On the other side of the debate is Dr Nick Fisherman, trichologist at Watermans Hair. While research is limited, he says that “studies have demonstrated that rosemary oil can indeed stimulate hair growth by improving blood circulation to the scalp and promoting the proliferation of hair follicle cells.”
How to use rosemary oil for hair
1. Use it early evening or in the morning
“Rosemary oil is a very awakening fragrance so it’s probably not ideal for use just before bed, as it stimulates both the skin and senses, which might make it harder to nod off,” says Weleda’s skincare expert Elizabeth King. “But early evening should be fine, and it’s a great morning product as rosemary’s awakening aroma helps clear brain fog.”
2.Dilute rosemary oil with a carrier oil
According to Dr. Fisherman, “when applying rosemary oil to your hair and scalp, it’s important to dilute it with a carrier oil such as jojoba, coconut, or olive oil. This helps to prevent skin irritation and ensures that the oil is evenly distributed throughout your hair.” Also, avoid using it on inflamed or broken skin.
3. Massage it into the scalp
After applying diluted rosemary oil, Viviscal Ambassador and trichologist Hannah Gaboardi recommends using a scalp massager. “Scalp massaging increases hair thickness by stretching the cells of hair follicles. This then stimulates the follicles to produce thicker hair. So using it in conjunction with rosemary oil would be very effective’’.
Massage also helps to boost blood flow to the hair follicles, says Elizabeth. “Using circular movements, start from the front of your head working down the sides of your scalp and back. Take the moment to enjoy the revitalising aroma and the release of tension.”
4. Leave rosemary oil on your hair for at least 30 minutes
Then rinse it off with shampoo and water. While you can also apply rosemary oil to your strands for added sheen, it’s best to do so with moderation.
“To apply rosemary oil directly to your hair strands, you can add a few drops of the oil to your regular shampoo or conditioner, or create a hair mask by mixing the oil with a carrier oil and leaving it on for 20-30 minutes before rinsing,” says Dr Fisherman. “However, it’s important to note that using too much rosemary oil directly on your hair can lead to dryness and irritation.”
Other benefits of rosemary oil for hair
Rosemary oil boosts scalp health
By stimulating the scalp, Elizabeth points out that rosemary oil “helps to support the supply of nutrients to the roots of the hair, which helps to strengthen the hair shaft, helps to promote hair growth for thicker healthy-looking hair and helps to maintain a healthy scalp.”
Rosemary oil also contains antioxidants in the form of tannins and flavonoids and lipids, she adds.
“The oil has been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties, too, which can help soothe the scalp and reduce irritation and itching,” says Dr Fisherman. What’s more, in the same study mentioned above, the group using rosemary oil reported less itchiness than those using minoxidil.
Rosemary oil may help prevent dandruff
“Rosemary oil can also help to restore the scalp’s microbiome balance due to its antimicrobial properties,” explains Dr Bhavjit Kaur, medical aesthetic practitioner. “Since dandruff usually occurs due to an excess of skin fungus (malassezia), the antimicrobial properties of rosemary may help.
Can rosemary oil help with hair loss caused by alopecia?
Alopecia is a medical condition that can cause hair loss and baldness anywhere on the body – there is no known cure for it yet, though there are experts who can help.
