does rosemary oil really make your hair grow faster?

When it comes to hair care, there’s an endless array of products, hacks, and remedies promising to enhance hair growth. Rosemary oil is the latest hype!

Popularized by thousands of TikTok users sharing their positive hair experiences with rosemary oil (the hashtag #rosemaryoil has a whopping 1.4 billion views on TikTok as of May 2023,) we want to find out how magical this natural ingredient really is!

In this blog post, we’ll take a look into what rosemary oil, its potential benefits, the science that supports it, and how to use in your everyday hair regimen. Does rosemary oil truly live up to its reputation as a solid hair growth booster, or is it merely an old wives’ tale?

WHAT IS ROSEMARY OIL?

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is an herb known for its distinct aroma, healing properties, and culinary uses. It has a lengthy history of medicinal and therapeutic applications, as it’s believed to possess various health perks.

In the hair world, rosemary oil has gained attention and become a trending hair hack for its alleged ability to stimulate hair growth.

To understand how rosemary oil may impact hair growth, it's important to compare it to the basic biology of hair growth itself. The average person's scalp contains approximately 100,000 hair follicles, each with its own growth cycle. The growth phase, known as anagen, determines the rate and duration of hair growth. Several factors influence the anagen phase, including genetics, age, and overall health.

So, how does rosemary oil come into play? While scientific research on rosemary oil’s versus hair growth is still limited, early studies have revealed promising results.

Enhanced Blood Circulation.

Studies suggest that rosemary oil has vasodilatory properties, meaning it can widen blood vessels and increase blood flow to the scalp. An improved blood circulation to the hair follicles may foster a healthier, nutrient-rich environment for hair growth.

Anti-inflammatory Effects.

Inflammation can hinder hair growth by disrupting the natural hair growth cycle. To combat this, rosemary oil contains anti-inflammatory compounds that could possibly soothe the scalp and reduce inflammation. In-turn, this enables hair follicles to function optimally.

Antioxidant Properties.

Rosemary oil is rich in antioxidants, which protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Nobody wants those! By combating oxidative stress, rosemary oil may help preserve the health of hair follicles, leading to boosted hair growth. To grow, our hair follicles need to be nurtured and safe. Minimizing free radicals is never a bad idea!

WHAT DOES SCIENCE SAY?

While anecdotal evidence and traditional wisdom regularly vouch for the use of rosemary oil for hair growth, it's essential to back up its efficacy based on scientific research. Though limited, several studies have investigated the impact of rosemary oil on hair growth:

• A 2015 study examined the hair growth-promoting influences of rosemary oil in mice. The researchers observed that the topical application of rosemary oil triggered a significant increase in hair growth over time.
• Another study conducted in 2013, evaluated the relationship between rosemary oil and human hair growth. It was concluded that rosemary oil exhibited hair growth-promoting properties and significantly reduced hair loss.
• While these studies provide encouraging initial evidence, it's good to keep in mind that more research is needed to officially solidify the link between rosemary oil and hair growth in humans. Moreover, individual outcomes may vary according to factors such as hair type, overall health, and genetic predispositions.

HOW TO: USE ROSEMARY OIL FOR HAIR GROWTH

If you're considering incorporating rosemary oil into your hair care regimen, it's imperative to know the proper usage and precautions. Here are a few tips:

1. Dilute the oil. Pure rosemary oil can be potent and may cause skin irritation. To protect yourself, mix it with a carrier oil (coconut oil, jojoba oil, etc.) before applying it to your scalp.

2. Conduct a patch test. Prior to applying rosemary oil to your scalp, perform a patch test on a small area of skin to check for any adverse reactions. Especially do this if you have sensitive skin! Always better safe, then sorry.

3. Massage into the scalp. Gently massage the diluted rosemary oil into your scalp, focusing on areas where you want to promote hair growth. Leave it on for a minimum of 30 minutes, or overnight if you’re feeling froggy, and then rinse thoroughly. Repeat as desired!

While rosemary oil has long been touted as a natural remedy for hair growth, scientific research supporting its efficacy is still in its beginning stages. Nevertheless, the initial studies have shown us impressive findings that indicate rosemary just might have something to do with promoting hair growth after all!

As with any hair care treatment, keep in mind that individual experiences may differ. How one person’s hair responds to rosemary oil may be the opposite of how your hair responds. It’s always best to consult with one of our amazing stylists if you have any questions. Our goal is keep you and your hair happy!

If you're intrigued by the idea of giving rosemary oil a whirl, give it a go, but manage your expectations and be sure to enjoy the aromatic experience it brings.

Don’t forget, healthy hair growth relies on a holistic approach that encompasses a balanced diet, proper hair care practices, and overall well-being. While rosemary oil might be a valuable addition to your hair care routine, its in your greatest interest to maintain realistic expectations and be patient with the natural hair growth process.