Rosemary oil for hair: Does it really work for hair growth?

What is rosemary oil?

Rosemary oil comes from the rosemary plant, a fragrant herb that grows as an evergreen shrub. It’s known as a food seasoning, but is used in herbal medicines and cosmetics too.

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Male pattern baldness

Male pattern baldness is the common type of hair loss that develops in most men at some stage. The medical term for this is androgenetic alopecia. It usually takes 15-25 years to go bald, but can be quicker. Typically, at first the hair begins to thin (recede) at the sides (temples). At the same time, the hair usually becomes thin on the top of the head. A bald patch gradually develops in the middle of the scalp. The receding sides and the bald patch on the top (the crown) gradually enlarge and join together, leaving a patch at the front. The patch at the front eventually thins as well. A rim of hair is often left around the back and sides of the scalp. In some men, this rim of hair also thins and goes, leaving a completely bald scalp.

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Can rosemary oil treat hair loss and promote hair growth?

Using rosemary oil as a hair product has fast-become a hit on social media, with many claiming it has helped treat hair loss and promote growth - and there is some evidence to support this.

One study found rosemary oil to be as effective at encouraging hair regrowth as minoxidil, a medication to treat male pattern hair loss (androgenic alopecia)¹ - however this study was small and it is difficult to make any conclusions from it. Male pattern baldness is a form of hair loss that occurs when a byproduct of testosterone called dihydrotestosterone attacks the hair follicles.

It’s thought that rosemary oil helps to prevent this hormone from attacking the follicles, which allows the hair to grow. The rosemary oil also reduced scalp itchiness too.

A small body of research suggests that rosemary oil might help with other forms of hair loss too. For example, another study suggested that rosemary oil may help to kill certain bacteria, which may help treat hair loss if it is caused by a bacterial infection². There is no solid evidence, however, that rosemary oil definitely works and should replace standard treatments. Although these studies are promising, it’s hard to judge the effectiveness of rosemary oil based on a handful of small studies.

Dr Sharon Wong, a consultant dermatologist and hair specialist at the British Association of Dermatologists, says: "Rosemary oil is being lauded as a miracle hair growth product, with very little data to back this claim up.

"One study looked at comparing the effects of rosemary oil versus common medical treatment on male pattern baldness," she says. "However there are several flaws with the study that raise the question of its reliability. Furthermore, there is currently no data that can confirm if rosemary oil works on any other forms of hair loss."

Is rosemary oil safe?

Rosemary oil is a natural remedy, but that does not mean it is safe for everyone. As with any product, some people may be allergic to rosemary oil. Those with sensitive skin may get irritation, rashes or other skin issues when using it.

Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should not use rosemary oil unless a doctor advises them otherwise. As children’s skin is especially sensitive, it may not be suitable for them.

Proven alternatives for hair growth

The treatments available for hair loss depend on the causes of the problem. Some types of hair loss may be genetic, like male and female pattern baldness. Other causes include illness, stress, cancer treatment, weight loss or iron deficiency. Some treatments may not be available on the NHS.

Minoxidil

Minoxidil and finasteride are the main treatments for male pattern baldness. Minoxidil can also be used to treat female pattern baldness, but women should not use finasteride.

Steroids

Steroids in the form of creams or injections may help control alopecia areata by reducing the inflammation and suppressing the immune system. This stops the body from attacking the hair follicles.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy - the topical application of a chemical to bald areas of the scalp - may help those with alopecia areata³. It aims to alter the immune system so that it stops attacking the hair.

Low-level light therapy

Low-level light therapy, otherwise known as laser therapy, involves using different wavelengths of light to stimulate the hair follicles and promote hair growth. It may help hair loss caused by male and female pattern baldness, alopecia areata and hair loss caused by chemotherapy⁴.

Eat healthily

Eating a varied diet which is full of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients is important for healthy skin and hair. A lack of vitamin D, folate and zinc may contribute to alopecia areata⁵. Vitamin D can be found in supplements, sunlight, oily fish and eggs - but it is often added to cereals, plant milks and fat spreads.

Green, leafy veg like spinach, broccoli and sprouts contain folate, while zinc can be found in meat, beans, nuts, wholegrains such as wholemeal bread, cereals and dairy products. You can find iron in red meat and green vegetables like broccoli.

Low iron levels are a common cause of hair loss. Common symptoms of low iron include tiredness, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, pale skin and low energy. Your doctor may carry out blood tests and if your levels are too low, your doctor may recommend taking iron supplements.

Hair volumising products

While these products won't make hair regrow or grow back, it can enhance the look of the hair you have and make it look thicker. Being gentle with your hair - and avoiding using heat from hairdryers or straighteners on it - will also keep it looking healthier. Avoid brushing it when it's wet or vigorously towel drying it, as this can lead to the strands breaking. Also, try not to style your hair in a tight ponytail or bun, as this can pull the hair.

Get help for stress

Psychological stress can lead to hair loss. If you're struggling with stress, anxiety, low mood or any other mental health issue, it's important to speak to your doctor - they can advise on the right treatment and support.

Further reading

1. Panahi et al: Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a randomised comparative trial.

2. De Oliveira: Biological activities of Rosmarinus officinalis L. (rosemary) extract as analysed in microorganisms and cells.

3. Singh et al: Topical immunotherapy in alopecia areata.

4. Pillai et al: Role of low-level light therapy (LLLT) in Androgenetic Alopecia.

5. Thompson et al: The role of micronutrients in alopecia areata: A review.