How to Use Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re wondering how to use rosemary oil for hair growth, the good news is that you don’t need a complicated routine. The key is getting the oil onto your scalp, not soaking your entire head of hair. Just remember, using it consistently while giving your scalp time to adjust is key. Follow our simple, beginner-friendly way to get started with rosemary oil. 

How to Use Rosemary Oil: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Choose the Right Formula. Rosemary essential oil is highly concentrated and shouldn’t be applied straight to your scalp. For beginners, a pre-formulated rosemary scalp oil or serum can be the easiest option because the product has already been made for topical use. If you’re using pure rosemary essential oil, dilute it with a suitable carrier oil according to the product’s instructions rather than guessing at a ratio. 

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Step 2: Patch-Test First. Before putting rosemary oil all over your scalp, test a small amount on a small area of skin. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends testing new skin-care products on a small area twice daily for seven to 10 days to help identify irritation or an allergic reaction. If you notice redness, itching, swelling or burning, don't use the product on your scalp. If your skin tolerates it, you can move on to your hair routine.

Step 3: Section Your Hair. Start with a clean or dry scalp, depending on the directions for your particular product. Using your fingers or a comb, create a few small sections across your scalp. You don't need to cover every strand of hair. The goal is to place a small amount of product directly on the scalp where you want to use it.

Step 4: Apply a Small Amount. Apply the amount recommended on your product's label along each section. Use your fingertips to gently spread the product along the scalp. Avoid aggressively scratching or rubbing, especially if your scalp is sensitive.

Step 5: Massage Gently. Once the oil is distributed, use your fingertips to massage your scalp for a few minutes. Massage can make the application feel relaxing, but don't assume that harder or longer massage will make rosemary oil work faster. The goal is simply to distribute the product evenly without irritating your scalp.

Step 6: Decide Whether to Wash It Out. This part depends on the formula. Some rosemary scalp products are designed to stay on, while others are meant to be used as a pre-shampoo treatment. Follow the instructions on your specific product for how long to leave it on and whether to shampoo afterward.

Overall, keep your expectations realistic. One small human study found no significant increase in hair count after three months of rosemary oil use but did find an increase after six months. 

If you're experiencing sudden, heavy or persistent hair loss, don't rely on rosemary oil alone. Hair loss can have many causes, and a dermatologist can help determine what's behind it and whether you need a different treatment.

See application-ready formulas to find a pre-formulated rosemary hair or scalp product that makes the routine easier.