Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth: What Actually Helps

Rosemary oil for hair growth blew up on TikTok over the last year. Nearly a billion users have watched hair-flip testimonials praising what the extract can do.

So, are those TikTokers onto something, or is this savory herb best kept for dinner? Let’s sort what’s real versus rumor with Keyoma.

Key Takeaways

• Small studies show rosemary oil can rival 2% minoxidil for androgenetic hair regrowth.

• Proposed actions may include improving scalp blood flow, anti-androgen effects, and antimicrobial anti-inflammatory support.

• Typical use dilutes five drops per teaspoon carrier oil, applied once or twice weekly.

• Overuse may irritate skin or harm follicles, and quality varies, sensitivities require caution.

What Is Rosemary Oil, Exactly?

Rosmarinus officinalis L., or rosemary, is an evergreen shrub common around the Mediterranean Sea and sub-Himalayan regions. In folk medicine, people have used rosemary to help with several issues, including:

• Headaches

• Migraine

• Insomnia

• Emotional upset

• Depression

Rosemary oil is an essential oil obtained from the rosemary plant. Essential oils are a popular natural product. They are often used for dermatological applications.

Can Rosemary Oil Promote Hair Regrowth?

The answer seems to be yes, and there’s some research to back it up.

Researchers found rosemary oil to be as effective for hair regrowth as minoxidil. The small 2015 study looked at people with androgenic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness).

Using rosemary oil instead of minoxidil also led to fewer complaints of an itchy scalp at the three- and six-month check-ins.

Bottom line, it does appear to help. That study pushed many people to consider rosemary oil for growth, and it showed up in more over-the-counter products afterward.

The limited 2015 work built on findings from 2013 and 2010 that hinted at rosemary’s potential to counter hair loss.

Rosemary Oil Benefits for Hair and Scalp

Rosemary oil may promote growth by improving blood flow to the scalp. Better circulation helps keep follicles functioning well. Medications like minoxidil also support growth.

Reduced circulation to follicles is also tied to androgenetic alopecia (male-pattern hair loss), a common and progressive condition driven by genetics and androgens.

Antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory components in rosemary oil may support scalp health and hair growth in several ways.

Stimulates Hair Follicle Activity

Rosmarinic acid, a constituent of rosemary oil, can help relax and widen blood vessels. More blood flow brings nutrients to follicles needed for growth.

Supports Follicle Renewal and Blocks Androgens

Boosting scalp circulation may also aid follicle renewal in people with male-pattern hair loss. 12-methoxycarnosic acid found in rosemary oil may have anti-androgenetic effects.

Helps With Pattern Hair Loss

A 6-month study showed rosemary oil performed as well as 2% minoxidil in men with male-pattern hair loss. An animal study reported a rosemary oil lotion worked similarly to 2% minoxidil. Products with 5% minoxidil haven’t been tested head-to-head against rosemary oil.

May Reduce Dandruff

While not a proven remedy for dandruff, rosemary oil seems to have antifungal activity, limiting growth of dermatophytes. These fungi are linked to dandruff and other scalp infections.  

Soothes an Itchy Scalp

Its anti-inflammatory properties may calm a dry, red, or irritated scalp. Antifungal effects may also reduce itch tied to fungal infections.

What to Consider Before Using Rosemary Oil

While essential oils like rosemary are natural, they aren’t automatically safe for everyone. They can still cause side effects.

Rosemary oil is very concentrated. Using too much may irritate follicles and lead to loss instead of growth.

If you have a skin condition or sensitivity, be careful with essential oils. They can trigger allergies or worsen symptoms. You may want to talk with a healthcare professional before using any essential oil.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate essential oils for quality. Research brands and product quality before you use them.

How to Use Rosemary Oil for Hair Loss

You can try rosemary essential oil as a restorative and thickener in a few ways. Start by using any of these once or twice weekly. Increase frequency when you want to, or after you feel comfortable.

1. Massage Directly Into the Scalp

Mix about five drops of rosemary essential oil with a teaspoon of carrier oil, or use Keyoma batana oil with rosemary. Then massage it evenly into your scalp after a bath or shower. I found gentle circular motions helped absorption without tugging at roots. Rinsing is optional, but if you do rinse, let it sit for at least 5 to 10 minutes first.

2. Mix Into Your Hair Products

You can add rosemary essential oil to hair products, such as:

• Shampoo

• Conditioner

• Hair masks

• Styling products

Stick to about five drops per ounce of product. Then use your product the way you normally do.

3. Add to Homemade Shampoo

If you make DIY shampoo, you can add essential oils for your preferred benefits. Many recipes use baking soda, coconut oil, an essential oil, and sometimes other oils.

FAQs

Can I put rosemary oil directly onto my hair?

The simplest method is to apply it straight to your scalp. As noted, pick a properly diluted product. Part your hair and place a few drops on the exposed scalp.

Is it good to put rosemary oil in your hair every day?

If you dilute rosemary essential oil with a carrier or another hair product, you can apply it daily or as needed between washes. Too much at once may irritate. When paired with a carrier oil, frequent use between washes can leave hair oily.

What type of rosemary oil is best for hair growth?

Rosemary oil with batana may support growth. One to two drops mixed with batana makes a nice blend to massage into your scalp.

Is it better to use oil on wet or dry hair?

You can use hair oil on both damp and dry hair, with different goals for each. Apply to damp, towel-dried hair to lock in moisture, nourish, limit frizz, and for heat protection before styling. Use on dry hair to add shine, smooth flyaways, and finish your style.

Start a Safe Rosemary Oil Routine Today With Keyoma

Now that you know what rosemary oil can and cannot do, use it the right way. Dilute with a carrier, start once or twice weekly, and patch test if your skin is sensitive. Keep expectations modest, and keep proven treatments in place when needed.

For clear routines, ingredient explainers, and research updates, follow Keyoma’s blog and social channels for ongoing hair care tips.