As a mom of six, I’ve definitely experienced my share of postpartum hair loss, and I’m not alone. By age 50, about 25% of women and 50% of men deal with hair loss. Let me share some tips on how to address this issue and how rosemary oil for hair can be beneficial!
I’ve previously discussed various hair regrowth methods, but rosemary remains one of the most popular choices. Pure rosemary oil (rosmarinus officinalis) supports hair health and has recently gained attention on platforms like TikTok. While I may not join in on TikTok dances, I’m more than happy to share how you can use rosemary oil to promote hair growth.
Rosemary was a crucial part of the hair growth spray I relied on after my pregnancies, and there’s solid research backing this humble herb. First, though, let’s understand what the problem is.
Hair loss is rooted in what’s happening on the scalp. On average, a person loses about 50-100 hairs daily, which might sound like a lot, but we’re constantly growing new hair to replace them.
According to the Mayo Clinic, there are common factors causing hair loss in both men and women. I always suggest addressing these issues at the root by eating whole foods, taking targeted supplements, and supporting overall health, all of which contribute significantly to healthy, natural hair.
With the problem identified, how do we tackle it? Healthy hair begins with a healthy scalp. Rosemary helps by blocking DHT’s effects, a testosterone that shrinks hair follicles, which leads to hair loss. It also acts as a vasodilator, improving blood circulation to the scalp, which stimulates hair growth. More blood flow means healthier hair follicles and hair, reducing shedding and breakage.
Essential oils like tea tree and peppermint can also aid hair growth, but they work differently. Rosemary specifically targets hair follicles. A 2022 review of scalp treatments for hair loss and thinning hair found strong evidence supporting the use of saw palmetto, rosemary oil, pumpkin seed oil, and CBD oil for male hair loss.
A 2015 study compared rosemary oil to the hair loss drug minoxidil (Rogaine) in treating androgenetic alopecia, a condition known as male pattern baldness but also common in women. Participants had itchy scalps, but those using rosemary felt less itchiness. Both groups saw equal hair growth, but the rosemary group experienced fewer side effects.
Other research has examined rosemary combined with other essential oils. For instance, a blend of tea tree and rosemary oils helped strengthen damaged hair and activate hair follicles.
Rosemary also helps with dandruff buildup due to its circulation-boosting and anti-fungal properties. Its anti-inflammatory nature soothes the scalp, while its antibacterial and antioxidant qualities can hydrate a dry scalp.
In the 2015 study, noticeable results weren’t observed until six months, so patience is key when using rosemary oil consistently for hair growth.
Here’s a simple recipe to try, or if you’re short on time, there are premade options available that feature rosemary along with other scalp-nourishing ingredients.
Most research has focused on rosemary essential oil, but some studies used rosemary extract instead. You can also make your own hair growth oil by infusing rosemary leaves in a carrier oil like avocado or coconut oil.
After preparing a rosemary-infused oil, try mixing it with other nourishing oils. Applying oil to the hair shaft can help soften, smooth, and strengthen hair through the sebum process. Good hair-strengthening oils include:
Diluting rosemary essential oil with a carrier oil is a must, as essential oils are potent. For skincare, experts suggest a 2% dilution rate. For sensitive skin, further dilution may be necessary.
Practically speaking, use 5 drops of rosemary oil per tablespoon of carrier oil. Alternatively, a rosemary herb-infused oil can be used undiluted. For a 1% dilution, mix 20 drops into the base oil, and for a 2% dilution, use 40 drops.
Some oils, like coconut, can clog hair follicles if left on too long. This might make hair appear greasy, particularly for those with fine hair. Since rosemary oil is applied to the scalp, consider using it before shampooing your hair. Leave the treatment on for at least 20 minutes before rinsing.
Applying the oil before bed is another option; simply cover your pillow with a towel and wash it out in your morning shower.
Rosemary herbal infusion is generally safe for most people. However, it’s wise to do a patch test to ensure there’s no irritation. If it’s too strong, simply dilute it more.
For rosemary essential oil, safety is a bit more complex. Aromatherapists advise against applying it near the faces of young children due to respiratory risks. While most children won’t need hair growth treatments, experts recommend exercising caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to certain rosemary chemotypes with high camphor content that can be toxic if ingested.
Though topical use differs from ingesting, it’s safer to avoid using rosemary essential oil during pregnancy. For breastfeeding moms considering rosemary oil as a wash-off treatment, asking an aromatherapist or natural health expert first is advisable.
Have you ever tried rosemary or other herbs for your hair care? I’d love to hear your experiences!
