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I know I’m not the only one who has seen countless hair TikTokers touting the benefits of rosemary water for their hair. Every wash routine features the magical mixture and everyone seems to swear by it for softer, shinier strands. Some also swear rosemary water is the secret to boosting hair growth. Even Superman himself (aka Henry Cavill) is a huge fan of rosemary water. As much as I want to believe in this water as much as everyone else, I’m always a little bit skeptical when it comes to trusting TikTok and celebrities. So, I reached out to Santa Monica board-certified dermatologist Dr. R. Sonia Batra for her expert opinion on the benefits of this mixture, her favorite hair rinse recipe, and more. Keep reading to see what she recommends!
How Does Rosemary Water Benefit the Hair?
There are thousands of TikToks where people claim rosemary water allowed them to achieve longer, stronger, shinier strands. But is it true? Is this water the secret ingredient to better hair? Dr. Batra does confirm that this water is actually very beneficial for the hair, it’s not just some TikTok gimmick. What makes it so potent for your tresses is the oil. “Rosemary oil is a natural remedy with data to support its role in decreasing hair loss and in promoting hair and scalp health,” Dr. Batra notes. Not only can it boost hair growth, but it also keeps your scalp healthy. And as we always say (maybe a little too much), healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp.
Can It Boost Hair Growth?
Let’s dive a little deeper into how rosemary water helps hair growth, as that seems to be the most sought-after benefit. Again, the water can make your hair longer, but how? “It can boost hair growth by inhibiting hormonal changes that lead to hair loss, improving circulation to the follicles, acting as an antioxidant, and decreasing inflammation on the scalp,” Dr. Batra shares.
Unlike other natural hair growth remedies, there’s evidence to support that rosemary water does improve hair growth. “A study in mice found that rosemary leaf extract can decrease the conversion of testosterone to the form which contributes to hair loss as well as block the hormone receptors in the follicle,” Dr. Batra details. “It is also thought to dilate blood vessels, increasing circulation on the scalp. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antifungal effects are also thought to improve scalp health and strengthen hair.” Safe to say we’re convinced.
Which Hair Types Benefit the Most From Using Rosemary Water?
Though rosemary water does help with hair growth, there are some who will notice more benefits from using it than others. Dr. Batra shares that those dealing with “hair thinning due to hormonal effects or advanced age may benefit the most from using rosemary oil. It may also help decrease inflammation caused by dandruff.”
Rosemary essential oil (which comes from the rosemary plant) mixed with a carrier oil like coconut oil is a great way to foster hair health and combat thinning hair.
Are There Any Hair Types That Should Avoid Using It?
The above being said, Dr. Batra warns using rosemary water along with oral or topical medications for hair loss. “There is no data on the safety of combining rosemary water or oil with other hair growth treatments such as minoxidil,” she shares. “If someone is already using an oral or applied medication for hair loss, they should not also use rosemary water without consulting a physician.”
She also notes there is “no safety data in pregnant or breast-feeding women or in children, so these groups should avoid its use.” Additionally, those with sensitive skin should be cautious when using rosemary water on their strands. “Anyone with allergies or sensitive skin should patch test rosemary water by applying it to their jawline nightly for five nights to test for irritation before applying it widely on the scalp,” Dr. Batra suggests.
What’s the Best Way to Use Rosemary Water?
When it comes to getting the most out of rosemary water for your hair, Dr. Batra points out that consistency is key. You likely won’t see results overnight, so don’t get discouraged. It will take quite a bit of time for the elixir to work its powers on your strands. “In a clinical trial, it took six months of use to see a significant benefit,” Dr. Batra shares.
Her favorite way to reap the rewards of rosemary? She suggests “applying rosemary oil solution to the scalp overnight and washing it out in the morning with the right shampoo for your hair type.” It’s as simple as that.
How Do You Make a Rosemary Water Hair Rinse?
The most well-known way to use rosemary water is in the form of a hair rinse. Dr. Batra was kind enough to share her go-to rosemary hair rinse, which is relatively easy to make. We’ll break down the steps now:
Step 1: Boil one quart of distilled water.
Step 2: Add a handful of dried rosemary leaves.
Step 3: Allow to steep for five hours.
Step 4: Once cooled, the mixture can be diluted either in water to form a rinse or in shampoo. In either case, create a four-to-one ratio.
Step 5: Use the rosemary water hair rinse in your hair after you’ve shampooed your hair. Then, rinse out.
Step 6: For a rosemary oil scalp treatment, one drop of rosemary oil can be mixed with six drops of coconut oil, then massaged into the scalp and left on overnight. You can also use an anti-static brush to gently detangle and distribute the oil throughout your hair.
Best Rosemary Water Hair Products
For those who may not want to go through the trouble of making their own rosemary water (but still want to add it to their hair care routine), we’ve got you covered. Below are a handful of rosemary water and oil hair products that will give you the strands of your dreams!
Peach & Lily Aromatica Vitalizing Rosemary All-in-One Wash
This all-in-one rosemary water wash works for not only your hair, but also your face and body. The rosemary in this product will aid with hair growth and also help soothe irritated skin.
Allpa Botanicals Rosemary Hair Oil
This organic, cold-pressed rosemary oil is one of our favorites on the market. It works to stimulate hair growth, reduce hair loss, and add luster back into your locks. You can even apply it to your strands as is, no need to turn into a mad scientist.
Peach & Lily Aromatica Rosemary Root Enhancer
Whether you want healthier roots or more volume, this product can help with that. Packed with rosemary, lavender, and spearmint, it is the ultimate spray-on solution for all your scalp health concerns.
Mielle Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil
Anyone who has ever used this strengthening oil swears by it. They’ll talk your ear off about how well it worked to boost hair growth. There are a number of ways you can incorporate it into your routine as well, proving it’s incredibly versatile.
Peach & Lily Aromatica Rosemary Scalp Scrub
For issues with buildup and dandruff, consider this scalp scrub your saving grace. Filled with over 30 types of minerals, your scalp will never feel more nourished than after a date with this scrub.
