does rosemary oil cause acne

DIY HAIR GROWTH OIL FOR RAPIDLY ACHIEVING LONGER, THICKER, AND LUSCIOUS HAIR

Looking to quickly achieve longer, thicker hair? While there’s no miracle solution for instant growth, this homemade hair growth oil can help accelerate the process. Packed with herbs and essential oils, this all-natural recipe is the result of years spent experimenting with effective methods for fast hair growth. It’s simple to make and highly effective.

There are plenty of so-called “fast hair growth secrets” out there—some work, while others don’t, and I’ve likely tried most of them! My journey into natural beauty began with a desire for longer, thicker hair. Like all my DIY beauty recipes, this hair growth oil stems from my personal experiences.

As a teen, I would spend hours hunting for herbs and supplements in specialty stores, diligently reading Long Hair Care Community forums, and testing various tips and remedies to grow my hair to hip length. In retrospect, I wish I’d focused less on superficial goals, but this quest provided valuable insights into the beauty industry, helping me cultivate discernment.

Whether you’re looking to combat hair loss, encourage regrowth after stress, or simply boost your hair growth, I hope this hair oil recipe helps you reach your goals.

CAN OILS REALLY HELP GROW YOUR HAIR FASTER?

The hair growth industry is booming, with countless new, exotic “fast hair growth oils” and magic serums promising to deliver your dream of long, mermaid-like locks.

However, the reality is that most carrier oils lack any truly magical properties for hair growth. In fact, using excessive amounts of the wrong oil can lead to issues like yeast overgrowth, exacerbating hair loss and scalp problems.

Take argan oil, for example. It was once hailed as the miracle hair growth oil, but its fatty acid profile is quite ordinary, resembling that of sesame or sunflower oil—neither of which have been shown to promote hair growth. (And I say this as someone who once relied on argan oil!)

That said, a few oils do genuinely support hair growth and thickness. When combined with certain herbs and essential oils—like rosemary and peppermint—you can create a more effective homemade hair growth oil.

DIY HAIR GROWTH OIL BENEFITS + HOW IT WORKS

This homemade hair oil promotes natural hair growth in several effective ways:

  • Stimulates Scalp Blood Flow: Infused with powerful herbs and essential oils, this recipe enhances blood circulation to the scalp and hair follicles.
  • Modulates Hair Growth Phase: Castor oil activates prostaglandin pathways linked to the growth phase, accelerating hair growth.
  • Reduces Scalp Buildup: Massaging the oil into your scalp before washing helps loosen buildup that can clog hair follicles, similar to how cleansing oils keep facial pores clear.
  • Antioxidant Activity: The antioxidants in this DIY hair oil protect hair follicles and shafts from oxidative stress, supporting faster growth.
  • Antimicrobial Activity: Excess bacteria and yeast can cause issues like dandruff and scalp acne, hindering growth. The antibacterial herbs and essential oils in this recipe, such as rosemary oil, help maintain a balanced scalp environment.

Now that we’ve covered the essentials, let’s dive into how to make your own hair growth oil.

KEY HERBS FOR HAIR GROWTH

PEPPERMINT

Known for its cooling and soothing effects, peppermint oil is great for irritated scalps. Research suggests it may promote hair growth even more effectively than rosemary. Peppermint oil accelerates the hair growth phase and increases hair follicles, contributing to longer, thicker hair. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties also support scalp health.

WHITE WILLOW BARK

If you face scalp issues like dandruff or acne, white willow bark can be beneficial. It contains salicin, a natural anti-inflammatory and gentle exfoliant. While it doesn’t directly stimulate hair growth, it promotes a healthy scalp by soothing irritation, unclogging pores, and reducing buildup.

ROSEMARY

Rosemary-infused oil is a popular remedy for hair growth. Studies show it can be as effective as minoxidil without side effects. Rosemary stimulates blood flow to the scalp, nourishing hair follicles and encouraging both new and existing hair growth. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties help maintain a healthy scalp, while its antioxidants protect against oxidative stress, which can lead to hair loss.

GREEN TEA

Adding green tea leaves to your hair oil infuses it with antioxidants that support hair follicle health. Although caffeine and ECEG—key components for hair growth—are water-soluble and won’t transfer to oil, the antioxidants in green tea still provide benefits. Note that it can impart a deep green color to the oil, but it generally doesn’t stain hair.

These herbs are effective allies in your quest for longer, thicker hair, and incorporating them into your hair oil can enhance its benefits.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR HAIR GROWTH

To enhance your herbal hair growth oil, consider adding essential oils for concentrated benefits. 

Peppermint and rosemary essential oils are particularly effective for promoting hair growth, and using both can provide optimal results. You can also create a blend with cedarwood, lavender, thyme, frankincense, myrrh, palmarosa, and nettle, all known for supporting hair growth and scalp health. 

Additionally, incorporating an essential oil blend like Beauty Within can further boost scalp health with its antifungal properties, making it a great addition to your scalp treatments and hair masks.

FAST HAIR GROWTH OIL INGREDIENTS

You’ll need just a few ingredients for this DIY hair growth oil:

  • Heat-stable carrier oil for herbal infusion
  • Cold-pressed castor oil
  • Dried, organic hair growth herbs
  • Growth-boosting essential oils
  • Vitamin E oil

You can choose to make this oil with essential oils, herbal infusion, or both. I prefer using both to maximize the plant’s benefits. If you’re short on time, simply mix the carrier oils with the recommended essential oils.

INGREDIENTS

  • J MAC BOTANICALS Organic Cold-Pressed Castor Oil
  • Starwest Botanicals Organic Rosemary Leaf
  • Simply Earth Rosemary Essential Oil
  • Vitamin E Oil from Forefront Health

CARRIER OIL OPTIONS

  • MCT oil
  • Fractionated coconut oil
  • Avocado oil
  • Jojoba oil
  • Olive oil

Using a stable carrier oil is crucial. Many common oils, like sweet almond and sunflower oil, contain unstable polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) that break down with heat and light, losing their beneficial properties. Instead, opt for monounsaturated or saturated oils, which are more stable. I recommend MCT or fractionated coconut oil, especially if you have issues with yeast overgrowth, as MCT oil won’t feed Malassezia yeast.

Once you prepare the herbal-infused oil, dilute it with castor oil. Castor oil is well-regarded for hair growth due to its unique properties:

  • It mimics prostaglandins, extending the active hair growth phase and delaying the resting phase.
  • It conditions and prevents hair follicles from drying out.
  • It moisturizes and protects existing hair from breakage.
  • It has antibacterial and antifungal properties to maintain a healthy scalp.
  • It’s rich in antioxidants like vitamin E, which protect hair follicles from oxidative damage.

DIY HAIR GROWTH OIL RECIPE

INGREDIENTS

  • 47g herbal infused oil (see below for instructions)
  • 47g castor oil
  • 3.5ml peppermint essential oil
  • 3.5ml rosemary essential oil

HERBAL INFUSED OIL

  • 1 cup (200g) carrier oil (e.g., MCT, olive, or avocado oil)
  • ~3/4 cup dry herbs (e.g., rosemary, willow bark, peppermint, green tea)
  • 5ml (1 tsp) vitamin E oil

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Prepare Herbal Infused Oil:
    • Place dry herbs in a clean, heat-proof mason jar. Pour carrier oil over the herbs and add vitamin E oil. Stir gently to ensure herbs are fully submerged.
    • Seal the jar with a one-piece metal lid.
  • Infuse Oil:
    • In a slow cooker, place a hand towel at the bottom and fill with water to submerge the jar without leaking. Set to low and infuse for 8-12 hours, keeping water temperature between 50°C-71°C (120-160°F). Monitor closely to avoid overheating.
  • Strain Oil:
    • Once infused, let the oil cool. Strain out the herbs using cheesecloth or a sieve, pressing gently to extract all the oil. Be cautious of sharp herb pieces.
  • Combine Oils:
    • Mix equal parts of the herbal infused oil and castor oil. Add peppermint and rosemary essential oils, stirring well.
  • Store:
    • Transfer the final mixture to a glass dropper bottle for easy application.

Enjoy your homemade hair growth oil!

HOW TO MAKE HAIR OIL WITH ESSENTIAL OILS

Combine castor oil and a low-PUFA carrier oil (like fractionated coconut oil, jojoba oil, or olive oil) in equal parts. Add vitamin E and a hair growth essential oil blend to the mixture. Then, transfer it to a glass dropper bottle.

HOW TO USE HOMEMADE HAIR GROWTH OIL

To use the hair growth oil, apply it directly to your scalp using the dropper applicator, section by section, to ensure even coverage. After saturating your scalp, gently massage the oil in with your fingers or a jade gua sha comb to boost blood circulation to the follicles, promoting faster growth. If safe for you, you can also massage your scalp with your head upside down.

Leave the oil on for at least an hour or overnight, depending on your hair washing routine. When ready to wash it out, use conditioner first to help remove the castor oil, then follow with your regular shampoo. For added benefits, consider using a rosemary hair rinse or a pH-balancing vinegar rinse afterward.

CONCLUSION

DIY hair growth oil offers a natural and cost-effective solution for promoting hair growth and improving hair health. By combining essential oils known for their hair-nourishing properties with carrier oils that provide moisture and penetration, you can create a personalized hair treatment that addresses your specific needs. Remember to patch test the oil before applying it to your scalp to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions. Consistent use and proper application are key to achieving optimal results.

THE 16 BODY WASHES FOR WOMEN, ACCORDING TO EXPERTS

In a market saturated with countless options, finding the perfect body wash can be a daunting task. That’s why we’ve consulted experts in the field to handpick the most exceptional products, taking into consideration not only their enchanting fragrances but also their nourishing ingredients and skin-loving properties. From soothing botanical extracts to invigorating scents that linger throughout the day, our list encompasses a variety of choices to suit every mood and skin type. Keep reading!

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST BODY WASH FOR YOUR SKIN TYPE

To find the right body wash for your skin, look at the list of ingredients. If your skin is dry, choose a cleanser that is pH balanced and has ceramides and moisturizers. This helps fix your skin barrier instead of taking away from it, explains Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, a dermatologist in New York City. For older skin, Dr. Brendan Camp, a dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in NYC, suggests using ingredients like lactic and glycolic acid. These ingredients help with cell turnover and make fine lines look better.

If your skin is oily and prone to acne, using ingredients such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide can be helpful. These ingredients work to clear clogged pores, reduce breakouts, and soothe redness, especially when dealing with body acne. Dr. Camp explains that salicylic acid removes extra oil and stops pores from getting blocked, while benzoyl peroxide has properties that fight inflammation and bacteria.

For those with sensitive skin, it’s important to steer clear of anything that might cause irritation. Experts advise selecting a cleanser that is hypoallergenic and free from fragrances. This kind of cleanser helps to nourish the skin barrier with a low chance of causing irritation for people with sensitive skin. If you have sensitive skin, it’s also good to choose mild body washes that include moisturizers, are pH balanced, and if possible, stay away from sulfates, parabens, PEGs, and phthalates.

WHEN TO APPLY BODY WASH IN THE SHOWER

The ideal time to apply body wash in the shower is after thoroughly wetting your skin. Start by allowing warm water to cascade over your body, helping to open up your pores and prepare the skin for cleansing. Once your skin is adequately damp, squeeze a small amount of body wash onto a loofah, washcloth, or your hands. Gently massage the body wash onto your skin in circular motions, ensuring even coverage. 

Take the time to pay attention to areas that may need a little extra care, such as elbows, knees, and feet. After applying the body wash, rinse off with warm water to remove any cleanser residue. Following this routine not only cleanses your skin effectively but also provides a refreshing and invigorating start or conclusion to your day.

16 BEST BODY WASH FOR WOMAN

BEST OVERALL: DOVE DEEP MOISTURE BODY WASH

Dove’s Deep Moisture Body Wash, praised by both experts and beauty editors, stands out as an excellent option suitable for everyone, particularly those with dry skin. This body wash not only provides a gentle and effective cleanse, leaving the skin feeling clean, but it also contains moisturizing MicroMoisture Droplets that nourish the skin and enhance the moisture barrier throughout the day. The eco-friendly bottle, crafted from 100% recycled materials, offers a unique upside-down storage feature. However, it’s worth noting that this body wash may not be the best choice for combating body acne.

BEST BODY WASH FOR DRY SKIN: OLAY ULTRA MOISTURE BODY WASH

Olay Ultra Moisture Body Wash has emerged as a top choice for individuals with dry skin, delivering a luxurious and hydrating experience in every shower. Expertly formulated, this body wash is designed to address the specific needs of dry skin, providing a deep cleanse without stripping away essential moisture. Enriched with shea butter, Olay Ultra Moisture Body Wash goes beyond basic cleansing, offering intense hydration that leaves the skin feeling soft and supple.

The creamy texture of the body wash glides smoothly onto the skin, creating a rich lather that envelops the body in moisture. 

BEST BODY WASH FOR PSORIASIS:  PURELY NORTHWEST-NATURAL TEA TREE & PEPPERMINT BODY WASH 

Imbued with a 100% pure essential oil blend including oregano, rosemary, peppermint, camphor, eucalyptus, and cajeput, this extra-strength formula is designed to bring relief to itchy, dry, and irritated skin. Free from synthetic fragrances, it serves as a gentle cleanser suitable for psoriasis and sensitive skin. Simultaneously tackling body acne, it clears clogged pores and aids in reducing oil and bacteria buildup. Celebrated for its kid-safe formulation, this body wash has garnered favor among many reviewers for its effective and natural approach to skin care.

BEST BODY WASH FOR KERATOSIS PILARIS: GLYTONE EXFOLIATING BODY WASH WITH GLYCOLIC ACID

Glytone Exfoliating Body Wash with Glycolic Acid is a go-to solution for those dealing with Keratosis Pilaris (KP). With its potent formulation featuring glycolic acid, this body wash effectively exfoliates and smoothens the skin, targeting the rough, bumpy patches associated with KP. The glycolic acid helps to unclog pores and promote cell turnover, revealing smoother and healthier-looking skin. Dermatologist-recommended, Glytone’s Exfoliating Body Wash is a trusted ally in the battle against KP, providing a refreshing and revitalizing experience that enhances skin texture and promotes a renewed sense of confidence.

BEST ORGANIC BODY WASH: DR. BRONER’S ALMOND HEMP SOAP

Embracing a commitment to organic and natural skincare, Dr. Bronner’s Almond Hemp Soap has secured its position as the best organic body wash, earning acclaim from skincare experts. Renowned for its pure and environmentally friendly ingredients, this soap combines the nourishing properties of almond oil and hemp oil to deliver a gentle yet effective cleansing experience. Experts laud its organic certification and commend Dr. Bronner’s dedication to sustainable practices. The Almond Hemp Soap not only leaves your skin feeling refreshed and revitalized but also aligns with the growing demand for eco-conscious and organic skincare solutions, making it a top choice for those seeking a wholesome and environmentally friendly cleansing experience.

BEST BODY WASH FOR ECZEMA: NAKERY BEAUTY INTENSIVE REPAIR TREATMENT ECZEMA RELIEF SOOTHING WASH FACE AND BODY

Nakery Beauty Intensive Repair Treatment Eczema Relief Soothing Wash for Face and Body has emerged as a standout choice for individuals grappling with eczema. Praised for its efficacy in alleviating the symptoms of eczema, this soothing wash provides relief to irritated and sensitive skin. The formula is specifically designed to tackle the challenges associated with eczema, offering a gentle yet effective cleansing experience. However, it’s worth noting that individuals with highly sensitive skin might find the product too intense. For those seeking a solution to eczema woes, Nakery Beauty’s Intensive Repair Treatment offers a potential remedy with its targeted approach to eczema relief.

BEST LUXURY: NÉCESSAIRE THE BODY WASH

Nécessaire body wash, a TikTok sensation, isn’t just a trendy pick but has earned its acclaim, according to Azadeh Shirazi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist. The formulation, featuring niacinamide, vitamin B3, and plant-based surfactants, stands out for its gentle yet effective approach without disrupting the skin. Enriched with oils such as marula, meadowfoam, and cacay, it supports the skin barrier with essential vitamins and omegas 6 and 9. Notably, it is sulfate and paraben-free, making it a suitable choice for sensitive skin. The body wash is available in various scents, including eucalyptus, bergamot, and sandalwood. Despite its higher cost, the Nécessaire body wash appears to live up to its TikTok fame as a quality product with numerous benefits.

BEST HYDRATING DRUGSTORE BODY WASH: AVEENO DAILY MOISTURIZING BODY WASH

Aveeno’s cream-gel body wash emerges as a top choice for those with dry and sensitive skin, offering proven hydration benefits. It showcased exceptional performance in preserving the skin’s moisture barrier, a crucial factor in skin health. Rated as one of the most hydrating formulas, it excelled in Lab testing for transepidermal water loss, indicating its efficacy. Additionally, the body wash received high marks for its luxurious lather and a pleasantly subtle fragrance, making it a well-rounded option. 

BEST FOR SENSITIVE SKIN: LA ROCHE POSAY LIPIKAR WASH AP+ GENTLE FOAMING MOISTURIZING WASH

La Roche-Posay Lipikar Wash AP+ Gentle Foaming Moisturizing Wash stands out as the optimal choice for those with sensitive skin. Tailored to meet the needs of delicate skin, this gentle foaming wash has garnered praise for its soothing properties. The formulation is specifically designed to address the concerns of sensitive skin, providing a mild yet effective cleansing experience. However, it’s essential to note that while it excels in catering to sensitive skin, this body wash may not be the ideal solution for combatting body acne. If you prioritize a product that prioritizes sensitivity without the need for acne control, La Roche-Posay’s Lipikar Wash AP+ proves to be an excellent and gentle option for your skincare routine.

BEST DRUGSTORE BODY WASH FOR DRY SKIN: DOVE DRY OIL MOISTURE BODY WASH

Among the myriad body wash brands scrutinized by our experts throughout the years, Dove continues to stand as the benchmark for elevating skin hydration levels. This particular variant proved to be exceptionally effective, maintaining skin moisture for an impressive four hours, obviating the need for additional body lotion. Enriched with moisturizing argan oil beads, consumer testers lauded its transformative impact, noting a significant softening of their dry and parched skin after just a single wash. Statements such as “My skin felt as smooth as if I’d applied a moisturizer,” and “I used it at night, and my skin still felt moisturized in the morning,” underscore the remarkable and enduring moisturizing effects of Dove’s body wash.

BEST HYDRATING BODY WASH: DRUNK ELEPHANT KAMILI CREAM BODY CLEANSER

Drunk Elephant’s Kamili Cream Body Cleanser – the pinnacle of hydration in body washes. Formulated with precision and care, this body cleanser is expertly crafted to deliver optimal hydration to the skin. Enriched with nourishing ingredients, it provides a luxurious and moisturizing cleansing experience. The unique blend ensures not only effective cleansing but also the restoration of the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Drunk Elephant’s Kamili Cream Body Cleanser stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to skincare excellence, making it the go-to choice for those seeking a hydrating and indulgent body wash experience.

BEST MOISTURIZING BODY WASH: BUTTAH SKIN BY DORION RENAUD COCOSHEA

Pamper your skin with ButtaH Skin by Dorion Renaud Cocoshea – the ultimate moisturizing body wash. This special formula is known for its amazing ability to make your skin feel really soft and hydrated. It’s made with care and good stuff to give you a fancy and moisturizing shower. People really like it because it helps with dry skin, and they say it leaves their skin super soft. Treat yourself to the smooth feel and nice smell of ButtaH Skin by Dorion Renaud Cocoshea – the best choice for a fancy and hydrating body wash that makes your everyday skincare routine feel extra special.

BEST SMELLING WOMEN’S BODY WASH: TONE MANGO SPLASH BODY WASH

This body wash not only impresses with its proven ability to leave the skin feeling soft and clean but also boasts a delightful tropical scent that lasts for hours. GH Beauty Lab testing revealed its high-ranking performance in both skin softening and fragrance categories. Users praised the fruity tropical scent for its mood-boosting effect, even on challenging mornings. During moisture-loss evaluations, the formula exhibited a gentle and less drying nature compared to other tested products. Testers appreciated the rich, creamy lather that spread easily, leaving the skin feeling soft, moisturized, and luxurious without any unwanted residue. 

BEST SOOTHING: CETAPHIL GENTLE REFRESHING BODY WASH

This body wash stands out for its ability to provide a calm and refreshing cleanse, making it an ideal choice for those with sensitive skin. The gentle formula ensures a soothing experience without causing irritation, leaving the skin feeling nourished and revitalized. While it excels in hydration, it’s essential to note that Cetaphil Gentle Refreshing Body Wash does not offer exfoliating properties. If you prioritize a gentle and hydrating shower routine without the need for exfoliation, this Cetaphil body wash proves to be a reliable and comforting option for your skincare regimen.

BEST CLEANSING OIL: NATURIUM GLOW GETTER MULTI OIL HYDRATING BODY WASH Naturium

This product is praised for its transformative qualities, transforming from an oil to a light foam that effectively cleans without stripping the skin of its natural oils. The formula contains glycerin as a moisture-attracting humectant, along with a combination of plant-based linoleic and squalane-rich oils, ensuring a gentle yet hydrating cleansing experience. Ideal for sensitive skin, this product keeps skin feeling soft and smooth. However, it is important to note that it does not include exfoliating properties. In short, this product serves as a gentle and hydrating option, especially suitable for those with sensitive skin, while acknowledging its limitations in exfoliation capabilities.

BEST EXFOLIATING: TATCHA HINOKI GENTLE EXFOLIATING BODY WASH

This exquisite body wash offers a luxurious blend of ingredients, including the refreshing essence of hinoki cypress oil, known for its calming properties. As it transforms into a delicate foam, it gently exfoliates the skin, effectively removing impurities and revealing a smoother, revitalized complexion. Tatcha’s commitment to quality is evident in the thoughtful formulation, ensuring a pampering and rejuvenating experience. For those seeking the pinnacle of exfoliating body washes, Tatcha Hinoki stands as an exceptional choice, bringing a touch of indulgence to your skincare routine.

CONCLUSION

To sum it up, choosing the right body wash for women can be tricky with so many options available. But if you follow what the experts say, it makes the decision easier. Their advice helps you pick products that match what you like, your skin type, and what you need. Whether you want something for moisture, a nice smell, or what dermatologists recommend, the list of the top 16 body washes for women gives you a good guide. With this expert knowledge, women can enjoy a fancy and personalized bath, making sure their skin feels good and they like the smell.