How to Use Topical Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth

Essential oils are packed with many benefits for our hair, but none is more sought after than rosemary oil. Apart from being a mainstay ingredient in countless hair products, it’s also gone viral all over everyone’s favorite source for beauty inspiration (aka TikTok). 

So, how does topical rosemary oil work to benefit the hair? Before diving into that, we have to understand what rosemary oil is. According to Marisa Garshick, MD, rosemary oil is derived from a plant most commonly found in the Mediterranean region: the Rosmarinus officinalis plant. Dr. Garshick says that rosemary oil works as an anti-inflammatory antioxidant that has antimicrobial properties.

Below, Dr. Garshick and Dr. Hadley King explain why you should consider using this if you want strong and thick hair.

Benefits of Using Rosemary Oil

When it comes to hair growth and overall hair health, rosemary oil has some proven benefits. Dr. Garshick says some studies have shown that it can produce similar results to hair growth medication minoxidil after six months. "It is thought to help improve circulation in the scalp," she explains. "Increasing blood flow may help stimulate hair growth."

Other benefits of rosemary oil, she says, include reducing hair damage and breakage. "Rosemary oil can also work to reduce hair damage and breakage by coating the hair shaft with oil, making the hair appear stronger, softer, and smoother," she says.

Dr. King agrees and adds that rosemary oil can help reduce dandruff, scalp acne, and other types of redness and irritation thanks to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used for all hair types, but Dr. Garshick says that it is especially beneficial for those dealing with hair loss, breakage, or shedding.

Side Effects of Using Rosemary Oil

Dr. King says that rosemary oil can be an irritant, and allergic contact dermatitis is possible when using it. Dr. Garshick adds that it can take time and consistency to see results, with some studies showing that it can take up to six months to reap any of its benefits. Larger studies also still need to be done to show its true efficacy. While it is suitable for all hair types, she says it can weigh down thin or fine hair.

The dermatologist also says you'll want to be careful if you have underlying health or scalp issues before using this oil. Rosemary oil, she says, is strong and can cause irritation to sensitive areas, so it is best to consult with your dermatologist when deciding if it's a good option for you.

How to Use Rosemary Oil

Both Dr. Garshick and Dr. King say that rosemary oil can be applied directly on hair or scalp for maximum benefits. "The safest and most effective ways to use rosemary oil to reap the benefits include massaging about five drops directly onto the scalp with a small amount of carrier oil," says Dr. Garshick. "Carrier oils like argan, jojoba, or coconut oil are ingredients that work well with rosemary oil because pure rosemary oil may cause some irritation."

Dr. King adds that studies have even shown that rosemary oil combined with peppermint oil has helped promote hair growth in mice. Another way to cocktail it? "Mix it in with your shampoo using about two to three drops only," she says, adding that rosemary oil can be used on either wet or dry hair. If you’re using it on hair as a hair oil, you can also apply it to the ends for lubricant and emollient properties.

If you're not looking to DIY, rosemary oil can be found in many hair and scalp products. Dr. Garshick’s picks include the viral Mielle Rosemary Mint Scalp And Hair Strengthening Oil, which she says boosts circulation and helps stimulate hair follicles for hair growth, and the Kiehl’s Magic Elixir Hair Restructuring Concentrate, which uses rosemary and avocado oil to nourish and improve the overall health of the hair and scalp. Dr. King likes Carter+Jane’s ScalpFix, which she says mixes rosemary oil with peppermint oil to remove excess oil and soothe redness and irritation. She also loves it because it has antimicrobial properties and is microbiome friendly.