Rosemary is a woody plant native to the Mediterranean region and has been cultivated for centuries for its culinary and medicinal properties. It has a scent reminiscent of evergreen plants.
Rosemary oil is a light-colored oil extracted from the leaves and flowers of the rosemary plant.
On the other hand, rosemary water for hair can be prepared at home by boiling fresh rosemary sprigs in water. Once the water has cooled, you can spray it on your scalp with a spray bottle or rinse your hair with it in the shower.
The Truth About Rosemary for Hair Growth
Various scientific studies have shown that rosemary oil can improve hair growth and density and prevent hair loss when applied to the scalp. While more studies are needed, the use of rosemary oil for hair growth appears promising. However, while many TikTokers swear by rosemary water to promote hair health, there are no studies proving the effectiveness of using this type of rosemary for hair growth.
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What Are the Benefits of Rosemary for Hair?
Rosemary oil has many benefits that can contribute to hair growth. Rosemary oil and rosemary water for hair growth contain carnosic acid, which heals tissue damage and improves skin cell turnover. This, in turn, can promote circulation, which may help prevent hair loss or stimulate hair growth. For example, a 2015 study compared rosemary oil to the common hair loss remedy minoxidil. After six months of topical application, participants grew significantly more hair. Participants using rosemary oil also reported much less irritation than those using minoxidil.
Rosemary oil for hair also has powerful antioxidant properties. Antioxidants can help protect against free radicals that can damage hair follicles or affect the formation of gray hair. Read more about graying hair here.
Finally, rosemary oil for hair has antimicrobial properties that can help prevent or treat dandruff.
Side Effects of Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth
Rosemary oil is potent and should never be applied directly to the skin. Always mix rosemary oil for hair with a carrier oil such as jojoba oil before applying it to your hair. It is also wise to do a patch test before using rosemary oil for hair, especially if you have a sensitive scalp. Also, be careful when using rosemary oil or rosemary water for hair to avoid the eyes, mouth, and other sensitive parts of the skin.
Pure rosemary oil can also weigh down your hair, especially if you have fine or thinning hair. If this is the case, consider using rosemary oil as a pre-wash hair treatment.
A great way to avoid these side effects is by using carefully formulated hair care products that contain rosemary oil in the right dosage to ensure safety while still being effective.
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Apply Only to Your Scalp
The benefits of rosemary oil for hair apply only to the scalp. So, there's no point in applying the oil to the lengths of your hair unless you want oily-looking hair. Opt for shampoos, sprays, or oils massaged onto the scalp for best results. -
Give it Time
Leave the rosemary oil on your scalp for at least an hour before rinsing it out to give it a chance to work. Keep in mind that visible results may take several months of regular use. -
Choose Your Oil Carefully
Make sure to use only 100% pure, organic rosemary oil for hair. Other ingredients may reduce potency or cause irritation. Look for products that are certified organic to ensure the purity of your product.