Rosemary oil for hair growth side effects

Rosemary oil is often used as a home remedy for hair growth, although research is still underway in regards to its effectiveness in treating hair loss.

However, direct application of rosemary oil on the scalp is not recommended because it may cause itching and irritation in some people. Before applying it to your scalp, dilute the essential oil in jojoba or coconut oil. Always do a patch test behind the ears 48-72 hours beforehand to see if you have any allergic reactions to the oil.

How to use rosemary oil on your hair

Rosemary oil is conventionally available in the form of essential oils. An essential oil means that the oil is naturally extracted, carefully distilled, and has the original property of its source.

Rosemary oil can be used in several ways:

• Combined with a few drops of it with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil. A carrier oil is a base oil that is used to dilute essential oils before applying them to the skin or hair.
• Added to hair products. For example, a few drops of the oil can be mixed with your regular shampoo, applied to the hair, and rinsed off.
• Added to hair creams, conditioners, and hair masks.

What to consider before using rosemary oil

• Rosemary oil is an irritant, so it should be used in small amounts. You can gradually increase the amount if you don’t experience side effects after application.
• If it comes into contact with your eyes, rinse with plenty of cold water and seek medical care if needed.
• To be on the safe side, do not use this oil while pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can rosemary oil treat hair loss?

Rosemary oil has a range of health benefits. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, rosemary oil is said to nourish the hair follicle and promote hair growth with long-term use.

Evidence suggests rosemary oil may help prevent male pattern baldness, which is a type of baldness that occurs due to excessive testosterone production in males.

Rosemary oil also effectively destroys some fungi and bacteria. Therefore, it may help reverse hair loss caused by scalp infections.

Is rosemary oil as effective as minoxidil?

While rosemary oil may enhance the effectiveness of conventional treatments, it should not replace the standard hair loss products.

Minoxidil is a medication that is used to treat patterned hair loss in men and women. It was originally developed to treat hypertension, but researchers discovered that it caused hair growth as a side effect. Topical and oral forms of the drug are now available over the counter.

Topically applied Minoxidil is generally well tolerated, but side effects may include:

• Eye redness
• Itching
• Irritation in the treated area
• Unwanted hair growth in other areas of the body

QUESTION

Medically Reviewed on 11/10/2021

References

Image Source: iStock Images

Panahi Y, Taghizadeh M, Marzony ET, Sahebkar A. Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a randomized comparative trial. Skinmed. 2015 Jan-Feb;13(1):15-21. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25842469/

Murata K, Noguchi K, Kondo M, Onishi M, Watanabe N, Okamura K, Matsuda H. Promotion of hair growth by Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract. Phytother Res. 2013 Feb;27(2):212-7. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22517595/

Tisserand H. Rosemary essential oil is a promising alternative for hair growth promotion! Tisserand Institute. https://tisserandinstitute.org/learn-more/rosemary-essential-oil-hair-growth-promotion/

Abelan US, de Oliveira AC, Cacoci ÉSP, Martins TEA, Giacon VM, Velasco MVR, Lima CRRC. Potential use of essential oils in cosmetic and dermatological hair products: A review. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021 Jun 15. doi: 10.1111/jocd.14286. Epub ahead of print.

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  Does rosemary oil have side effects?

  But taking undiluted rosemary oil or very large amounts of rosemary leaf is likely unsafe. Taking large amounts of rosemary can cause vomiting, sun sensitivity, and skin redness. When applied to the skin: Rosemary oil is possibly safe for most people. It might cause allergic reactions in some people.

  Is rosemary oil safe for hair?

  “Rosemary essential oil can be used on any hair type because the benefits target the hair follicle, not the hair strand,” says hairstylist Matt Newman. “It is safe to use on color-treated hair, especially because its main use should be directly on the scalp.”

  How long does it take for rosemary oil to grow hair?

  People with DHT-related hair loss received either rosemary oil or minoxidil for 6 months. At 3 months, neither group had more hair. By 6 months, both groups saw significant increases in hair growth.

  Can too much rosemary damage hair?

  While it's not harmful to leave rosemary oil in your hair overnight, it may cause irritation to your scalp if you have sensitive skin. Adding a few drops of rosemary oil to a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil, can help to dilute it.