In this video, a board-certified dermatologist reviews the popular belief that rosemary oil can promote hair growth. Rosemary oil is a medicinal plant that is rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds, which may help improve the health of hair follicles.
One theory is that certain compounds in rosemary oil can relax blood vessels, allowing for improved blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles. This can bring in nutrients and growth factors that can support healthy hair growth.
The dermatologist notes that there is limited research to support the effectiveness of rosemary oil for hair growth. However, a small study conducted on a group of 100 men showed that both the group that applied rosemary oil to their scalp twice a day and the group that used minoxidil two percent twice a day showed an improvement in hair count.
The study did have limitations, as it did not compare rosemary oil to five percent minoxidil and only looked at results over a six-month period. Additionally, it is important to note that using rosemary oil to promote hair growth carries the risk of scalp irritation and contact dermatitis.
The dermatologist also discusses the Mielle Rosemary Mint Scalp and Hair Strengthening Oil, a popular hair care product that contains rosemary oil and tea tree oil.
Tea tree oil is another essential oil that has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. A small study has looked at tea tree oil for hair loss, but the study combined it with minoxidil and an anti-inflammatory called diclofenac, so the effectiveness of tea tree oil alone for hair growth is unclear.
Overall, the dermatologist suggests that while rosemary oil may have potential benefits for hair health, the research supporting its use for hair growth is limited.
Using rosemary oil to promote hair growth carries the risk of scalp irritation and contact dermatitis. It is also important to note that hair loss can have many underlying causes and that there are FDA-approved treatments, such as minoxidil, that are effective in promoting hair growth.
