I Tried Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth and This One Really Worked (2025)

When I wanted help growing out an undercut from 2020, this rosemary mint serum was the one I reached for. It had come highly recommended in “curly girl” circles, and I was willing to give it a try so I could move past the uncomfortable in-between stage that my former buzz cut was still in.

Made with a mix of rosemary and peppermint oils, this Pacifica blend claims to soothe scalp irritation, remove buildup, and reduce breakage. I have to admit, I have experienced all of these perks while using the product, and five years later, I still use it at least once a week for its clarifying benefits.

Since I have thick, curly hair, I often go a few days between washes. Adding this rosemary oil has cut down on the number of times I need to wash my hair a week, which has left my tresses less dry and frizzy.

I use this at night before bed, parting my hair into sections before applying it directly onto my scalp, and then rubbing it in. I follow up these treatments with a once-weekly detox scalp scrub (also from Pacifica), which I leaves my scalp feeling much cleaner and lighter.

However, Hayley Goldbach, M.D. a double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Brown University, says that some users may want to beware, especially if they have sensitive scalps, as it is scented.

What shoppers say: “I've been using the scalp love serum for about a month now and I've noticed it's making my hair look shinier and downsizing the amount of dandruff I used to have. I also like that it's not greasy or oily at all.”

This blend comes with more than 30 essential oils—including peppermint, eucalyptus, menthol, and tea tree. Dr. Goldbach says that the price is right for this rosemary oil. However, she cautions that the menthol in this mix may irritate some sensitive scalps.

You can either use this oil by applying it directly to your scalp for a deep treatment, or apply it to the ends of your hair prior to shampooing for an extra smooth and shiny finish when you're done with your wash routine.

With over 110,604 reviews and 4.5 stars, this is a fan favorite on Amazon, with one happy customer calling it the “best hair growth oil out there.”

What shoppers say: “Hair oiling has changed the game for me. I add this to the scalp and leave it in for a minimum of two to three hours before washing my hair,” they wrote, adding that you can leave it in overnight as well. “It locks in the hydration all the way to the ends.”

The brand suggests massaging a small drop of the oil onto your scalp and letting it sit before rinsing it out.

What shoppers say: “I’ve only used this product on my scalp five to seven times since I bought it, and I already have hair growth! I have new baby hairs on my hairline! I LOVE this hair oil! I’m so glad I bought this!! I highly recommend.”

Those looking for a little help applying their oil may like this combo set from ArtNaturals. The rosemary oil comes with a kit that contains a silicone hair brush to help with even distribution and application. The oil can be used multiple ways, including as a pre-shampoo additive, as a daily hair oil applied directly to your tresses, or as a nourishing overnight treatment.

What shoppers say: “The texture is really lightweight, and even though my hair is thick, it doesn’t weigh it down or leave it greasy at all. It absorbs beautifully.”

This pure rosemary essential oil from Maple Holistics received high marks from Dr. Garlapati, who noted it as a great option. And at under $13, it’s affordable and potent. The brand suggests dispensing only two to three drops and mixing with a carrier oil before applying to hair.

With over 100,000 ratings and nearly five stars on Amazon, customers are fans of the product.

What shoppers say: “Must have product for hair care routine,” one wrote. “I decided to add five drops of rosemary oil to a mixture I made in the hopes it would additionally help my scalp. While I can’t say my scalp is any less itchy, my hair itself has been greatly affected!”

When looking for the best rosemary oil for hair growth, it’s important to take the below into consideration:

Formula. For those looking for the most basic, affordable option, creating your own rosemary oil for hair growth at home is actually quite simple. Just combine a few drops of the essential oil with a carrier oil.

Scent. Those with sensitive skin may want to forego any formula with added scent, as this may be irritating to the scalp.

Time commitment. Patience is key when it comes to the beauty world. Follow the directions on the product you’re using and give it time to see results.

“It can cause mild irritation of the scalp and should be discontinued if this is experienced,” adds Dr. Garlapati. With that said, Dr. Garlapati says the oil is safe for all hair types, including color-treated hair.

Those who are pregnant may want to avoid rosemary oil, as research shows high levels may cause a miscarriage.

As always, it’s best to consult your doctor before making changes to your routine.

We consulted Ramya Garlapati, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist based in LA; and Hayley Goldbach M.D. a double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Brown University. I tested Pacifica’s Rosemary Mint Serum.