Rosemary oil has long been celebrated for its invigorating scent and numerous benefits for hair health. This aromatic herb, packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, can help stimulate hair growth, reduce dandruff, and improve overall scalp health. Making rosemary oil is not only cost-effective but also ensures that you know exactly what’s going into your hair care routine. By learning how to make rosemary oil for hair at home, you’re taking a step toward celebrating your natural beauty with a product that’s pure, nourishing, and tailored to your needs.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of how to make rosemary oil. We’ll help you ensure that your homemade rosemary oil not only supports healthier, stronger hair but also becomes a cherished part of your self-care ritual.
What are The Benefits of Rosemary Oil for Hair
Rosemary oil has some benefits you may not be aware of. For instance, rosemary contains up to 94.6% 5-alpha reductase. This stimulates hair growth by promoting blood circulation in the scalp and delivering essential nutrients directly to the hair follicles. Its antifungal and antibacterial properties help reduce dandruff and soothe an itchy, irritated scalp.
Additionally, the anti-inflammatory compounds in rosemary oil, delivered by the carnosic acid in rosemary, can alleviate scalp irritation. Regular use strengthens hair strands, reducing breakage and split ends. A 2015 study found that it’s more effective than minoxidil (which is used in commercial hair-growth serums) in preventing hair loss. Incorporating this oil into your routine may also improve the overall manageability and shine of your hair.
How to Make Rosemary Oil For Your Hair
To make rosemary oil for hair, gather these simple ingredients and tools:
- Fresh or dried rosemary leaves
- Your choice of carrier oil (olive oil, coconut oil, or jojoba oil work well)
- A clean jar with a lid
- A dark glass bottle for storage
Instructions
- Preparation:
- If using fresh rosemary, thoroughly wash the leaves to remove any dirt or debris, then pat dry with a paper towel. (Dried rosemary does not need washing.)
- Fill your clean jar about halfway with rosemary leaves.
- Infusion:
- Pour your chosen carrier oil over the rosemary until the leaves are completely covered. Seal the jar tightly and shake it gently to mix the contents.
- For a quicker infusion, you can place the jar in a pot of water and gently simmer for 2–3 hours—ensuring the oil remains below 120°F (49°C) to prevent degradation. Alternatively, you can just leave the jar in a sunny area in your home for 1–2 weeks, shaking it daily to help with the infusion.
- Straining and Storage:
- Once the infusion period is complete, strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding the rosemary leaves.
- Pour the resulting clear, fragrant rosemary oil into a dark glass bottle to protect it from light, and store it in a cool, dark place. Proper storage will extend the oil’s shelf life and maintain its potency.
As you learn how to make rosemary oil for hair, experiment with different carrier oils to see which one works best for your hair type. Each oil brings its own benefits—for example, coconut oil adds moisture, while jojoba oil mimics the natural oils of your scalp.
How to Use Rosemary Oil for Hair
Now that you know how to make rosemary oil for hair, here are a few ways to incorporate it into your routine.
In a Scalp Massage
Give yourself a scalp massage by taking a few tablespoons of rosemary oil and gently massage it into your scalp for about 10 minutes. This increases blood flow and helps the follicles absorb the nourishing properties of the oil.
For Deep Hydration
Maybe you need your rosemary oil to work a little harder for you. If you want an overnight treatment, apply the oil generously, cover your hair with a shower cap, and leave it on overnight. Rinse thoroughly with a mild shampoo in the morning.
You can also use it as a hair mask. Just mix rosemary oil with other ingredients like coconut oil, honey, or yogurt to create a hydrating hair mask. Apply the substance to your hair and leave it on for 45 minutes before rinsing out. Alternatively, add a few drops of rosemary oil to your regular conditioner or mix it with water in a spray bottle. This makes for a quick, everyday conditioner. It’ll leave you smelling and looking fresh throughout the day.
As a Pre-Shampoo Treatment
If you’re part of the curly girl team that limits how much shampoo you use, you can work in your homemade rosemary-oil prior to washing your natural hair. It’ll help keep your hair and scalp moisturized, even after using a potentially moisture-stripping shampoo. Mix two drops of rosemary oil with one tablespoon of honey and apply it to your hair. Cover up with a shower cap or plastic bag, leaving it on for an hour or two before shampooing.
With Other Hair Oils
Finally, if you combine rosemary oil with tea tree oil, it can help fight the formation of dandruff and smooth irritation. All you need to do is apply the mixture directly to your scalp when needed. If you’re more into rosehip oil or carrot oil in your hair treatments, try pairing it with the ever-versatile rosemary oil for hair that’s strong, healthy, and smells great to boot.
Things to Keep In Mind
When you’re learning how to make rosemary oil for hair, there are a few things to keep in mind. As with any DIY project, you need to make sure it actually works for you and your hair and body. Dilute essential or concentrated oils with a carrier oil before applying them to your scalp. Perform a patch test on a small area of skin to ensure you don’t have an adverse reaction.
If you apply rosemary oil to your hair once and then fret that nothing happened, it’s likely because you need to stick to it as part of a routine. For best results, use the rosemary oil consistently. Consider applying it 1–2 times per week to notice improved scalp health and hair growth over time. Use your homemade rosemary oil within 6 months for maximum effectiveness. Keeping it in a cool, dark place helps preserve its beneficial properties.
Making rosemary oil at home is a simple and rewarding process that offers amazing results for natural hair care.