Many people swear by rosemary oil for hair growth. That’s what science says

Also, previous smaller studies used a combination of essential oils in their experiments, so it’s hard to know what role rosemary, specifically, played in the results. The research also looked at the effects of these oils when applied directly to the scalp and not when mixed with OTC shampoos, conditioners or serums with different formulations. So just because a hair product claims to be volumizing or lengthening because it contains rosemary oil, that doesn’t mean it works (even though it might smell good!).

Another important caveat: While rosemary oil did produce the same hair growth as 2% minoxidil in the first 2015 clinical trial mentioned above, the results did not. this visibly impressive for any treatment. (We were talking about a subtly noticeable increase in the number of strands being filled compared to a suddenly full head of hair). It’s standard practice for dermatologists to prescribe a higher concentration of Rogaine, Carmen Castilla, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and clinical associate professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City, tells SELF: We usually recommend 5% minoxidil. , and if we compare 2% and 5%, the latter is significantly more effective.

How (and when) rosemary oil could theoretically help support hair growth

Right now, there isn’t enough evidence to suggest that rosemary oil can magically fix sparse patches or stop a receding hairline. Even the experts we spoke to don’t know exactly how it goes I could they work, but they have some theories.

Rosemary oil (and specifically, carnosic acid and carnosol) has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which derms believe can help stimulate blood flow to hair follicles, Lindsey Zubritsky, MD, board-certified dermatologist from Premier Dermatology and Skin. Cancer Center in Ocean Springs, Miss., tells SELF. Just massaging your scalp (with or without rosemary oil) can also play a role in increasing circulation, according to research. Increased blood flow equals more nutrients to the scalp, which could help with hair growth, strength, and thickness, explains Dr. Zubritksy.

Another theory, he says, revolves around the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of rosemary oils, which could possibly help maintain a healthy scalp environment. (An inflamed scalp can weaken hair follicles and potentially lead to shedding.)

Again, there’s no concrete science to back any of this up, but even if the routine of applying rosemary oil to the scalp has these effects, all three experts warn that it won’t help. all type of thinning or baldness. There are actually several types of alopecia and hair loss, explains Dr. Cameron, with different causes that require tailored treatments.

Research shows that people with androgenetic alopecia, for example, might have better luck with topical solutions like minoxidil compared to people whose hair loss is caused by an autoimmune disorder or other underlying condition. The latter would call for interventions that address the root of the health problem. (In the case of alopecia areata, steroid injections are a common treatment).

Are there any risks to be aware of when using rosemary oil on your scalp and hair?

If you still want to try it, there aren’t many nasty side effects to worry about. However, be careful if you have a history of allergic reactions or scalp sensitivity due to conditions like psoriasis or eczema, Dr. Zubritsky says, since rosemary oil can sometimes cause contact dermatitis, a unpleasant rash that is activated when the skin has direct contact. with certain irritants or allergens, such as essential oils or added fragrances. (This is why you should always test any new hair product on a small area of ​​your skin before using it all over your head.)

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