair rinse may make your hair shiny and manageable. It may stimulate the scalp and prevent hair loss. You Will Need
1 tablespoon of dried rosemary leaves 1 cup of water
What You Have To Do How Often You Should Do This Use this rinse once a week. Note: Ensure the rosemary water has completely cooled before you pour it through your hair. Water too hot can open up the cuticles and lead to moisture loss.
4. Rosemary Shampoo
Using rosemary as shampoo may promote hair growth. You Will Need
A rosemary shampoo bar 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary 3 cups of water
What You Have To Do How Often You Should Do This Use this shampoo no more than 3 times a week. Note: Use the shampoo for longer than a week to allow your hair to get adapted to it. Your hair may look greasier in the first week.
5. Rosemary Vinegar
Hair growth could sometimes slow down due to the build-up of dirt or product residue. This build-up may clog your follicles and form deposits on your hair shaft. Using a rosemary vinegar rinse can help solve this issue. You Will Need
1 cup of apple cider vinegar 3 to 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary 2 cups of water
What You Have To Do How Often You Should Do This Use this rinse once a month in addition to other rosemary treatments. Note: Do not use the rosemary vinegar in excess. This is especially important if you have dry hair. An excess of the vinegar can dehydrate your hair. Rosemary oil seems to benefit hair in a number of ways. However, the oil comes with its own set of adverse effects. While these effects are only based on anecdotal evidence, they must still be considered.
Side Effects Of Rosemary Oil For Hair
Avoid getting rosemary essential oil into your eyes. If contact does happen, rinse your eyes immediately with cold water. The oil may cause eye irritation in some.
Applying too much rosemary oil to your scalp may cause irritation. Using a carrier oil along with rosemary oil may help prevent this.
No study particularly states that rosemary oil is safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Hence, avoid the oil altogether. The same applies to individuals with high blood pressure levels.
How Long Does Rosemary Oil Take To Boost Hair Growth
The effects of rosemary oil on hair growth may be seen in a month. Regular use of the oil may boost hair growth rate and hair volume. Remember not to switch between too many ingredients. Everyone’s hair is different. Hence, use in your treatments the ingredients that suit you the best (and those you are not allergic to). Can I spray rosemary oil on my hair every day? Yes, you can spray rosemary oil on your hair every day. Once you notice hair growth or the desired improvement in hair health, you can reduce that to every alternate day or once or twice a week. Does rosemary thicken hair? Rosemary can stimulate hair growth, keep your scalp free from fungal infections, and may reduce hair fall. It stimulates blood flow to the scalp and has anti-inflammatory properties to soothe it. All the properties improve your overall hair health, which makes hair thicker and more beautiful. Does rosemary darken your hair? Anecdotal evidence suggests that rosemary can darken hair. However, you may not see substantial results. Instead, it improves the overall hair health, which may impact hair’s appearance and grow darker. Mix rosemary with hair-darkening ingredients like henna or tea to make hair darker. How long can you store rosemary oil for hair? You can store rosemary oil in an airtight bottle or container for 5-6 months.
