If you’ve been trawling the net for ways to combat hair fall, then chances are that you’ve come across rosemary oil. From homemade scalp massages to rosemary-infused shampoos, the oil is trending heavily on social media. There are hundreds of TikToks and reels claiming it can regrow hair, fill thinning patches, and reduce shedding. But how much of this is hype, and how much is backed by real evidence? Is rosemary oil really the solution to our hair worries? Here’s the lowdown.
What Is Rosemary Oil – And Why Is It Trending?
Rosemary oil is an essential oil derived from the rosemary plant (Rosmarinus officinalis). It has been widely used for thousands of years across many cultures, not just for its aromatic properties, but for its culinary, medicinal, spiritual, and cosmetic uses. From ancient herbal medicine to modern-day beauty routines, rosemary oil has long been celebrated. But now, it’s now earning fresh attention for its potential to support healthy hair growth. Oiling with rosemary is being hailed as another hair care must have, along with rice water, castor oil, argan oil, and many more!
But, like many viral trends, the reality is rather more complex.
How Does It Work?
When we think about rosemary, most of us picture the herb sitting in the spice rack. But you can also buy rosemary as an essential oil. Rosemary oil is claimed to support hair health by stimulating blood circulation in the scalp. This may help deliver more nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles. It’s known as being rich in antioxidants and a good anti-inflammatory. This could help reduce scalp irritation, creating a healthier environment for hair to grow in. The oil is delivered direct to the scalp in the form of regular massages. Most users dilute the product with a “carrier” oil such as coconut oil then massage into the scalp a few times a week. Others add drops to their shampoo. Advocates of the oil believe that the process encourages stronger, thicker hair over time.
What Does The Science Say?
Here’s the thing – not much! There is some research to support these claims, but it’s very limited. One study in 2015 found that rosemary oil, applied regularly over six months, led to a similar increase in hair count as 2% minoxidil (a treatment for androgenic alopecia). But the improvements were modest, and hair density and appearance weren’t significantly boosted. The study also had just one hundred participants. That’s not to say that rosemary oil doesn’t have benefits, but more studies are needed to confirm its efficacy.
Why Rosemary Oil Alone Isn’t Enough
No doubt some of the findings in and around rosemary oil do have some promise. But it isn’t a complete solution for thin hair and hair fall by any manner of means. While some will see benefits, they are likely to be mild, and that’s with months of consistent use. What’s more, there is no evidence showing that rosemary oil addresses many key causes of hair fall. Here are just some of the limitations of rosemary oil as a hair growth solution:
- Doesn't combat issues such as hormonal changes, stress, illness or disruptions in the hair growth cycle.
- Lacks key hair vitamins and minerals needed for hair growth.
- Results (if any) can take months to appear.
- Can cause scalp irritation if used undiluted or too frequently.
- No strong clinical evidence for long-term effectiveness.
Holistic Hair Growth
To make real progress, you need a comprehensive approach that nourishes hair from the inside and outside, not just surface-level symptoms. If you’re combatting thin hair or hair fall, then a more complete approach can make all the difference.
Our Hair Gain Hair Capsules and Hair Gain Hair Gummies are powered by the unique AnaGain™ ingredient, derived from the humble, yet mighty, pea shoot. This amazing phytonutrient has been shown to stimulate the dermal papilla — the part of the follicle that controls hair growth.
In clinical studies, AnaGain™ helped increase hair growth by up to 78% in just 3 months. Our Capsules and Gummies also contain a powerful blend of biotin, zinc, and key hair vitamins to support hair growth from the inside out.
Our topical range is designed to create the ideal environment for healthy hair growth from the outside. The Hair Mask deeply penetrates the hair cortex and nourishes the scalp. And the weightless formula of our Scalp Foam soothes and revitalises the scalp. With the signature AnaGain™ ingredient at their heart, used together our Hair Mask and Scalp Foam reduce hair breakage and fall by up to 60% from the first use*
For instant refresh between washes and root-boosting volume, the Peptide Puff™ Dry Shampoo absorbs grease and oil effortlessly, while its advanced Peptide Complex (with Biotin and Caffeine) cares for your hair and scalp with its array of scalp loving ingredients.
And our superb accessories – Scrunchie, Headband, Comb and Scalp Massager - are the perfect companions to our supplements and topicals.
Final Thoughts – Rosemary Oil For Hair Growth
Rosemary oil’s social media popularity is driving interest and sales – it is clearly no passing fad. But while the anecdotal feedback and social proof are notable, the science is still emerging, and responsible usage is crucial. If you enjoy using rosemary oil, there’s no reason to stop. But think of it as a supporting act, not the headline performer.
Scalp massage itself — whether with oils or not — can be beneficial for relaxation, circulation, and improving product absorption. Just make sure you're combining it with a holistic, science-backed routine that targets the bigger picture.
Read More
Hair Growth Cycle 101 – What It Is & How To Support It
10 Ways To Help With Stress-Induced Hair Loss
*Independently tested May 2023, results achieved when tested as a regime
