Want hair that is long, thick, and healthy? As influencers upload videos of applying rosemary oil to their scalps and lengths, the latest beauty craze on TikTok suggests that this may be the answer.
The plant rosemary, which has a powerful, fresh smell and is frequently praised for its anti-inflammatory, calming, and anti-oxidizing properties, is used to make rosemary oil, a light oil.
People using the app, many of whom are rubbing it into their scalps, believe it has improved their hair health and growth.
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Why are people using rosemary oil on their hair?
“In recent years, there have been claims that rosemary oil may be great for hair growth,” says Jeff El Zenny, trichologist at The London Hair Clinic.
“Some say it could even prevent hair loss, pointing to Mediterranean cultures’ use of rosemary in hair rinses to promote hair growth for hundreds of years as supporting evidence.”
Oliver Amodio, stylist at Blue Tit East Village, says: “Rosemary oil, among other oils, has many properties that are good for the scalp. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidising properties that could help with problems associated with hair loss, such as a dry or inflamed scalp.
“It also does help increase blood flow, which is one factor contributing to hair growth. Therefore, using rosemary oil regularly in a mask or adding it to your shampoo could reap some benefits.”
Will rosemary oil work for everyone?
Even if rosemary oil does perhaps encourage some hair development, this does not imply that it will work for all hair types or for everyone in this manner.
According to Amodio, “Hair loss is caused by a variety of factors, so there isn’t one magic product that will fix the issue.”
If you’re losing hair, you might want to pay closer attention to what’s happening because there could be a variety of underlying issues.
“We look into the ‘root’ of the problem when I have a client who is experiencing hair loss and growth issues, but sometimes they are looking for something off the shelf for immediate help,” adds Amodio.
“To confirm that there is hair growth, I first look for signs of regrowth. Then we examine the lifestyle, factors like a demanding job environment or a significant event that may have occurred; everything from a happy wedding to a family death could be triggers.
We also discuss eating a well-balanced diet and getting enough sleep, as even changes in food that seem to be healthy can deplete the body of vitamins that are necessary for healthy hair development.
Are there any risks to be aware of?
Any substances when applied to the skin can potentially cause irritation or reactions – and this included those that are ‘natural’ – so it’s always important to do your own research and seek advice if you have any pre-existing skin conditions.
Rosemary oil may have a harmful impact if you have a sensitive scalp, for example.
“For those with very sensitive scalps, it can cause irritation, so use sparingly on the first occasion. Avoid getting this into the eyes as will cause a burning or stinging sensation,” says El Zenny.
If using rosemary oil topically, it is best to dilute it with a carrier oil.
