There is a buzz around scalp serums and whether they work to boost hair growth. In that chat, one ingredient keeps coming up trumps - rosemary oil. Editor Trudi Brewer shares the good news on this organic ingredient.
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From boosting hair growth, enhancing shine or slowing down the shedding process of your hair, the research into rosemary oil as a hair tonic is positive. But if you're wondering how rosemary can help your hair grow, we got some legit feedback from a professional dermatologist. Read on to learn more.
Dr Brian Abittan, Director of Skin and Hair Rejuvenation at Mount Sinai Health System in NYC, says, "While certainly more trials and data are needed, rosemary oil seemingly has the potential to help with hair growth," says Abittan." The action causing hair growth is not fully understood yet. However, rosemary oil's multiple ingredients (rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, camphor, etc.) may contain anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.” Abittan says, “Together, these may help contribute towards hair growth."
So how often should you apply rosemary oil to the scalp?
Abbitan says it depends on the formula, but most advise once daily across areas of hair loss. “A potent oil, rosemary can sometimes irritate the scalp and cause contact allergies. It is important to note that there are many types of hair loss and that rosemary oil may work better for some types than others. You may want to have your scalp issues evaluated by a dermatologist to determine your specific type of hair loss.”
Here are the formulas that we rate
Angel En Provence Rosemary Activating Regrowth Essence, $54.
Along with the rosemary, ginger and perilla (from the mint family) extract, these ingredients help boost the microcirculation on the scalp.
To use: Apply two to three pumps to towel dry hair and scalp after cleansing, then massage into scalp with fingertips for five minutes. Leave in and style as usual.
Sachajuan Scalp Shampoo,
$55.
Climbazole, rosemary and ginger kill any fungus, so for anyone with an irritated, flaky scalp or dandruff, this is pleasing.
To use: Massage into wet hair for a few minutes and then rinse well.
JVN Complete Pre-Wash Scalp & Hair Treatment Oil, $51.
Ideal if you have a dry, itchy or flakey scalp, the rosemary and neem seed extract strengthens the hair while soothing the scalp. Hemisqualane, extracted from sugarcane and turmeric extract, are both super nourishing.
To use: Apply two droppers directly to the scalp before shampooing the hair. Massage in and leave on for up to 15 minutes, and then shampoo out.
OUAI Hair Oil, $56
This ultra-lightweight hair oil is stacked with hair-loving oils. Including rosemary, sweet almond, moringa, passionflower, jojoba seed, borage, ama, sunflower, rice bran, and shea butter smooth frizz, boost growth and shine.
To use: Use one pump as a pre and post-styling nourishing and smoothing oil.
AVEDA Refreshing Protective Mist, $86.
Ideal for anyone with an oily scalp, this mist helps refresh and protect your scalp while controlling oil for days. Sacked with Centella Asiatica (gotu kola), vitamin E, resveratrol, rosemary, ginger, liquorice extracts and zinc. It’s brilliant for extending the time between shampoos.
To use: Part the hair and spritz it into the scalp to ensure even coverage, and then massage in. Do not rinse. Excellent used as a dry shampoo to refresh the hair on the go.
Here are the tips and products to try now.