Dealing with hair thinning and shedding can be one of the most stressful parts of aging. It’s also not exclusive to aging: you may be experiencing major hair changes as the result of stress, pregnancy/hormonal changes, or even certain medications. The hard truth is that there aren’t that many natural hair health options that doctors stand behind, so you may be wondering: where do dermatologists stand when it comes to rosemary oil?
Rosemary oil is a natural alternative that has been hailed by some as a game-changer when it comes to hair growth. But anecdotal evidence is one thing — how does it actually rank and hold up if you ask a medical professional?
Dermatologist Dr. Archit Agarwal, MD, a consultant at Clinicspots, is here to set the record straight on rosemary oil: what are its benefits, what are its limitations, and which products are worth your time and money?
Rosemary Oil Benefits
Rosemary is a medicinal plant full of various compounds that are antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and have antimicrobial effects, Dr. Agarwal explains.” The antioxidants in rosemary oil may help ward up oxidative stress that weakens the hair follicle. Certain properties in Rosemary help relax the blood vessels, allowing for improved blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles,” Dr. Agarwal says. “This helps to bring in nutrients and growth factors that can help with the health of the hair follicle and ultimately that's going to support healthy hair growth.”
Furthermore, Agarwal notes that rosemary oil is a natural source of the compound camphor which is something that actually can lead to increased blood flow when applied to the skin.
“It gives a sensation of warmth because of camphor's hyperemic or enhanced blood flow effects. Rosemary oil possibly serves as a DHT blocker. So, DHT or dihydrotestosterone is a hormone that can shrink hair follicles and shorten the hair growth cycle. Rosemary oil acts like minoxidil to increase blood flow for hair growth.”
Being nourishing and conditioning, it can also help the hair appear softer, smoother, shinier, and glossier.
What Are Rosemary Oil’s Limitations?
It’s important to go into every treatment for your hair or skin with reasonable and realistic expectations.
While there are some studies that show rosemary oil’s benefits compare somewhat to Minoxidil, and the FDA deems it say, keep in mind that the FDA has not approved it specifically for hair loss (but the FDA also isn’t always fast to approve natural ingredients for therapeutic reasons).
“Rosemary oil is a valuable natural remedy, with hardly any drawbacks,” Dr. Agarwal says. “Rosemary oil is highly concentrated, it should never be taken internally or applied undiluted directly to the skin due to the potential for irritation and skin sensitivity, and redness. People with sensitive skin, allergies, or medical conditions should always consult their healthcare provider before using it.”
How Should It Be Used?
Rosemary oil is potent and should not be directly applied to the scalp or to the skin, Dr. Agarwal cautions. “As it can cause irritation and a burning sensation. It's best to blend rosemary oil with carrier oil. The ratio for topical application of essential oils is 2-3%. Rosemary oil can be mixed with jojoba oil, coconut, or castor oil.”
Recommended Rosemary Oils
Rather than have to mix your own rosemary oil hair brew at home, you can rely on brands that have already done the hard work for you. Dr. Agarwal says he recommends these picks:
Handcraft Rosemary Essential Oil
“This is therapeutic oil giving a cooling sensation comparable to peppermint,” Dr. Agarwal says. “You can even add other essential oils to enhance it.”
Maple Holistics Rosemary Oil
Dr. Agarwal describes this one as another great product suitable for all hair types. You can use it on your skin and hair.
Mielle Organics’ Rosemary Mint Growth Hair Oil
“Rosemary and mint oil both can increase blood circulation allowing oxygen to be carried to your scalp, promoting hair growth,” Dr. Agarwal notes.
Gya Labs Pure Rosemary Oil
This last pick is another one that can be used on your hair and skin.
If you’re stressing over your hair, visit a dermatologist first to uncover the root cause of your hair loss and find great treatment options that are personalized. But rosemary oil is a fantastic natural option that can be used any time to boost your scalp’s health and promote hair growth.
