Rosemary Oil

Category: Essential Oil, Antioxidant
Used in: Haircare, scalp oils, limited skincare

INCI & Usage Level

INCI: Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil

Typical Usage Level (Hair & Scalp):

• 0.1% – 1% in leave-on scalp oils and hair treatments
  
• Commonly used diluted in carrier oils such as coconut oil, almond oil, or jojoba oil
  

Typical Usage Level (Skincare):

• ≤0.1%, primarily for fragrance or supportive antioxidant roles
  

Rosemary Oil at a Glance

• Essential oil extracted from Rosmarinus officinalis
  
• Widely used in hair oils and scalp formulations
  
• Provides antioxidant and antimicrobial support
  
• Known for its hair follicle nourishing properties 
  
• Best suited for use when diluted with carrier oils
  

What This Ingredient Does

Rosemary oil is obtained from the aromatic parts of the rosemary plant and has a long history of use in hair and scalp care. In modern cosmetic formulations, it is valued for its antioxidant, antimicrobial and follicle stimulating properties, which help maintain a balanced scalp environment.

When used in hair oils or scalp treatments and properly diluted with carrier oils, rosemary oil supports follicle nourishment and complements massage routines by providing a light stimulating sensation. This approach allows its functional benefits to be delivered in a scalp-friendly manner suitable for regular use.

In skincare, rosemary oil is used more selectively and primarily for fragrance or supportive antioxidant purposes.

Benefits (Primarily for Hair & Scalp)

• Stimulates hair follicle
  
• Provides antioxidant protection to the scalp
  
• Contributes to a revitalised scalp feel during massage
  
• Enhances the sensory experience of hair oil rituals
  

Who It’s Suitable For

• Individuals suffering from hair loss or breakage
• Best suited for use in diluted, carrier oil–based formulations
  

How It’s Commonly Used

• Blended into hair oils and scalp oils with suitable carrier oils especially almond oil
  
• Used during regular scalp massage routines
  
• More appropriate for oil-based or rinse-off hair applications than daily facial skincare
  

Note by Dr. Su

(M.D. Dermatologist)

Rosemary oil is a valuable botanical ingredient in hair and scalp care when used correctly. Dilution with a carrier oil allows it to support nourishment and antioxidant balance while remaining suitable for regular use as part of a healthy scalp routine.

References

• International Journal of Toxicology, December 2018, pages 12S–50S
  
• African Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, September 2018, pages 389–396
  
• SkinMed, January–February 2015, pages 15–21
  
• Allergologia et Immunopathologia, November–December 2014, pages 616–619