Rosemary Oil For Hair Growth: How To Use Rosemary Oil, Expert Recommendations & Your FAQs Answered
- OOF!
- Jul 14
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 25
Rosemary oil might just be your new hair growth bestie.
If you’ve spent any time in the haircare corner of the internet lately, you’ve probably heard people singing the praises of rosemary oil for hair growth. But is it actually worth the buzz?
Spoiler alert: Yes—and there’s science to back it up.
What Is Rosemary Oil?
Rosemary oil is an essential oil extracted from—you guessed it—rosemary, the herb you might already have in your spice rack. But aside from making your roasted potatoes taste amazing, it has some pretty magical benefits for your scalp and hair.
How Does Rosemary Oil Help With Hair Growth?
Hair oiling can certainly contribute to achieving fuller, healthier, and stronger hair, and there is evidence suggesting that rosemary oil has the ability to accelerate hair growth.
Here’s why rosemary oil has become a go-to for anyone trying to regrow thinning areas, boost overall hair density without turning to harsh chemicals or expensive treatments.
1. It Increases Blood Circulation to the Scalp
More blood flow = more oxygen and nutrients feeding your hair follicles = stronger, healthier, longer hair over time.
2. It May Block DHT (The Hair Loss Hormone)
DHT is a hormone linked to thinning hair and hair loss—especially around the temples and crown. Rosemary oil has been shown to block DHT in some studies, similar to how minoxidil (Rogaine) works.
In a 2015 study, rosemary oil was found to be as effective as 2% minoxidil at promoting hair growth—without the scalp irritation! Yes. Really.
3. It Fights Inflammation and Dandruff
A healthy scalp is a growing scalp. Rosemary oil has natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help keep your scalp flake-free and happy.
How to Use Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth
Trichologist, Anna Astarte, shares that you will maximize the benefits of rosemary oil for hair growth by using it 2-3 times per week.
Keep in mind when you're using rosemary oil for hair growth, you want to apply it just to your scalp and not to your ends. Applying it to your ends won't boost hair growth. You hair story starts at your scalp.
Gently massage a mixture of rosemary essential oil (about 4–5 drops) diluted in a tablespoon of carrier oil directly onto the scalp.
Castor, grapeseed, and jojoba oils are all good choices. If you don't want to make your own you can use a pre-blended serum. We're sharing our favorites below.
Apply the oil mixture to dry or slightly damp hair. Use your fingertips or a silicone scalp massager and massage in the oil using a circular motion to boost blood flow.
Leave it on for at least 30 minutes (overnight is best!), then wash thoroughly.
DIY Rosemary Oil Hair Growth Recipe
Rosemary essential oil (100% pure)
A carrier oil (pick one that works with your scalp type—see below!)
A scalp massager (optional but highly recommended—like our OOF! heart-shaped scalp brush 💖)
Choosing the Right Carrier Oil: What Works (and What Doesn’t)
Your carrier oil isn’t just a filler—it can make or break your results. And if you have dandruff, scalp sensitivity, or fungal issues, choosing the wrong oil might make things worse.
Here’s a breakdown of popular carrier oils + what they’re best for:
Carrier Oil | Avoid If | Bonus Benefits |
Castor Oil | Can be too thick on its own—mix it with lighter oils | High in ricinoleic acid, helps boost circulation + supports regrowth |
Jojoba Oil | Rarely causes issues | Closest to natural sebum—great for balance |
Grapeseed Oil | Rarely causes issues | Lightweight, antifungal, absorbs easily |
Argan Oil | May feel heavy on fine/oily hair | Rich in vitamin E, smooths and strengthens |
Coconut Oil | Avoid if you have dandruff or fungal issues | Can trap yeast and clog follicles |
Olive Oil | Avoid for dandruff/fungal-prone scalps | May feed Malassezia (scalp yeast), causing flare-ups |
⚠️ If you deal with dandruff, fungal acne, or seborrheic dermatitis, your safest picks are grapeseed oil or jojoba oil. You can blend with a little castor oil for growth.
Real Talk: What to Expect
Don’t expect instant mermaid hair overnight. BUT—many people see less shedding, stronger strands, and baby hairs making a comeback within 3 to 6 months of consistent use.
The key? Stick with it.
🧴 Pro Tip: Add to Shampoo or Serum
You can also add a few drops of rosemary oil to your shampoo or conditioner, or use a pre-blended hair serum. Just make sure it has all natural ingredients.
FAQs About Using Rosemary Oil For Hair Growth
How exactly does rosemary oil help hair grow?
Anetta Reszko, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist, says “Rosemary oil (Rosmarinus officinalis) contains bioactive compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory, vasodilatory, and antioxidant effects, all essential for optimal hair growth. These properties may reduce perifollicular inflammation, increase scalp microcirculation, and modulate DHT activity, creating a more favorable environment for growth cycle extension,” ¹
How long does it take for rosemary oil to work for hair growth?
Most experts say you’ll need at least three months of consistent use to notice results, and in some cases, it can take up to six months. Like many beauty treatments, results aren’t guaranteed. If you’re worried about hair loss, it’s a good idea to consult a trichologist or dermatologist, who can recommend personalized solutions.
Can I apply rosemary oil directly to my scalp?
No — essential oils are very concentrated. Always dilute rosemary oil in a carrier oil before applying to avoid irritation.
Can rosemary oil help with hair loss or thinning?
Studies show it may help reduce shedding and promote thicker hair in some cases, especially for androgenetic hair loss, but results aren’t guaranteed.
Can I use rosemary oil on colored or chemically treated hair?
Yes — rosemary oil is safe for treated hair. Stick to a gentle carrier oil like grapeseed oil.
Final Thoughts: Should You Try It?
If you're looking for a natural, science-backed way to support your hair growth journey, rosemary oil for hair growth is 100% worth a try.
Got questions? Tried rosemary oil before? Drop your tips or stories in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
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