Whether it’s on the scalp or jawline, men go through a lot of trial and error trying to find the right products to aid hair growth.

Growing and maintaining a beard isn’t easy, especially if you are experiencing hair loss or patchy areas that refuse to grow.

Rather than relying on chemical-based products, using a more natural remedy like rosemary essential oil could make all the difference, as it provides a host of health benefits and could also improve the condition of your beard. We look at rosemary oil for beard growth and discuss its benefits, how to use it and more.

What are the benefits of using rosemary oil for beard growth?

Some of the benefits you may be able to enjoy when using rosemary oil include:

• It works as an antioxidant: Rosemary essential oil works as an antioxidant, helping to fight free radicals in your hair and skin follicles while also cleansing the hair. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help to reduce redness and puffiness on the skin, whilst the oil can also help to increase the blood flow to your head and brain, which aids hair growth.
• Rosemary oil is just as good as hair growth drugs: A randomised test was carried out comparing rosemary oil to minoxidil, one of the most prescribed drugs for hair loss. The results were impressive, as it demonstrated that rosemary oil could be just as effective, while also producing less itching on the skin.
• Use it in a variety of ways: Another great benefit of using rosemary essential oil is its versatility. You can apply it topically with a carrier oil, including it as part of your skincare routine, and away from improving the quality of your beard, it is also great for massages and in an oil burner or as part of a candle or soap recipe.

How to use rosemary oil for beard growth

You can apply rosemary oil to your beard very easily, and it only takes a matter of seconds to get started.

Before you apply any essential oil to your beard or skin, you should always carry out a patch test. To do this, dilute two drops of rosemary oil to four drops of your chosen carrier oil and add it to the inside forearm area on your elbow fold. Cover it with a plaster and leave it for 24 hours.

If there is no adverse reaction, the oil is fine to use on your beard and skin. However, if you notice any redness, itchiness or irritation, wash the oil off your skin and do not use it any more.

To add rosemary oil to your beard, simply:

1. Use a 1:2 dilution ratio (3 drops rosemary oil/6 drops carrier oil, for example).
2. Lightly rub the mixture into the palm of your hands.
3. Massage the oil into the area of your beard you want to nourish.

You can let the oil soak into the beard hair – a good time to do this is before bed so it can fully soak overnight without any interference.

What is the best rosemary oil for beard growth?

A good starting point is to try our rosemary essential oil that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you want to make your beard thicker or encourage more hair growth, simply apply the rosemary oil directly to the beard with a carrier oil of choice. Alternatively you can use rosemary oil as part of an aromatherapy treatment in an oil burner, in a soap or candle recipe or even in a warm bath (after being diluted with a carrier oil).

Which carrier oil is best for beard growth?

You can mix a carrier oil with rosemary oil to create a powerful beard hair growth stimulant or use it topically on its own. Avocado oil is recommended because it has an abundance of vitamins, fatty acids and antioxidants, with its high oleic acid and monounsaturated fat content helping to nourish the hair and skin. You do not need to carry out a patch test when applying avocado oil and can also use it in an oil burner or as a massage oil to improve the condition of your skin.

Are there any side effects to using rosemary oil?

As with any essential oil, due to their potency they should be applied carefully, with special attention given to the instructions provided on the product.

Always carry out a patch test (as described above) to ensure there are no adverse reactions once it has been applied to your beard and skin. If the patch test does show signs of an adverse reaction, then you should not use the oil anywhere else on your body.

In some instances, rosemary oil can cause irritation or allergic reactions, which depends on the sensitivity of your skin. Always dilute rosemary with a carrier oil such as jojoba oil or coconut oil.

When used in small quantities, rosemary oil is relatively safe to use, but avoid using it in large amounts as it could cause stomach issues.

Dealing with hair loss or a patchy beard can feel like an uphill struggle at times. But using rosemary oil could prove to be a useful tool to help you craft the thickness and shape you need. It is a strong essential oil, so always take care when applying it to your face by carrying out a patch test and only use it in small amounts at a time. Try it alongside other products designed to help your beard, and there is every chance it could be that all important missing piece of the puzzle.