What Experts Want You to Know About Rosemary Water for Hair Growth
You’ve heard of rosemary oil for hair growth—but what about a water-based version? The herb is all over the internet as a superstar ingredient for thicker, healthier strands, and if you’re not one who likes to glob oil onto an already grease-prone scalp, you may like the alternative. And, learning how to make rosemary water for hair is actually quite simple.
Meet the Experts: Christian Han, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at False Creek Dermatology; and Ross Kopelman, D.O., hair transplant surgeon at Kopelman Hair Restoration.
Though not extensively studied for strands, rosemary has many benefits. Below, experts explain how to make rosemary water for hair and share exactly how the garden staple is just as good for your hair as it is for flavoring your favorite soup.
Rosemary water benefits
The solution may offer similar perks as other rosemary hair products and can be stored in a spray bottle for super easy, convenient application. Experts say it works by boosting circulation to the scalp, “which encourages hair follicles to function more efficiently,” says Christina Han, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at False Creek Dermatology.
That nourishment helps promote stronger and healthier hair that is more resistant to damage, explains Ross Kopelman, D.O., hair transplant surgeon at Kopelman Hair Restoration. Rosemary “also contains compounds like ursolic acid, which can help reduce inflammation on the scalp, and antioxidants that protect hair from damage,” he adds.
Some studies have shown rosemary to be just as effective as minoxidil, the active ingredient in Rogaine, in treating hair loss, as it works to block dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair thinning and loss, Dr. Kopelman says. All of these properties make rosemary oil “a great natural option for promoting hair health,” he concludes. However, more studies are needed before the herb replaces a prescription.
How to make rosemary water for hair
Below is Dr. Kopelman’s recipe for DIY rosemary water at home:
Bring two to three cups of water to a boil.
Add a handful of fresh or dried rosemary leaves to the boiling water and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
Remove water from the heat and let it cool completely.
Strain the rosemary leaves out and pour the infused water into a spray bottle for easy use.
Store the rosemary water in the refrigerator for up to a week.
How to use rosemary water for hair
There are a few different ways you can apply rosemary water to hair. Dr. Kopelman likes using it as a leave-in treatment or rinse post-shampoo. The best part is, you don’t need to rinse it out.
Regardless of your chosen application method, Dr. Kopelman says it’s important to apply the solution to a clean scalp to ensure proper absorption. Then, massage gently with your fingertips for a few minutes to enhance circulation.
How often should I use rosemary water for hair?
“You can spray it directly onto your scalp once or twice a day, focusing on the areas where you want to stimulate growth,” Dr. Kopleman explains. For best results, consistency and patience are key. “Hair growth can be a slow process,” Dr. Kopelman says. “Typically, it may take about three-to-six months of consistent use to start noticing visible changes, such as thicker hair or reduced shedding. However, you may feel improvements in scalp health, like reduced itchiness or irritation, in just a few weeks. Everyone’s hair responds differently, but sticking to a routine is essential for seeing long-term results.”
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