Plus, how to incorporate it into your regimen.
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While seasoning a winter soup with a sprinkle of dried rosemary, you probably don’t think of the herb as a hair-transforming ingredient. But, in oil form, rosemary is on the rise as a staple for hair growth, strength, and shine. But does the science back up the anecdotal evidence and claims?
Meet the experts: Ramya Garlapati, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles; Sabrina Rowe Holdsworth, celebrity hairstylist and founder of NTRL by Sabs; Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., double board-certified dermatologist with Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ; and Jacob Schmidt, senior stylist at Sally Hershberger NoMad
Ahead, dermatologists and hair stylists explain the benefits of rosemary oil for hair, how to use it, potential side effects, and more.
Rosemary oil is most often touted as an encourager of hair growth. “It has been clinically shown to increase hair growth similar to minoxidil, the main active ingredient in Rogaine,” says Ramya Garlapati, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles. “It stimulates hair growth by blocking the effects of DHT, a type of testosterone that is normally responsible for shrinking hair follicles that can lead to hair loss.”
Dr. Garlapati adds that rosemary oil also stimulates blood flow to the hair follicles, “which increases the delivery of oxygen and nutrients, promoting hair growth,” and it has naturally anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it ideal for helping irritation caused by flaking and dandruff.
As an oil, it also inherently provides a bit of moisture and shine, which can help prevent breakage, adds Sabrina Rowe Holdsworth, celebrity hairstylist and founder of NTRL by Sabs.
According to Dr. Garlapati, rosemary oil may help with hair growth through a few different processes, like blocking the effects of DHT and creating a healthier scalp environment for hair growth.
Rosemary oil is sometimes formulated with other oils, like castor oil, which may also have its hair growth benefits, according to Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., double board-certified dermatologist with Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ.
There is some promising research on the effect of rosemary oil on hair growth. As Dr. Garlapati explained, a 2015 study, mentioned above, determined that rosemary oil functioned similarly to minoxidil, a popular hair growth and hair loss medication. A 2022 study also confirmed these findings.
Because it’s a pretty potent ingredient, for some, excess use of rosemary oil may lead to some itching and burning, says Holdsworth. “It can cause mild irritation of the scalp and should be discontinued if this is experienced,” adds Dr. Garlapati.
With that being said, Dr. Garlapati says the oil is safe for all hair types, including color-treated hair.
First things first, Dr. Garlapati says you should always consult a dermatologist to determine the cause of hair loss before attempting to treat it at home. However, she adds that rosemary oil is a good option for those looking to take a natural route to manage the problem. There are a few different potential ways to incorporate it into your regimen.
“You can use rosemary oil on its own or add a carrier oil such as coconut or argan oil to dilute it,” says Dr. Garlapati. “Keep in mind as you are diluting it you may be reducing the benefits of the rosemary oil as you will be minimizing the amount applied to the scalp.”
As for what kind of rosemary oil to use, she says any pure rosemary essential oil is “a great option,” but she particularly likes those from Maple Holistics and Handcraft Blends. Amanda Doyle, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at Russak Dermatology Clinic adds that pure, organic oil “is often the best way to go.”
Experts recommend the below rosemary oils:
While there are a few different ways to make rosemary oil for hair, it’s most commonly done by adding rosemary extract to a carrier oil (castor oil or argan oil), explains Dr. Lal, who recommends using one that is noncomedogenic. However, Dr. Lal tells patients that it's better to buy a product that is already formulated for use in the hair or on the skin to make sure you get the best results.
To DIY your own diluted rosemary oil hair treatment, Dr. Doyle recommends mixing two tablespoons of your carrier oil of choice (she recommends jojoba) with two to three drops of rosemary oil. Apply the mixture to the scalp and “leave on for an hour before washing,” Doyle adds.
If you’d rather not take the time to mix your own lotions and potions, you can try a rosemary-infused hair product recommended by stylists Holdsworth and Jacob Schmidt, senior stylist at Sally Hershberger NoMad, below.
Holdsworth says rosemary oils and infused shampoos may be used a few times a week, unless you have an adverse reaction. “I suggest starting with two to three times a week and if well tolerated, working up to daily,” adds Schmidt. “Consistent use always yields the best results.”
Kayla Blanton is a freelance writer-editor who covers health, nutrition, and lifestyle topics for various publications including Prevention, Everyday Health, SELF, People, and more. She’s always open to conversations about fueling up with flavorful dishes, busting beauty standards, and finding new, gentle ways to care for our bodies. She earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Ohio University with specializations in women, gender, and sexuality studies and public health, and is a born-and-raised midwesterner living in Cincinnati, Ohio with her husband and two spoiled kitties.
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