Does Rosemary Oil Help Hair Growth?
Rachel RobsonShare
Rosemary oil may help support hair growth for some people, particularly those with early pattern thinning or scalp irritation. The evidence is promising but not conclusive, and results depend on consistency and the underlying cause of hair loss.
Does rosemary oil actually help hair growth?
Rosemary oil is one of the few essential oils with clinical research behind it for hair loss, particularly androgenetic alopecia (pattern thinning).
A widely cited 2015 clinical study published on PubMed comparing rosemary oil with 2% minoxidil found that both groups experienced an increase in hair count over six months. The rosemary oil group also reported less scalp itching than those using minoxidil.
This does not mean rosemary oil works for everyone, but it suggests it may be a reasonable supportive option when used consistently and correctly.
What makes rosemary essential oil supportive for hair growth?
According to dermatologist-reviewed guidance from the Cleveland Clinic, rosemary oil may support scalp and hair health due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
Cleveland Clinic dermatologist guidance on rosemary oil for hair also highlights the importance of scalp massage, as improved blood flow can help deliver oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles.
What the research actually says (and what it doesn’t)
A peer-reviewed review of natural alternatives for androgenetic alopecia describes rosemary oil as one of the more promising plant-based options, while emphasising that larger and longer-term human studies are still needed.
More recent scientific reviews continue to describe rosemary oil as potentially comparable to minoxidil for early pattern hair loss, but not a guaranteed solution.
- The evidence is encouraging, not definitive
- Results vary depending on the cause of hair loss
- Consistency over months matters more than short-term use
Who rosemary oil may help most
Rosemary oil may be most helpful if you are experiencing:
- Early-stage pattern thinning
- Increased shedding rather than permanent follicle loss
- An itchy, irritated, or flaky scalp
It is less likely to help with long-standing or scarring forms of hair loss. If hair loss is sudden, painful, or rapidly worsening, medical guidance is recommended.
How long does rosemary oil take to work?
Dermatologist-reviewed sources consistently suggest allowing at least 3 to 6 months of consistent use before assessing results.
Hair growth is slow, and expecting visible changes within weeks often leads to disappointment.
How to use rosemary oil safely
Medical sources strongly recommend dilution and scalp-focused application.
The Cleveland Clinic advises mixing rosemary essential oil with a carrier oil such as jojoba or coconut, massaging it into the scalp, and patch testing before regular use.
Healthline and Medical News Today also warn that essential oils are highly concentrated and may irritate the scalp if overused or applied undiluted.
Pre-wash vs leave-in: which is better?
For many people, a pre-wash treatment is the most practical way to use rosemary oil because it is easier to keep properly diluted, can be left on long enough to matter, and is washed out afterwards, reducing irritation risk.
This is why rosemary oil is often best used as part of a pre-wash routine rather than as a daily leave-in.
If you want a ready-made option, our pre-wash hair oil collection includes rosemary alongside a blend of carrier oils designed to support scalp comfort and hair softness.
Safety considerations
High-authority medical sources recommend avoiding rosemary oil if you are pregnant or breastfeeding unless advised by a healthcare professional.
Always stop use if you experience burning, redness, or worsening irritation.
The bottom line
Rosemary oil may support hair growth for some people, particularly those with early pattern thinning or scalp inflammation. It is not a miracle cure, but when used diluted, consistently, and as part of a broader scalp-care routine, it can be a sensible, low-risk option.
