How to Make Rosemary Hair Oil at Home (2 Ways)

Rosemary hair oil helps with hair growth! I am not just saying it, there are facts to support this. #rosemaryoil has garnered over 800+M views and countless videos of people stating the benefits of using Rosemary Hair Oil. Oiling is a huge part of my self-care routine, I oil my hair twice a week (it’s a thing in Indian households). I have been growing my hair for 9+ years now and you bet my hair is long, healthy, and glossy! I learned How to make Rosemary Oil at home very young and this recipe never fails me and will not fail you either. So follow along.

Disclaimer: This content is purely for entertainment purposes and is not to be taken for medical advice. If having persisting health issues, continue to contact your healthcare provider or a medical professional.

In this guide, you’ll discover

• How to make rosemary hair oil at home, including the best carrier oil and 2 DIY methods (Solar Infused & Double Boiler Method)
• Rosemary Oil benefits hair and scalp health
• How to use this homemade remedy to encourage fast hair growth, improved thickness, and to help stop hair fall

Note: this is a long, info-packed guide. If you’re eager to get started, you might want to skip straight to the DIY, which includes step-by-step photos of the process. You can also find tips and a FAQ section at the end of this article.

Rosemary Oil Benefits for Hair Growth

Rosemary oil is known for its potential benefits in promoting hair growth and improving hair health. Here are some of the ways in which Rosemary Hair oil can support hair growth:

1. Improved Circulation: Rosemary oil has stimulating properties that can enhance blood circulation to the scalp. This increased blood flow helps deliver vital nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles, promoting healthier hair growth.
2. Strengthened Hair Follicles: The antioxidants present in rosemary oil, such as rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid, help protect the hair follicles from damage caused by free radicals. This can strengthen the hair follicles and reduce hair breakage, leading to longer and thicker hair over time.
3. Dandruff Prevention: Rosemary oil has antimicrobial and antifungal properties that can help combat dandruff and soothe scalp irritations. By keeping the scalp clean and healthy, rosemary oil creates a favorable environment for hair growth.
4. Reduced Hair Loss: Regular use of rosemary oil may help minimize hair loss. Its ability to strengthen the hair follicles and improve scalp health can reduce hair shedding and breakage, preserving the density and volume of your hair.
5. Balanced Sebum Production: Rosemary oil helps regulate sebum production, the natural oil produced by the scalp. By balancing sebum levels, it can prevent scalp issues like excessive oiliness or dryness, creating an optimal environment for hair growth.
6. Thicker and Fuller Hair: The combination of improved scalp health, strengthened follicles, and increased blood circulation can result in thicker, fuller-looking hair. Rosemary oil’s nourishing properties help enhance hair texture and add volume.

Side Effects of Rosemary Oil

Possible side effects of rosemary oil include skin irritation, allergic reactions (especially for individuals with allergies to the Lamiaceae family), potential interactions with certain medications (such as blood thinners), sensitivity for pregnant and breastfeeding women, and eye irritation. It’s important to perform a patch test, dilute the oil properly, and seek medical advice if any adverse reactions occur.

Ingredients to make Rosemary Hair Oil at Home – 2 DIY Methods

This DIY Rosemary Hot Oil Hair Treatment is a great way to soothe dry scalp and dandruff, promote healthy hair growth, and add shine and moisture to your hair. You’ll need the following ingredients and equipments-

Carrier Oils in this Rosemary Hair Oil

When making a DIY oil treatment, you can choose from a variety of carrier oils based on your hair or skin needs. Here are some commonly used carrier oils for DIY oil treatments:

1. Coconut oil: Known for its moisturizing and nourishing properties, coconut oil is a popular choice for hair treatments. It penetrates the hair shaft, helping to condition and strengthen the hair (organic, unrefined).
2. Olive oil: A widely available and nourishing carrier oil that is suitable for most skin types.
3. Jojoba oil: Known for its similarity to the skin’s natural oils, jojoba oil is lightweight and easily absorbed.
4. Almond oil: A gentle and moisturizing oil, often used in hair care and suitable for sensitive skin.
5. Grapeseed oil: A lightweight and odorless oil that absorbs quickly into the skin.
6. Avocado oil: A rich and deeply moisturizing oil that can benefit dry or damaged hair and skin.

Your carrier oil needs to be a pure oil and not a massage oil that contains additives, synthetic ingredients, or additives.

Fresh Rosemary Sprigs in this Rosemary Hair Oil

1. Quality: Choose fresh rosemary sprigs that are vibrant, aromatic, and free from any signs of wilting or discoloration. Look for healthy green leaves and avoid any brown or yellowed portions.
2. Hygiene: Prior to using the rosemary sprigs, make sure to wash them thoroughly with water to remove any dirt, debris, or residues. Pat them dry with a clean towel before proceeding with the oil infusion process.

How to Make Rosemary Hair Oil at Home (Method 1) –  SOLAR INFUSED

This method takes 2-4 weeks to make the Rosemary hair oil so if you wish to make the oil faster, read the recipe below.

1. Carrier Oil
2. Fresh Rosemary Sprigs
3. Dry glass jar
4. Strainer

Instructions

1. Wash the fresh rosemary leaves to remove any dirt or debris and pat them dry with a clean towel.
2. Place the rosemary leaves in a clean, dry glass jar, ensuring that the jar is filled with the leaves but not tightly packed.
3. Pour the carrier oil of your choice into the jar, completely covering the rosemary leaves. Ensure that the leaves are fully submerged in the oil.
4. Use a clean spoon or chopstick to stir the mixture gently, allowing any air bubbles to escape.
5. Seal the jar tightly with a lid.
6. Place the jar in a warm, sunny spot or near a window to infuse. Ensure that it is not exposed to direct sunlight.
7. Let the rosemary leaves infuse in the oil for at least 2-4 weeks, allowing the natural oils and fragrances of the herb to infuse into the carrier oil. You can leave it for a longer period for a stronger infusion if desired.
8. Shake the jar gently every few days to distribute the ingredients and enhance the infusion process.
9. After the desired infusion period, strain the oil using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the rosemary leaves, ensuring that you squeeze out any remaining oil from the leaves.
10. Transfer the strained rosemary-infused oil into a clean, airtight container or glass bottle.
11. Store the infused oil in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight, and use it within six months.

How to Make Rosemary Hair Oil at Home (Method 2) – QUICK WAY

This is the Double boiler method which is quicker and works well every single time.

1. Double boiler (or a heat-safe bowl and saucepan)
2. Carrier Oil
3. Fresh Rosemary Sprigs
4. Airtight glass container
5. Strainer

Instructions

1. Wash the fresh rosemary sprigs to remove any dirt or debris and pat them dry with a clean towel.
2. Fill the bottom pot of the double boiler halfway with water. If you don’t have a double boiler, you can create a makeshift one by using a heat-safe bowl that fits securely on top of a saucepan filled with water.
3. Place the double boiler or saucepan on the stove over medium-low heat.
4. Add the carrier oil of your choice to the top pot of the double boiler or the heat-safe bowl. The amount of oil will depend on the number of rosemary sprigs you have and the desired concentration of the infused oil.
5. Add the fresh rosemary sprigs to the carrier oil, ensuring they are fully submerged.
6. Allow the water in the bottom pot to come to a gentle simmer. The steam generated will heat the top pot or bowl, infusing the oil with the essence of rosemary.
7. Let the oil and rosemary mixture simmer gently for approximately 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
8. Keep an eye on the water level in the bottom pot and replenish it if necessary to prevent it from drying out.
9. After the desired infusion time, turn off the heat and carefully remove the top pot or bowl from the double boiler using oven mitts or pot holders.
10. Let the oil and rosemary mixture cool for a while.
11. Strain the infused oil through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean, airtight glass container. Squeeze the rosemary sprigs to extract any remaining oil.
12. Seal the container tightly and store it in a cool, dark place.

Using DIY Rosemary Hair Oil

Now that you know the benefits of rosemary oil for hair and How to Make Rosemary Hair Oil at Home,  here’s how you use it:

How to Use This Rosemary Hair Oil Treatment

To use your homemade rosemary hair oil treatment, follow these steps:

1. Start with clean, dry hair: Wash your hair as usual and make sure it is completely dry before applying the oil treatment.
2. Warm the oil: Take a small amount of the rosemary hair oil and warm it up slightly. You can do this by placing the desired amount in a heat-safe bowl and submerging the bowl in warm water for a few minutes. Alternatively, you can warm the oil between your palms by rubbing them together.
3. Apply to the scalp: Part your hair and apply the warm rosemary oil directly to your scalp. Use your fingertips to gently massage the oil into your scalp in circular motions. Pay attention to areas where you may have dryness, flakiness, or scalp concerns.
4. Distribute through the hair: Once you’ve applied the oil to your scalp, work the remaining oil through the lengths of your hair. Focus on the ends, as they tend to be drier and more prone to damage.
5. Leave it on: Allow the rosemary hair oil treatment to sit on your scalp and hair for at least 30 minutes. For deeper conditioning, you can leave it on overnight by covering your hair with a shower cap or towel to protect your bedding.
6. Rinse out: After the recommended time, rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water. You may need to shampoo your hair twice to ensure all the oil is removed. Follow with your regular conditioner if desired.
7. Style as usual: Once your hair is clean, you can style it as you normally would. You may notice increased shine, softness, and manageability after using the rosemary hair oil treatment.
8. Repeat as needed: You can use the rosemary hair oil treatment once a week or as desired to nourish and revitalize your hair and scalp.

Does Homemade/DIY Rosemary Oil need to be refrigerated?

Homemade or DIY rosemary oil generally does not need to be refrigerated, especially if you are using a carrier oil with a long shelf life such as olive oil or coconut oil. These carrier oils have natural preservative properties and can help keep the rosemary-infused oil stable at room temperature.

However, it’s important to store your homemade rosemary oil properly to maintain its freshness and maximize its shelf life. Here are some guidelines:

1. Store in a cool, dark place: Keep the rosemary oil in a cool area away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Exposure to light and heat can degrade the oil and reduce its effectiveness.
2. Use a dark glass container: Transfer the infused oil into a dark glass container or bottle that is airtight. Dark glass helps protect the oil from light, which can accelerate the breakdown of its beneficial compounds.
3. Avoid contamination: Ensure the container and any utensils used to handle the oil are clean and dry to prevent any moisture or contaminants from getting into the oil. This helps prevent spoilage or bacterial growth.
4. Check for signs of rancidity: Over time, homemade oils may eventually go rancid. If you notice any unpleasant odor, discoloration, or a change in texture, it’s an indication that the oil has spoiled and should be discarded.

If you live in a hot climate or your home tends to have higher temperatures, you may choose to refrigerate the rosemary oil to prolong its shelf life. Refrigeration can help slow down oxidation and extend the freshness of the oil, especially during warmer months. However, refrigeration may cause the oil to solidify or become cloudy, but this is normal and it will return to its liquid state when brought back to room temperature.

Ultimately, it’s a personal preference whether to refrigerate homemade rosemary oil or store it in a cool, dark place. Just ensure it is stored properly to maintain its quality and discard if you notice any signs of spoilage.

Which is the best carrier for DIY Rosemary Hair Oil?

If I had to recommend just one carrier oil for DIY rosemary hair oil, I would suggest using coconut oil. Coconut oil has excellent moisturizing properties and is known to penetrate the hair shaft, providing deep hydration and nourishment. It can help improve the overall health and strength of the hair, reduce frizz, and add shine. Coconut oil is especially beneficial for dry, damaged, or frizzy hair.

FAQs