Rosemary Water For Hair Growth: DIY Recipes & How

Hair growth is always a hot topic in the beauty space, especially with the many DIY options available. Rosemary, in particular, has exploded in popularity lately, thanks to recent research that points to its benefit.

However, most DIY recipes call for a rich oil blend to distribute the botanical, which isn't for everyone. However, there are more options out there, including rosemary water. To come, how it compares and how to make it, from experts.

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First, let's review the science behind the benefit. Most notably, a 2015 randomized comparative trial found that rosemary essential oil was just as effective1 as minoxidil (the active ingredient in many commercial hair-growth products) for reversing hair loss caused by androgens—also known as male- or female-pattern baldness—after six months.

What's more, the minoxidil had a higher rate of itching and discomfort on the skin (think itch, irritation, sensitivity, etc.)—rosemary, however, did not.

Perhaps that's why holistic plastic surgeon Anthony Youn, M.D., deemed the blend "a very reasonable option for people who want to stay natural and have some thinning hair issues" on the mindbodygreen podcast.

Now let's get right into logistics. Below, what you'll need and how to make rosemary water for hair growth in your very own kitchen. First, we'll cover how to do this with the rosemary plant and then an option for those who prefer to use essential oil instead.

Once you have your rosemary water made, it's time to put it to good use. Below, a few ideas to consider:

"For the summer months, I suggest storing the bottle in the refrigerator for an extra cool boost," says trichologist and founder of Colour Collective Kerry Yates. This will ensure your scalp gets the proper cool-down it needs post-sun exposure.

For the best hair growth results, consistency is key. Keep your rosemary water spray by the rest of your hair or skin care products, and spritz it on the scalp nightly. You don't need to soak your scalp, but be sure to spread out the product so no area of concern goes untouched.

For some folks, getting their scalp wet in between washes just isn't ideal—which is fair. If this is the case, just apply your rosemary water to the scalp after you wash your hair and let it dry. Since it's not an oil-based formula, it shouldn't make your locks greasy.

Whether you opt for rosemary water or rosemary oil, you'll get the growth benefits. The difference is simply what base the rosemary is in—oil or water. Those with a dry scalp will benefit more from rosemary oil, while those prone to greasy roots may like rosemary water more.

If you want a leave-in treatment, rosemary water is more practical. For those who want to treat their scalp and wash it out a few hours later, choose the oil route.

Anyone planning to massage their scalp may want to pick rosemary oil, as the slippery consistency is a better fit for a massage.

You can even incorporate both into your routine—using rosemary oil as a rinse-out treatment and rosemary water as a leave-in treatment.

If rosemary oil sounds more alluring to you, then opt for the following recipe:

Yes, rosemary water is good for your hair—specifically hair growth. Most notably, a 2015 randomized comparative trial found that rosemary essential oil was just as effective as minoxidil (the active ingredient in many commercial hair-growth products) for reversing hair loss caused by androgens—also known as male- or female-pattern baldness—after six months.

To make rosemary water for hair growth, you have to choose between a fresh blend and an essential oil blend. If you opt for fresh rosemary, then boil your container's volume of water in a pot, turn off the heat, pop in 5+ sprigs of rosemary, and let it sit for at least an hour. If you're using an essential oil, mix the oil into filtered water. "I always recommend a 1 to 2% dilution of essential oil. This equates to six to 12 drops of essential oil for every fluid ounce," says certified trichologist and founder of alodia Isfahan Chambers-Harris, Ph.D.

Rosemary water and rosemary oil are both beneficial for hair growth, but they come with different additional benefits. Rosemary water is easier to use and therefore may be able to be applied more frequently. However, rosemary oil is more hydrating, which can be beneficial for anyone prone to a dry scalp. Which one is the best depends on your scalp and hair needs.

Rosemary is a popular natural ingredient for hair growth. To use it in a water form, steep fresh rosemary sprigs or add rosemary essential oil to water. If your scalp is on the dry side, opt for rosemary oil instead. Not interested in the DIY route? Pick up one of these hair growth products instead.

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Hannah Frye is the Assistant Beauty Editor at mindbodygreen. She has a B.S. in journalism and a minor in women's, gender, and queer studies from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. Hannah has written across lifestyle sections including health, wellness, sustainability, personal development, and more. She previously interned for Almost 30, a top-rated health and wellness podcast. In her current role, Hannah reports on the latest beauty trends, holistic skincare approaches, must-have makeup products, and inclusivity in the beauty industry. She currently lives in New York City.