The Rosemary Oil Trend for Hair Growth Explained…
Bazaar explores TikTok’s answer to hair loss…
Hair oiling persists as a natural remedy for a host of health problems, most notably for hair loss. For anyone living in the Middle East you will know this can be one of our number 1 beauty issues (insert water filter). If you find yourself on TikTok, follow us here, you will have seen a trend focusing on scalp health and an oiling-massaging technique as an aid to hair loss, an answer to hair growth, and overall hair care. The traditional practice of hair oiling is also a beautiful part of the Middle Eastern self-care rituals, passed from generation to generation.
Why Rosemary Oil?
Rosemary hair oil has acquired popularity on TikTok largely because of its possible effectiveness in improving general hair health. This natural remedy is high in antioxidants and nutrients, and as a result, is thought to stimulate hair follicles and increase scalp circulation. Both of these outcomes are important in the process of promoting new hair growth and combating hair fall. The oil is cited as being able to strengthen hair strands, thus decreasing breakage, as well as providing deep conditioning. While results vary, many people find rosemary hair oil effective in improving the general quality and appearance of their hair.
Rosemary is often used as an anti-inflammatory treatment due to its characteristic rich source of antioxidants. Other functions of this herb in oil form are as a method to soothe headaches, reduce muscle aches and even in some cases arthritis. In tea form, its antimicrobial properties are said to fight off infections.
And although the reviews can sometimes be dramatic and drastic, as with these trends, it is important to manage expectations. We can see from testimonials that rosemary oil does promote hair growth, and when couples with massage, promotes scalp health, however, neither are miracle cures for hair loss.
How to use Rosemary Oil?
To seamlessly integrate rosemary oil into your routine, it is firstly important to understand that this treatment requires the use of a diluted version of the oil. Carrier oils can be chosen according to individual hair porosity – or you could simply skip the science and purchase a pre-mixed oil.
First, gently apply the oil to your roots or specific problem areas. Then, massage the oil into the scalp using a scalp massager for roughly 5-10 minutes for optimal results. This technique is supposed to enhance the process of oxygenation in hair follicles, thus promoting improved blood circulation for optimal hair health. Commonly this treatment is preformed on an individuals already planned hair-wash days, making it very easy to incorporate into your routine.
How often?
For fine hair types, TikTok pioneers recommend treatment once a week. In general, Rosemary in its most basic oil form comes with a warning from experts against overuse, as it can irritate the skin, making moderation essential in its application. TikTok may be onto something…
Lead image courtesy of:
Photography: Christoph Klutsch. Hair & Make-Up: Suzana Santlab
Harper’s Bazaar Arabia May 2023 issue.