What are the benefits of Rosemary for the hair?

Rosemary_(Rosmarinus officinalis_) is a shrub that can grow to between 1 and 2 metres in height. Native to the Mediterranean region, its flowers are small, purple and grouped in clusters. Rosemary is not only a popular condiment in cooking, but is also recognised for its medicinal and cosmetic properties.

Use in cosmetics

The first traces of its use in cosmetics date back to ancient times, when it was first distilled to obtain essential oils. In ancient Greece, rosemary was mainly used for its clarifying and purifying properties, while in ancient Rome it was added to public baths for its cleansing properties.

The first written records of its use in perfumery date back to the Middle Ages, with eau de Hongrie, a perfume in which rosemary flowers were one of the main ingredients.

In modern cosmetics, rosemary is generally used in its oily form or as a hydrosol.

• Strengthens and promotes hair growth: good blood circulation ensures that oxygen and nutrients are transported to every part of the body. Rosemary can help stimulate circulation, particularly in the scalp. Improved scalp circulation can lead to better hair health as hair follicles receive more essential nutrients which promotes hair growth and improves hair vitality.

• Antioxidants: antioxidants play a crucial role in protecting our bodies from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are responsible for premature ageing and various diseases. Rosmarinic acid and carnosol, in rosemary, are powerful antioxidant compounds. They help to neutralise free radicals and prevent cell damage.

• Anti-dandruff: rosemary helps to soothe the feelings of irritation and itching that often come with dandruff. Its anti-fungal effects also help to purify the scalp.

• Sebo-regulating : rosemary helps balance sebum production in the sebaceous glands and is widely recommended for improving the condition of oily hair.

In recent months, the effectiveness of Rosemary for haircare has been widely promoted on social media. Rosemary is a precious ally for haircare, and can be used in its various forms to look after your hair. Here are the different ways you can use Rosemary in your haircare routine:

Rosemary oil

Rosemary oil is obtained by infusing rosemary leaves in a carrier oil, such as olive oil orcoconut oil.

To do this, place the oil of your choice and your fresh rosemary sprigs in a clean container. This oil can be kept for around 6 months in a cool, dry place.

How to use :

1. Hair mask: mix rosemary oil with another oil (such as coconut oil) and apply to your hair. Leave on for at least 30 minutes before washing with a mild shampoo.

2. Growth stimulant: gently massage rosemary oil directly into your scalp to stimulate blood circulation and promote hair growth.

Rosemary hydrosol

Discover our Aroma-Zone organic rosemary verbenone hydrosol, ideal for skin and hair care, health and well-being treatments and even for your food. 100% pure and natural, with a French origin and Ecocert certified.

How to use:

1. Hair tonic: spray the hydrosol directly onto your hair to refresh, condition and give it natural shine.

2. Soothing lotion: if you have an irritated scalp or dandruff, spray rosemary hydrosol to soothe and balance your scalp. Rosemary's cleansing effects will help reduce excess sebum and means you can space out your shampoos.

Rosemary water

How do I make Rosemary water for hair?

You can make Rosemary water by boiling fresh or dried Rosemary leaves in a large volume of water. In general, we recommend boiling about ten fresh branches in a large pan of water until the water turns brown.

Once your Rosemary water is ready, transfer it to a clean bottle and close with a spray pump to make it easier to apply to the scalp.

You can keep your Rosemary water in the fridge for 2 weeks.

How to use:

• Hair rinse: After washing your hair, rinse it with Rosemary water to strengthen it and give it shine.

• Growth treatment: Every evening, spray Rosemary water onto your scalp and gently massage it in. This treatment cleanses your scalp, boosts hair growth and regulates sebum levels.

Oily scalps: rosemary is particularly beneficial for oily scalps thanks to its sebum-regulating properties, which help to prevent excess sebum.

For more sensitive scalps: its anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe irritation and redness.

Dandruff scalps: rosemary is also ideal for those suffering from dandruff, as it stimulates blood circulation and helps strengthen hair follicles.

To make the most of rosemary's benefits, you can also make rosemary infusions to benefit from its properties internally.

Remember to do a skin test before applying rosemary topically, especially if you have sensitive skin, to check for any allergic reactions.