Rosemary oil is proving to be an unlikely hero for hair growth—here’s how.

In the past, supporting hair growth almost exclusively involved prescription treatments. These days, there’s a new player on the scene: rosemary oil. (Bonus: You can use it whether you have alopecia, thinning hair, are experiencing postpartum hair loss, or if you just want to nourish your scalp.) 

Rosemary has long been used for medicinal purposes throughout history, including as a disinfectant and decongestant during the 14th-century Great Plague. Today, its anti-inflammatory properties are being lauded as a natural alternative to boost hair growth.

You can find the essential oil in shampoos and conditioners, scalp oils, and pre-wash serums. Here's why beauty experts are loving rosemary oil right now. 

Does rosemary oil promote hair growth?

Though research is still relatively new, scientists believe that rosemary oil may support circulation on the scalp by encouraging blood flow to the hair follicles. In turn, this increased blood flow increases the delivery of oxygen and nutrients that promote hair growth. 

Some studies have even found rosemary oil to be comparable to prescription medications in alopecia treatment. A 2015 trial following two groups of patients with alopecia—one group used rosemary oil while the other applied minoxidil, an FDA-approved alopecia treatment—found comparable hair growth increases between them at the six-month mark. The researchers determined that natural remedies like rosemary oil “can be considered a potentially effective treatment strategy.” 

How to use rosemary oil 

One of the best parts of rosemary oil is how versatile it is. Mix about five drops of the essential oil into a teaspoon of carrier oil, such as jojoba or coconut oil, then massage it into your scalp to promote even more circulation. Let it sit for five to 10 minutes and rinse.

You can also add a few drops of the essential oil to your hair products, including shampoo and conditioner. Or, if you prefer to use pre-made products, there are plenty of great options.

Our rosemary oil product picks

Nécessaire rosemary shampoo and conditioner

Photos by Nécessaire

Nécessaire Rosemary Shampoo, The Detox Market, $40

Nécessaire Rosemary Conditioner, The Detox Market, $40

JVN Complete Pre-Wash Scalp & Hair Strengthening Treatment Oil

Sephora, $44

BUY NOW

Briogeo Scalp Revival Rosemary Pre-Wash Scalp and Hair Oil

Sephora, $44

Buy now 

BondiBoost HG Miracle Hair Mask with Rosemary for Hair Thinning

Sephora, $41

Buy Now

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