Rosemary oil has taken over TikTok, and searches for it in the UK have soared. But how do you actually use it, and what can you realistically expect?
As a pharmacist who makes natural haircare, here's my practical, no-hype guide.
👉 Want an easy way to add rosemary to your routine? Our Root Cleanse Shampoo blends rosemary with peppermint, argan and black seed oils.
What is rosemary oil?
Rosemary oil is an essential oil made from the leaves of the rosemary plant. In haircare, people use it to keep the scalp feeling fresh and to support healthy-looking hair.
What does the research say?
Rosemary oil became popular partly because of a small 2015 study that compared it with a common hair-loss treatment and found similar results after six months. That's interesting, but it was one small study. We need more research before drawing firm conclusions.
My honest view: rosemary oil is a lovely addition to a scalp care routine, but it isn't a miracle cure.
How to use rosemary oil safely
1. Always dilute it. Essential oils are concentrated and can irritate your scalp. Mix a few drops into a carrier oil such as jojoba or argan, or use a ready-made product.
2. Patch test first. Apply a little behind your ear and wait 24–48 hours.
3. Massage it into your scalp, not the lengths of your hair. A few minutes of gentle massage feels lovely, too.
4. Leave it on for a few hours or overnight, then wash it out with a gentle shampoo.
5. Be consistent. Use it 2–3 times a week, and give it at least three months. Hair grows slowly.
Who should be careful
- Pregnant or breastfeeding: Check with your pharmacist or GP before using essential oils.
- Sensitive skin or scalp conditions: Patch test carefully, and stop if you notice irritation.
- Sudden, patchy or heavy hair loss: Please see your GP. Hair loss can have medical causes, such as low iron or thyroid problems, that need checking.
The easy option: a rosemary shampoo
If mixing oils sounds like a faff, a shampoo with rosemary already in it is the simplest way to start. Our Root Cleanse Shampoo is sulphate-free and contains:
- 🌿 Rosemary oil, for thicker, healthier-looking hair
- ❄️ Peppermint oil, for a fresh, invigorated scalp
- ✨ Argan and jojoba oils, for shine and softness
- 🖤 Black seed oil, to help calm the scalp
