Rosemary Oil for Your Hair: How It Works

Rosemary isn’t just for cooking. It’s also used in an essential oil for a variety of benefits. Among them is the ability to stimulate hair growth and reduce inflammation.

Dermatologist Shilpi Khetarpal, MD, explains why rosemary oil might be good for your hair and how to use it safely.

How rosemary oil helps grow hair

In recent years, studies have found rosemary oil to be a good alternative treatment for androgenic alopecia (pattern baldness) and hair loss. When compared with minoxidil (Rogaine®), it’s been found to be as effective at encouraging hair regrowth because of its:

• Antioxidant effects
• Anti-inflammatory effects
• Antimicrobial properties

We need more research to determine the exact reasons why it’s so effective for hair growth. But some older studies suggest carnosic acid in the plant can help revive damaged nerves and tissue.

Massage has long been used with other natural treatments to boost blood flow to the scalp and support hair growth — and rosemary oil may make it even more effective.

“If you increase blood flow to the scalp, you give your hair the nutrients it needs to shed less, grow more and just be a bit healthier,” explains Dr. Khetarpal.

How to use rosemary oil for hair growth

If you’re looking to work rosemary oil into your hair care routine, Dr. Khetarpal offers these tips:

• Mix it with a carrier oil. Coconut oil or jojoba oil can dilute rosemary oil to prevent skin irritation.
• Massage it into your scalp. Putting a coat of rosemary oil on your hair isn’t going to do anything unless you work it into your scalp. “You want to apply it to the scalp as a treatment,” instructs Dr. Khetarpal. “Really focus on working it in.”
• Add it to fragrance-free products. Fragrances can reduce its effectiveness and raise the risk of irritation. Combine just a few drops of rosemary oil with gentle shampoos, conditioners and hair masks for full effect.
• Let it sit. For hair growth, use a couple drops of rosemary oil daily and leave it on your scalp for at least a few hours. Dr. Khetarpal suggests using rosemary oil at night and then washing your hair in the morning.
• Use daily or as-needed. One use of rosemary oil isn’t going to give you a bushy head of hair. “You’re going to need to use it two or three times a week for six months to see meaningful improvement,” notes Dr. Khetarpal. “Stay consistent and give it time.”

Possible side effects of using rosemary oil for hair growth

While rosemary oil is considered safe, it isn’t recommended if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Warning labels on some 100% rosemary products warn that using them could affect the fetus or lead to a miscarriage.

When using rosemary oil for hair growth, start with a small area of your scalp before coating your whole head with it, particularly if you have fine hair or atopic dermatitis. “That’s a good way to test to see if it causes a reaction on your skin,” says Dr. Khetarpal.

Even then, rosemary oil should only be used in small quantities — just a few drops at a time will do. Overusing it may result in:

• Scalp irritation
• Redness
• Burning
• Damaged hair follicles
• Inflammation

If you experience any irritation or side effects, stop using it and consult a dermatologist. Dr. Khetarpal also cautions against expecting dramatic results, as hair growth takes time and rosemary oil may not work for everyone.

“You want to be realistic,” she stresses. “If you’ve had hair loss for over 20 years, don’t expect it to work wonders. Rosemary oil might help a bit, particularly if your hair loss is just starting, but hair growth is variable. There are no guarantees.”