Rose Oil for Hair: Benefits and Tips on How to Use It

Rose oil is a concentrated oil made from rose petals. Its sensual aroma is often used in perfumes and body care products; however, it can also be helpful for scalp and hair care. This article is specifically beneficial for those interested in the benefits of rose oil for hair, including a debate on whether it promotes healthy hair growth. We have also added expert insights about rose oil’s benefits for hair health and beauty. Keep reading to learn more.

What is rose oil?

Rose oil is a highly concentrated aromatic oil derived from the petals of various species of roses. These oil-bearing species belong to the genus Rosa. Commonly used species for oil extraction are:

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  • Rosa damascena
  • Rosa centifolia
  • Rosa alba
  • Rosa gallica

The oil-bearing rose blooms from late April to early June, and the flowers take about 11–13 days to fully develop. The flowers are hand-picked early in the morning and immediately used for industrial purposes. About 55–60% of these roses are used to make rose oil and rose water.

The roses undergo steam distillation, where the steam helps the essential oils evaporate and gather. After this, the mix of water and oil is separated to get the pure rose oil, which might be filtered to remove impurities. This classic process creates a strong and pure rose oil, valued for its fragrance and potential therapeutic properties, making it appealing for hair care.

How to use rose oil for hair

Rose oil can be beneficial for hair care due to its moisturizing and conditioning properties.

How to use rose oil for hair
  1. Scalp massage. Dilute a few drops of rose oil in another oil, such as coconut, jojoba, or almond oil. Gently massage the mixture into the scalp using the fingertips. This helps nourish the scalp, promotes circulation, and moisturizes the hair follicles. You can use this method 1–2 times weekly for good results.
  2. Homemade hair mask. Combine rose oil with aloe vera gel, yogurt, or honey to make a homemade hair mask. Apply the mask to the hair, focusing on the ends and damaged areas. Leave it in for about 20–30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with water. You can use this mask once a week.
  3. Leave-in conditioner. Add a few drops of rose oil to a regular leave-in conditioner or hair serum. Mix well and apply to damp hair after shampooing. This helps to moisturize and soften hair, reduces frizz, and adds a pleasant fragrance. You can use this after every wash to help keep your hair soft, especially if it's frizzy.

Choosing the right carrier oil

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Since rose oil is an essential oil, it must be mixed with a carrier oil. The carrier oils dilute the essential oils so they can reach your skin safely. That’s because essential oils are amazingly strong and can cause irritation when used alone.

  • For dry hair. Just as coconut water is used as a hydration drink worldwide, coconut oil is excellent for hydrating the scalp. Using coconut oil as a carrier oil combined with rose oil can help with dry hair.
  • For oily hair. If you have an oily scalp, try mixing rose and jojoba oils. Jojoba oil is similar to your scalp's natural sebum, which helps regulate oil production, leaving your hair less greasy and better hydrated.
  • For sensitive scalp. For a sensitive scalp, consider mixing sweet almond oil with rose oil. It’s gentle and soothing, which may help with inflammation, irritation, and calming the scalp.
  • For normal hair. Argan oil is ideal for those with normal hair. It’s lightweight and provides just the right amount of moisture. Combined with rose oil, it leaves your hair perfectly balanced, not too oily and dry.

According to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, you should use 2.5–10% essential oils when making massage and body oils. The rest of the mixture should be filled with carrier oil.

Benefits of rose oil for hair: what do the experts say?

Rose oil offers many potential benefits for hair. It moisturizes the scalp, reduces frizz, and calms a sensitive scalp. Dr. Ross Kopelman, a hair transplant surgeon at Kopelman Hair Restoration in New York City, spoke with Healthnews about using rose oil.

In my practice, I’ve observed that rose oil can be quite beneficial for scalp health. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help create a more balanced scalp environment, which is important for maintaining healthy hair. It’s also beneficial for a sensitive scalp. When the scalp is free from irritation and inflammation, hair follicles can function more effectively, potentially leading to stronger, healthier hair.

Based on his patients' experiences, he shared that several individuals who incorporated rose oil into their hair care routines observed positive outcomes. One patient with a history of scalp irritation found that regular use of rose oil helped soothe her scalp, resulting in reduced hair shedding and overall improved scalp health. Another patient noticed that her hair became softer and more manageable after consistently using rose oil for a few weeks. These experiences suggest the potential benefits of including rose oil in a hair care regimen.

Marlee Bruno MMS, PA-C, founder of Mind Body & Soul Medical in Pensacola, Florida, also noted the benefits of rose oil. She states,

Among my clients with frizzy hair, rose oil has been praised for its ability to smooth and control frizz, making hair more manageable and shiny. Its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties provide nourishment, creating a healthy foundation for the scalp.

Which hair type is rose oil best for?

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Rose oil benefits various hair types, but it may be particularly beneficial for:

  • Dry and damaged hair. Rose oil is highly moisturizing and helps nourish and hydrate dry and damaged hair. It also helps restore moisture, improves hair texture, and reduces frizz. The moisturizing properties of rose oil make hair softer, smoother, and more manageable.
  • Frizzy hair. Rose oil helps tame frizzy hair, making it a good option for those with thick, curly hair. It also provides a protective barrier, seals moisture into the hair shaft, and reduces the appearance of frizz.
  • Fine hair. Rose oil is lightweight, so it won't weigh down fine hair. It adds moisture and shine without making the hair greasy or flat. However, rose oil should be used sparingly on fine hair to prevent buildup.
  • Sensitive scalp. Some individuals with sensitive scalps may find rose oil soothing and gentle. It helps calm scalp itchiness, redness, or irritation.
  • Dull hair. Rose oil has revitalizing properties that add shine to dull-looking hair. It helps restore the natural sheen and makes the hair appear healthier.

Dr. Kopelman suggests adjusting the amount of rose oil based on your hair type. For fine hair, he recommends using just a drop or two mixed with a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil to avoid making the hair greasy. For medium to thick hair, you can use about 4–6 drops mixed with a carrier oil.

Can rose oil help with hair growth?

Hair growth is a complex process influenced by various factors, including genetics, overall health, and hair care practices. Rose oil is not directly linked to promoting hair growth. However, it indirectly supports a healthy scalp and hair, contributing to optimal conditions for hair growth.

There's limited scientific evidence supporting the use of essential oils like rose oil for hair growth, and results can vary based on factors such as the type and amount of oil used, application method, and individual hair conditions. One promising benefit of rose oil is its role in maintaining hair health. It can help with hair and scalp issues such as dandruff, dryness, and itching. Massaging rose oil into the scalp may also improve blood circulation.

Furthermore, a good diet with a balance of all the nutrients keeps your hair healthy, strong, and shiny. If your diet lacks nutrients, it may show in your hair's condition. Ensure enough protein, iron, zinc, magnesium, and fatty acids are included for normal hair growth.

How often can rose oil be used?

Rose oil is highly concentrated, so it's important to use it sparingly. It's always best to start with a small amount and adjust according to the hair's response. If signs of sensitivity or irritation appear, reduce the frequency or discontinue use altogether.

However, typically, people use rose oil in their hair once each week at the start and then adjust accordingly. If your hair looks greasy or you have a heavy, oily feeling on the scalp, you are using too much rose oil. To mitigate this, wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove excess oil and residue.

Additionally, take a break from using rose oil for a week or two to help your scalp breathe. Finding the right frequency for using rose oil on the hair requires experimentation and observing how the hair responds.

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Dry vs. oily hair
If you have dry hair, it means your scalp needs more moisture. You can apply rose oil mixed with a carrier oil like coconut oil twice weekly. If your hair is oily, use rose oil once a week with a carrier oil like jojoba oil.

How long does it take to see results?

The time it takes to see the results of using rose oil depends on its use, and it varies from person to person. For example, people using rose oil to control frizzy hair may experience quick results, as the oil provides shine immediately.

Based on his clinical experience, Dr. Ross Kopelman adds,

In the first week, you might notice that your scalp feels more hydrated and comfortable. After about a month of regular use, many people see a reduction in scalp irritation, which can help reduce hair shedding. By the three-month mark, the benefits are often even more noticeable — a healthier scalp, potentially less dandruff, and hair that looks and feels stronger and more vibrant.

However, consumers using rose oil for hair nourishment may need several weeks before noticing a difference. Furthermore, using rose oil for scalp health and hair growth or eliminating dandruff could take up to two or three months before seeing results.

Risks and side effects

Remember to use rose oil sparingly, as it is a highly concentrated oil and is not to be used on its own. Before applying it to the scalp or hair, perform a patch test to check for potential allergic reactions.

A 2021 study noted that as more people began using essential oils, there was a noticeable increase in reports of allergic reactions, such as allergic contact dermatitis, in sensitive individuals. Signs of allergic contact dermatitis can include itching, rashes, or redness on the skin. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop using rose oil immediately.

For consumers with existing scalp conditions or sensitivities, like eczema or psoriasis, it's best to consult a dermatologist or a hair care professional before including rose oil in their hair care routine.

Who should not use rose oil?

While rose oil is generally considered safe for most individuals, anyone who has experienced allergic reactions to concentrated oils should avoid it. Before applying any product to the scalp area, it is always best to do a patch test near the elbow fold.

Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals are advised to consult a medical professional before using rose oil. It's also essential for those with underlying medical conditions to consult with a medical professional before using rose oil.

For those with allergies or sensitive skin, lavender oil, peppermint oil, tea tree oil, chamomile oil, or lemon oil may be used as alternatives to rose oil. These oils may help soothe sensitivities.

Final word

Rose oil is a great alternative to help with scalp care and general hair health. It provides several benefits to the hair, such as increasing moisture and helping decrease dandruff. It’s often used with carrier oils, such as coconut or jojoba oil, to avoid irritation. However, scientific research on rose oil's effectiveness for hair growth is limited, and results can vary depending on factors like the type and concentration of the oil, as well as individual hair conditions. Nevertheless, it’s safest to test a patch of skin before applying it to the whole scalp.

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