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DIY Rosemary Hair Rinse for Oily Hair & Growth
DIY HAIRCARE
This centuries-old herbal remedy is a simple yet powerful tonic for the scalp. It uses the natural antiseptic and stimulating properties of rosemary to help control oiliness, reduce hair loss, and promote a healthy scalp environment for stronger, shinier hair.
Serves
• Grams: approx. 475 g • Ounces: approx. 16.7 oz • People: Multiple applications
Difficulty
Easy
Prep time
5 minutes
total time
~8 hours 20 mins
IN THIS RECIPE
Recipe at a glance
This is an informational recipe and not medical advice. Consult a dermatologist for persistent hair loss or scalp conditions. Do a patch test before use.
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diet & lifestyle
requirements
• Not applicable
Is this recipe for you?
This rinse is a game-changer for anyone dealing with an oily scalp, dandruff, or concerns about hair shedding and thinning. It's perfect if you prefer natural, single-ingredient solutions.
Recipe is best for hair type
While beneficial for all, it is particularly effective for those with an oily scalp, which can affect any hair type but is most common with Type 1 (straight) and Type 2 (wavy) hair.
Oily scalp, Oily hair, Hair loss/shedding, Hair thinning, Dandruff, Lack of shine.
INGREDIENTs highlight
This recipe helps with hair growth, hair loss, and dandruff.
How this recipe works
Rosemary is rich in ursolic acid and other compounds that have been shown to improve circulation. When applied to the scalp, this can increase blood flow to the hair follicles, delivering more nutrients and oxygen, which may help to reduce hair loss and encourage healthy growth. Its natural antiseptic properties also help to balance the scalp's microbiome, controlling the bacteria and fungus that can lead to excess oil and dandruff.
caution: before you begin
Perform a patch test on a small area of your inner arm to check for sensitivity before applying to your whole scalp. Avoid contact with eyes. For external use only.
CAUTION: Allergens
None of the 14 major allergens are present.
Tools & UTENSILS
what you will need
• Dried Rosemary: A powerful herb with natural antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and circulation-stimulating properties. It helps to keep the scalp clean, soothed, and healthy. • Water: The solvent used to extract the beneficial compounds from the rosemary leaves.
ingredients
• Dried rosemary leaves • Cold water
• 20 g / 0.7 oz • 475 g / 16.7 oz
how to make it
To Make the Rinse: 1. Combine: Place the rosemary leaves in a glass or steel pot and pour the cold water over them. 2. Heat Slowly: Heat the pot on the lowest possible flame for about 10 minutes, or until it just reaches the boiling point. 3. Simmer: Maintain a very low simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat. 4. Steep: Keep the lid on the pot and allow the rinse to steep and cool completely, preferably overnight. 5. Strain & Store: The next morning, strain the liquid into a clean jar for storage. To Use: 1. Pour a small amount of the rinse out. 2. After washing hair, or on a dry scalp, rub the liquid thoroughly into the scalp and hair roots. 3. For best results, massage it through the lengths of your hair. Do not rinse out.
Pro-tip
Fresh Herbs: If using fresh rosemary, you will need to use more, typically a 3:1 ratio (so, 1.5 cups of fresh leaves). Spray Application: Pour the finished rinse into a spray bottle for easier, more even application to the scalp and hair. Herbal Blends: Combine rosemary with mint leaves (for extra tingle and stimulation) or sage leaves (also great for oiliness).
a quick note
How to store it
Store the main batch in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Pour out the amount needed for each use to avoid contaminating the whole batch.
budget
Extremely low-cost, especially if you can grow your own rosemary plant. Creates no plastic waste compared to buying commercial hair tonics.
Frequently asked questions
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Do I rinse this out or leave it in?
This is a leave-in tonic. For the best results, you apply it to the scalp and hair and leave it in to dry. It's not oily and won't weigh hair down.
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Will this darken my hair?
Rosemary can have a very mild darkening effect on light-colored hair over time with consistent use. The effect is not dramatic like a dye but can enhance brown and black tones and slightly deepen blonde hair.
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Can I use rosemary essential oil instead?
You can, but it needs to be properly diluted. A common dilution is to add 5-10 drops of rosemary essential oil to 1 cup of water. Using the whole herb infusion is often preferred as it extracts a wider range of compounds than just the essential oil.
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How often should I use this?
The instructions suggest nightly use for an intensive treatment. For maintenance, you can use it as a final rinse after washing your hair 2-3 times per week. Consistency is key to seeing results.
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Madeleine
Director
Madeleine is an expert hair stylist dedicated to the art and science of hair care. Her work empowers individuals to understand and embrace their hair's true potential, transforming routine care into a ritual of natural beauty.