For my first go, I went the prewash route and parted my lengthy strands down the middle before going in with the pointed applicator in two- to three-inch sections. After that, I thoroughly massaged it in with my fingertips. You can also use a scalp brush; even if you’re not using a scalp serum or oil, there are blood-circulation-boosting benefits of massages that can aid in hair growth. Then I let the oil sit ahead of my shower. Upon first application, the formula felt lightweight and I was pleasantly surprised that it didn’t leave my hair feeling or looking like a greaseball. The scent is subtle but has a spa-like aroma, which I love for a zen experience.
After washing—I swap between Oribe and Dae shampoo and conditioner—my hair felt normal, but I did notice my scalp felt less squeaky clean, but in a good way. Dermatologists will tell you that that squeaky-clean or tight feeling you might get after cleansing your face, washing your body, and even your scalp is actually a sign that you’re stripping your skin, which is a big no-no. When you strip natural oils from your skin, it can lead to an impaired barrier, and in the case of your scalp, it makes for a less-than-ideal environment for healthy hair growth.
About a week later—I only wash my hair one or two times a week—I was ready to go all in, and this time, I applied the rosemary oil before bed. I parted my hair the same way and massaged the oil into my scalp with my fingers, but then I slicked it back into a bun and applied a shower cap to protect my pillowcase. But, even more importantly, I wanted to make sure the oil was concentrated where I wanted it—my scalp—and not getting absorbed by my pillowcase, or worse, making its way on to my face.
In the morning, I sudsed up as usual, and when it came to brushing my hair and how it felt after, I could see a noticeable difference in its smoothness. Because my hair is so long, the lengths can often get dry and feel brittle, but using the rosemary scalp oil—especially letting it sit on my scalp overnight—has changed that for the better.
The next few times I washed, I swapped off and on between applying the oil before washing my hair and leaving it in overnight for deeper penetration. Pro tip: I actually put some in before a workout once, too, because I know that heat can be a game changer in allowing a product to penetrate; the increased body heat opens the hair cuticle but also makes skin more permeable, so the active ingredients can really get to where they need to go for better absorption.
My results
Lisa DeSantis before testing Briogeo Scalp Revival Rosemary Pre-Wash Scalp and Hair Oil
Original image by Lisa DeSantis after testing Briogeo Scalp Revival Rosemary Pre-Wash Scalp and Hair Oil
While one month of use is still a bit early to see real hair growth, I’ve got some nice little sprouts coming in along my hairline that are undeniable—especially since I use heat when blow-drying my hair and frequently put it up in a ponytail. I can also tell that my scalp is healthier, and my hair looks and feels smoother and shinier. And with these visible and tactile signs that the rosemary oil is doing something, I feel compelled to continue on my healthy-hair journey.
The bottom line
Whether you’ve experienced hair loss from stress or aging, or you simply want to take preventative measures to maintain beautiful, healthy strands, rosemary oil can be a great addition to your hair care routine—if you have the patience for it. Although it won’t necessarily press fast-forward on hair growth, by smoothing the hair and injecting it with moisture at the root, it’s making the hair less brittle, damage-prone, and likely to split or break, which will allow hair to grow longer.
It’s also important to note that having an overall healthy-hair regimen is key. If you do use a lot of styling products, and especially dry shampoo, you’ll likely have to wash your hair more often. But incorporating an oil such as this one will ensure that you’re not drying out your scalp or strands, and preventing them from boarding a one-way trip to damage-ville. And if you’re a hot-tool lover, cutting back on straighteners and curlers will do wonders for the health of your hair.
Hair loss is completely natural as we get older, but if you’re experiencing more than normal hair loss, it’s always best to see a board-certified dermatologist to find the root of the problem.
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